Minstead Lodge is nestled in the heart of the New Forest National Park and offers an exclusive and elegant retreat for a unique country house wedding. The estate belongs to Minstead Trust, a local charity supporting over 300 people with learning disabilities, adding an extra layer of meaning to your celebration and contributing to the well-being of vulnerable individuals and fostering a sense of community.
Our weddings are bespoke and personalised - reflecting your personality and making your wedding unforgettable.
Originally built around 1832, Minstead Lodge is steeped in history and character. The venue features beautiful rooms with oak-panelled walls and captivating views over the grounds which you and your guests will have exclusive access to. The Long Hall, adorned with an oak fireplace for a winter log fire, leads to the South Terrace-an ideal spot for a refreshing drinks reception before the wedding breakfast. Intimate gatherings find solace in two bay-windowed reception rooms, versatile for ceremonies, receptions or additional lounge/bar areas. The lush gardens, spanning from the veranda to the middle terrace, offer outdoor ceremony options. At the same time, the Blade Garden accommodates celebrations with the Lodge and a marquee, providing flexibility to tailor your special day.
As your celebration unfolds, Minstead Lodge offers a variety of spaces for the wedding breakfast. Opting for the drinks package adds a sparkling touch, with prosecco toasting the happy couple (or sparkling elderflower for non-alcoholic preferences). The festivities transition seamlessly to the Long Hall, where chosen entertainment sets the stage for dancing until 11pm. The day gracefully concludes at 11:30pm, with pre-ordered taxis ensuring your guests find their way home safely, wrapping up a day filled with love, joy and cherished memories.
Personal Message from the Manager
Name of Wedding Contact: Kyle Maxwell
I'm Kyle, the Events Manager here at Minstead Lodge, and I'm thrilled that you're considering our enchanting venue for your special day. We understand that your wedding is a momentous occasion, and we're honored to be a part of this exciting journey with you.
Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or to schedule a visit. We can't wait to meet you and discuss how we can make your wedding day truly extraordinary.
Exclusive use of Minstead Lodge Reception Rooms including a Wedding PA on the day to ensure everything runs seamlessly. Includes the use of four reception rooms (seated capacity 75), terrace woodland views, and our marquee site. Exclusive use of the grand staircase and grounds for bride and groom photos. Tables, chairs, table linen and napkins for 75 people included.
It's best to find us on Google Maps which should bring you to a turning over a cattle grid and along a long driveway which leads to our car park. We are lucky to be nestled in the heart of the New Forest where there are free roaming animals so please drive carefully and pass around them slow and wide, for more information please see the New Forest Code.
Describe the best wedding that happened at Minstead Lodge?
One wedding we held on November was a complete wash out but our team were ready to make sure everything ran smoothly and the couple could still have their photos taken around the grounds. The photos turned out beautifully and made the Lodge look even more atmospheric. The couple and their family had the most amazing time indoors and some even embraced the autumnal British weather and continued partying outside.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Staying organised and being flexible are key factors in successful wedding planning. Trends may change, but effective communication and collaboration between you and your partner will always be fundamental to a smooth and enjoyable wedding planning experience.
What’s your favourite personal touch you’ve seen at a wedding?
For one wedding we hosted, the couple put together a vintage room divider filled with photos from their life together, friends and family. This was a beautiful way of showcasing their special memories for their guests to look through during the day.
In the summer months, definitely in our orangery underneath the wisteria or anywhere throughout the beautiful grounds. Throughout autumn and winter, as the leaves change colour, the best spot is at the front of the Lodge. We have a stunning maple tree that turns deep red which looks wonderful against the Lodge and is the perfect backdrop.
Have you had any celebrity guest or wedding at Minstead Lodge?
Not yet...
What’s your favourite canapé?
We don't have our own in-house caterers however we did have one external caterer come in and offer small arancini canapes which were delicious.
What’s your favourite midnight treat?
A cheese toastie is always a welcome treat at any wedding.
What is Minstead Lodge most unique feature?
The grand staircase. Not an original feature of the Lodge however it was donated to us by a local church so dates back even further than the Lodge and makes a stunning area for photos.
What part of your business are you most proud of?
The fact that every wedding booked at Minstead Lodge helps to support the work of Minstead Trust. A local charity supporting over 300 people with learning disabilities throughout Hampshire to build skills that help them find employment and live more independent and fulfilled lives.