THE LOWDOWN

Looking for a boutique wedding venue? Got a milestone birthday, anniversary or function and really looking for something a bit Ooh-la-la? Gorgeous Goodnestone Park is the family seat of Julian Plumptre, the 22nd Lord FitzWalter and sits in 15 acres of land and manicured gardens.

Jane Austen was a regular visitor here. Her brother Edward once lived on the estate and she based the double wedding in Pride & Prejudice on his marriage to Sophia Bridges and Sophia’s sister Elizabeth’s wedding to William Deedes that took place in that very church.

The house has been sensitively – of should that be Sense and Sensibility – restored to its former glory. The house is available to hire for weddings, event and as a high-end holiday rental. The team at Goodnestone Park have a long list of trusted suppliers to help create a bespoke and unforgettable day. It can cater for civil ceremonies, receptions and accommodation. For those wanting a religious ceremony, the historic Holy Cross church is a stone’s throw from the house.

VISIT

The Goodnestone Grounds provide the ultimate R&R setting with endless woodland walks and a cocktail of garden additions for the season – from new barn owl boxes and nature trail signage for ardent ramblers; to the opening of The Goodnestone Glasshouse in the walled garden, an exotic exhibition space home to cacti, succulents, cycads and other botanically enchanting flora. The estate has also partnered with MIND charity, hosting experience days peppered throughout the year that champion the healing properties of gardening and natural spaces.

SLEEP

Goodnestone Park sleeps 24 in 12 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, 5 reception rooms including Drawing room, Dining room with seating for 24, Library, round painted reception room (ideal for small wedding receptions), first floor sitting room with TV/DVD, hallway with sweeping staircase, huge breakfast room, Kitchen, Large gardens and grounds extending to 15 acres, extensive terraces, BBQ with ample parking.

THE ORANGERY

Say hello to The Orangery! Brand new for 2022, it’s a custom-made luxury timber-framed marquee, the perfect host for weddings, corporate events and family milestone celebrations. Private hire encapsulates the vast fifteen acres of greenery and the Serpentine Walk, additional guest accommodation at the charming Bonnington Cottage, and the option of an evening tipple and bite at the local Fitzwalter Arms village pub, owned by the Estate.

THE OLD DAIRY CAFÉ

Visit for the day, day dream about Darcy in the beautiful gardens and enjoy the Old Dairy Café that has beautiful indoor seating and outdoor tables within the stunning courtyard, it’s the perfect spot to relax. Enjoy home-baked cakes and scones, including Victoria sponge, Coffee and Walnut, Lemon drizzle, and Vanilla shortbread – to name a few! Or go all out with a delicious Afternoon Tea! You can’t visit without tasting their own famous Goodnestone Park apple juice. View the menu here.

They will also be hosting monthly supper clubs, boasting of seasonal menus championing local ingredients sourced directly from the estate’s garden. From shredded duck to local asparagus and mushroom risotto with truffle dressing – plus a showstopper sweet board finale – the sumptuous spread is sure to tickle taste buds this summer. Yum.