Wedding venue inspiration - Romantic retreats

Kimbolton Castle, Cambridgeshire

Be king and queen for the day in your very own castle at this one-of-a-kind wedding venue. The earliest known castle in Kimbolton, it boasts a fascinating history. Some of the Tudor remains are still visible and the many outstanding features include a collection of fine Pellegrini murals. Approached by a winding tree-lined mall, the castle is set in 120 acres of parkland and fields, complete with a picturesque lake and pond. Wedding parties enjoy exclusive use of the four main state rooms. Ceremonies are held in The Saloon, which is then transformed for the evening reception with space for up to 250 loved ones. Wedding breakfasts for 125 friends and family are catered for in the White Hall

Sheene Mill, Cambridgeshire

Perched on the banks of the River Mel, Sheene Mill has been a landmark of the Cambridgeshire countryside for more than 400 years. With immaculate landscaped gardens and a beautiful wedding pavilion set on the riverbed, it's a fairytale setting that's hard to beat. Originally a flour mill, the traditional 16th-century building boasts a wealth of original features including open fireplaces and exposed beams. Licensed for ceremonies for up to 110 guests, you can tie the knot inside or out and take your pick from a choice of romantic backdrops. The heated outdoor pavilion can be fitted with a canopy so you can marry al fresco whatever the weather. The Banqueting Hall can cater for up to 120 loved ones for the wedding breakfast or the Garden Conservatory, with views across the lake, provides a setting for more intimate celebrations.

Seckford Hall Hotel & Spa, Suffolk

Seckford Hall has all the credentials for a storybook wedding – an ivy-clad Tudor red-brick building, 34 acres of grounds and mature woodland, sweeping lawns, a private lake, beautiful walled garden and more. All you need is your Prince Charming and a happy ever after. The 16th-century listed country house offers the ideal mix of comfort and luxury steeped in Tudor history. The Great Hall oozes character and charm with its oak panelling, high ceilings, huge open fireplace and fabulous views. Overlooking the lake and gardens, you can tie the knot here and host a reception for 180 guests or up to 250 teamed with the beautiful marquee dining space in the adjacent garden pavilion. The hall has a separate entrance from the hotel as well as its own bar, toilets and cloakroom, so you and your loved ones can celebrate in style, comfort and privacy.

The Ickworth Hotel, Suffolk

If you're dreaming of a romantic, fairytale wedding in a grand setting this splendid 18th-century stately home is sure to wow. Surrounded by 1,800 acres of parkland, be prepared for plenty of stop-stare moments from the moment you set eyes on the breathtaking grounds and building. The hotel retains its historic charm and grandeur with all the modern comforts you'd expect from a luxury country house hotel. There are a host of stand-out features including an Italianate garden and acres of far-reaching parkland views, providing the perfect backdrop for a stylish wedding. With a range of luxurious and elegant rooms licensed for weddings, the only problem is which one to choose – the Library, Boardroom or the Garden Room in The Lodge overlooking the private gardens? Think high ceilings, tall windows, wood panelling, traditional chandelier and more. And if you're looking to push the boat out post-vows, you can host up to 200 reception guests in a marquee in the grounds of The Lodge.

Hintlesham Hall, Ipswich, Suffolk

Wind your way down the tree-lined drive to discover this historic gem of a wedding venue. Surrounded by peaceful mature gardens, the outside of the hall has a Georgian façade and an elegant Tudor feature at the back. You can tie the knot in a choice of distinctive rooms to suit weddings large or small. The Georgian-style Salon can host up to 100 guests and boasts an impressive chandelier and ornate gold-leaf ceiling while for more intimate 'I dos' with up to 20 loved ones, The Justice on the ground-floor overlooks the back lawns and has a charm all of its own. There are three beautiful function rooms including The Salon which with the adjacent Parlour is big enough for 135 family and friends. There are three lounges to relax in and at the end of the night staying guests can retire to the luxuriously furnished bedrooms, all individually designed and many with original timber beams.