If you're looking for a peaceful, countryside wedding venue, with space for a marquee and a literary history, then Greenwood Grange may be the perfect place. This collection of cottages was originally constructed as a series of farm buildings by the father of famous author and poet, Thomas Hardy. Now, these structures are used as a rustic yet sophisticated space for small wedding receptions, or as luxurious accommodation for you and your guests.
For larger wedding receptions, the picturesque gardens surrounding the cottages offer plenty of space for a marquee or tipi. Inside, your chosen tent can be decorated in any style you desire, while outside you and your guests can enjoy the surrounding Dorset countryside. This wedding venue is perfect for families, as they provide a wonderful yurt for children to play in, a trampoline and swings. You can relax while your children are cared for by DBS registered child minders.
Greenwood Grange originally began as a collection of farm buildings constructed in 1849 by Thomas Hardy's father. In a nearby cottage, Hardy created two of his best known works, Under the Greenwood Tree and Far From the Madding Crowd. His father's buildings began to be converted in 1988, undergoing a process of refurbishment for several years, before finally opening as a holiday destination and wedding venue.
For intimate receptions, the cosy and welcoming Henchard cottage is available. This gorgeous cottage combines elegant décor with a homely feel that allows you and your guests to relax and enjoy the day.
Wedding breakfast capacity - up to 40 guests
Evening reception capacity - up to 40 guests
The stunning gardens surrounding the Greenwood Grange cottages make the perfect space for a rustic, country wedding. Hire a marquee or tipi, add some of your own personal decorations and enjoy the wonderfully peaceful surroundings.
Wedding breakfast capacity - up to 180 guests
Evening reception capacity - up to 180 guests
The team at Greenwood Grange have put together a list of preferred caterers for you to choose from. However, you may hire a caterer who is not featured on this list.
When holding your wedding reception at Greenwood Grange, you may book their beautiful stone-built cottages for accommodation (subject to availability). You can enjoy their indoor pool, games room and other facilities, as well as the beautiful surrounding area. Visit the Jurassic Coast or take a trip to see the former home of Thomas Hardy!
For more information or, if you'd like to book Greenwood Grange for your wedding, please get in touch using the contact options at the top and bottom of this page.
AddressI recently stayed in the Henchard Cottage. A beautiful cottage with plenty of good sized bedrooms. Facilities were first class and would recommend the swimming pool. A fully equipped kitchen with ample equipment to cater for our large group. The service from the owners was first class.
There were 19 of us aged from 7 to 70 so we stayed in the charming thatched Henchard with lovely views and rented Wessex for the teenagers. Activities ranged from tennis, biking, croquet, football nets, dog walking through to a super swimming pool and activities room catering for wet days. We were able to walk our dogs to Hardy's Cottage and in the woods around Greenwood. Henchard was beautifully furnished and very spacious and we were able to cater for 19 using a garden table and chairs and with an extremely well-equipped kitchen. Roaring fire on cold evenings and sun-bathing in wonderful October weather. Very helpful staff who were around but didn't hover! Such a memorable and perfect celebration thanks to Greenwood Grange.
Nine of us stayed for my Dad's birthday..a great venue with lots to do. Nice walks from the cottage, fab facilities in and outside the house with tennis courts, indoor swimming pool and games room. The house had everything and more. Would love to return.