Congratulations on your engagement — here’s to years of happy memories. It’s now time to plan, starting by considering one of these venues that can be exclusively yours for the day. Just hand over your deposit once you’ve decided it’s the space for you: dates you’ve got your heart set on get booked up months in advance.
Armathwaite Hall, Cumbria
Set in 400 acres of deer park and woodland, bordered by the waters of Bassenthwaite Lake and framed by Skiddaw Mountain and Lake District Fells, Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa — one of the original stately homes of England — is as romantic as the surrounding countryside itself.
For the ultimate wedding opt for their Platinum Package which includes — but is not limited to — exclusive hire, Champagne on arrival and for toasting, wine during your four-course wedding breakfast, barbecue or hog roast for your evening reception, luxury suite for two nights, discounted rooms for guests, and even a bottle of Champagne plus Armathwaite Hall flutes as a memento of the day. Then there’s the optional extras, from bridal make-up to archery, alpaca walking, and more.
Up to £19,800 www.armathwaite-hall.com
Cliveden House, Berkshire
Built in 1666 by the Duke of Buckingham, this opulent mansion has hosted every British monarch since George I as well as legendary figures like Winston Churchill and President Roosevelt. A testament to Britain’s rich heritage, it continues to create unique memories for all who step into its iconic surroundings.
Nestled within 376 acres of Grade I-listed gardens with views of the River Thames, weddings can be scaled up to a magical marquee hosting 350. When it comes to their Bespoke Package, you and your guests have access to all 47 bedrooms, spa, and the entire estate for celebrations that continue well into the early hours. As well as exquisite dining from accomplished Chef Chris Hannon, the venue’s versatility also allows for imaginative celebrations, from live DJs, fire dancers, and fireworks, to transforming rooms into tequila bars or nostalgic disco playgrounds.
Up to £70,200, plus £48,000 minimum food and beverage spend www.clivedenhouse.co.uk
Gosfield Hall, Essex
Once a Royal Palace, here you’ll walk up the 120-foot aisle of Queen Charlotte’s oak-panelled gallery, with the Marquis of Buckingham’s former ballroom providing an exquisite setting for your wedding breakfast. There are 23-bedroom suites offered exclusively for the night, while The Rococo Honeymoon Suite is seen to be a bedroom fit for royalty.
With Gosfield Hall’s Two-Day Package enjoy a Champagne afternoon tea, two-course evening meal with wine, as well as overnight accommodation for 60. On the big day itself, start with brunch on the morning of your wedding, choice of cocktails and welcome drinks with canapés, three-course wedding breakfast with wine and Champagne for speeches, croquet on the lawn, evening buffet from the Luxe selection, DJ, overnight accommodation for 60, as well as a full English or Continental breakfast the following morning.
From £55,000 www.gosfield-hall.co.uk
Grantley Hall, Yorkshire
Located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and dating back to 1680, Grantley Hall combines rich heritage with modern luxury. Having hosted Members of Parliament, artists, entertainers, and royalty — including Queen Mary — its evolution from a private residence to a five-star hotel is a journey filled with fascinating stories.
When it comes to exclusivity, at Grantley Hall you have the use of its 38 acres of grounds, as well as 47 bedrooms and suites including the Royal and Presidential Suite. Access to dining facilities including the Michelin-starred Fletchers Restaurant and Norton Bar & Terrace overlooking the River Skell are also provided, as is the Champagne & Cocktail Bar and Grantley Suite, with private terrace overlooking the Japanese Gardens. You can create your own space entirely with a temporary structure on their extensive lawns, and there’s even red-carpet arrival and valet parking at your disposal.
Up to £400,000 www.grantleyhall.co.uk
The Old Royal Navy College, London
This riverside estate boasts 600 years of history linking monarchs and figures such as King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I, William Shakespeare, King William and Queen Mary I, and Vice Admiral Lord Nelson. Built on the site of the Palace of Placentia, it was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and is now considered to have one of the finest 18th century interiors in existence.
The Old Royal Naval College delivers baroque architecture, expansive grounds, and river views. From ceremonies in the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul to receptions beneath the hand-painted ceilings of the Painted Hall, your wedding is complemented by catering renowned for bespoke wedding packages, whether it’s a lavish multi-course feast or chic, modernised menu. With a dedicated wedding coordinator at your disposal, weddings in the past have seen ballet dancers and cellists perform. You can even hire the vaulted Undercroft and Victorian Skittle Alley to create your own personalised wedding event.
POA www.ornc.org
