Minterne House....Dorset's best kept secret?

It has taken us a while to write this blog, but after Bellissimo Wedding Planners were invited to visit Minterne House last November we decided it was definitely worth a mention and we’re sure you won’t be disappointed either!

Oozing history, heritage and graciousness, Minterne House could be regarded as Dorset’s best-kept secret and the perfect, truly unique venue for your special day.

A private winding gravel drive leads to the graceful Minterne House. Minterne House has been home to the Churchill and Digby families since 1620. The unique family home also doubles as a magnificent event venue, particularly suited to weddings and civil ceremonies. Being a family home which is closed to the public, Minterne House remains an exclusive venue in the heart of the Dorset countryside. On walking through the grand doors of Minterne House, it feels alive and atmospheric making your wedding day unforgettable for both you and your guests.

 Image courtesy of Bill Norris

The tour of the House highlighted a variety of licensed rooms in which Civil Ceremonies can take place, offering locations for small intimate weddings or larger parties for up to 150 guests. The spectacular Trafalgar Hall with barrel vaulted ceilings and floor to ceiling windows, overlooked by a grand balcony is a popular setting for Civil Ceremonies as is the beautiful Garden Room overlooking the south front lawns. A ceremony can be followed by a drinks reception in the house or gardens on a sunny day. For the Wedding Breakfast, The Trafalgar Hall can be transformed or alternatively dinner can be served in the Tapestry Dining Room.

 Images courtesy of Bill Norris

The stunning Gardens make Minterne House the perfect summer venue whilst the roaring log fires make it a welcoming and cosy winter venue. If its history or character you’re after for your big day, Minterne has it by the bucket load. From strong ties to The Battle of Trafalgar to Sir Winston Churchill to ties with the Gunpowder plot to the scandalous life of Lady Jane Digby, Minterne House has something to interest everyone.


We were treated to a trip around (with being allowed to drive as well!) the 4X4 track which is perfect for the day before a wedding - how about entertaining the Groom and his Groomsmen the day before?  Add to this more fun with clay Pigeon shooting, quad-biking, cookery classes and go-carting can be fun activities for corporate days as well.  After our action packed morning we lunched in the most stunning dining room on local cheese and bread and a selection of local meats - all pretty wonderful.  

 Image courtesy of Chameleon Photographic

The spectacular gardens at Minterne House landscaped in the 18^th Century by Capability Brown are perfect for those magical wedding photos. With a backdrop of the beautiful Dorset countryside, the gardens are home to beautiful streams, small lakes and waterfalls. 

For larger weddings, the Gardens can become an integral part of the day. A fairytale bridge leads over a ha-ha to a romantic marquee for the reception. This option offers stunning views of the house as well as the romantic gardens.

 Image courtesy of Minterne House

Image courtesy of Minterne House

Although perfectly suited to weddings, Minterne House is also worth consideration for other events, be it private or corporate, Minterne has something to offer for everyone. The House has the capacity to hold conferences for up to 160 delegates whilst also being able to cater for smaller seminars. 

For more information contact Maureen Panchen at Minterne House we highly recommend this venue as being well worth a visit to experience its beauty and charm and to consider it for your own wedding or event. 


Nicolle Chainey