Home / About the Area / West Dorset Weddings / Dorchester Wedding & Reception Venues
Athelhampton House & Gardens
(01305) 848363
www.athelhampton.co.uk
Licensed for civil weddings, the Great Hall at Athelhampton House can provide a grand setting for the ceremony. Surrounded by Grade I listed gardens, there are no shortage of stunning photo opportunities. Locally sourced produce provides the basis for a wedding breakfast of your choice in the Long Hall (dining room) or Conservatory.
- Licensed For Civil Weddings
- Reception Venue
Bennetts Water Gardens
(01305) 785150
www.waterlily.co.uk
Famous for their National Collection of Water Lilies, these long established gardens offer a unique and picturesque setting with spectacular photo opportunities for the bride and groom in a magical atmosphere. Civil and commitment ceremonies can be held in the Imperial Gazebo, Conservatory or Tropical House. Wedding receptions are held in a Marquee on 'The Green', overlooking the Monet Bridge.
- Licensed For Civil Weddings
- Reception Venue
Dorchester Town Council
(01305) 265840
www.dorchestercornexchange.co.uk
The Grade II listed Municipal Buildings of Dorchester Town Council can offer three rooms licensed to hold civil ceremonies for up to 300 guests. Reception rooms are also available.
- Licensed For Civil Weddings
- Reception Venue
Kingston Maurward House & Gardens
(01305) 215050
www.kmc.ac.uk/hospitality
This Georgian mansion has four elegant rooms licensed to hold civil marriage ceremonies allowing all the celebrations to be held at one venue. Wedding ceremonies and receptions can be catered for on any day of the week, and the mansion's picturesque gardens and lake provide the ideal backdrop for stunning wedding photography.
- Licensed For Civil Weddings
- Reception Venue
The Heights Hotel
01305 821361
www.heightshotel.com
Set on the summit of the Island with panoramic views, The Heights Hotel will set the scene for your big day. Professional friendly service, delicious food and attention to detail, leaving you with memories to treasure forever. We can accommodate up to 130 guests in our Portland Suite, and offer a wide choice of menus complimented with wine and drinks packages.
- Reception Venue
The Manor Hotel 
(01308) 897616
www.themanorhotel.com
Licensed for civil weddings, this magical 500 year old hotel in West Bexington affords stunning sea views and spectacular grounds - the perfect setting for your special day.
- Licensed For Civil Weddings
- Reception Venue
Minterne House & Gardens
(01300) 341370
www.minterne.co.uk
Minterne House is a magical place to hold a wedding and is licensed for civil marriage ceremonies. The Trafalgar Hall seats over 100 Guests, or for more intimate weddings the Garden Room is suitable for up to 60. Receptions for large numbers can be held in a marquee on the lawn. Four ensuite guestrooms are available in the house.
- Licensed For Civil Weddings
- Reception Venue
Portland Castle
(01305) 820539
www.english-heritage.org.uk/hospitality
Commanding spectacular waterfront views on a beautiful island location this 16th century castle is a magical place to hold your wedding. Built by Tudor monarch Henry VIII in 1539, the unusual fan-shaped castle made from local Portland stone features a striking waterside contemporary garden and has stunning views over Weymouth bay.
- Licensed For Civil Weddings
- Reception Venue
The Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, Restaurant & Spa (Relais & Chateaux)
(01935) 482000
www.summerlodgehotel.co.uk
Summer Lodge is able to cater for parties of between 2 and 80 guests and is ideally suited to exclusive use. The hotel is licensed for wedding ceremonies to be held in The Dorchester Suite and Drawing Room and a Wedding Breakfast can be served in the elegant restaurant. Summer Lodge also makes the ideal romantic destination for your honeymoon.
- Licensed For Civil Weddings
- Reception Venue