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Spotlight on... BRISTOL & AROUND

Venue capacities may change amid the coronavirus pandemic.

ALDWICK ESTATE

01934 864 404 | www.aldwickestate.co.uk

What can you expect? Not far from bustling Bristol is this idyllic country farm venue. Panoramic views flow gently through the gardens before skimming Aldwick’s verdant fields to the River Yeo at the farm’s south boundary and Homefield Vineyard to the west. From the valley rises a patchwork of distant farms, fields and forests to the summit of the Mendip Hills. This pastoral beauty sets the scene for memorable photographs.

The venue is the perfect marriage of historic and modern; all the charm of a rustic 17th-century farm is happily united with the comforts and efficiency of the 21st century. Let’s celebrate! The venue comprises two adjacent stone barns linked by a main reception and the inviting brick-walled Cellar Bar to the rear. The barns are licensed for ceremonies with up to 150 guests. The Old Barn boasts architectural features of the bygone dairy farm, while The New Barn is a light and open space with neutral interiors waiting to be decorated to the couple’s taste.

Delicious, bespoke menus are provided by Taste Buds Catering and can be designed to complement the nearlyweds’ wishes. Wine for the wedding breakfast is produced using grapes grown on-site.

We love… Newlyweds receive a complimentary wedding-night stay in The Forge, a well-appointed apartment situated in the grounds.

AVON GORGE HOTEL BY HOTEL DU VIN

0117 9064 650 | www.hotelduvin.com

What can you expect? The historic Avon Gorge Hotel boasts panoramic views of Clifton Suspension Bridge and the surrounding area from its iconic terrace. Just a stone’s throw away from the boutiques of Clifton Village, the hotel offers classic features alongside newly refurbished, contemporary touches in a brand new events suite located in the former spa pump rooms. There are also 78 luxurious bedrooms for when the festivities are over. held in Aquam Bibe. The self-contained event space, with two adjoining rooms on the lower-ground floor, previously housed the spa pump rooms. With a sweeping marble staircase and sparkling chandeliers, it’s a photographer’s dream. The lovingly restored stained glass windows and mosaic floor make it an atmospheric spot in which to say “I do,” while the breakout area, bar and private terrace make it party-ready. The hotel and all of its rooms are available for exclusive-use.

We love… Couples will have a dedicated wedding coordinator. They’re also invited to have a menu tasting and to plan their wine list with the venue’s sommelier.

BERWICK LODGE

0117 958 1590 | www.berwicklodge.co.uk

What can you expect? Berwick Lodge offers a grand location for big-day celebrations, with its 18 acres of woodland and views across to Wales. The stunning gardens, managed by former royal gardener Robert Dunster, boast the stunning marble Aphrodite’s Dome, ornate fountains, an orchard and a summerhouse.

The imposing red-brick Victorian manor is first glimpsed at the end of a tree- and lantern-lined driveway. Guests step inside to find the interior has an east-meets-west feel, with sumptuous oversized sofas, crystal chandeliers and open fires bringing a luxurious touch to this homely venue. Visitors climb the sweeping staircase to find 14 individually designed bedrooms. Let’s celebrate! There are two options for ceremonies within the Mews, which is a converted stable block. Summeria (50 guests) is a beautifully light room with countryside views, while Mesopotamia (90 guests) is located on the ground floor. Furnished with pillars and large windows, it has access to a patio adjacent to the woodland. Elopement weddings for two are held in the pretty summerhouse.

Receptions are held in the intimate atmosphere of the Hattusa dining room (150 guests), with its stylish architecture and twinkling chandeliers.

We love… All wedding couples are treated to a complimentary menu and wine tasting evening, while some packages include anniversary stays and wedding-night accommodation.

https://joncraig.co.uk Dominika Photography

LEIGH COURT

01275 373 393 | www.leighcourt.co.uk

What can you expect? Shielded from the bustle of Bristol city by Leigh Woods, this honeycoloured Grade II* listed mansion was designed by architect Thomas Hopper for Bristol’s first recorded millionaire, Sir Philip John Miles. Built in 1814 from Bath stone, its graceful Palladian architecture includes grand columns and terraces. Inside, a bold Greek-revival style is showcased through original features, a stunning floating staircase and an ornate ceiling. Sweeping lawns, which lead to fields and woodland, provide plenty of space for a marquee, tipi or an outdoor reception. Let’s celebrate! All of the ground-floor rooms are licensed for ceremonies. The Great Hall (110 guests) can offer an elegant bridal entrance down the sweeping staircase, while some couples favour the grandeur of the blush-coloured Morning Room or the exquisite golden Tapestry Room. The Library and The Salon are perfect for couples who want a ceremony room that spills out on to the lawns.

We love… Leigh Court can host grand affairs. Receptions can take place for up to 400 guests in one or all of the ground-floor rooms, or a marquee can be hired separately for even bigger celebrations.

A BLOSSOMING ROMANCE

Begin the story that will last a lifetime here at Berwick Lodge, by marrying the person you love in the romantic seclusion of the South West’s best-kept secret.

Berwick Lodge, Berwick Drive, Bristol BS10 7TD | 0117 958 1590 | www.berwicklodge.co.uk

Memories to last a lifetime

LEIGH COURT

Avenue White Photography

Limited 2022 dates left. Get in touch to book a venue tour with our Wedding Coordinator.

MERCURE BRISTOL NORTH THE GRANGE HOTEL

01454 355 012 | www.mercurebristol.co.uk

www.west70.co.uk

What can you expect? Located in a peaceful pocket of the north Bristol countryside, at the end of a sweeping driveway, is this delightful ivy-covered Bath-stone manor. Dating back to 1851, the hotel provides an idyllic backdrop for nuptials, thanks to its landscaped grounds and secluded secret garden. There’s even a helipad for those looking to arrive in style.

After a full refurbishment, it now stylishly mixes classic and contemporary touches, with many design influences taken from the majestic cedar tree in the grounds. Inside, there’s a grand staircase and sparkling chandelier for the perfect bridal entrance. Let’s celebrate! Couples can opt for one of two spaces in which to celebrate. The Acorn Suite is a charming setting overlooking the garden. The Park Suite oozes elegance, boasting its own bar and French doors that lead on to a private courtyard.

We love… Menu tasting is offered to the happy couple, as well as overnight accommodation and a delicious breakfast. Intimate wedding packages are also available.

THE ORANGERY AT GOLDNEY HOUSE

0117 428 4000 | www.bristol.ac.uk/venues

What can you expect? Nestled within romantic walled gardens, the enchanting Orangery at Goldney House is a timelessly elegant venue overlooking the city, providing an oasis of calm away from the everyday buzz of Bristol. With a Georgian folly, a shell grotto and ornate water feature, guests can enjoy the serenity of this beautiful space.

The Orangery is a historic wisteria-clad building with original stone floors, high ceilings and wonderfully large windows that let in an abundance of light. It benefits from French-style doors that can be opened up on a warm day to let the outside in. There’s also an exclusive area for the newlyweds to take a breath and freshen up during the day. Let’s celebrate! Ceremonies are held in several spaces, from the intimate Rotunda (14 guests), to the elegant Georgian Drawing Room and Wills Reception Room (80 guests). Most receptions take pace in The Orangery (110 day guests and 150 evening guests), but there are also smaller settings for groups of between 12 and 50 people.

We love… The historical grotto, which is encrusted in shells and quartz, can be hired during the drinks reception as something different for guests to enjoy. The venue is also offering a 21% discount on venue hire for Autumn 2021.