Why jet off to foreign climes to get married with your toes in the sand when you can do the same in Dorset?
Pennsylvania Castle, Portland
As fairytale wedding venues go you’d be hard-pushed to find somewhere that tops this Gothic castle in an idyllic seaside setting. Whether you want grandiose glamour or rustic romance, their in-house team can help you with the entire planning process. There are a number of ‘arrangements’ available inside the castle as far as rooms are concerned, or there are two scenic spots that they recommend in the garden, which would work fantastically as a venue for your big day.
The Cumberland Hotel, Bournemouth
Look out over Bournemouth’s glorious East Cliff to the sea beyond at this stylish Bournemouth hotel. Ideally placed for your ceremony, make the most of the hotel’s superb vista with their large outdoor poolside lido deck. Inside there are a range of areas available for weddings, so when it comes to numbers you can go from cosy and close-knit to extravagant and expansive (up to 200 people). Dedicated wedding co-ordinators are on-hand to help you plan the perfect day.
cumberlandhotel.oceana-collection.com
Beach Weddings Bournemouth
The first company in England and Wales to offer weddings on the beach, your day can be tailored to your every whim - such as an ice cream tricycle serving guests ice cream cones on the beach. Many couples embrace the beach theme and make decorations themselves out of driftwood and shells for the tables. Your wedding can be as large or as intimate as you like. Whether it’s a cocktail or champagne reception after the ceremony or a relaxed wedding breakfast in one of their beautiful marquees - you can choose a beach barbecue, freshly cooked fish and chips, a buffet or an afternoon tea.
www.beachweddingsbournemouth.co.uk
Highcliff Marriott, Bournemouth
Just a short romantic stroll from the beach, get married in style at this cliff top hotel and then make the most of the beautiful Bournemouth coastline for those all-important photos. Their Dorchester Suite can accommodate up to 500 guests, but this is just one of the Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott’s five elegantly decorated function suites. All offer fantastic sea views and there’s even a wedding gazebo to make your day even more special. Nestled amid landscaped gardens, the wedding gazebo offers breathtaking panoramic views of Bournemouth Pier and the glorious Jurassic coastline.
Sandbanks Hotel
For a truly unforgettable wedding day right on the water’s edge why not exchange vows at the beautiful Sandbanks Hotel, then step off their charming terrace onto glorious golden sands. The hotel’s stunning location has magnificent panoramic views across the Jurassic coast, and offers outstanding levels of service and professionalism as well as great food. It is a perfect venue for wedding receptions, civil ceremonies and partnerships, catering for up to 100 people.
Christchurch Harbour Hotel
Take your vows against a backdrop of breathtaking coastal views that take in Mudeford Quay and out towards Hengistbury Head and the Isle of Wight – the stunning waterfront location of this stylish hotel is the perfect setting for a wedding celebration. If you haven’t quite got to the wedding planning stage in proceedings, they also offer bespoke proposals to suit all budgets. Let their dedicated wedding team do the hard work from start to finish.
www.christchurch-harbour-hotel.co.uk
The Alexandra Hotel, Lyme Regis
An in-house wedding coordinator at this award-winning cliff top hotel, situated in the pretty West Dorset seaside town, will make your wedding truly memorable, whether you are dreaming of a grand affair or a more intimate occasion. There is a wide choice of rooms within the hotel, so as far as numbers go it’s up to you. They’re also licensed to perform civil ceremonies. Guests can enjoy champagne and canapés in the marquee and gardens overlooking the sea. And while on the deck, your photographer can capture your special day with the famous Cobb as a backdrop - recently voted one of the most romantic places in England.
Studland Bay House, Studland
This seaside venue is set in an exceptional location, overlooking Studland Bay, and offers acres of mature gardens and woodland. Wander down through the gardens straight on to Studland Beach – one of the best sandy beaches in Europe. It’s the perfect spot for a magical wedding or party, with plenty of room for a large marquee in the grounds.
