From the summer 2014 edition of Destination South magazine - from the rolling Dorset hills to a sandy Isle of Wight beach, celebrate your special day in style
A wedding in the woods - The Carpenter’s Barn
Where more magical than the Carpenter’s Barn, hidden amongst the trees of a private woodland estate, to host a gorgeous woodland wedding? Fabulously private and secluded, you will enjoy exclusive use of the venue as well as access to a licensed bar, a large fire circle for toasting marshmallows and telling stories and bbq facilities for a laid back wedding breakfast. For large parties, you can also add a marquee to the barn, taking capacity for this venue to 125 in total. There are lawns for entertainment and a meandering trail through the ancient woodland of the New Forest provides the perfect place for taking photographs. Newly weds can spend the night in the special Honeymoon Shepherd’s Hut and there is also accommodation on site available for your guests.
For more details visit www.weddingsinthewood.co.ukHighcliffe Castle
Rising majestically from its cliff top location overlooking Christchurch Bay and The Isle of Wight, Highcliffe Castle sits within magnificent 14 acre parkland surrounded by landscaped gardens with stunning coastal views. A gentle footpath leads down to a glorious sandy beach, setting a magical backdrop to your special day. Whether your dream wedding is grand and sumptuous; intimate and relaxed; civil or humanist, Highcliffe Castle can accommodate. By celebrating your wedding at Highcliffe Castle you will also be actively supporting the continued conservation and restoration of the Castle, helping to protect one of the most beautiful historic buildings on the South Coast so that present and future generations can continue to enjoy it.
For more details visit www.higcliffecastle.co.ukA historic Abbey - Beaulieu Abbey
The idyllic surroundings of the forest and tranquil Beaulieu River create a unique setting for your wedding in Hampshire. Beaulieu Abbey was one of the largest Cistercian monasteries in England and provides a stunning wedding venue in the New Forest. The historic Domus, one of only two buildings remaining from the original 13th century Abbey, was formerly the lay brothers’ dormitory and now provides an enchanting and unique setting for up to 150 wedding guests. With their fabulous grounds and acres of gardens, Beaulieu is the perfect choice for those wanting a glorious summer wedding.
For more details visit www.beaulieuthevenue.co.ukAmongst the rolling hills - Wilkswood
Picture this…a gentle breeze ruffling the green leaves, the chirrup of bird song and the soft, warm sunlight shining. Wilkswood is an idyllic countryside wedding venue located in the Isle of Purbeck. This is the perfect venue for couples looking for a relaxed, elegant marquee wedding, whether you’re having something small and intimate or are looking for a grand venue to squeeze in the whole family. The view couldn’t be more breathtaking as the venue overlooks the stunning rolling hills of Purbeck whilst being at the height of the tree top canopy. Spotting the steam train go past is the icing on the cake. All of this makes for some truly wonderful photographs to capture your special day.
To find out more visit www.wilkswood.co.ukBe a beach bride & groom - Priory Bay
Why fly to the Caribbean to get married when there’s a stunning, sandy beach right on your doorstep. The Boathouse at Priory Bay offers couples the opportunity to tie the knot in the impossibly romantic setting on the Isle of Wight. From barefoot champagne and canapés to a full wedding breakfast in the marquee in the woods, overlooking the bay, to a lobster and seafood barbecue right on the beach – you will feel like you’re on a tropical island. Guests can arrive directly by boat or hovercraft on to the golden beach and luxurious designer yurts with ensuite bathrooms and private terraces will make sure married life gets off to a good start. For more details visit www.priorybay.co.ukA Treehouse hideaway - CET Treehouses
What better location for your special day than being nestled in the trees with the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaf canopy. With a licence to hold civil marriages and civil partnerships your guests will enjoy the beautiful surroundings with an enchanting feel and a magical atmosphere. The Treehouses offer the unique fairytale setting with the option of holding your ceremony in one of two Treehouses: the larger of the two having a tower and a viewing platform at the top to look out over the treetops (a perfect photo opportunity) and a decking area, while Treehouse One will accommodate up to 90 people sitting at tables or 120 buffet style.
For more details visit www.cet.org.uk
