OUTSIDE THE BOX

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THE BOX

Standout venues for a big day with a difference

PALAIS DES VACHES

02380 243 102 | www.palaisdesvaches.co.uk

Situated deep in the countryside, Palais des Vaches is a renovated art gallery that provides the ideal setting for weddings and events. The property is surrounded by rolling fields with views over Beaulieu River and the Solent to the Isle of Wight.

Couples can have blessings and memorable receptions surrounded by loved ones. The Cow Palace can accommodate around 120 people and features high ceilings, 100-year-old beams and magnificent artwork. Alternatively, the Goat Pen has been lovingly restored to create the perfect space for around 50 loved ones and overlooks the beautiful landscape. For smaller celebrations, The Monkey Room is perfect with comfortable sofas and chairs.

For outdoor weddings, the courtyard is a statement in itself with gorgeous trees, handmade tables, carved-wooden gates, parasols and sculptures – there’s even space to accommodate food vans and mobile bars in the evenings.

Or why not opt for the north facing lawn, which is ideal for marquee or outdoor ceremonies? It provides the perfect location for outdoor games or play areas to keep guests entertained. Lastly, the Butterfly Meadow is a picture-perfect spot with breathtaking views. Please note, no structures or food are allowed in this area and access is limited in the evenings. Palais des Vaches is offered exclusively to couples over a four-day day hire, which means couples can relax knowing they’ll have a stress-free wedding.

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DORSET MUSEUM

01305 262735 | www.dorsetmuseum.org

The Dorset Museum is an iconic wedding venue located in the heart of Dorchester’s town centre.

The original building was designed in 1883 by G. R. Crickmay and showcases many Victorian features.

Home of 250 million years of Dorset’s history, couples can get married in one of the unique spaces. Offering exclusive hire of the wonderful areas and facilities, the team can create the perfect setting tailored directly to any needs.

Exchange vows in The Dorset Story Space with 24 guests who will love the classic wooden panelling from Tyneham House. Or hold intimate ceremonies in the stunning library surrounded by more than 30,000 books on Dorset’s history. With its Victorian oriel window, the bright space creates the perfect setting for 10 people.

At the heart of the museum is the magnificent Victorian Hall, which can accommodate 120 loved ones and was designed in 1884 – it’s perfect for larger ceremonies and receptions. The Roman mosaic flooring and stained-glass rose windows plus neo-Gothic architecture will help make all weddings memorable.

https://bigbouquet.co.uk

THE GURKHA MUSEUM

01962 842 832 | www.thegurkhamuseum.co.uk

Located in the historic Peninsula Barracks in the heart of Winchester, The Gallery is a magnificent function room within The Gurkha Museum. The building was chosen more than 400 years ago by King Charles II as the site of a palace, designed in the manner of Versailles to overlook Winchester Cathedral.

Modelled originally on an Indian Army Mess, The Gallery can host 60 seated or 100 standing guests for intimate receptions. The space houses valuable picture, silver, medal and badge collections, which is an integral part of the display area.

The function room is furnished to the highest standards and includes a private bar area, main dining sapce and kitchen where the property’s exclusive caterer provides sumptuous and authentic Nepalese curry buffets.

To keep guests occupied, loved ones are free to roam the museum during the day.

SPINNAKER TOWER

02392 857 534 | www.spinnakertower.co.uk

Located in Portsmouth, Spinnaker Tower is the perfect setting for exquisite ceremonies and exclusive receptions.

The stunning views of the south coast create an idyllic backdrop for romantic weddings and photographs.

Located at 105 metres, View Deck 2 offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching up to 23 miles. The unique space can hold up to 70 guests for intimate ceremonies at 5.15 pm, where happy couples can exchange vows in front of the most stunning views.

Wedding breakfasts take place on View Deck 1, which features a glass floor where 70 guests can indulge in the luxury of dining 100 metres in the sky, surrounded by sparkling night-time views or spectacular sunsets. The caterers are happy to devise a bespoke menu in consultation with their head chef tailored to specific requirements.

Evening guests are invited to join couples in the Spinnaker Kitchen & Bar from 9.30 pm where they can enjoy music and dancing. They too can share the whole Spinnaker Tower experience as the View Decks stay open until 11 pm. The space can accommodate 200 people, who will love the wide areas, outside terrace and bar space.

For those not having a sit-down meal, View Deck 1 is another option for receptions.

GOD’S HOUSE TOWER

07733 092 291 | https://godshousetower.org.uk

God’s House Tower is a stunning multi-purpose venue at the southeastern entrance to Southampton’s historic and beautifully preserved Old Town. After an extensive and sensitive refurbishment, the tower is now thriving in its present-day incarnation as a cutting-edge arts, heritage and events venue.

The iconic 700-year-old Grade I listed monument houses numerous intimate and grand spaces for weddings. The areas are available to hire individually or in combination to create bespoke and truly special occasions in memorable surroundings.

A self-contained and flexible space, the Crawford Room is the perfect location for celebrant-led ceremonies and drinks receptions. The room is the oldest corner of the building and features an ancient wooden beamed roof, and dramatic views overlooking the Old Town. For larger events, the Main Gallery is the biggest wedding space and is ideally suited for receptions. Or why not opt for The Tower Roof, which provides panoramic views across the Port of Southampton?

Alternatively, The Cafe & Bar is a flexible space perfect for drinks receptions and parties. With its blend of historic and modern architectural design, it comes with a fully stocked bar.

Lastly, the courtyard is a shaded outside space available to hire in combination with any other part of the building. Tucked away on Lower Canal walk, it comes with or without outdoor tables and chairs with options for a pop-up bar to serve drinks directly from the courtyard.

After dark, the structure is lit to create an awe-inspiring presence – creating the perfect backdrop for photographs.