There are some things to take on board when finding the right location to wed – how many guests you are accommodating, how they might get there, and whether Aunt Mildred will approve. Everything else however is down to the pure nature of the location. From the petite to the monstrous, and from the charming to the downright ostentatious, if you know where to look there seems to be no lack of inspiration when it comes to finding the right wedding venue.
Castles
Hever Castle, Kent
What Hever lacks in size it makes up for in charm. Weddings take place in a miniature Tudor village (think thatched, timber-framed cottages), overlooking the lawns and gardens that Queen Anne Boleyn used to roam.
Caerphilly Castle, Wales
This mammoth of a fortress was built over 700 years ago in an attempt to capture Glamorgan, and also featured in the English Civil War. Now days it’s magnificence befittingly acts as a backdrop to more peaceful pursuits.
Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire
Belvoir, meaning ‘beautiful view’ in French, this elegant hilltop castle possesses an incredible collection of fine art. This might have something to do with the fact its interior is arguably the most attractive in the country.
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Estates
Goodwood Estate, West Sussex
Nestled at the foot of the South Downs, Goodwood has an extraordinary four wedding venues to pick from within the estate. Add to that a plethora of themes and facilities, and the possibilities begin to seem, well, vast.
Foxhills, Surrey
The Foxhills estate is situated on 400 acres of countryside with 220 staff waiting on you hand and foot. With such grand amenities on such a beautiful estate, one doesn’t have to worry about trimming the amount of guests or waiting to be served. One might also like to make full use of the red carpet when it’s rolled out on arrival.
Cain Manor, Hampshire
The Timber-framed Elizabethan manor house alone makes this a wonderful setting to stage a wedding. Built from old ship parts in the 16th century, and judging by the fact it hasn’t fallen down yet, Cain Manor would suit those adopting a more rustic approach to their ceremony.
Hotels
The Ritz, Piccadilly
Thousands of people walk past the Ritz everyday, straining for a glimpse into the opulent world within. Really, their imaginations can’t begin to prepare them. Architecturally the six exquisitely designed dining rooms would not look out of place in Buckingham Palace.
Claridge’s, Mayfair
It might not look like it from the outside, but Claridge’s is capable of hosting up to 800 guests. The Grand Ballroom is especially well equipped for the most lavish of weddings.
Ballyfin, Ireland
Formerly a country house, Ballyfin provides a degree of privacy like no where else. This is the best thing going for it, if you forget the gorgeous surrounding countryside, aesthetically pleasing interiors, and extensive list of activities. Luxury experiences at Ballyfin
Palaces
Kensington Palace, West London
The sheer elegance of this place is somewhat difficult to comprehend. However, it is a palace after all, so everything is as well furnished, impeccably adorned, and in some cases unnecessarily grand as you might expect. One of the few locations where guests would be able to dine and dance like royalty.
Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
If you thought Kensington Palace had introduced you to a new perception of luxury, then just have a look at Blenheim. The ‘Long Library’ for example is lined in marble, features a magnificent organ, and overlooks sparkling fountains in the gardens.
Atholl Palace, Scotland
Luscious Scottish Highlands encapsulate this grand establishment that takes great pride in its services. While there is the opportunity for a more intimate ceremony indoors, the Japanese garden simply has to be made full use of.