Haldon Belvedere (Lawrence Castle)

Additional Features

Civil Wedding Venue
Gardens

Description

Haldon Belvedere is a much sought after civil weddings venue in Devon. Perched high on Haldon Hill it stands in 5 acres of woodland in the heart of the lovely Devonshire countryside some 6 miles from the cathedral city of Exeter.

From its vantage-point, panoramic views extending to Dartmoor, Exmoor, the South Hams, the River Exe valley and its estuary can be seen. On a really clear day, the Isles of Purbeck and Portland Bill in Dorset are visible and some say even Wales.

Haldon Belvedere, also known as Lawrence Castle, is a Grade II* listed triangular tower, originally built in 1788 by Sir Robert Palk as the centre piece to his vast estates and dedicated to the memory of Major-General Stringer Lawrence the founder of the Indian army.

Civil Weddings/Partnership Ceremonies
Haldon Belvedere (Lawrence Castle) is an approved premises for Civil Wedding/Partnership Ceremonies and is probably the most popular approved premises for civil ceremonies in Devon. Its uniqueness has made the building a regular feature on TV and in national wedding magazines and featured recently in a Four Celebrity Weddings programme for the Living Channel. Its magical, fairy-tale presence makes it the number one choice for the smaller, more intimate ceremony and the location gives you that exclusivity that few other outside venues can offer. The rural setting offers stunning views across the lovely Devonshire countryside and beyond.

There are two rooms licensed for Civil Ceremonies:-

The Ballroom
Up the magnificent spiral staircase is the Ballroom which can seat up to 50 guests. It is bright and airy with a high ceiling, a chandelier, large gothic windows all around the room and baroque plaster-work. The beautiful original Indian mahogany panelled flooring is a fine example of the precision workmanship of classical 18th century carpentry. A video link can be arranged to involve those unable to access the upper floor.

The Lawrence Room
This room resembles a chapel with its period doors and windows and flagstone floor. The capacity in the Lawrence Room is 65 but the majority of people will require to stand during any ceremony here. The Lawrence Room is normally used for guests assembling before taking their positions for the ceremony upstairs and is also used where a champagne/drinks reception is required. It has access directly out onto the lawn at the back of the castle and has disabled access from the drive.

After the Ceremony
After the ceremony, champagne and canapés can be served in the Lawrence Room while your photographer takes full advantage of the many photo opportunities offered by the building and its surroundings. Guests are welcome to wander the grounds or may be happy just to chat on the lawn adjacent to the Belvedere with its outstanding 360º vista out to Exeter, Dartmoor and the Exe estuary. Ofcourse, the best views are to be had from the roof terrace, access to which is included in the hire charge.

Regrettably, the venue is not suitable for wedding receptions but there are some excellent reception venues, most with accommodation within the locality where you and your guests will be well cared for.

For more information please visit the website or contact Debbie Parnell on 01392 833846