Tap into the historic tales and rejuvenating seclusion of the enchanting New Forest at the grand Burley Manor, where you will be spoilt for choice with a gorgeous new restaurant, boutique garden view rooms and their graceful barn wedding venue – perfect for every season.
So why when such a wonderful opportunity presented itself whether, would you not pack a camera, some relaxing reading, a trusty notebook, and something pretty to wear to dinner? Immerse yourself in the beauty of this brand new, yet historically elegant wedding venue foodie haven and country Paradise to tie the knot with your family and nature surrounded…
Burley Manor is a grade II listed building dating back to 1852, and is steeped in a rich history. It’s careful transformation (which only finished at the end of 2015) has ensured the building retains it’s lovely historic personality, yet has a rather contemporary eclectic twist added by the new decor, creating somewhere relaxing and unique for it’s guests.
The Manor runs alongside Burley Park and is set in 8 acres of beautiful grounds. Burley Park, is a red deer sanctuary, and these fascinating visitors regularly make an appearance in the grounds, something that is quite wonderful to witness.
STAY
Your retreat for for the evening comes in the form of an exquisite, bright and airy garden suite, with wonderful rolling views, elaborately upholstered furniture to sit back and relax, a beautifully plump bed and dainty french doors that lead to your own personal balcony from where you can watch the sunset.
The style of this hotel is designed to feel like home. A sanctuary, with strong nature inspired colours, soft lighting, antique furniture, luxurious bedlinen, eccentric artwork, large bathrooms and the most glorious deep baths to sink into. Plenty of thoughtful touches throughout, temple spa goodies, fluffy bathrobes and slippers, generous amounts of tea, coffee and biscuits and impeccable wifi from anywhere in the suite.
The owners and management team, have created something truly lovely and welcoming, and it’s clear that they understand what a boutique break is all about! It is a bolthole designed for adults, allowing relaxed dinners, breakfasts and overnight escapes. Children over 13 are welcome, and younger children are invited to enjoy lunch in the dining room. The service is informal and unobtrusive, allowing you to immediately unwind as soon as your feet leave the gravel driveway and step onto the threshold of this pretty Hampshire Manor.
DINE
Prepare to be spoilt during your dining experience in the hotel; it is a true foodie treat and I have nothing but praise for the culinary genius of Ian Gibbs, (head chef) and someone who clearly takes a lot of pride in their work. A ‘slow-food’ fan, Ian’s rustic dishes are generous, vibrant, and delicious, with bold flavours and delicate tastes of the Mediterranean. The menu is bursting with fresh seasonal and local produce. Indulge in charred asparagus with charmoula lamb and a chocolate cake to finish – sent from heaven!
Breakfast is a similar affair, with a delicious help-yourself selection of fresh fruits, yoghurt, pastries with homemade jam, and artisan bread accompanied. Running alongside a lovely hot breakfast menu with everything from a hearty Hampshire full breakfast, to eggs Benedict.
The great thing about Burley is the different dining spaces available to it’s guests from the gorgeous homely dining room, to the rather lovely conservatory, to the pretty terrace overlooking the grounds and swimming pool, all with comfy chairs, beautifully laid tables and a spectacular view. It has a great atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner, girls’ evening of cocktails and sharing platters, or long, lazy Sunday lunch should you want to extend your wedding celebrations either side of the wedding.
BURLEY NUPTUALS
You’ll be wowed as you walk into the stunning barn.The venue is capable of hosting 80 guests for a seated meal and 120 in the evening, it’s a truly beautiful canvas to create your perfect Burley Manor wedding. The room is airy and bright in the spring and summer, and with its floor-to-ceiling traditional brick chimneys, the option of a blazing log fire in the colder months, will give guests a totally enchanting reception.
Reading the wedding menu expect beautiful boards of bresoala, detterini tomatoes, Poole bay sea bass with chorizo, and the famous sharing platter of porcetta with rosemary new potatoes and aubergine parmigianna, Hampshire strawberries, amaretto zabaglione, and chocolate pave will all make sure your guests are left full and happy.
Joanne from The Wild Fox, creator of the flowers for our gorgeous Wedding Ideas August issue front cover, is one of the only preferred suppliers of the hotel. She provides the stunning, unique floral displays, specialising in British, ethically sourced flowers and materials.
DO
When planning a weekend wedding it’s always a good idea to give your guests an insight into the local area and there’s always plenty to do in the gem that is the New Forest. Burley is a gorgeous little village, steeped in history, with tales and traditions of witches, smuggling and dragons. Each season offers a new reason to stay; Spring brings bluebells, beaches and waterfront bars galore during Summer, Autumn sees the forest transformed into a myriad of auburn and gold, and Winter in abundance of picturesque frosty trails, a long walk of course followed by, a fabulous hot chocolate and well earned snooze by a roaring log fire.
WEDDING SHOWCASE
Burley hosts regular wedding showcases for soon to be Brides and Grooms to view the Barn, and talk to the team of helpful wedding Coordinators. Take a tour to find out what the venue has to offer for your special day! You can find further details on the Burley Manor website.
