TOP MID-SUMMER WEDDING VENUES

Liz Coggins

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Rolling lawns, fragrant blossoms, picturesque lakes, gazebos and fountains and even the odd secret garden are all essentials when it comes to planning a summer wedding. But there are other things that will make your day feel like something from the pages of a midsummer nights dream. A private drinks reception outside in a shady nook or on the terrace adds a special touch and the venue's grounds, gardens and vistas can create unforgettable and exclusive backdrops for your photographs. If you decide to head outdoors, here are ten of my favourite venues for a summer wedding.
Tylney Hall Hotel

Once a Victorian mansion, that played host to the rich and influential, Tylney Hall has an exquisite old world charm. Set in 66 acres its a landscaped paradise for weddings with a lake, water garden and rustic bridge. Outdoor weddings are held in the Italian Garden's stone gazebo, whilst the Rose, Dutch or Walled Gardens make the perfect backdrops for photographs.

Storrs Hall Hotel

This unique white Georgian mansion is set right on the edge of the sparkling waters of Windermere with the Lake District Fells rising above. The terraces and the hall, with its rotunda and balcony, are stunning for reception drinks whilst the function rooms have uninterrupted views across the lawns that stretch down to the water's edge.

Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club

In the heart of the Ashdown Forest this neo-Gothic mansion has rolling lawns that dip into a fairytale lake. There's a plethora of period rooms and suites including a converted chapel with stained glass windows and a real secret garden. But for the ultimate romantic ceremony there's the summer house overlooking the lake.

The Greenway Hotel & Spa

A 16th century luxury Elizabethan Manor, only five minutes from the centre of Cheltenham, this picturesque hotel has beautiful views over the rolling Cotswold Hills. Luxury and privacy are the key elements here combined with lots of natural light, stunning vistas and relaxing décor. With idyllic gardens the hotel can easily place a marquee in its eight acres of grounds.

The Runnymede on Thames

This spectacular riverside setting overlooking Bell Weir Lock and The Thames has private lawns and balconies, function rooms with natural daylight and a Moorings Café, where kids can play, watch TV and movies. Perfect for summer they offer a barbecue meal and river cruises from a one hour drinks reception cruise to a four hour one, complete with a DJ.