Your London Wedding - Jan/Feb 2020 (Issue 69)

A VERY BIG HOUSE IN THE country City or country? Why choose when these beauties are just a stone’s throw from the capital? BUXTED PARK HOTEL, SUSSEX Reached via a sweeping driveway, this impressive Grade II listed, Georgian country house boasts a host of period features, including huge fireplaces, elegant cornicing, crystal chandeliers and sash windows – talk about a picturesque location. Outdoors, there’s an impressive 312 acres of private parkland, including a large stone patio, lake, manicured gardens and ornamental pond, not to mention the Ashdown Forest all around. Inside, there are ceremony rooms aplenty – from the Coat of Arms, which seats 120 and boasts a grand fireplace and direct access to a private patio, to the Orangery, where 90 loved ones can witness your vows and enjoy the stunning views over the formal lawns to the fishing lake beyond and more intimate Library where 50 nearest and dearest can witness your vows. For receptions, the Ballroom is the natural choice; seating 120 friends and family, its Empire chandeliers and ornate fireplaces certainly set the scene. The Orangery is also a popular option – with room for 70 nearest and dearest. Ceremony licence – Yes Contact: 01825 733 333 handpickedhotels.co.uk NOTLEY ABBEY, BUCKS BORDER If you’re searching for an enchanting wedding venue far from the hustle and bustle, look no further than Notley Abbey. This venue is the former home of Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, and has welcomed many a famous name through its doors in the past. The historic abbey impresses from the moment you drive through the gates. The magical approach is a wedding photography hotspot. Exclusively yours for 24 hours, Notley Abbey can host wedding ceremonies both inside and out for up to 172 guests, in a choice of three locations: The Abbot’s Hall for intimate nuptials; The Monks’ Refectory for a larger guest list; or, the enchanting walled garden (weather permitting). Enjoy the grounds, gardens and ambience of the beautifully restored country house before heading down the Cloisters Garden walk ahead of a perfectly prepared feast. Wedding banquets, for a capacity of up to 172 friends and family, take place in The Monk’s Refectory – a chandelier-lit, historic stone barn, bursting with character and rustic grandeur. After speeches and the cutting of your cake, the party begins. Drinking, dancing and celebrating (for up to 250 evening guests) can be enjoyed throughout the night, before drifting up to one of nine beautifully appointed guest suites. Ceremony licence – Yes Contact: 0345 130 9966 | notleyabbey.co.uk OUTSIDE THE M25 29