Why we believe in Wedding weekends at Almer Manor…

As we prepare to launch Almer Manor as a full-service wedding venue in 2025, we’ve seen a growing trend that couples are embracing: the wedding weekend. More than just a one-day event, a wedding weekend allows for a relaxed, immersive celebration that gives you and your guests time to fully enjoy every moment. Here’s why we believe wedding weekends are the perfect fit for your big day at Almer Manor.

1. More Time to Celebrate

At Almer Manor, a wedding weekend means more time to unwind and enjoy. With luxurious on-site accommodations, including Stable Cottage with its own games room, your guests can relax and have fun before and after the big day. Our Manor also features a tennis court and outdoor hot tub, offering even more ways to make your stay special. Imagine friendly matches, peaceful soaks, and leisurely mornings, all leading up to your perfect wedding celebration.

@jamesbridlephoto

2. A Full-Service Venue for a Seamless Experience

Starting in 2025, Almer Manor will offer everything you need for your dream wedding—ceremonies, receptions, and accommodations all in one place. Imagine your guests arriving on a Friday evening to relax in our peaceful surroundings, while you enjoy your final preparations in the Manor’s luxurious bridal suite. The next morning, your ceremony could take place at the historic St. Mary’s Church, just a private stroll away, followed by a reception on-site at Almer. No need to rush from one venue to another—your entire weekend unfolds seamlessly.

@Emine.weddings

3. Creating Deeper Connections

With a wedding weekend, your guests have the chance to connect on a deeper level. At Almer Manor, the expansive grounds and picturesque settings offer opportunities for relaxed gatherings before and after the big day. Whether it's a welcome BBQ in the garden, a cosy night by the Manor’s fireplace, or a game-filled afternoon in Stable Cottage, your loved ones can spend quality time together, making lasting memories.

4. Stress-Free Planning

A wedding weekend eliminates the time constraints of a traditional one-day celebration, giving you the flexibility to savour each moment. From leisurely breakfasts to a laid-back rehearsal dinner, our team at Almer Manor ensures everything is managed smoothly over the course of your stay. With exclusive access to our venue for the entire weekend, you can relax and enjoy each part of your wedding without feeling rushed.

5. A True Destination Experience

Located in the heart of the Dorset countryside, Almer Manor is an idyllic rural retreat, offering the perfect escape for a wedding weekend. Guests can explore the stunning landscapes, relax in peaceful surroundings, and immerse themselves in the beauty of the venue. For couples seeking a destination wedding experience without the hassle of travel, Almer Manor delivers an intimate, scenic setting with the charm of a countryside estate.

6. A New Chapter for Almer Manor

As we launch as a full-service wedding venue in 2025, we’re excited to offer a truly bespoke wedding weekend experience. Previously, couples like The Holloways have enjoyed using Almer for accommodation and ceremonies, followed by a reception at our sister venue, Abbots. Now, with everything available on-site—from ceremonies to receptions—we’re ready to create unforgettable, all-in-one wedding weekends tailored to your vision.

Plan Your Wedding Weekend at Almer Manor…

If you’re dreaming of a wedding weekend that offers relaxation, elegance, and an immersive experience for your guests, Almer Manor is the perfect venue. As we look forward to welcoming couples in 2025, our dedicated team is ready to help you plan a multi-day celebration that reflects your love story. From luxury accommodations to a seamless flow of events, Almer Manor makes your wedding weekend everything you’ve imagined.

Contact us today to learn more about hosting your wedding weekend at Almer Manor and be among the first to experience this stunning new wedding venue in the heart of Dorset.

An Unforgettable 'Sten' Weekend at Almer Manor with British Vogue's Georgia Shepheard

We had the distinct pleasure of hosting Georgia Shepheard, the Social Media Manager of British Vogue, for her unique 'sten' weekend at Almer Manor. The celebration was a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, set against the backdrop of our historic 16th-century manor.

From luxurious amenities like our wood-fired hot tub to outdoor adventures including paddleboarding at Sandbanks Beach, Georgia's weekend was nothing short of magical. A special highlight was the delicious BBQ feast crafted by Chef Sam.

Speaking on her stay, Georgia stated “In all honesty, with a guest list of 22 (comprising girls and boys and 9 couples among them) we were limited when it came to properties big enough to sleep us all. Many of the properties we initially looked at would have seen guests sharing rooms in unusual formations and/or lacked outdoor entertaining space. 

Almer Manor, on the other hand, a 16th-century manor within a walled garden in the picturesque Dorset countryside, offered 8 double bedrooms including a bridal suite with en suite and dressing room and an abundance of entertaining spaces. Not to mention a wood-fired hot tub, fire pit and a tennis court which we made plenty of use of. "

Read all about Georgia’s stunnning ‘Sten’ weekend over on The Wedding Edition

The Team Behind Abbots Court Expands Wedding Offerings with the Addition of Almer Manor…

The team behind Abbots Court, is thrilled to announce the expansion of our wedding offerings with the development of Almer Manor, set to commence hosting weddings from 2025 onwards.

Having spearheaded the successful redevelopment of Abbots Court over the past three years, witnessing its transformation from a rustic rural retreat to a breathtaking backdrop for idyllic weddings, we are eager to replicate this standard of excellence adding another chapter to the story of Almer Manor which dates back to the 16th century. This commitment to excellence has been recognised with numerous accolades, including the prestigious 'Best Country House & Wedding Venue 2023 Dorset' at the UK Enterprise Awards.

As part of our new wedding offering at Almer Manor, guests will be treated to an array of picture-perfect offerings. Our Wedding ceremonies will accommodate up to 100 people, while wedding breakfasts can host up to 120 guests, and evening events can entertain up to 150 attendees.

Launching in June 2025, Almer Manor Weddings will captivate guests with its historic charm, featuring both the Manor House and Cottage, complete with newly refurbished rooms, a kitchen, and even a dedicated games room. Couples will have the privilege of exchanging vows amidst the serene beauty of our gardens under the stone pergola or within the neighbouring historic Almer Church which traces its origins all the way back to the 12th century.

Receptions and wedding breakfasts will be held within a stunning sail tent marquee, boasting a fully licensed bar and all necessary modern amenities onsite. Convenient parking facilities will also be available onsite, ensuring ease and accessibility for all guests.

For those seeking a venue that combines historic elegance with contemporary luxury, Almer Manor promises to be the epitome of sophistication and romance.

“Expanding our wedding offerings to include Almer Manor is a dream come true for us. We've poured our hearts into crafting unforgettable weddings at Abbots Court, and seeing the joy on couples' faces has been the ultimate reward. We're thrilled to bring that same level of magic and romance to Almer Manor and can't wait to create countless cherished memories for couples there in the future." - Simon Brooks and James Maidment, Owners of Abbots Court & Almer Manor Wedding Venues & Retreats

10 Reasons to retreat to Abbots & Almer in 2023…

Struck by those January blues? Fear not, we know the cure and it starts with booking your next escape to the countryside. That’s right, it’s time to leave the stresses of city living behind and enjoy the benefits of country living with a retreat to our twin manor houses at Abbots Court & Almer Manor. Still need convincing? We have 10 excellent reasons to make an escape to the Dorset countryside one of your 2023 travel goals.

Dorset’s Stunning Natural Beauty…

We may be biased but to us, there’s nowhere more beautiful to explore in the UK than Dorset. With Abbots & Almer located in the hidden gem that is Blandford Forum, you’ll be ideally placed to get out and explore all that Dorset has to offer including stunning natural beauty spots such as Durdle Door & Lulworth Cove (Pictured), charming coastal towns and villages such as Milton Abbas and Swanage, historic landmarks such as Corfe Castle and of course our stunning coast line including surf spots such as Kimmeridge and of course the luxurious Sandbanks.

Stunning Suites…

Newly refurbished for 2023, both Abbots & Almer offer a vast array of stunning Bedroom suites to choose from. Whether you’re looking for original features, modern comforts or simply somewhere to curl up whilst enjoying unspoiled views of Dorset’s countryside you’ll find it all at Abbots Court & Almer Manor.

Looking for somewhere to escape with the whole family or getting the gang back together? With room for up to 21 (Abbots) and 16 (Almer) guests, our retreats offer both high capacity and personal space for those moments after you’ve flipped the Monopoly board and need some time to yourself (no judgement here).

Wood-fired Hot Tubs…

Picture the scene, you have a glass of champagne in one hand and a good book in the other whilst gazing out over Dorset’s countryside - sound too good to be true? Make your dreams a reality with our wood fired hot tubs at both Abbots & Almer. The perfect excuse to enjoy the views no matter the weather, it’s time to add a dip in our hot tubs to your 2023 wanderlist.

Country Pubs…

Well it wouldn't be a countryside retreat without a visit to a country pub now would it?

Luckily both Abbots Court and Almer Manor are blessed to be surrounded by a selection of stunning country pubs including the gorgeous World’s End in Blandford (pictured). This beautiful thatched roof pub offers an award-winning selection of ales alongside mouth-watering gastro dishes and a sprawling pub garden.

The Bar at Abbots Court…

Can’t peel yourself away from the comforts of Abbots for a trip to the pub, or simply looking to keep the good times flowing? Look no further than the Abbots Bar. That’s right, Abbots is home to its very own bar complete with all the glassware, lounge chairs and board games you need to keep the good times rolling.
We’ve even got an original vinyl record player and a selection of classics to keep you entertained throughout the night.

The Tennis Court at Almer Manor…

Looking for a retreat you can relax in but still indulge your competitive side? Consider it game, set and match with Almer’s full size Tennis court. Serve up a storm whilst surrounded by Dorset’s countryside with all of the comforts of home just a few steps away in the main house.

Freshly cooked Pizza in the garden…

Looking for an excuse to get creative, dine under the sunset and enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner? Who wouldn’t be? Our Gozney Outdoor Pizza Ovens are the perfect partner for your stay at Abbots or Almer. Simply load up on ingredients and enjoy mouth-watering and freshly cooked pizza in moments.

Fine dining with our trusted suppliers…

Make use of our expansive and decadent dining rooms and enjoy a night of fine dining with our friends at AKO dining and Molecular Magic. Trusted partners of both Abbots & Almer, their award-winning teams are on hand to create truly memorable moments whether you’re planning a birthday celebration during your stay or simply have a taste for the finer things in life.

Take a walk with Alpacas…

That’s right, just a short stroll from our doorstep you’ll find South Paddocks and the opportunity immerse yourself in nature with their extra friendly collection of Alpacas, Pigs and Goats.

Did we mention they’ll even drop fresh free range eggs and home reared bacon (don’t tell the pigs) should you wish to enjoy them during your stay at Abbots or Almer.

It’s good for your health…

It’s no surprise that gazing upon green rolling fields or crashing waves is better for our mental and physical wellbeing than living amongst concrete and glass. Indeed, even in small doses, taking the time to retreat to the countryside can have significant benefits; according to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Health Research, you don’t have to live in the country to enjoy the benefits; spending just 20 minutes in nature could be enough to improve our wellbeing - just imagine what a whole week could do!

So there you have it, if you were looking for the perfect excuse to book a holiday or retreat to the countryside with us then we’ve given you no less than 10. Don’t hesitate with our peak season dates filling fast, it’s time to start planning your escape to the Dorset countryside today.