ERASMUS DARWIN HOUSE, WS13 7AD 01543 306 260 | www.erasmusdarwin.org Nestled in Lichfield’s idyllic Cathedral Close, Erasmus Darwin House is an independent, accredited museum that was once the family home of doctor, inventor and published poet Erasmus Darwin. This stunning Grade I listed Georgian house is a stone’s throw away from Lichfield Cathedral and previously served as a residence for cathedral officials. When Darwin moved here in 1758, the building would have looked more like the timbered buildings that still surround it. Darwin added the fine façade and reoriented the house to face Beacon Street rather than into the Close. You can still see elements of the Medieval structure that developed into this home, such as the thick walls surrounding the cathedral. In 2009 refurbishment of the two main exhibition rooms took place and again in 2013, major changes were made to the Inventions Room, bringing the thoughts and inventions from Erasmus Darwin’s fascinating Commonplace Book off the page. CELEBRATE IN STYLE Civil ceremonies usually last no more than 20 minutes, therefore rooms at Erasmus Darwin House are booked on a three-hourly basis with space for up to 30 guests. A combination of rooms can be used for the reception or couples can hire the townhouse exclusively for up to 40 friends and family. WE LOVE... The venue’s rich history and the fact it is a registered charity. LILLESHALL HOUSE AND GARDENS, TF10 9AT 01952 603 003 | www.lilleshallhouse.co.uk/weddings Lilleshall House and Gardens is a grand wedding venue in the Shropshire countryside that was originally the home and hunting lodge of the Duke of Sutherland. Built in 1831, the property overlooks the Grade II listed Capability Brown-inspired gardens and offers plenty of places to take photographs, including the Golden Gates, which are the exact replicas of those adorning Buckingham Palace. This stately heritage site boasts historical features with oak-panelled walls in the reception area, original fireplaces and decorative ceilings in the 29 newly-refurbished bedrooms. CELEBRATE IN STYLE The Duke of Sutherland Room is a traditional oak-panelled space that was formerly the dining room of the Duke and Duchess of Sutherland. Boasting a feature fireplace and bay windows, it can accommodate 60 nearest and dearest. After the ceremony, receptions are held in Chapters, the Duke of Sutherland’s former library, which boasts oak-panelled walls and a fireplace. WE LOVE... The bridal suite is available on the night of the wedding, and loved ones can relax in one of the luxurious bedrooms. www.victoriagibbs.com 20
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