Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - November/December 2023 (Issue 101)

KINGSTON COUNTRY COURTYARD 01929 481 066 | www.kingstoncountrycourtyard.com Encompassed by Purbecks finest countryside and opposite Ninebarrow Down, Kingston Country Courtyard offers panoramic views out to Corfe Castle right through to the Isle of Wight. Around every corner are photographic opportunities to capture memorable images for weddings. During the planning stages, the team offer a free menu and winetasting events for couples. They even host regular wedding showcases, giving lovebirds a fantastic opportunity to meet suppliers and have a fun afternoon with loved ones. The team welcome every couple from all walks of life, especially members of the LGBTQIA+. The venue has multiple backdrops for the vows, surrounded by up to 130 people. The stunning 16th-century Purbeck stone barn adorned with fairylights is a beautiful choice, no matter the time of year. Alternatively, The Pagoda is located in the lower courtyard and is a licenced space for up to 130 people. Super popular for summer weddings, this outdoor area is a suntrap adjacent to the sawmill bar and restaurant. Or, couples can tie the knot in the gardens or forest; both locations offer unique opportunities. Relax in the peaceful and private spaces and enjoy the rolling manicured lawns peppered with roses and cottage planting. After the vows, couples can celebrate with 130 people for wedding breakfasts and 175 for receptions! The team offers a complimentary two-night stay in the honeymoon suite the night before weddings and the day of for newlyweds. ABBOTS COURT RURAL RETREAT 01258 423 990 | https://abbots-court.co.uk Abbots Court Rural Retreat is a hidden gem nestled in six acres of Dorset woodland, meadows and fields. The location provides the ideal setting for memorable occasions with an original Walled Garden, converted Victorian Stables, a bespoke Wedding Pavilion and nine bedrooms. Lovebirds can check in the day before and relax, knowing all is in hand. Spend the evening in the fabulous dining room, playing games next to an open fire or relaxing in the wood-fired hot tub. Wake up in the tranquillity of the Dorset countryside in the light and spacious Bridal Suite. Complete with a lavish en suite with a roll-top bath overlooking the rolling fields and a beautiful four-poster king-size bed, it’s the perfect place for getting pampered. Exchange vows in the newly renovated Victorian Stables or under the Walled Garden Pergola with up to 80 guests. Or, St Nicholas Church is just a five-minute walk away for more traditional ceremonies. With space for up to 120, more guests can join the celebrations in breathtaking Walled Garden for drinks receptions. Sip champagne from the outdoor bar, feast on mouth-watering canapés or play some croquet, all while overlooking the beautifully landscaped grounds. Seating 120, the impressive Wedding Pavilion is the perfect setting for delicious meals with loved ones. The team’s carefully selected caterers provide an unrivalled level of service and will cater for every need. The bar is on hand, offering various spirits, cocktails, beers and wines. After dinner, lower the lighting and turn up the volume as the party begins. Dance the night away with up to 150 nearest and dearest before they retreat to the unadulterated luxury of the Country House for a perfect night’s sleep. This home-from-home is split over three floors and sleeps between 18 and 21 guests. Enjoy luxurious bedding and furnishings decorated in a modern Farrow & Ball palette. The glamping area offers six furnished pods for up to twelve guests with bespoke shepherd’s hut showers and a communal fire pit area. There are also five bell tents, sleeping up to 20 guests if required. The venue’s sister property, Almer Manor, has eight beautiful bedrooms and a three-bedroom cottage. With access to the grounds from midday the day before, Abbots Court offers exclusive use over two nights. Extra nights can be added on request. LOCAL VENUES 25

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