Your North East Wedding - Page number 18 - September/October 2021 (Issue 46)

NEWCASTLE CASTLE 01912 306 300 | www.newcastlecastle.co.uk Located in the heart of the city, Newcastle Castle is one of the UK’s finest surviving examples of a Norman stone keep. Built in 1178, the sandstone building has been well maintained by staff over the centuries; its crenulations, turrets and Victorian additions provide evidence of the buildings original use. All rooms in Newcastle Castle are special in terms of their architectural features, atmosphere and historical connections. The venue offers exclusive hire packages and the hard- working team will be there every step of the way to help couples create their dream day. The Black Gate is home to both ceremony rooms at the venue; the Harbottle Suite has many 17 th -century features and can accommodate 50 loved ones, while The Museum Room is perfect for intimate nuptials with 30 guests. Alternatively, The Castle Keep can be used for a more personal blessing or celebration in The Chapel, Gaol or Great Hall – there are endless possibilities at Newcastle Castle! Drink receptions occur on the roof with 45 nearest and dearest who can enjoy the stunning views of the River Tyne, the whole city and beyond. Wedding breakfasts take place in the Great Hall with 50 guests and couples can continue their celebrations with 80 throughout the castle in rooms such as The Gaol, where prisoners were once held captive, and The Chapel. Imagine walking through the ceremonial doors into the atmospheric Great Hall with its 43ft high-arched ceiling, rustic- sandstone walls, dominating windows and a centrepiece fireplace. Couples can use the antechambers for bars, buffets, chill out areas and more. On the property, The Castle Garth is a historic haven surrounded by buildings that demonstrate the centuries and industries of growth of Newcastle. The surviving rustic walls, the tree-shadowed Black Gate and the grassy moat provide excellent options for wedding photos. We love... The blank-canvas spaces allow couples to get creative and plan a day that matches their colour scheme and wedding theme. DUNS CASTLE 01361 883 211 | www.dunscastle.co.uk Located in 1800-acres, Duns Castle is an exclusive-use wedding venue in Durham that dates back to 1320. The castle sits within a nature reserve with a beautiful lake, different wildlife species, extensive lawns, forest trails and areas for bespoke activities. The celebrated architect James Gillespie Graham remodelled the castle’s exterior in 1820; he added a gothic-revival style with castellated turrets, a series of gargoyles and a crown arch. The grand entrance makes the perfect backdrop to wedding photography, with two eagles standing guard on either side of the door and a stone staircase leading guests to the main rooms. Ceremonies for up to 60 people usually happen in the main Drawing Room, a large area with impressive-bowed windows, a fireplace and a detailed cornice. A stunning mirror, which almost reaches the ceiling, is the main focal point of the space with carved-wooden figures adorning each side. Alternatively, the “I dos” and receptions can take place on the lawn in front of the castle, weather permitting, and a marquee is also an option for larger weddings. Intimate receptions occur in the Drawing Room or the Grand Hall, which is an impressive space with a vaulted ceiling and bar area. We love... The castle sleeps up to 55 among its 12 bedrooms and holiday cottages, which means loved ones can retreat to comfort after dancing the night away! www.laurencesweeneyphotography.com www.laurencesweeneyphotography.com 18