TORRE ABBEY, TORQUAY, DEVON Boasting more than 800 years of history, the interior of Torre Abbey is a beautiful, interesting and eclectic mix of Medieval and Georgian style updated with modern touches to aid accessibility and comfort. Entering through the magnificent Swan Gates, the first view of the Abbey, from the West, clearly shows its Medieval roots complete with the clock tower and gatehouse. The southern, sea-facing aspect of the mansion, with its symmetrical wings embracing a wide terrace which is reached by a sweeping staircase flanked by large urns, looks typically Edwardian with its long windows. Set in 18 acres of parkland on Torquay’s seafront, with sweeping views across its meadows to the sea, Torre Abbey is a beautiful venue. The Spanish Barn dates back to the 14 th century offering a rustic, romantic ambience while the large Palm House is a 20th-century building providing an intimate, colourful and scented location for smaller events. Ceremonies take place here for up to 20 guests. Indoor weddings can enjoy the rustic-inspired, enchantingly lit 14th-century barn with capacity for up to 250 guests. Meanwhile, the atmospheric 12th-century Undercroft, with its vaulted ceiling can host up to 70 loved ones. There’s also a formal Georgian Ballroom enjoying stunning sea views, beautiful artwork and a magnificent chandelier for up to 70 people. Access through the gatehouse on to the newly recreated carriage sweep on the south side of the building is usually restricted but allows for a dramatic entrance for any couple holding a ceremony in the beautiful Ballroom. When it comes to the reception, the 14th-century Spanish Barn can accommodate up to 300 guests for a finger buffet, and up to 200 loved ones for a formally seated dinner. The award-winning walled garden offers a haven of peace and tranquillity and couples can use the upper part to host an informal drinks and canapés reception outside. This can also be held in the Ballroom for up to 70 people although there are restrictions on non-staining drinks. There are a number of very special places both within and outside the building which offer excellent settings for unique photographs. www.torre-abbey.org.uk OUTDOORS Check out these fabulous wedding venues with stunning al fresco spaces The great HATCH MARQUEE HIRE, THROUGHOUT DEVON AND CORNWALL AND THE SOUTH WEST Hatch Marquee Hire is a leading supplier of clear-span marquees that are tailor-made to suit requirements. They’re the perfect pick for a vintage, festival-style or beach wedding and also add a timeless backdrop to a modern contemporary celebration. Couples can also choose to hire a wide range of equipment, furniture hire, lighting and dancefloors. The talented team has recently added a new marquee style to the selection of structures available to hire. The Sailcloth Pole Marquee is a traditional structure with a modern feel. There are three sizes to choose from: 12m x 12m; 12m x 18m and 12m x 24m to cater from 40 to 140 guests. The sailcloth marquee can be tailored to fit both large and smaller spaces and can be adjusted to suit different wedding themes. www.southwestmarqueehire.co.uk 13 THEMED VENUES
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