An Essex Wedding - May/June 2023 (Issue 110)

ST OSYTH PRIORY 01206 430 160 | www.stosythpriory.co.uk/contact-us This fantastic manor house is a collection of buildings dating back to 1,100, with the newest addition to the house being Victorian. The ruins of the monastery are a prominent feature and will make the perfect backdrop to any photograph. The abbots tower provides a phenomenal view across the estate. Darcy house has an abundance of historic attributes, it has been sympathetically restored to complement the wealth of history including original features such as, the stone carvings on the window depicting saints which predate the dissolution of the monastery. The detailed wooden touches across fireplaces, doorways and walls retains the history and the grandeur as it once would have been. CELEBRATE IN STYLE For your ceremony, you’re spoilt for choice. There’s Darcy House, where The Gallery and The Great Hall seat up to 110 guests. There’s also the historic chapel which seats up to 60, under the Gatehouse, on the Precinct, and in the Sunken gardens which can host up to 110 guests for a civil ceremony. There are multiple locations for your drink’s reception, such as The Gallery inside Darcy House or outside in the Rose Gardens, the Sunken gardens, The Knot gardens and the precinct. We love... Behind the Priory walls within the 350-acre estate, the gardens and grounds create beautiful scenic memories and impeccable photo opportunities. The gardens are home to natural lakes and a large deer park as well as ancient ruins. HEDINGHAM CASTLE 01787 460 261 | www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk Hedingham Castle is set within 120 acres of stunning Essex countryside including the beautifully restored gardens in the immediate area below the Castle – a perfect backdrop for wedding photography. Our favourite spot is the lake, with the Castle behind, or in between the huge Wellingtonia trees at the bottom of the formal pond. The history of Hedingham spans almost a millennium, with the Castle almost 900 years old. Its imposing Norman architecture is iconic and the Castle is a landmark in its own right and can be seen for miles around, standing at over 70ft tall. The majestic Castle is arguably the best preserved Norman Keep of its kind in the country, both inside and out. CELEBRATE IN STYLE All ceremonies take place in the Banqueting Hall within the Castle, with its breathtaking atmosphere and impressive double height arch. The room is lit with candles and two grand chandeliers to give the space the most incredible romance. The acoustics are superb and many choose to have a string quartet play as the bride walks down the aisle. Receptions can take place in either the elegant Ballroom Marquee, which is a permanent structure adjoining the Mansion House and includes drinks in the Hall of the House and lakeside lawn before dinner. Or, for smaller weddings, you can hold your entire day in the Castle, dining in the Tapestry Room and then continuing the party on the floor above with drinks and dancing. We love... Brand new for 2023 is The Royal Chamber - a magnificent honeymoon retreat situated inside the Castle on the top floor, complete with a stunning four poster bed, double bath, breathtaking views and brimming with character. Couples really can sleep like royalty on their wedding night! www.tomhalliday.com www.dayandknightphotography.co.uk www.broadhousemedia.co.uk www.dayandknightphotography.co.uk HISTORIC VENUES 23

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