Betrothed couples who have been eagerly awaiting news as to how lockdown restrictions might change in the near future can now look towards planning their wedding in a clifftop garden overlooking the sumptuous Sidmouth coastline.

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 the gardens, making it the perfect setting for wedding photographs.

Sidmouth Herald: Picturesque Connaught Gardens makes for wonderful wedding picturesPicturesque Connaught Gardens makes for wonderful wedding pictures (Image: Alex Walton)

Wedding receptions will also be permitted in the bandstand gardens for small and large celebrations alike, allowing guests to celebrate and dance the night away shaded by mature trees and surrounded by beautiful ornamental shrubbery.

EDDC councillors Geoff Jung, portfolio holder for the coast, country and environment, and Nick Hookway, the portfolio holder for culture, tourism, leisure and sport, have both welcomed the news. “Connaught Gardens in Sidmouth is a wonderful location for 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,” they said.

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

Sidmouth Herald: Sam and Martin Jeffrey take a stroll around Connaught GardensSam and Martin Jeffrey take a stroll around Connaught Gardens (Image: Alex Walton)
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.

For further information email events@eastdevon.gov.uk or visit https://eastdevon.gov.uk/weddings