Your Sussex Wedding - April/May 2021 (Issue 90)

Our roundup of the county’s historical venues Past ALL SAINTS THE OLD CHAPEL 01323 643 181 | www.allsaintschapeleastbourne.org All Saints Chapel is a beautiful, rather hidden venue. Situated by the sea in the picturesque ancient seaside village of Meads, Eastbourne, this is a majestic English architectural masterpiece designed by Henry Woodyer in 1874. The Grade II listed Old Gothic Chapel is deconsecrated and is fully licensed for civil partnerships, events and functions, making it a stunning and versatile space to suit your every need. The venue’s huge timber gates open off of a leafy residential street onto The Old Chapel’s front grounds where guests can mingle pre- and post-ceremony. Capture your confetti shots here before heading to the neighbouring park for further beautiful couple and group photos with the Chapel in the background. The venue boasts four parts. First, the entrance reception, which is a modern, light and airy addition. It’s furnished with antique desks and pews complete with bar area where your reception drinks are served. Next is Harriot’s Hallway, an ancient cloister named after the founding and selfless Sister Harriot Byron Brown. Now beautifully decorated with strings of fairylights it’s used as the pre-nuptial area for the bride and her bridesmaids to relax, hidden from view, before their grand entrance. You then find yourself in the open area of the stairwell complete with wrought iron bannisters and gothic windows. You’re free to add your own personal touches anywhere you wish, but this is the perfect area to go to town! Finally, the pièce de resistance: The Great Hall. Here the Minton-tiled 60-foot aisle awaits the bridal party. The bejewelled light that floods in is ever changing, highlighting the Chapel’s various elements. Thirty metres of vaulted- timber ceiling tower above the altar, 150-year-old floor tiles lay beneath your feet and an elegant bar area stands beside hand-carved pew ends in the near corner of the banquet hall tempting guests to sample some of the 25 different gins on offer. Ceremonies and celebrations take place in The Great Hall, which can accommodate 120 seated and 200 standing. There’s a room turnaround while you and your loved ones enjoy canapés and prosecco in the garden and reception area. TIMES  HISTORICAL VENUES 23 www.and ykerrphotography.com