Your North East Wedding - Jan/Feb 2020 (Issue 36)

22 ALNWICK CASTLE Nestled in the stunning Northumberland countryside, with magnificent stone walls, sweeping ‘Capability’ Brown landscapes, and traditional stone courtyards, Alnwick Castle is bursting with grandeur. Located within private parkland, with its secret nooks, enchanting wildflowers and historic ruined walls, it’s an enchanted space to host your big day both on the inside and out. Weddings take place at the Guest Hall at Alnwick Castle, a banqueting hall within the grounds for up to 220 for a ceremony. You can also choose to marry in Hulne Abbey, a 13 th- century semi- ruined monastery for up to 500 of your friends and family. Hosting your reception in either space, be sure to venture down to Lion Bridge and the Pastures to get those all-important iconic Alnwick Castle photographs. Ceremony licence? Yes alnwickcastle.com | 01665 511 086 ESHOTT HALL This perfectly-proportioned Northumberland Georgian country house is an absolute gem; with a beautiful, well established wisteria being a showstopper for early summer weddings. Its mellow honey-coloured stone, and exquisite architectural detailing, make this an especially photogenic venue to choose for your wedding celebrations. In a timeless setting, surrounded by its own private gardens and grounds, it’s hard to imagine being just a few minutes from the A1. The interior of the house is just as beautiful, with period detail adding the style and charm that you would anticipate from the approach. The sweeping staircase, with its William Morris jewel- coloured design, looks as though it was made for a dramatic ‘reveal’ and provides an incredible backdrop for brides’ gowns. Some bedrooms even feature four-poster beds and roll-top baths to add to the ambience. The Hallway at Eshott is licensed for civil ceremonies and partnerships, accommodating up to 50 people. In addition, the restored Victorian Fernery area and gazebo is licensed for ceremonies, or there’s the quirky, whimsical woodland wedding area, complete with handmade wooden seating which gives a charming rustic vibe to your day. During the winter months the Village Reading Room, once a Methodist Chapel, also provides a befitting venue to tie the knot, and is only a short stroll away from the venue. Ceremony licence? Yes eshotthall.co.uk | 01670 787 454 joelskinglephotography.co.uk katymelling.com