When looking for a unique wedding venue in Essex, there’s nowhere quite like Hedingham Castle, a location backed by over 900 years of history and culture
Hedingham Castle - located in the Essex countryside north of Braintree - is one of the county's most distinctive locations and closely tied to the region's turbulent history following the Norman conquest.
The area's historical importance combines with its stunning location to produce a wedding venue like few others you'll find in Essex or further afield.
To find out more we spoke to Hedingham owner Demetra Lindsay about what engaged couples can expect from the venue in terms of location, entertainment, catering and more.
How is Hedingham Castle different to other venues?
"It's so important that the atmosphere of each wedding is as exactly as the bride and groom want it to be. That personalisation is the key challenge we face on the day of a wedding," says Demetra.
This attention to detail is something that permeates everything staff at the castle do and ensures that each wedding they deliver becomes a part of the rich history of the estate.
Demetra describes Hedingham as "the most extraordinary backdrop" with the 900-year-old keep, 300-year-old house, Tulip marquee and majestic grounds creating an area that will work for a variety of different weddings.
"We've had a wonderful Indian wedding with incredible drummers, we've had a Game of Thrones type wedding which was great fun to watch while we've also had a very traditional olde English wedding with Morris dancers," said Demetra.
The above is just a short summary of what can be catered for at Hedingham as they have also previously held a Star Wars wedding and one couple had their rings delivered by owl.
Although couples will largely know what to expect from the keep and the wider estate, there is the opportunity for considerable personalisation in the marquee that Demetra describes as a "blank canvas".
What packages are available?
While prices will vary greatly depending on the month and day of the week, your basic choices will be a ceremony in the castle keep with a marquee reception, the ceremony and reception in the castle or just the castle ceremony.
Use of the garden cottage, 'Silver Cloud' Mercedes and lakeside terrace may also be included depending what package you go for.
The date or season of your wedding will not only throw up a number of practical considerations but also a range of aesthetic elements you'll have to weigh up.
Describing a summer wedding Demetra said: "Just think of having photographs across the lake with the keep being reflected in the waters while the fountain plays and everyone enjoys reception drinks on the lawn."
If you're picturing a more cosy winter wedding then Hedingham can also provide that with the keep lit by candles, a fire roaring in the reception house and even an enormous Christmas tree creating a scene with a warm, homely feel.
We could easily go on further about the beauty, majesty and history you'll find in every inch of Hedingham Castle but the best way to get a feel for the place is to arrange a viewing.
As Demetra says: "You won't quite appreciate how extraordinary it is until you get here."
To find out more about Hedingham Castle and the weddings they provide please visit their website through this link or call them directly on 01787 460261.
