2020 has been a difficult year, I really don’t need to state the obvious of course. We’ve all had our own personal challenges over the last few months and as always, I’m sending all the love and good energy to everyone reading this right now.
If you’re here it’s no doubt because you are either planning a wedding or you work in weddings, so with this in mind I want you to get comfy, grab a drink (coffee, wine, whiskey – whatever you fancy) and browse this rather jam-packed article and perhaps think about supporting the wonderful people featured.
With the majority of couples choosing to postpone their wedding and the government seemingly unwilling to recognise that this vital sector needs support, our beloved venues have had to get their creative thinking-caps on.
We have a stunning collection of properties listed with us and many of them have diversified during these difficult times. These passionate, innovative people are now offering day trips, getaways, Christmas-infused activities, delicious foodie experiences and of course the micro wedding.
We’re very conscious that at the time of publishing this (Friday 23rd October) the situation around the UK is changing daily, so please do keep an eye on the latest government advice for each area when considering plans.
GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES
The Shop at Fforest
When you stay at fforest, you’ll absolutely fall in love with all the beautiful homewares. In fact I dare you not to come home with one of their Welsh blankets.
Browse through their shop, take a peek at their upcoming autumn/winter weekends of slow food, fresh air and freedom at Restaurant Hydref and if you fancy seeing what kind of weddings they host then visit their listing here. The 200 acres of fforest farm are part of an area of unspoilt natural beauty, wrapped in woods, wildlife and wonder. A perfect location for a relaxed, informal, weekend-long celebration.
Yoga on a Shoestring at Pauntley Court
Yoga on a Shoestring has been holding retreats for over 15 years in unique and special locations in the UK and all around the world. They specialise in luxury and affordable retreats in stunning locations.
Pauntley Court will host two weekend yoga retreats this Autumn giving guests a chance to relax, unwind, nourish and rejuvenate. They have carefully mapped out the ballroom for the classes so that everybody will be 2 metres apart and all breakfasts, lunches and suppers are also carefully coordinated and planned.
Guests will enjoy a beautiful bedroom and bathroom of their own and here will be lots of space for everyone to sit quietly and enjoy a book in one of the sitting rooms, or stroll around the glorious gardens which are full of autumn colour at this time of year, or go off on many of the footpaths straight from the front door.
Sounds delicious after the year we’ve all had.
The Great British Drive-In at Sandon Hall
Sandon Hall, in Staffordshire, have been lucky enough to host ‘The Great British Drive In‘ this year, which never would have happened prior to the pandemic. This venue would usually have been a hive of wedding activity, but instead this summer they opened their grounds to this film festival… and the good news? They’re staying open!
The concept allows people to enjoy movies from the comfort of their own car, fully social distanced. If you wanted to have a little look at the website you can find all the latest films to book – just in time for Halloween specials!
Brickhouse Vineyard
This isn’t technically a ‘pivot’ but I couldn’t not mention the delicious wine that’s produced by Brickhouse Vineyard, a gorgeous venue that also specialises in intimate weddings.
This Devon vineyard is situated between the Eastern slopes of Haldon Hill and the River Exe estuary, making the most of the English climate and fertile red soil in a simply stunning location.
The estate includes 20 acres of fields, woodlands, ponds and organic gardens with its own microclimate which is just perfect for growing a range of grapes including Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, which are the principle grape varieties used in production of their white and rosé wines.
Winter Wreath Workshop
28 November 2020 – Winter Wreath Workshop (1.30pm to 4.30pm)
Swanton Morley House & Gardens will be playing host to aWinter Wreath Workshop in partnership with Katy of Bracken and Twine Flowers. This workshop is perfect for those who are looking to get ahead this Christmas or anyone who would like to try something a little different this year.
A beautiful mixture of natural and unusual materials, dried flowers, and foliage including delicate fronds, seedpods, dried umbels will be selected and twisted to fashion a dynamic and non-traditional “everlasting wreath”. Beautifully stylish, this long-lasting wreath design will decorate your home for the festive season and beyond.
Their workshop will start with a demonstration covering the techniques needed to create an eco-friendly winter wreath and with lots of inspiration and guidance, you will then make your own unique piece to take home. Includes all flowers, materials, equipment, expert tuition, delicious festive refreshments and all designs made can be taken home. Suitable for all levels including complete beginners.
Iscoyd at Home
Iscoyd Park is a stunning wedding venue on the Shropshire/Wales border and they have an incredible team of talented Michelin trained chefs, headed up by David Cox.
Food is big part of the Iscoyd experience and now, whilst their doors are closed for large events and weddings, you can still enjoy the delights of Iscoyd food from the comfort of your own home with their new Iscoyd takeaway.
You can choose your dishes from their menu and each box will be packed with individual pre-cooked elements allowing you to finish the dish off at home. Collection is between Thursday – Sunday between 12pm – 5pm.
Dining Experiences at Southend Barns
Southend Barns, near Chichester in Sussex, have just launched ‘Roots Experiences’ – new creative dining experiences that take you beyond the usual restaurant format.
From spectacular themed evenings to sumptuous Sunday lunches, you can enjoy all the deliciousness on offer in the majestic surroundings of the Threshing Barn at Southend Barns. Roots Experiences provide the perfect excuse to dress up and enjoy decadent food prepared with flair for a long overdue lunch or evening of indulgence.
This weekend it’s all about the ’80s Experience’ – their mouth-watering and nostalgic menu is inspired by the chefs from this era and each of the decadent four courses will be paired with a carefully selected wine.
Taste of Autumn with Wild Garlic
Garthmyl Hall have partnered up with renowned caterers Wild Garlic for an exciting one-off event. Join them on Saturday 31st October for a fine dining experience to celebrate the rich flavours of autumn.
Enjoy a seasonal 5 course tasting menu in the beautiful setting of Garthmyl Hall’s Dining Room and Ballroom, where tables for up to 6 guests can be reserved. Expect immaculately dressed tables, attentive table service and a warm atmosphere… as well as a delicious autumnal feast!
They have created an exclusive dinner, bed and breakfast package for those wishing to stay over in one of their luxury en-suite bedrooms. All guests can arrive from 3pm on Saturday 31st October; the gardens will be open to explore, or you may choose to relax in their bar during the afternoon. Breakfast the following day is included but be assured there is no rush to depart, all guests will be treated to a late check out of 1pm on the Sunday.
The Parrot Cage at Elmore Court
Elmore Court are renowned for their spectacular events and creativity, so it was no surprise to see the birth of the Parrot Cage this autumn – a pop-up cabaret and dining experience for the age.
The team say “For a temporary period only, whilst we still can’t fully do the weddings we normally do and love, we are having to diversify. To help feed and flex our creative and operational muscles during this funny interim. This isn’t a forever change though. And we want to make that very clear. For the time being the Parrot Cage will be woven in and run alongside the intimate weddings we have for the rest of the year- as well as some other fun ideas. So watch this space to find out more.”
The Pop-up Hotel Experience at Dewsall Court
- Friday 6th – Sunday 8th November
- Friday 13th – Sunday 15th November
Prepare to leave the stresses of the year behind and venture into the heart of the countryside for an indulgent retreat, where the only distractions you’ll have are the array of beautiful surroundings, far-reaching views and seriously good food.
Tucked away in the rolling hills of Herefordshire, Dewsall Court nestles in romantic autumn glory. This quintessential country house boasts a roaring fire, squishy sofas, luxurious bedrooms and lashings of curiosity. Combine opulence and charm with crisp country air and the season’s proudest flavours for this exclusive pop-up opportunity not to be missed. Let their immersive experience, across soothe and spoil you – you deserve it, after all.
Throughout the weekend, you’ll be treated to their incredible tasting menus which will take you on Dewsall’s very own journey of autumn, showcasing rich and warming flavours from around Herefordshire and the fringes of our grounds. Their spacious and characterful bedrooms capture the essence of a rural hideout, each with their own unique setting but all with understated comfort felt throughout. Super-soft bedding, plump pillows, fluffy robes and of course, a deep soaking bathtub.
A unique boutique stay like no other, the perfect slice of serenity; this is a weekend to drink, dine, relax and unwind… and perhaps catch a magnificent autumn sunset, or two.
For more information or to book tickets, simply click below or contact hannah@dewsall.com.
Stay, Dine + Unwind at Rockbeare Manor
Rockbeare Manor in Devon is usually an exclusive use wedding venue, but since August (as well as hosting small weddings) they have been running their Dine, Stay and Unwind events which means that guests can come and stay at Rockbeare Manor for the night and enjoy dinner and breakfast too.
Their sister venue, Coombe Lodge, is also offering staycations so take a look here.
Cosy, Autumnal and Winter Breaks in Weaver’s Cottages
The summer was unexpectedly busy at Frame Farm. Admittedly, it was not the second Summer that the team had been excitedly anticipating, which was full of promise for magical weddings and parties at The Oak Barn. But luckily, another strand of their business, their holiday cottages, has flourished and has continued to bring life to the farm with wonderful families and couples staying in Weaver’s Cottages and finding much needed fun, peace and relaxation in Kent’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Frame Farm is perfect for breaks throughout the Autumn and Winter. Stay in stylish, cosy cottage accommodation and enjoy rural peace at a beautiful and stunningly renovated Grade II listed Kent farm. Frame Farm is excellently located for visiting many historic houses, castles and gardens while exploring Kent and East Sussex. The surrounding countryside is a vibrant wine and gin region and is home to Chapel Down, Gusbourne, Nyetimber, Hush Heath, Woodchurch and Anno Distillers to name just a few. Or hunker down in front of a fire in one of their fantastic local pubs.
No matter which cottage you choose, you will enjoy luxury with views across our sheep fields making your Autumn or Winter break a memorable one. About an hour from London and with prices starting at £197 per night (minimum 2 nights) or at £565 per week it is the perfect escape.
The Stables at Garthmyl hall
This isn’t the first time we’ve waxed lyrical about the stunning accommodation available at Garthmyl Hall, including the brand new The Stables.
Last year they launched the newly renovated Victorian stable block and dog kennels which have been transformed into luxury self-catering holiday cottages.
The Stables are situated within the grounds of Garthmyl Hall in Mid Wales which operates as a busy exclusive hire wedding venue. Owner Julia says “We created The Stables as additional accommodation for wedding guests, however not all wedding parties will require them so they are available for groups and families to book, for a self-catering stay in the country.”
When designing The Stables accommodation they have strived to keep key features of the old buildings whilst incorporating luxurious interiors. All of the properties have access to a beautiful cobbled courtyard and each has a small private patio area. The Old Dairy is their largest cottage with five bedrooms, an open plan living area and French country style interiors. The Clock Tower comprises of four bedrooms, one of which is situated over the old bell tower and one downstairs which has full disabled access. The Clock Tower interiors are more modern, featuring plush velvets and rich jewel tones.
Ty Bach One and Two are the smaller self-contained units, suitable for two guests each and built inside the old dog kennels. They feature a double bed, a small kitchenette area and luxury en-suite bathroom in each. Although smaller than the others style has not been compromised.
Christmas at Maunsel House
Maunsel House is the idyllic setting for a family Christmas, so why not swap your house for this one.
With roaring fires located throughout the house it provides a warm contrast to the winter chill. The centrepiece of the house is the Dining Room which hosts a magnificent table seating 14 and the perfect place for your family’s Christmas Dinner. Coming from Tuscany in the 1400’s it is one solid piece of walnut and the most valuable antique within Maunsel House. This table has seated royalty and if it could talk would speak tales one could only imagine. Instinct would be to cover it up and protect such a precious artefact but Maunsel welcomes guests to sit round it and share their own stories, thus playing their own part in the house’s impressive history.
Rumour has it that Jeffery Chaucer retreated to Maunsel for 9 months and worked on the Canterbury tales here. With a mention in the Doomsday book as well Maunsel House is firmly drafted into Britain’s history books. So why not come and play your part in Maunsel House’s history and let Maunsel play a part in yours.
If this is something you may be interested in then please contact stay@maunselhouse.co.uk or call 01278 661 074.
The Stable Yard Cottage
A stylish retreat for couples, friends or families Stable Yard Cottage is steeped in history as a wing of Gilbert White’s house.
The cottage provides a wonderful base to explore Hampshire as well as unlimited visits to the museum, which focuses on the lives and adventures of two members of the Oates Family, Captain Lawrence Oates and his uncle Frank Oates, both pioneers and explorers of the natural world.
The property has just been restored and offers comfortable and welcoming accommodation set over three floors. Adjacent to the café, guests can access the stunning 30 acres of gardens at any time, and dogs are welcome if they are kept on a lead (during out of hours dogs can be off lead).
Within the village there is also a pub, cafe and pottery and in 10 minutes driving distance there are many walks as well as Jane Austen’s village of Chawton. On Friday nights throughout the winter the historic barn on site is also offering a restaurant service or takeaways delivered to the cottage.
The Treehouse at Hothorpe
Enjoy a snug staycation!
Hothorpe Hall and The Woodlands have opened their Snugs and The Treehouse for staycations and I for one am all for a little self-catering stay in nature.
The Treehouse offers the perfect combination of comfort, luxury and nature well and truly on your doorstep! A wonderful retreat for two in the woods. Whilst The Woodlands’ self-catering snugs are a perfect cosy haven for families, couples or a group of friends to enjoy a UK staycation. There are 5 Snugs nestled in the woods, each with two en suite bedrooms sleeping a total of 5, and a central lounge with kitchen area.
Stay + Dine at The Holford Arms
The Holford Arms is a gorgeous country Inn set in the heart of the Cotswolds. Not only does The Holford Arms have space for weddings, they are also a B&B with options to stay in either their cosy pub rooms or in the warmer months, their bell tents, wooden chalets or you can pitch up a tent and camp in their orchard!
Their outside comprises of a beer garden sheltered by a large wooden canopy covered in fairy-lights, which makes for a dining under the ‘stars’ experience, even when it’s cloudy! With log burners and an outside bar, this garden is always full of a great atmosphere and happy locals!
The pub serves a menu full of local produce and pub-grown goods, with salads from the poly-tunnels to raspberries from the garden for their desserts. They also make their own jams/chutneys and press their own apples juice and cider! Therefore if you’re looking for a staycation in the Cotswolds or a fabulous Sunday Roast, this is the place for you.
The Pop-up Hotel at Huntsham Court
Romantic Escapes & Bubble Breaks – Your Country House Bolthole Hotel
Only from October 2020 – February 2021
One of our faves has completely transformed their wedding spaces into beautiful, cosy country lounges and dining rooms ready for guests to make themselves at home.
For just a few months whilst they’re unable to host special private events, the team at Huntsham Court have created a very special Hotel Pop-Up. Instead of closing their doors, they have partnered with the amazing chefs at Milkshed Kitchen and they are swinging their doors wide open for a limited a numbers of resident guests and diners.
For the first time ever, and just for a special 4 month hotel pop-up, they are inviting guests to book individual rooms at Huntsham Court and enjoy a luxurious escape at our country house bolthole. They are combining luxurious accommodation with scrumptious Devon breakfasts and gastronomic dinners, served in two specially created dining rooms. Plus, you can enjoy our gardens, lounges and table bar service.
The ‘Thicket Priory Way’
As a newly established venue, Thicket Priory have had to re-think for the near future in order to survive as a business and a team, until the dust settles and they can welcome many more couples and event hosts to enjoy every corner of the building with their guests.
Their new business venture is to open during the winter months for guests to come and stay and experience the ‘Thicket Priory Way’. They have organised two weekends in November and two weekends in December for people to enjoy a great Yorkshire staycation.
Guests will arrive on a Friday afternoon, with an optional afternoon tea followed by some down time to enjoy the grounds or relax in your bedroom, before getting ready for supper. Supper on the first evening will be a two-course dinner, with coffee, before retiring to the bar for a night cap. Saturday morning you can wake up to a leisurely continental breakfast, setting you up for your day ahead, with the option of visiting York’s historic city, the designer outlet nearby or a country walk for the fresh air which we have all been craving.
Saturday evening is the “Foodie Feast”, where you’ll be served a seven-course tasting menu. Then the final flurry of food sees a full Yorkshire breakfast served up on Sunday morning before departure.
Thicket Priory is a fairy-tale location, capturing the style of an 1840s home. With tasteful decoration and a fashionable twist on the original character of the building, making every visit timeless!
Their new offering really is the best way to cleanse your mind and forget about your current day to day struggles.
The Fire Pit Camp
