THE BISHOP’S PALACE GARDENS, WELLS 01749 988 111 | www.bishopspalace.org.uk Steeped in history, The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens sits at the heart of the Medieval city of Wells, Somerset. Whether your arrival is by car or a relaxed stroll across the drawbridge, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the stunning, 800-year-old Medieval building. GLORIOUS GARDENS The venue offers 14 acres of perfectly-kept gardens to enjoy, and there’s something quite magical about them. With the moat surrounding the Palace offering the tranquil sounds of flowing water, the stunning backdrop of Wells Cathedral, picturesque willow bridge and seasonal flowers and plants all year round, this is a beautiful place for you and your loved ones to gather after the “I dos” elsewhere. THE CELEBRATIONS Receptions can be hosted in one of two locations, both able to accommodate 105 guests. The Undercroft seats your nearest and dearest at bespoke wooden banqueting tables, and you can welcome a further 50 for the evening. The space is wonderfully versatile, and the team work closely with a local catering partner to ensure quality dining with locally-sourced ingredients. Following the speeches and cake cutting, you can retire to the Portrait Gallery for coffee. Here, you can relax and take time to enjoy this more informal time with your loved ones, while the team transforms the Undercroft ready for your first dance followed by live music or DJ. www.gemhicksphotography.co grass of home Our roundup of the region’s venues that you’ll find to be blessed with glorious gardens OLD BRIDGE 01460 240 855 | www.old-bridge.co.uk This 16th-century manor and its mature gardens provide a glorious backdrop to your special day. Built in the local honey-coloured ham stone, the house is close to the venue’s marquee and is integral to the whole ambience. GLORIOUS GARDENS The gardens are dominated by a massive 400-year-old sweet chestnut tree, from which there hangs a triple seat swing where you can capture some memorable photos with your photographer. The venue is also blessed with formal lawns, rose beds and colourful borders. Plus, there’s a wooded area with gravel paths and a small stream flowing past weeping willows. The woodland is uplit at night, making a wonderful place for the two of you to go for a romantic stroll if you wish to grab some alone time for a few minutes. You can even use the gardens for lawn games, a bouncy castle, street food, an ice cream van, garden furniture and more. THE “I DOS” Ceremonies take place throughout the year in the Great Hall, seating 75. If the weather smiles on you, the front porch is also licensed, so any number of guests could be outside with you witnessing the formalities as you say “I do.” THE CELEBRATIONS Receptions are hosted in the marquee, complete with its own bar, from May to September – it has a capacity of 200. The venue offers you complete freedom to arrange your own catering, music and décor. You’ll also benefit from having access at least one day before the main event to set up and also the day after to clear away. THE GREEN, GREEN 19 GLORIOUS GARDENS
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=