‘Dewsall Lovers’: Experience the Magic of Dewsall Court

I’ve admired Dewsall Court from afar for a long time, so when the opportunity came to visit in-person and experience their “Dewsall magic” firsthand, I jumped at the chance. Cut to me setting a super early alarm, dropping my dogs off with my mum en route (I grew up in Shropshire, Herefordshire’s northerly neighbour) and navigating Hereford’s famous traffic (IYKYK). It actually wasn’t as bad as expected; phew, I was cruising on green, cow-parsley-lined lanes soon enough and arrived at the estate to beautiful blue skies and far-reaching views of the Black Mountains. I was promptly greeted by Joe, who swiftly took my bags and pointed me toward event manager Rosie and the rest of the gang gathering in the heart of Dewsall, the kitchen.

Woo-woo isn’t something I’d describe myself as; in fact, for a long time, it’s a term I’d actively push against, but there is no ignoring the energy and magic radiating from owner Samantha and this remarkable Herefordshire estate. Is it her, or is it the place? It’s hard to tell. But considering she grew up here in a warm, loving family with hilarious and heartwarming stories covering every nook, cranny and corner, it’s clear that the lines between her and the venue are beautifully blurred. You can’t help but feel perfectly at home here, cocooned in the estate’s embrace, surrounded by homely furnishings, and friendly chatter.

Though Samantha may not be on-site 24/7 as she once was, it’s clear her impact remains a guiding force for the team, a true testament to her exceptional management and friendship. Her right-hand woman, Rosie, who had planned the event to perfection, was an absolute dream from start to finish. Nothing was too much trouble, and her attention to detail was second to none. Dressed in a velvet jumpsuit, a shade not dissimilar to her auburn hair, and with a big smile on her face and a clipboard in hand, she was style and organisation personified—my kind of woman!

A guided venue tour

Our day kicked off with a fabulous tour led by Samantha herself. Who better to show off every detail of this breathtaking estate? We began in the house, once the family home, with its luxurious but cosy guest bedrooms, each boasting quirky en-suite bathrooms. There were sink-into-me sofas, clashing fabrics, and too many murals to count. The party den in the cellar was a surprise, a hidden gem brimming with character and charm. Next, we made our way to the Wainhouse, Dewsall’s main reception space. This modern barn conversion marries contemporary architecture with original period features in the most heavenly way. It captures the beauty of the grounds and brings it inside, creating a year-round blank canvas for celebrations of all styles. With space for up to 170 guests, it’s easy to see how this venue can transform into the wedding setting of your wildest dreams.

With 11 (yes, 11!) places to get married across the estate, from the Wainhouse to the quaint on-site church and various magical, natural spots like lawns, glades, and an arboretum, each setting provides a picture-perfect backdrop to exchange your vows. I have to say, May was the ideal time to explore Dewsall Court. The gardens were an explosion of colour and fragrance, teeming with vibrant flowers and busy wildlife. Samantha’s tour left us all completely captivated by the venue’s charm and versatility.

Food & drink

It would be remiss of me to recount my visit without mentioning the exceptional in-house catering. The food and drink are such an integral part of the Dewsall experience that couples might be inclined to book a viewing based on the menu alone! So, it’s no surprise we were thoroughly pampered, well-fed, and well-watered throughout our stay.

Dewsall’s wedding breakfasts receive high praise for their delicious feasting platters and showstopping menus, making the most of Hereford’s sensational produce. The team works tirelessly to source the freshest ingredients, even growing some within their own grounds—think fresh herbs, edible petals, and wild garlic harvested lakeside. During our visit, we enjoyed a variety of culinary delights from the expert in-house chefs, starting with a “light” four-course lunch featuring grilled local asparagus, chalk stream trout, and Wye Valley rhubarb with stem ginger choux – delish! Afternoon treats included cakes and cookies under cloches, and later on, the early evening saw us all dressed up and gathered around the old salting table, basking in the sunshine, sipping cocktails and savouring delightful canapés such as oysters and tempura vegetables. The highlight, though, was a candlelit supper in the conservatory, where we dined on scallops and Hereford beef and finished with a brilliantly nostalgic Knickerbocker Glory. Every single mouthful was sublime!

Enriching experiences

It wasn’t all food and drink during our stay at Dewsall Court; we also participated in some other activities that enriched our visit to the max, making it a gorgeous, well-rounded, holistic experience. We started with a sound bath in the Wainhouse’s dancefloor area, complete with a marbled resin floor underfoot and shimmering disco balls above. The session, led by a local alternative therapist, gently eased us into 30 minutes of deep relaxation. The vibrations from the bowls were all-consuming, resonating all around and deep within, creating an intensely relaxing experience.

Following the sound bath, we returned to the house for an enlightening talk on tarot by an expert local reader. Each of us then had a private tarot reading in the study, an intimate wooden-panelled room which was perfect for such deep, spiritual reflection. My reading? Well, that’s a secret! But it was very thought-provoking, and I took plenty of notes—watch this space!

I had such a wonderful time and a restful overnight stay at Dewsall Court; it was a truly nourishing experience in every way imaginable. Unfortunately, I was one of the first to leave the following morning due to work commitments. Still, any place that bundles you up and waves you off with a bunch of freshly picked local asparagus and a foil parcel of homemade banana bread for your journey is pretty great, in my opinion! I sincerely hope I will be able to return to Dewsall one day. Until then, I will remain intensely jealous of all those gorgeous couples and their loved ones who get to call this place their own, even for a short while.