Wedding venue inspiration - Historic venues

Southdowns Manor, Petersfield

Set amongst the glorious scenery of the South Downs National Park, this historical venue places you and your guests at the heart of one of the most picturesque corners of England. This rural retreat is home to an abundance of wildlife offering a tranquil setting against an idyllic countryside backdrop. The Sussex Room is an informal space with capacity for 40 ceremony guests. It has a large bar area where your guests can meet and mingle pre-ceremony. The conservatory also has space for 40 to witness the "I dos." It's beautifully light and airy - a multi-purpose space and a romantic setting.

South Lodge, an Exclusive Hotel & Spa, Horsham

South Lodge offers a tasteful balance of traditional and modern design. It's the ultimate country-house setting, with a fantastic selection of suites and rooms to host the most stylish and elegant occasions. The sweeping drive leads to a striking Neo-Jacobean house, which has been sympathetically extended to create a stunning location either for a formal wedding or a fun, festival-style celebration, set within 93 acres of ground in the Lower Lodge Meadow. Located in the heart of the dramatic Sussex Downs, you're well placed to enjoy a striking display of rhododendrons in the spring, whilst delighting in panoramic views from the outdoor wedding pavilion in the summer. Plus, candlelit outdoor vows with roaring log fires add to the atmosphere and romance when there's a chill in the winter air.

Hydro Hotel, Eastbourne

The Hydro Hotel boasts a light and airy feel, with large open lounges and high ceilings. Opened in 1885 as a seaside retreat, the hotel has continued to welcome guests for more than 100 years. It retains its Victorian-look to this day and its Art Deco entrance and lobby are a sight to behold. Thanks to its commanding position in a quiet part of town, 120 feet above sea level, guests can benefit from the fresh sea air and find themselves captivated by the inspiring sea views. Ceremony options include The Coastal Terrace. An outdoor open-sided stone dome located in the hotel's private gardens, overlooking the sea, it has a capacity of 80. If you prefer to be inside, The Drawing Room is an elegant space lined with fine art, which can host 50 loved ones. The Wedgewood Ballroom is located on the first floor and comes complete with private balcony. It's characterised by its traditional Wedgewood-blue colour scheme and has a private bar and reception area. Here, you can accommodate 100 for the "I dos," 70 for the wedding breakfast, and 100 for the evening bash. Further options for the celebrations include The Garden Suite, The Orangery, and The Meads Room.

The Spread Eagle Hotel & Spa, Midhurst

The Spread Eagle Hotel, dating back to 1430, is a charming English historical inn, retaining its heritage, while providing every contemporary comfort. Relax in the 15th-century lounge bar or conservatory, enjoy delicious food in the restaurant with its huge inglenook fireplace, and relish a deeply comfortable night's sleep in one of the individually decorated bedrooms or suites. What's more, the Scandinavian spa adds a distinctly contemporary touch, with excellent facilities, including an indoor heated swimming pool, six treatment rooms, and a heavenly relaxation room.

The Cooden Beach Hotel, Bexhill on Sea

Set in a quiet corner on the outskirts of Bexhill-on-Sea, The Cooden Beach Hotel is beautifully positioned on the beach, perfect for whiling away some time on the English coast. 1928 saw the building begin its transformation from a row of shops, and over the years it's grown to become the hotel you see today. The most recent addition of the Beachside Brasserie is a fabulous modern dining experience. With its traditional black and white frontage, the hotel overlooks manicured gardens. The terrace is hugely popular with hotel guests and wedding parties alike as an optimal spot to take in a warm summer evening, perhaps sipping on a glass of gin from the Gin Palace.

The Walled Garden, Cowdray Estate, Midhurst

Located in the historical setting of The Cowdray Estate, The Walled Garden is an enchanting and romantic wedding venue full of heritage, charm and character. The Grade II listed building and Medieval garden sit alongside the magnificent Cowdray ruins in the heart of the South Downs National Park, on the outskirts of Midhurst.The beautiful Walled Garden can be used for both ceremony and reception, with the gardens able to host a marquee during the warmer months. The reception rooms can also be set up for entertainment and music. It's a hugely adaptable event space and forms the backdrop for the most beautiful of weddings.