GAY HONEYMOON HOTSPOTS: ENGLAND SAYS I DO
The first same-sex weddings in England will be able to take place from 29 March 2014. In celebration of this historic I do, VisitEngland takes a look at honeymoon hotpots across the country, featuring properties that have been lovingly restored, designed and brought to life by same-sex couples
Blanch House, Brighton

Often referred to as the UKs gay capital, Brighton & Hoves first same-sex marriage ceremony will take place just after midnight on 29 March 2014 at the Royal Pavilion, as soon as the law allows. The ceremony is set to be one of the first same-sex marriages anywhere in the country. Our top honeymooning tip for the loving couple, Andrew Wale and Neil Allard, is to relax in style at Blanch House, Brightons original boutique hotel. Already a popular venue for civil ceremonies, Blanch House is only a short walk from the centre of Brighton and the citys stunning Regency seafront. With prices ranging from 75 pounds to 219 pounds per night (including breakfast), each of the hotels rooms have been individually styled by owners, Kerry and Jeremy. Priding themselves on always providing a personal touch, every guest gets to sample one of Kerrys homemade biscuits on arrival.

http://www.blanchhouse.co.uk


Seagate Cottage, Hastings

Unknown to most, Hastings offers a smattering of properties owned by same-sex couples on the South Coast. Seagate Cottage, a charming 1640s whitewashed self-catering property provides the perfect honeymoon destination for newly married couples wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of Englands big cities. This Jacobean retreat in the heart of the Old Town is just a stones throw from the famously curious shops that make Hastings so special. Bristol-based owners, Susie and Gemma consider the cottage a home-from-home and escape to Hastings as often as they can. Available to rent from 525 pounds to 725 pounds per week. Short stays are also available from 105 pounds to 175 pounds per night.

http://www.hastingscottage.blogspot.co.uk

Huntsham Court, near Exeter, Devon

For those who are looking for a wedding venue and honeymoon destination all wrapped up in one, Huntsham Court has to be the property of choice. This grand Baronial mansion nestled in spectacular rolling Devon countryside sleeps up to 80 guests in 31 bedrooms, most of which are en-suite, and can seat up to 120 guests for weddings and banquets. The idea of purchasing Huntsham Court began when now owners, Damian and Chris were searching for a suitable venue for their own civil partnership in 2011. Since then, Damien and Chris have worked tirelessly to achieve their vision for the venue: to lovingly restore the property, in keeping with its unique history and character, to its original grandeur but with the addition of modern touches to create a relaxed and comfortable country home-from-home for guests to enjoy in complete privacy. Weekend two night hire from 9,300 pounds(for 19 bedrooms) to 13,800 pounds (for all 31 bedrooms).

http://www.huntshamcourt.co.uk.


The Old House B&B, Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire

With a wide oak front door, beautiful wooden beams and traditional leaded windows overlooking the medieval market square of Higham Ferrers, The Old House B&B is steeped in history. Dating back to 1580, once a Merchants House and a bakery, The Old House now offers guests an elegant and traditional, yet homely retreat. Higham Ferrers is brimming with buildings no less than 250 years old and makes you feel like you've stepped back in time. It boasts independent shops, boutiques and eateries, as well as being popular for the monthly farmers market. Always providing a warm welcome, the property is owned by shoe designer, William and his partner Simon, who works in catering and hospitality. Double rooms available from 65 pounds per night, including breakfast.

http://www.theoldhousehighamferrers.co.uk

For more honeymooning hotspots:

http://www.visitengland.com.


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