History

Old Downton Lodge has such a mix of quaint old buildings that you may feel like you have stepped into legend. Medieval stone barns and half-timbered Georgian buildings face onto a delightful, picturesque courtyard. Extensive and professional renovation means that there is modern comfort but the space retains its ancient charm.

The venue specialises in exclusive weddings for small numbers of guests. It sits alone in the rolling countryside brilliantly starlit at night. Travel down winding country roads to stumble upon this perfect spot for a secluded and discrete wedding with your nearest and dearest.

Facilities

There are several spaces within Old Downton Lodge, and each one is as special as the last.

Museum Room

A huge cider press sits at the centre of the room and makes a terrific focal point in itself, but would also be a perfect spot to decorate in your own style. Nobody is exactly sure where the historic name "museum" came from. This is one of two spaces licensed for civil ceremonies, and you can also enjoy your wedding breakfast or your evening reception here.

Dining Room

The Dining Room is the second area with a civil ceremony licence. Parts of this building date back to the 11th century. The stone walls are dotted with small, triangular windows and the ceiling is vaulted with large wooden beams. The décor in the room only adds to the grandeur, and would be an ideal place to dine after tying the knot.

Sitting Room

Once the farm's stables, the Sitting Room has been renovated to highlight the area's previous use. Along one wall is seating, built from bricks and the old ends of the stalls. The other wall has a wood burner, creating a warm focal point on colder evenings. The ceiling has mighty beams, and the windows overlook the marvellous countryside outside.

Gardens

In the courtyard at the middle of Old Downton Lodge sits a quiet oasis of greenery that would make any photographer happy. Enjoy some drinks out here after the ceremony and take picturesque photographs. On warm evenings, you could even dance the night away under the stars.

Catering

The restaurant at Old Downton Lodge has an impressive four AA rosettes and has received many other accolades besides. The head chef loves using fresh, local ingredients to create bespoke menus for couples and guests to indulge in. Whether you are looking for a buffet lunch or an extravaganza of multiple courses, you will not be disappointed by the delectable food prepared in this kitchen. The team are happy to take into account any dietary requirements, so let them know your requirements when you book. The price for a wedding breakfast starts at £45 per person.

Dinner can be served in the historic Dining Room which dates back to the time of the Norman Conquest. Indeed, you will feel as though you have your own banquet hall. You can lay small tables for your guests, or embrace the pomp and seat all of your guests around one giant table. This room will suit breakfasts of up to 35 guests, whereas larger parties can eat in the Museum Room. Moreover, an extensive wine list will make sure that your tipple matches perfectly with your chosen food to allow one to complement the other.

Accommodation

The Lodge has a series of ten unique and luxurious bedrooms. As the venue includes several styles of architecture, each room has its own individual character. Spend your first night as a married couple in a four poster super king sized bed in the Bridal Suite. Meanwhile, your guests can rest in two deluxe twin rooms, five superior double bedrooms and two double rooms with four poster beds. All of the rooms have ensuite bathrooms and gloriously comfortable beds.

If you wish to have exclusive use of all of the rooms, you can book them all for one night from £1680.

If you want to book Old Downton Lodge for your big day, use the buttons to the right and below to get in contact.