A wedding venue with a difference, the Beech Hill, Derry, is popular with couples who crave something a little bit different for their wedding. Here, we catch up with the team to find out what it is that makes the venue so popular. Plus Donal shares his favourite locations for truly memorable photos.

Tell us about the Beech Hill. Why is it a popular choice with couples for their wedding day?

The venue is full of so much natural charm. It was built in 1729 and boasts gorgeous landscape gardens. It was tastefully restored to a high standard and very much still has that romantic charm about it. There are a lot of modern built hotels in Northern Ireland and the Beech Hill is popular with couples who seek something a little bit different for their wedding day. The rustic open fires, huge bay windows and Georgian architecture just ooze luxury and charm.

We also have a one wedding a day policy to ensure that we give each bride and groom the full attention that they deserve on such a special day. Plus, we have 31 bedrooms exclusively available for guests, which is perfect for those who wish to extend the celebrations beyond the day itself.

What makes the venue different from others?

As well as the history and charm behind the Beech Hill, it is family owned. This ethos is carried through to a couple’s wedding day as we wish to offer a home from home atmosphere. Everyone who comes through our doors receives the warmest of welcomes. We pride ourselves on bringing that personal touch to a wedding. There is also a huge emphasis on food here, for which we have become renowned. Guests are treated to an exquisite culinary experience.

What types of weddings do you cater for?

We are delighted to be able to cater for weddings both intimate and larger. We were actually the first venue in Northern Ireland to get a license to hold civil ceremonies so couples can choose to have both their ceremony and reception with us, if they wish. We offer a wealth of options for both the ceremony and reception, with the opportunity to get married outside in the beautiful grounds, if the weather permits it.

Whether you fancy a Georgian house soiree, a vintage garden party or a woodland themed wedding, we work with couples to accommodate even the most usual wedding ideas to ensure everything is right on the day.

The Pavilion Marquee can accommodate 350 guests, while Skipton Hall and Ardmore Restaurant and Conservatory – which both look out over the beautifully landscaped gardens – can accommodate wedding parties of up to 70 and 90 respectively.

How do you ensure couples get the wedding of their dreams?

We don’t have set packages, which ensures we offer couples complete flexibility to achieve the day of their dreams. Because we know that every wedding is different, we will work with the bride and groom every step of the way to design their own bespoke package. We do this by listening to couples’ visions for their day and working with them to piece it all together. Whether they want to treat guests to a craft beer or specialist cocktail upon arrival, or to a spectacular feast, we do what we can to make that happen. We place an emphasis on keeping guests well fed and entertained.

What tips would you offer couples to ensure a stress-free wedding day?

Try and stick to your budget. Work out what you want and try not to get carried away with things that you don’t need or care about. Food and entertainment are the most important things as this is what people will remember. Keep it simple. Less is definitely more.

What is the most unique request you have ever honoured?

We once had a fleet of helicopters arrive with the bridal party in them. They landed in the church carpark opposite, which was like an airport!

To get in touch with Beech Hill, check out their website here.

TOP PHOTO LOCATIONS FOR YOUR BEECH HILL WEDDING DAY

Beech Hill benefits from having beautiful grounds with lots and lots of locations for photography. Here are just a few of my favourites for your Beech Hill Country House Wedding.

You can get married outside in the grounds of the Beech Hill, or there are lots of venues nearby for the service. Across the road from the hotel is St. Mary’s Ardmore.

The front of the Beech Hill is beautiful and perfect for a car photo.

Directly opposite from the hotel is this walk-way. It’s a great spot for family photos.

There is a beautiful vista overlooking the lake.

On the lane is one of my favourite places for photos at Beech Hill.

I love using the ruin for a backdrop.

At the gate provides a beautiful stone backdrop.

The walkway over the lake is pretty epic!

This lake is to the right when you drive into Beech Hill.

This little secret garden offers some amazing backdrops and is perfect for some sunset shots.

The marque looks beautifully light and bright. I love getting lots of detail shots when it’s set-up for the day.

Skipton Hall also serves as a beautiful location for an intimate wedding.

At night-time with the fairy lights the marque is magical.