For a sense of timeless style, look no further than these beautiful historic properties on the Absolutely Weddings 100 Best Wedding Venues 2020 list. Combining classic architecture, a sense of space and the finest photo opportunities, they also offer luxury extras guaranteed to make your celebration special
Words Isabella Eckett
The UK is blessed with beautiful historic properties, so choosing just ten for the Absolutely Weddings 100 Best Wedding Venues 2020 was never going to be easy. Our fairytale selection have all the grace and majesty you could want from a wedding venue – and stunning photo opportunities galore. They also have a sense of timeless style and luxury that will make you and your guests feel spoiled. Magical extras, from glamorous accommodation and unique ceremony spaces to rolling grounds, add to the sense of occasion and mark them out as venues you will definitely want to add to your shortlist. Here is our top ten of splendid historic properties for 2020.
Botleys Mansion, Surrey
The excitement begins as soon as you reach the grand entrance gates of Botleys Mansion. The 18th-century Palladian property – an exclusive use wedding venue – has London-smart charm, with fabulous interiors and sparkling chandeliers. An intimate ceremony can be held in the elegant Green Room or opt for the light-flooded Atrium. A firework display can be arranged for a dazzling wedding send-off. bijouweddingvenues.co.uk
Four Seasons Hampshire
This 500-acre estate not far from Farnborough originally housed a medieval palace which was passed between crown and church for much of its history. Today, the luxury hotel represents the very best of Britain and all we have to offer when it comes to grand period style and superb service. Your personal Wedding Manager will ensure everything is exceptional and, from mesmerising floral arrangements to a ten-tiered cake, anything is possible here. fourseasons.com/hampshire
Clearwell Castle, Gloucestershire
This magnificent castle nestles in the enchanting Forest of Dean, so a truly fairytale setting. Your guests will be blown away as you make your entrance into the impressive ballroom, with 75-foot aisle and leaded bay windows. Available for exclusive hire, accommodation here includes 15 luxe castle bedrooms and homely cottages. Book the night before package at The Wyndham, the perfect laidback setting to entertain family and friends. clearwell-castle.co.uk
Thicket Priory, North Yorkshire
One of Yorkshire’s finest, Thicket Priory was designed by the architect of Buckingham Palace and is a Grade II-listed masterpiece. Recently renovated, the stylish 35-bedroom pad has a magnificent ballroom, private chapel, wonderous reception rooms, 18 acres of gardens, a pretty lake and even its own bandstand. Secret passageways and winding staircases add to the excitement of making this your wedding base. thicketpriory.co.uk
Hever Castle, Kent
Marry your prince charming at this spectacular castle in Kent. Once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, it still lives up to royal standards. Enjoy the stately grandeur of the castle itself, the country-house atmosphere of The Astor Wing or the stunning Italian-style lakeside location of The Guthrie Pavilion. Guests can take in the views from the stone-arched palazzo with its very own Trevi fountain overlooking the enchanting Italian garden. hevercastle.co.uk
Bourton Hall, Warwickshire
Tucked away in the beautiful Warwickshire countryside, and with far reaching views, is imposing Bourton Hall, an 18th century manor house boasting grandeur and style. The entire estate is yours for your special day including the former Catholic chapel, a characterful setting for saying ‘I do’. This is the newest addition to the established Country House Weddings collection. bourton-hall.co.uk
Stoke Park, Buckinghamshire
Romance is in the very design of this stunning white Palladian mansion. The award-winning hotel is set in 300 acres of dreamy parkland. For a pre-wed-pamper head to the spa (with outside pool). The south-facing Fountain Room has breathtakingly beautiful views over the terraced gardens and the palatial ballroom will dazzle your guests. stokepark.com
Cliveden House, Berkshire
An award-winning stately home, Cliveden has played party host to Britain’s aristocracy over the years. From the manicured grounds to the show-stopping main house, it’s a sensational backdrop. Hold a dazzling wedding in the Rocco French Dining Room or a smaller gathering at Spring Cottage. Take a cherished private moment in one of the estate’s vintage boats. clivedenhouse.co.uk
Culloden Estate & Spa, Northern Ireland
Originally built as a palace for the Bishops of Down, this is now one of Ireland’s most prestigious hotels. Standing proudly on the Holywood Hills, the dramatic views over Belfast Lough and the County Antrim coastline will definitely impress your guests. Opt for the Stuart Suite and Lady Jane Tower for an opulent big day. The spa is the perfect place to get ready and pamper with your bridesmaids. hastingshotels.com
Holkham Hall, Norfolk
On the famous Norfolk coastline, Holkham sits in 10,000 acres of rustic parkland and the long tree-lined avenue is an impressive entrance point. The stunning Marble Hall with Cinderella staircase is just made for a ceremony. While this is a glorious spot in every season, it’s incredibly atmospheric decked with greenery for romantic winter celebrations. The passionate team here definitely take wedding decoration to the next level. holkham.co.uk
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