Venue Focus: Belchamp Hall
At the end of 2010 I visited the beautiful Belchamp Hall in Suffolk and have finally typed up my report detailing what I love about the venue. As I specialise in marquee functions, I would love the opportunity to organise a wedding at Belchamp Hall one day.
The History
The Raymond family has lived in Belchamp Hall since 1611, although the present Queen Anne house was not built until 1720. In the past the estate has been, in general, an agricultural estate but in recent years there has been a change in emphasis towards other activities. These have included hiring the house as a wedding venue (with religious ceremonies taking place in St Mary’s church), a film and TV location, a venue for corporate functions; The Stables for business conferences and as holiday accomodation; the estate for outdoor activities.
Lovejoy
During the 90’s, Belchamp Hall was used by the BBC as a location for Lovejoy, the popular series about a roguish antiques dealer. Belchamp Hall in Belchamp Walter was the location for Lady Jane Felsham’s home (the fictional Felsham Hall) in the series. Apparently they still get visitors today wanting to look at where this series was filmed.
The Lovejoy connection especially interested me as the series was also filmed in my wonderful village of Coggeshall.
Accommodation
Lovejoy’s workshop for the last two seasons of the series is in the grounds of Belchamp Hall and has now been converted into accommodation for either weddings or those simply wishing to retreat away from the rat race.
The Location
The Hall is located in Sudbury, Suffolk with easy access from the M11 whilst also being secluded for privacy.
Ceremony
The Hall specialises in intimate weddings of up to 50 guests but they do also have the wonderful St Mary the Virgin church which dates back to the 13th century, literally opposite the hall.
Marquee Receptions
A wedding reception held in a marquee of the grounds of Belchamp Hall can accommodate up to 200 guests seated. The venue is truly exclusive and will be yours for your wedding day with no worries about outside visitors. The grounds and hall provide a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos and create the perfect ambience. Please note only 3 maximum marquee receptions can be accommodated.
Prices
In order to arrange a viewing and get a quotation please call 01787 882 216 but as a guidelines the hire price starts from £1,750 for midweek weddings and £1,950 for weekends. The cost of the marquee is additional and depends on your requirements.
For more information do visit their website