GOING LOCAL

Going local Where to say “I do” in and around Leicester

KEYTHORPE MANOR

01162 598 100 | www.keythorpemanor.com

Set in the rolling countryside, Keythorpe Manor is an idyllic venue that offers couples the perfect location to tie the knot.

The property provides picture-perfect spaces for photographs with the English countryside serving as an elegant backdrop. Couples can make the most of the open spaces by making a grand entrance in style with either a horse-drawn carriage or a helicopter to wow guests – the options are endless.

Ceremonies and receptions occur in the conservatory-style marquee. Thanks to its blank canvas, couples can personalise the location to match different themes and colour schemes. French doors open onto the surrounding veranda, which is the perfect space for drinks receptions with an outdoor bar or hog roasts. Here loved ones can enjoy the countryside views while relaxing in the tranquil setting.

For intimate weddings, the historical Oak Barn is an ideal space with a wooden gambrel ceiling adorned with uplights and a large iron chandelier. The tapestries add a touch of softness to the barn, while the natural elements of rich wood and exposed brick provide a rustic yet chic opulence.

WE LOVE... Couples can stay overnight in the Bridal Cottage when they book the venue for their special day.

01162 478 202 | www.shearsbybath.co.uk

Set in the heart of south Leicestershire’s idyllic countryside, Shearsby Bath is a stone’s throw away from the historical and well-loved village of Shearsby. With more than five acres of landscaped gardens, the dazzling grounds create the perfect backdrop to wedding photography with plenty of picture-perfect areas to discover.

The family-run venue provides a beautiful wedding setting with exceptional cuisine, elegant décor, the finest hospitality and attention to detail.

The Old Spa Room creates a stunning location for ceremonies with 141 people and features an elegant atmosphere, original oak beams and panelling. Or why not exchange vows in the stunning Veil Bandstand, which is situated in the heart of the Secret Garden and has no restrictions on guest numbers.

Receptions can occur in The Orangery for 70-day guests and 120 in the evenings; this is the ideal location for drinks receptions, wedding breakfasts or intimate discos. Alternatively, the marquee can accommodate 350 for a sit-down meal and is an entirely self-contained space that’s available all year round.

Over the years, the Houston family has witnessed many couples trying to coordinate all their essential wedding elements and have seen firsthand how stressful and difficult this can be for them. With their wealth of contacts and creative experience, the team has orchestrated an impressive range of inclusive wedding experiences to make the process far more enjoyable.

WE LOVE... When couples book the venue, they’ll receive a complimentary tasting session and help from the wedding coordinator.

LEICESTER MARRIOTT HOTEL

01162 820 100 | www.memoriesmademarriott.co.uk/leicester

Leicester Marriott Hotel is a contemporary 4-star venue that offers a oneof-a-kind backdrop to weddings.

Conveniently located just minutes from the M1 and with easy access to Leicester train station as well as nearby airports, the property is perfect for guests travelling in. Around the local area is an array of celebrated local attractions, including Leicester city center.

Lovebirds can choose from a selection of beautifully designed wedding spaces that are ideal for multicultural weddings, civil ceremonies and receptions. The spacious Grove Suite is the most extensive and flexible event space that features a private bar, foyer and outdoor patio area for 400 people. Ideal for larger celebrations, this 4,227-square-foot area works perfectly for multicultural weddings with up to 300 guests. For more intimate gatherings, the elegant Anstey Suite is perfect and can cater for 40 to 100 guests. Or why not pick the Kirby Suite for 50 loved ones, which features neutral tones and high ceilings?

Friends and family can unwind in the hotel’s sleek and stylish rooms after dancing the night away. They’ll be able to use the gym and dine on globally-inspired cuisine at the Market Kitchen Restaurant.

The talented team works with pairs to bring their concepts to life and offers an array of services from private pre-reception areas as well as a carefully curated list of suppliers. Thanks to their expert help, weddings are always unforgettable.

WE LOVE... The property offers a menu tasting session and overnight accommodation for couples when they book either the Extra Special or Icing On the Cake wedding package.

THE BELMONT HOTEL

01162 544 773 | www.belmonthotel.co.uk

Situated in the heart of the city centre, The Belmont Hotel is a Victorian building that dates back to the 19th-century.

The family-owned property has a homely feel, and all the function spaces are individually designed in a neutral décor to match any colour scheme. The Rose Room is a versatile area that can accommodate 110 loved ones for the “I dos” and wedding breakfasts, as well as 200 for evening celebrations. Alternatively, The Rowan Room is the ideal location for relaxed events with ample room for up to 40 guests for the vows and reception meals, while The May Room works great for more intimate nuptials. The hotel’s terrace area makes an excellent spot for drinks receptions and informal pictures in the summer months. Other photographic spaces include The Oval for capturing group photos, while the steps from the original house are great for couple portraits.

Lovebirds who book the venue for their wedding as well as a threecourse wedding breakfast will receive a complimentary tasting session, a night’s stay on their special day and a dinner voucher for their first anniversary stay.

WE LOVE... With 74 stylish bedrooms, guests can enjoy four-star accommodation at special discounted rates.

https://sarahsalotti.co.uk KILWORTH HOUSE HOTEL

01858 880 058 | www.kilworthhouse.co.uk

Set in 38 acres of rolling parkland, Kilworth House is an elegant venue located in the heart of rural Leicestershire. With breathtaking views, expansive grounds, fine dining, luxurious accommodation and an outdoor theatre, what’s not to love about this property?

The hotel lies at the end of an inviting tree-lined approach that leads guests through the tranquil grounds to the well-maintained lawns and south-facing façade. Guests will love exploring the parklands and woodland areas, which create gorgeous backdrops to images.

Exchange vows with 130 guests in the fully-restored Victorian Orangery, which features glorious rural views and vibrant natural lighting. After the vows, couples can enjoy drinks receptions on the terrace before returning to the Orangery for wedding breakfasts.

Alternatively, The Wordsworth Room features a domed ceiling with glittering chandeliers and can accommodate 40 people for the vows. Next door, pairs can use the Library Restaurant for showstopping wedding breakfasts. With a cosy setting, views over the Knot Garden, fairytale bookcases and a Victorian fireplace, what location could be better?

For more intimate weddings, the Shakespeare Room is perfect for celebrations with 20 loved ones and features ornate décor. The space brings intimacy and grandeur to both wedding ceremonies and wedding breakfasts. After dancing the night away, loved ones can retreat to the stunning bedrooms for a good night’s rest.

Lovebirds can enjoy the sumptuous surroundings in peace as exclusive hire is available from 3.00pm on the day of arrival to 9.00am the following morning.

WE LOVE... When couples book the venue, they’ll receive a complimentary menu tasting session.