Frequently Asked Questions…

Planning your wedding should be exciting, not overwhelming. To make everything as seamless as possible, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions about getting married at Abbots Court. From accommodation and catering to venue details and logistics, you’ll find everything you need to know right here. If you have any further questions, our team is always happy to help—just get in touch!

CAN I PROVISIONALLY HOLD A DATE?

You may hold a date for a period of 14 days before the deposit is due.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE VENUE HIRE FEE?

The venue hire fee includes hire of the main house and surrounding grounds for a minimum of 2 nights, the Stables for your ceremony and the Pavilion for your wedding reception.

WHEN DO WE GET ACCESS TO THE VENUE FOR SET UP?

Access to The Stables, Pavilion and surrounding grounds is from midday on the day before.

DO YOU ALLOW CANDLES?

Yes you may use candles and tea lights providing they are in fireproof containers, candles and their positioning is agreed with the venue staff. For safety reasons long taper candles are not allowed.

CAN WE GET MARRIED OUTSIDE?

Yes, we are licensed for outdoor ceremonies. Your Event Manager will liaise with you before the day to discuss the weather forecast. A final decision must be made 24 hours prior.

HOW DO WE CONFIRM A BOOKING?

A non-refundable deposit of £2,000 along with the signed booking form adhering to our wedding terms and conditions will confirm your booking. A further 20% is payable 9 months prior and another 20% 6 months prior, with the remaining balance due 6 weeks before the day.

IS CONFETTI PERMITTED?

Bio-degradable dried petals is the only confetti allowed.

WHAT DO YOU OFFER FOR CHILDREN?

Children have access to our six acres of grounds, including rope swings, outdoor games, pétanque terrain and giant chess.

DO WE HAVE TO CONTACT THE REGISTRARS?

Once you have placed a provisional hold with us we suggest you contact the registrar to confirm you required date and availability. Dorset Registrars can be contacted on 01305 225153 and usually book dates for up to 18 months in advance.

DO YOU SUPPLY A PA SYSTEM?

Yes we do. The Stables and Pavilion have their own PA systems, and we have a wireless microphone for the speeches. For outdoor ceremonies a PA will need to be hired in at an additional cost.

CAN WE HAVE FIREWORKS?

Fireworks are not permitted at any time. Handheld lanterns and Chinese lanterns are a potential fire hazard and therefore not permitted either. Sparklers are permitted.

CAN WE BRING OUR OWN ALCOHOL?

You may bring your own wines and bottled beer to be served up until the end of the Wedding Breakfast (corkage charges apply). Our onsite bar is available throughout the day and can open straight after your ceremony if you wish. Please speak with your Event Manager for further details.

CAN WE PROVIDE OUR OWN CATERING?

Catering is to be provided by one of our four trusted caterers during the day. Options for evening food from Pizzas to Charcuterie boards available in the evening, please speak to the team for further details.

HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN YOU SIT ON EACH TABLE?

Our tables are 6ft rounds and seat a maximum of 10 per table. A top table can be added if required. Banqueting tables are available for an additional cost.

CAN WE HAVE ADDITIONAL EVENING GUESTS?

Yes, provided the maximum number does not exceed 150.

DOES THE BAR TAKE CARD?

Yes, our bar accepts card payments only.

CAN GUESTS PARK OVERNIGHT?

Yes, guests can leave cars overnight providing they are collected by midday on the day of check-out.

ARE PETS ALLOWED?

Well behaved dogs are welcome. Please bear in mind that dogs are only allowed within our grounds as the surrounding fields are private property belonging to Abbots Court Farm.

WHAT TIME DOES THE MUSIC HAVE TO STOP?

We are licensed for live bands until 10pm, and amplified music (DJs) until 11pm. Any guests not staying on the property must be offsite by midnight. Charges will apply after this time.

IS THERE ADDITIONAL ACCOMMODATION NEARBY?

We have an onsite glamping area sleeping up to 16. This consists of 6 glamping pods and 2 Shepherds huts each sleeping 2. In addition, there are several places in close proximity including our sister-site Almer Manor, which can house up to 22 guests. The Greyhound Inn, located in the village of Winterbourne Kingston also provides accommodation. Please speak to your Event Manager for further recommendations.

IS THE VENUE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?

Yes, most areas are accessible for wheelchair users. There is also one ensuite ground floor bedroom in the house.

DOES ABBOTS COURT PRACTICE ACCESSABILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY?

Yes! Abbots Court is fully accessible, with step-free access and accessible accommodation to ensure all guests feel comfortable. Sustainability is also at our core—we prioritise local suppliers, seasonal produce, and eco-friendly practices to create beautiful weddings with minimal impact on the environment.