In full bloom

Discover beautiful venues with showstopping gardens

THE RIDING SCHOOL, CALKE ABBEY 01332 501 252 | www.ivyhouseweddings.co.uk

The Riding School is a charming red-brick barn surrounded by 600 acres of incredible parkland at the beautiful Calke Abbey estate. Buildings and quirky courtyards surround the property, perfect for formal shots with family and friends, while the manicured gardens boast borders full of colour and fragrance.

The grand house is not to be missed with its baroque exterior – it’s the most beautiful place to stop for formal portraits. In the gardens, couples will find an authentic auricula theatre that displays stunning arrangements throughout the year.

The magnificent Orangery provides the perfect botanical backdrop for photographs with floor-to-ceiling windows, a domed-glass roof, lush greenery and peeling paintwork. The venue boasts a wealth of history with original features. Exposed beams line the ceiling, while the bare brick walls and the original windows create the perfect blank canvas. Elegant white draping separates the Riding School into three more intimate spaces with a fabulous bar and lounge area, a ceremony space and wedding breakfast location for 160 people. With such a flexible space, couples can create traditional and formal soirees or more laid-back events. Wedding breakfasts will be served by experienced staff with expert chefs on hand to create bespoke menus. Later in the day, the ceremony area becomes an incredible dancefloor for 260 people to party the night away. The evening guests will be given a warm welcome as they arrive to join the celebrations. The fully stocked bar will be open for all guests to enjoy a drink before cutting the cake, and the first dance lets everyone know it’s time to get the party started.

When couples book the venue for their special day, they’ll receive a year’s National Trust Membership and a free tasting session before their wedding.

Hemswell Court

01427

668 508 | www.hemswellcourt.com

Nestled in Lincoln, Hemswell Court is a private Georgian-style venue that offers landscaped gardens, shaded woodland areas and beautiful walkways.

Inside, various elegant function rooms have been tastefully furnished and decorated. The Private Drawing Room can host 95 people for ceremonies and 32 for receptions. The room features a large open fire place, which can be lit during the colder months, as well as two solid oak tables and antique furniture. Couples can exchange vows in the Primrose Room with 200 loved ones for larger weddings and continue the evening celebrations with 120. The light and airy room overlooks the landscaped gardens with high ceilings, traditional bookcases, wooden floors and a fire place. For those wanting outdoor ceremonies, The Band Stand is set amid beautifully landscaped gardens. Here, couples can have an unlimited number of guests.

Continue the celebrations in The Ballroom, which can host 150 people for evening celebrations and features a large spacious bar, dancefloor and seating area. After dancing the night away, guests can rest in the 25 en suite bedrooms.

Beneath the beautiful willow tree hangs a handcrafted swing, where many memorable photographs have been taken. There are also tables and chairs around the gardens for guests to use while enjoying the outdoor spaces.

Sherwood Glade

07929

209 358 | www.sherwoodglade.co.uk

Situated on 25 acres of private woodland, Sherwood Glade creates the ideal location for weddings. Located in Sherwood Forest, famously associated with the legend of Robin Hood, the woods are home to incredible wildlife and ancient oak trees. There are many trails for romantic strolls under the tree canopies and picture-perfect spaces to capture showstopping images. Whether couples are looking for relaxed or informal weddings with barbecues, glamorous events or something a bit different – the venue is the perfect option. www.makeupstudio4-6.co.uk/ 07891200801 studio4.6makeup@yahoo.com

The property doesn’t have a ceremony licence, but couples can have celebrant-led weddings or blessings in the stunning woodlands surrounded by nature and 120 people. Continue the celebrations under two giant tipis with fairylights illuminating the space. The team gives lovebirds the freedom to organise their wedding while helping assist every step of the way.

The most important day of your life...

...deserves a special setting – a location that’s not just out of the ordinary, but extraordinary. That location is Kilworth House Hotel.

Kilworth House stands apart from the everyday world – a place of timeless warmth, elegance and gracious living set amid 38 acres of rolling parkland.

Kilworth House Hotel, Lutterworth Road, North Kilworth, Leicestershire LE17 6JE

Telephone: 01858 880058 www.kilworthhouse.co.uk www.kilworthhouse.co.uk

BONDHAY GOLF CLUB

01909 723608 | www.bondhaygolfclub.com

Nestled in Dukeries, Bondhay Golf Club provides the perfect settings for memorable weddings with endless charm and character.

As couples travel down the long driveway with two golf courses on either side, they arrive at the family-owned venue and will fall in love with the spaces.

The stunning grounds and gardens provide a picturesque backdrop to memorable photographs. Couples will discover the immaculately tended fairways, blooming flowers, lush greenery, charming walkways and peaceful ponds – perfect for romantic walks.

The dedicated team works with couples to ensure they receive their dream wedding while tailoring the day to their needs and requirements.

RINGWOOD HALL HOTEL & SPA

The expert event planners will guide couples through the experience every step of the way to ensure each event is unforgettable.

Wedding breakfasts and receptions take place in the Function Room, which has recently undergone an extensive renovation to add a touch of luxury to the property. The space is easily adapted to match any theme or colour scheme and comes well-dressed with wall drapes, a modern wooden floor, rustic chairs and tables. With a private bar and stunning views, what location could be better?

The menu features delicious dishes created by talented chefs using the finest ingredients for sit-down meals with 120 people. The sun-lit annexe provides the perfect entertainment spot, and there’s a dedicated space for catering. Dance the night away with 250 evening guests and create memories to treasure forever.

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Nestled in Chesterfield, Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa is an impressive Georgian manor house set within 19th-century formal gardens. The venue has been lovingly restored to its former glory, meaning couples can expect memorable events. The venue’s charming interior features elegant touches, high ceilings, ornate chandeliers and period features.

Check out: www.ringwoodhallhotel.com

HODSOCK PRIORY

Hodsock Priory was lovingly restored in 1829 and has been the home to the Buchanan family for nine generations. Down the sweeping driveway, couples will approach the Grade I listed Tudor Gatehouse and find beautiful gardens surrounding the property. Having once entertained four English kings, including Henry VIII, the venue epitomises a country house style with modern touches.

Check out: www.hodsockpriory.com

TISSINGTON

Hall

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Peak District National Park, Tissington Hall is an unrivalled location with beautiful country views. The historic 17th-century building is a fabulous wedding setting and can be hired exclusively for events. Couples will fall in love with the gardens, which stretches over five acres and provides the perfect backdrop to wedding photography.

Check out: http://tissingtonhall.co.uk

CROWN

Hall Farm

Located on the outskirts of Spalding in Lincolnshire, the Crown Hall Farm is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. As pairs enter the property through the large gates, they’re embraced with lush greenery and a treelined driveway that creates a calming environment. The large lake creates a perfect backdrop to ceremonies in the characterful boat house.

Check out: www.crownhallfarm.co.uk