Getting married is one of the most important celebrations of your life and it is natural to want every detail of your wedding to be perfect. You may have found the ideal partner but one of the next big wedding decisions to be made is where you will actually get married. A ceremony in a grand stately home or castle is a very popular option and they don’t come much more spectacular than stunning Highcliffe Castle.
A romantic venue
Highcliffe Castle is set in a breathtaking clifftop location overlooking Christchurch Bay and the Isle of Wight. Built between 1831 and 1836 by Lord Stuart de Rothesay, the Grade I listed building is a spectacular example of the Romantic and Picturesque styles and remains a dwelling of great architectural significance. Wedding ceremonies here take place in the Wintergarden or the Drawing Room, two of the castle’s original staterooms. There are two spectacular rooms for the reception. Smaller parties will appreciate the dramatic exposed brickwork and full-length windows of the State Dining Room. The grandiose atmosphere of the Great Hall is enchanting and this room features an incredible 30 foot high stained glass Jesse window.
A colourful past
Highcliffe Castle is not just a stunning wedding venue but has a rich history that adds to its appeal. One of the castle’s most famous owners was Harry Gordon Selfridge, an American entrepreneur best known for introducing a whole new way of shopping to the UK. His famous London department store, Selfridges, made him a fortune and with this money he intended to build the largest castle in the world. In addition to buying Highcliffe Castle, he purchased a large tract of land at picturesque Hengistbury Head and had plans drawn up for a truly incredible dwelling. His plans never came to fruition and he frittered away most of his fortune on high living, but Highcliffe Castle remains one of the most spectacular buildings in the country. Although some of the rooms were badly damaged by fire in the 1960s, a Lottery grant has recently been awarded to restore these parts of the fire to their former glory.
Stunning scenery
One of the most appealing aspects of Highcliffe Castle is that it offers such spectacular opportunities for some truly memorable wedding photos. Not only are the views form the top of the cliff across the bay utterly stunning but the castle itself has a number of fascinating architectural features. The castle is set among 14 acres of parkland and features beautifully-landscaped gardens. Use the steps for group shots or wander among the woodland for intimate portraits. There is also a footpath down to the sandy beach where you and your guests can enjoy the gorgeous coastal backdrop. You could even play an impromptu game of beach cricket for some quirky fun photos of friends and family. Professionals such as www.nickrutterphotography.co.uk are the ideal Wedding Photographer Bournemouth to help you make the most of these amazing surroundings and capture the most memorable moments of your day.
Whatever style and size of wedding you opt for, enchanting Highcliffe Castle is sure to be the perfect venue for a day you will never forget.
