We simply adored our stay at The Lord Bute in Dorset. What a fabulous little luxury boutique hotel, absolutely steeped in history. With just 13 rooms, you really get the personal touch here, and Christopher, the manager, gets to know all the couples getting married here thoroughly – you’re looked after very well!
We were lucky enough to be given the Garden Suite to experience, which is completely separate from the main hotel, with its own private garden, tucked away and just gorgeous. Spacious, classic and comfortable, we felt right at home. Flowers and ornaments decorated the space in a familiar way, with pictures of the famous Selfridge family adorning the walls and windowsills. A famous tenant of nearby Highcliffe Castle, Harry Selfridge rented it from 1916 to 1922 and although not resident at the time of his death, he is buried in St Mark’s Churchyard at Highcliffe.
Just a five-minute walk from The Lord Bute, Highcliffe Castle is beautifully picturesque. Built in a gothic revival style in the 1830s it incorporated large quantities of carved Medieval stonework, with its gardens laid out by the famous Capability Brown. Wedding ceremonies can be held at the castle, with ample opportunities for gorgeous photos – it really would be a stunning place to get married. Stained glass windows, gorgeous architecture and the beach just minutes away, your photos could feature backdrops of castle, beach and garden!
The Lord Bute has three wedding packages and can cater for up to 100 guests for a daytime reception, with an extra 50 for an evening buffet. All packages give exclusive use of the restaurant and Bridal Suite, with additional extras for the other packages, including exclusive use of the entire hotel. The hotel has two AA rosettes for culinary excellence, so we were very keen to sample some of the delicious food!
The restaurant is just lovely. Quite formal, with sparkling chandeliers, we felt like Lord and Lady of the house! It has a wonderful atmosphere and you’ll see more hints of the family feel we encountered, as familiar faces from check-in greet you in the restaurant as well. A live jazz band provided the musical entertainment, and the food was, indeed, excellent. From the fresh fish to the indulgent cappuccino and Bailey’s Crème Brulee, the variety was fabulous, the taste amazing and service faultless.
After a comfortable night’s sleep in the gorgeous suite, we were treated to breakfast, where 50’s music accompanied our meal. A fabulous touch and a lovely atmosphere, perfect for a honeymooning couple. Full English or Continental, breakfast is served to your table – no buffets here!
We left feeling refreshed and relaxed. The Lord Bute is lovely – the service, food and accommodation were all superb and a wedding here would definitely be an occasion to remember. With beach and castle close by, there are so many options to ensure your day is spectacular.
