Lee Peck Media client Broadlands in Romsey, Hampshire – one of the UK’s most historic country estates – has for the first time opened its doors to wedding ceremonies.
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the River Test, Broadlands is offering three locations for wedding ceremonies for up to 50 guests: the walled garden, the newly-restored Orangery, and the wistful Inigo Bridge that spans the River Test.
Set in the charming market town of Romsey, Broadlands boats a history that stretches back centuries and is steeped in British aristocracy and political prominence, as well as romance.
Henry Temple, the 2nd Viscount Palmerston, acquired the estate in 1736. Under his stewardship, the estate transformed into a magnificent Georgian house with meticulously landscaped gardens, a creation of the celebrated landscape architect Lancelot ’Capability’ Brown.
However, it was in the 19th century that the estate truly came into the spotlight. The illustrious British statesman, Lord Palmerston, owned Broadlands and went on to serve as the Prime Minister of Great Britain not once, but twice, during a tumultuous era of political and global transformation.
The late Queen Elizabeth II, then Princess Elizabeth, and Prince Philip spent their honeymoon at Broadlands in November 1947 – the first Earl Mountbatten of Burma, whose home Broadlands was at the time, was Philip’s uncle.
In 1981, the newly married Prince, now King Charles lll, and the Princess of Wales also spent the first three days of their honeymoon at Broadlands, travelling to the estate by train from London Waterloo.
Now, couples can create their own love story in the beautiful estate, at three remarkable locations. Each offer their own charm whether with a Registrar or a Celebrant.
Richard Jordan-Baker, a Director at Broadlands, said: “We host a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals, but have never been available for weddings, until now. So, if people were to choose here none of their guests would have been to a wedding ceremony here before.”
“All three of our locations are absolutely superb: Inigo Bridge is the most beautiful spot over the River Test; the walled gardens are enchanting, and the recently refurbished Orangery is elegant and evocative.”
Keeping its renowned reputation Broadlands won’t host a wedding every day. The goal is to create a limited number of memorable ceremonies each week, ensuring an exclusive and extraordinary experience for every couple. The estate has put together its own wedding team of experts, to help make couples’ visions a reality.
Enquiries are now open, with the first ceremonies set to take place between Monday and Saturday from May to September next year.
Frankie Peck, Senior Account Director at Lee Peck Media, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our relationship with Broadlands and we’re delighted the estate has started offering wedding ceremonies and the chance to get married in such an incredible setting.”
The wedding ceremony packages at Broadlands includes a glass of champagne for every guest. Inigo Bridge can have up to 20 guests, while the other locations can accommodate up to 50. There will also be the flexibility to move outdoor weddings into the Orangery if the weather takes an unpredictable turn.
For more information go to broadlandsestates.co.uk/weddings/.