Belchamp Hall | Having a Wedding at Belchamp Hall
The History.
Belchamp Hall is a Queen Anne period house of rich red brick, with a front that is nine bays wide and two storeys that sit below a cornice and solid parapet.
The Hall and its grounds are registered under the Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments Act 1953, within the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens by English Heritage for its special historic interest. The Raymond family has lived in Belchamp Hall since 1611, although the present Queen Anne house was not built until 1720.
Lovejoy.
During the 90’s, Belchamp Hall was used by the BBC as a location for Lovejoy, the popular series about a roguish antique 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
There are a few options for accommodation at Belchamps. Lovejoy’s Mill , the beautifully converted watermill providing accommodation for 2 people. Or Lovejoy’s luxurious cottage sleeping 2, oozes character and charm and was part of a stable block dating from the 18th century. And finally, there is the Lovejoy studio which is bright and airy and can sleep 3 people.
The Location.
The Hall is located in Sudbury, Suffolk with easy access from the M11 whilst also being secluded for privacy. Some directions and a map can be seen via here.
Wedding Ceremony.
Belchamp Hall is licensed for 50 guests and specialises in “ceremony only” options for up to 3 hours. This gives plenty of time for a ceremony + drinks reception before heading elsewhere for the wedding breakfast.
They also have a Victorian summer house available if you wish to marry outside although bear in mind if the weather is bad the ceremony needs to move into the hall, and this can only be for 50 guests.
Marquee Receptions.
A wedding reception held in a marquee on 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. The grounds and hall provide a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos and create the perfect ambience.
Of course, if having a marquee reception you can have a larger ceremony in the church just opposite the hall.
Note: only 3 marquee receptions are allowed per year. If you’re interested in this option I would be delighted to assist you.
Prices.
In order to arrange a viewing and get a quotation please call 01787 882 216, but as a guideline, 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.
Credits:
Belchamp Hall // Gavin Conlan // Alison McKenny