Couples can now tie the knot in Connaught Gardens

Connaught Gardens is now licensed to host legal wedding ceremonies and will be open for business as soon as Government restrictions allow.

Couples can choose from a number of stunning locations to hire exclusively with the rest of gardens, making it the perfect setting for wedding photographs.

Receptions can also be held in the bandstand gardens for small and large weddings alike, allowing guests to celebrate and dance the night away shaded by mature trees and surrounded by beautiful ornamental shrubbery.

East Devon District Council’s (EDDC) events team are now reserving dates for weddings in 2021 and 2022 in preparation for when unlock takes place.

Connaught Gardens offers a diverse outdoor space for couples to use for their big day.

The formal Victorian-style gardens are divided into several areas with many spectacular options for a heartfelt wedding ceremony.

The bandstand and spacious lawn area can serve as a scenic spot to host your reception, while your guests relax and mingle on the lawn.

Jacob’s Ladder, the tall white steps that lead from the gardens to the beach located below, can provide a beautiful backdrop for your wedding photos.

From your wedding breakfast and evening reception, a wedding marquee or event tent can also be erected on the site to accommodate the occasion.

Couples wishing to stage their special day at Connaught Gardens can enjoy the assistance of a wedding planner, if required.

This site also benefits from water and electricity access, and car parking is available close to the venue and there is an onsite catering concession or private catering is permitted on the premises, allowing you the freedom to serve your day as you desire.

Councillor Geoff Jung, EDDC’s portfolio holder for the Coast, Country and Environment, and Cllr Nick Hookway, the portfolio holder Culture, Tourism, Leisure and Sport, have both welcomed the news.

They said: “The Connaught Gardens in Sidmouth is a wonderful location for the hosting a wedding, and we are sure this will be a very popular location with the award-winning gardens and one of the best views in the South West.”

The history of Connaught Gardens:

The inception of this property dates back to 1820. Emmanuel Losada constructed a villa on the land that was christened Cliff Cottage.

The cottage came under new ownership in 1930 and was re-named Sea View.

By the time Sidmouth Urban District Council took ownership of this property, the cottage had fallen into disrepair and was demolished.

However, some of the remaining walls were incorporated into the garden’s design and still feature prominently at this location today.

Email Events@eastdevon.gov.uk for further information or visit https://eastdevon.gov.uk/weddings