Your Sussex Wedding - February/March 2022 (Issue 95)

THE OBSERVATORY 01323 832 731 | www.the-observatory.org The Observatory is a unique venue set in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. Formerly the home of the Royal Greenwich Observatory, it now operates as an attraction with extensive science exhibits and charitable status – promoting science for all. The six iconic telescope domes offer an unforgettable setting for couples looking for something completely different and unconventional. The venue can even offer stargazing or planetarium experiences to add to your day’s entertainment. Set in the picturesque village of Herstmonceux, the grounds certainly have the wow-factor. As you approach The Observatory you can’t help but be intrigued by the other-worldly green domes emerging from the horizon. The domes offer a choice of two spaces for your “I dos.” Telescope Dome E is licensed for ceremonies and features an amazing historical telescope at the room’s centre. There’s space here for 60 of your nearest and dearest. The Geodesic Dome is perfect for larger ceremonies, seating 100. The unusual shape and opportunities for decoration give you plenty of flexibility and the permanent geodesic marquee can be used too. Receptions also take place in the Geodesic Dome, which offers a blank canvas to decorate as you wish. Alternatively, The Big Space (the main marquee), which can seat the same number, is practical and spacious. It’s light and airy with a large decking area, and is ideal for a sit-down wedding breakfast or something more casual. For receptions the venue can host 104 for a seated meal or 150 plus for buffet-style dining. It can also accommodate more than 150 for the evening do. Since the venue is new for 2022 it still has some last-minute availability for this year and plenty of dates for 2023. HERSTMONCEUX CASTLE 01323 834 479 | www.herstmonceux-castle.com This 15th-century castle is the oldest brick building of note still standing in the country and is the stunning centrepiece of a beautiful 300-acre estate. The interior of the castle was the main focus of an extensive restoration project in the early part of the 20th-century and reflects a variety of styles from the Elizabethan Room with its stunning 16thcentury staircase to the more contemporary Conference Room with glorious views over the moat. To the rear of the Castle are themed and formal gardens that can provide an idyllic backdrop to your newlyweds’ photoshoot. Beyond these are wild meadows, The Folly with its cottage-style walled garden, a lily pond and managed woodland that changes throughout the seasons. A grand and majestic room, The Ballroom offers views over the Courtyard and out to the Elizabethan Garden – the ideal space to make a lasting impression. It’s a versatile spot and combines a romantic historical setting with all the modern facilities you could wish for. It can play host to both your vows and reception for 150 seated and 180 for the evening. Also available from ceremony to celebrations are the Conference Room (up to 100 guests) and Elizabethan Room (up to 30 guests). Further options for the “I dos,” as well as drinks receptions, are The Cloisters and Courtyard, stunning if the weather is fine. www.terivphotography.co.uk www.terivphotography.co.uk www.terivphotography.co.uk CHARACTERFUL VENUES 27

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