Your West Midlands Wedding- December 2020/January 2021 (Issue 71)

Hartlebury Castle is a 17 th -century manor house surrounded by beautiful grounds in the Worcestershire countryside. The historic sandstone exterior and grand porchway look great in photographs, and the magnificent Carriage Circle is available exclusively throughout the day and is ideal for giant garden games or a drinks reception. This historical setting has a Medieval Great Hall with a magnificent period beamed ceiling, a Georgian Saloon decorated in the traditional ornate style and several other spaces available for weddings. The castle was once home to the Bishops of Worcester for more than 1,000 years. Purchased in 2015 by Hartlebury Castle Preservation Trust, the property opened in May 2018 as a heritage attraction. The trust is now working to share the history, culture and beauty of the venue with its visitors and community. CELEBRATE IN STYLE Large celebrations take place in the Medieval Great Hall, which can accommodate 100 loved ones throughout the day with additional guests welcome in the evening. The Georgian Saloon, with space for 70 nearest and dearest for the vows and 60 seated for the reception, is also available. Those looking for a more intimate setting will love the Victorian Bishop’s Study, which can hold up to 12 friends and family. WE LOVE... Couples who tie the knot at the venue will receive free entry lifetime passes to the castle, so they can revisit as many times as they like. HARTLEBURY CASTLE, DY11 7XZ 01299 250 797 | www.hartleburycastle.com www.njr-photography.co.uk www.imp actaerial.co.uk ETTINGTON PARK HOTEL, CV37 8BU 01789 450 123 | www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/ettingtonpark Ettington Park Hotel is situated within 40 acres of parkland in a verdant valley with the River Stour meandering through. This property has historic architecture, wondrous ceilings, ornate chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows which offer breathtaking views of the grounds. There are also several bedrooms for guests to choose from, extravagant lounges and inspiring suites. Outside there are plenty of places to take photographs, including the impressive turrets, neo-Gothic brickwork, classic arched windows and on-site Norman Church and Orangery. CELEBRATE IN STYLE Couples can say their vows in The South Room, which has large sash windows overlooking the manicured gardens and Normal Chapel. The beautiful wood-panelled ceiling is illuminated by gold chandeliers, and the Duke of Essex stone fireplace makes this room feel grand and luxurious. It can accommodate 100 friends and family for the ceremony and 60 for the evening celebration. The Bell Tower is also available, capable of holding 100 guests, it’s tucked away in the grounds and has a grand Normal Chapel frame that couples can get married under. The Orangery can also accommodate 100 people and boasts intricately carved arches, manicured Victorian gardens and lots of natural light. Alternatively, the Library has 18 th -century features, oak-wood bookcases filled with an array of colourful literature and space for 60 loved ones. Receptions take place in either the Great Drawing Room or Private Dining space. Here, guests can dance under spectacular chandeliers, gaze at the stained-glass windows and enjoy magnificent views. WE LOVE... Lovebirds will receive a complimentary menu tasting and a deluxe room on the night of the wedding. THEMED VENUES 27