Ham House, on the banks of the River Thames between Richmond and Kingston, is perhaps the most remarkable Stuart house in the country. It was built about 1610 and decorated and furnished in the most up to date style of the time. It is set in exquisite gardens that have been restored to their original style using plans, ... more
Nether Winchendon House is a Medieval and Tudor manor house. Great Hall.
Dining Room with fine 16th century frieze and linenfold paneling. Fine
furniture and family portraits. Former home of Sir Frances Bernard, Bt.
(d.1779), the last British Governor of Massachusetts Bay. Continuous
family occupation since mid-16th century. House altered in the late 18th
century in the Strawberry Hill Gothick style. Interesting garden of 5
acres; ... more
This decadent wedding venue, nestled deep within a magnificent Royal park, and positioned directly under the watchful gaze of Hampton Court Palace, offers a truly breathtaking and romantic setting for your special day.
The sweeping grounds of Hampton Court Palace occupies 600 acres of parkland and is home to a herd of free roaming fallow deer and ... more
The Holiday Inn Guildford is the perfect setting for a superb wedding celebration. We offer a combination of elegant surroundings, attractive menus, fine wines and seamless service that will enable you to relax and enjoy your day in the knowledge that everything is going exactly the way you planned.
The Club Suite can accommodate up ... more
A Perfect Setting – This beautiful Grade II Listed Building with its own chapel, enclosed cloisters, marriage rooms, magnificent Gazebo and exquisite function rooms stands proudly within delightful landscaped gardens. Whatever your special occasion St. Augustine’s provides the perfect setting, superbly complemented by impeccable service and gourmet cuisine.
The imposing exterior façade of St. Augustine’s is enhanced by its ... more
Knowlton Court Estate will charm you with its beauty. Hidden away in the garden of England, this historic family home has captured the imagination of many brides.
The grounds are magnificent and yours to enjoy for the entire weekend. What Knowlton Court offers is completely unique and must be seen.
The Knowlton Court Wedding Package is made of the ... more
The Mill House Restaurant & Hotel is a charming Georgian House dating back to 1823, set within beautiful gardens nestling beside the river Loddon.
In more recent times the house and grounds have been restored to their original Georgian splendour and we are now considered an enviable wedding venue.
We hold a licence for civil ceremonies in two of our rooms. One ... more
Situated on the Outskirts of the quiet village of Kelvedon, Crabbs Barn is a beautiful 15c restored building set in lovely gardens overlooking a picturesque pond.
Easily accessed from the A12, with good parking facilities and first class B & B facilities close by.
A stunning extension has been added to compliment the Old Barn, together with the new Garden Pavilion, built ... more
At Eastwell Manor, we pride ourselves on organising both the smaller and larger event to your entire satisfaction. Within this stunning location, civil ceremonies may be held within the Manor itself or in the simply delightful Maids Garden complete with Gazebo - quite the most romantic spot in Kent.
What a glorious opportunity of having a wedding to remember! Instead of ... more
Gaynes Park lies on a historic private estate and is reached by a long driveway through park and farmland. Just 10 minutes from the M25 and M11, Gaynes Park is one of the most beautiful exclusive venues in Essex. From the moment you arrive you’ll be enchanted by the outstanding facilities and beautiful surroundings that Gaynes Park offers. ... more
We’d like to propose...the perfect setting for a memorable day
Arriving up the sweeping driveway is the first of many unforgettable experiences. With its manicured lawns, gardens, picturesque lake and 250 acres of Royal Berkshire’s finest parkland, The Mansion House, Wokefield Park has a special air of romance and a magical sense of seclusion.
For generations this has been the family ... more
Built around 1837 The Old Rectory is a beautiful Manor House with excellent photographic opportunities both inside the main house and outside in our three acres of evergreen gardens.
Although recently converted to hotel accommodation and to cater for any type of function including civil wedding ceremonies, it still maintains a very homely feel. Having recently been extended and refurbished we ... more
Set in an area of 'Outstanding Natural Beauty' Darenth Valley offer a venue to make your day 'special' offering a professional and friendly service.
The facilities include a private entrance and cloakroom, use of a private area in the car park, air conditioned dining areas and dance floor. All catering is prepared by our own fully trained chefs, catering for up ... more
The Stables at Spains Hall is a stunning conversion of an 18th century Dovecote and a 19th century Coach House and Stable building. With many state-of-the-art features, including intelligent lighting and integrated sound system, it is arguably one of the most versatile and prestigious venues in Essex.
The Stables are officially licensed for Civil Marriages allowing the flexibility of holding your ... more
Hever Castle Astor Wing, is an ‘exclusive-use’ venue taking just one group at any one time, thereby guaranteeing privacy and seclusion to make your special day a success. It also means our staff can concentrate fully on you and your guests to ensure the highest standards of comfort, service and cuisine.
This wonderfully historic venue dates back to 1270 ... more
A special day deserves a special venue and exceptional service. Stylish Braxted Park house, its beautiful gardens and estate set in the stunning Essex countryside provides the perfect backdrop to a fairytale wedding and is exclusively yours for the day catering from 50 to 350 guests.
There are few wedding venues with a church on site, yet the local parish church, ... more
Situated in 200 acres of idyllic Berkshire countryside, Blue Mountain provides a stunning venue to host your special day. Our rooms have beautiful views overlooking our landscaped golf course and provide the perfect backdrop for any wedding album.
Whether choosing the complete wedding package or holding your reception at Blue Mountain, you will find our suites are beautifully appointed and ... more
We have two superb rooms that can be booked for private lunches and dinners or small meetings.
The library is available for parties of between eight and fourteen people. This makes for the ideal family get together, celebration or business function. The library is at the front of the house overlooking the gardens.
A restricted menu offering a choice of four ... more
Call 0844 873 3980
Kew Gardens, a World Heritage Site, has a variety of stunning wedding venues for you to celebrate your special day.
Cambridge Cottage is a beautiful listed building and former royal residence. The Drawing Room is licensed for Civil Ceremony of up to 80 guests, with the adjoining Gallery space able to host seated dining fro the same number. ... more
Basildon Park is a wonderful Palladian mansion owned by the National Trust with glorious parkland - just crammed with marvellous photo opportunities. ... more
Contact 0871 716 2527
Surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in Surrey the chateau-style venue lends a rustic and romantic charm to any occasion.
Our professional and friendly service will ensure that your event runs smoothly making sure you are free to relax and enjoy yourself.
With Egon Ronay recommended food and Denbies award winning wines to complement the celebration, it's ... more
A defended manor house set in an area of unspoilt natural beauty, Penshurst Place is medieval in origin, with the warmth and character of a much-loved family home. It is famed in particular for its stunning Tudor gardens and medieval Baron’s Hall and offers a unique setting for an idyllic wedding day.
In a history spanning almost seven centuries, ... more
Little Silver Country Hotel, Tenterden's Premier hotel, is licensed to hold the marriage ceremony and offers the perfect location for your wedding day with the exclusive use of the hotel and facilities.
Landscaped gardens that offer lovely settings for those treasured photographs, 16 excellent bedrooms including four posters and luxury suites with whirlpool baths, excellent cuisine and the magnificent Kent Hall ... more
Hylands House is a beautiful grade II* listed villa set in 570 acres of historic landscaped parkland. With its stunning white Georgian façade, Hylands offers a spectacular and elegant setting for your special day.
Licensed for civil wedding ceremonies since 1999, our staff provide a friendly, professional and experienced service and work with you to plan the day you want. ... more
The Spa Hotel, an elegant 18th Century Mansion, is located on the western edge of Tunbridge Wells, situated in 14 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens including 3 spring fed lakes.
The Spa has been hosting weddings for many generations and is an approved premises for the solemnisation of Civil Marriages and Civil Partnerships. Our team of professionals will ... more
This stunning Tudor mansion was the first country house in England to be granted a licence to conduct marriage ceremonies and ten years on it is still one of the most sought after wedding venues in the country.
Offering exclusive use to every Bride and Groom, Leez Priory is your very own country house for the day. Civil ceremonies can ... more
Wadhurst Castle is a family home with a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your very special day. The gardens have magnificent views for miles across the Sussex countryside and with the Castle as a backdrop your photographs will be superb.
Weddings at Wadhurst entitle you to exclusive use of the Library, the Moncrieff Room, the Winter Garden, and the Inner and ... more
Create a lifetime of memories for you and your wedding guests at Leeds Castle. Surrounded by 500 acres of parkland and gardens, Leeds Castle is an idyllic setting for the most romantic of weddings in any season.
The castle and its magnificent grounds are owned by the Leeds Castle Foundation - a charitable trust established in 1974 by the castle’s last ... more
Set in 205 acres of spectacular parkland including an 18-hole championship golf course, this Neo-Jacobean building with a history dating as far back as 861AD provides you with serenity and seclusion.
The most special day of your life deserves to be held at a special venue and at Principal Hayley we know how to make your dreams come true. ... more
Nestled deep within the Surrey countryside the four star Lythe Hill Hotel & Spa is a unique and very special venue, where traditional values of hospitality and service meet with the opulence and ease of modern facilities.
Your wedding celebration can take place in one of our many function rooms or a marquee situated within our stunning parkland area where ... more
Set in Woodford Park, The Oakwood Centre welcomes you and your guests to the Miles Suite, licensed for civil ceremonies. This unique rotunda is a beautiful setting for you and your guests. Our in-house caterering can offer you a varied selection of menus suiting all budgets. Please call us to arrange a viewing.
The Inn on the Lake has years of experience in the planning, organisation and running of wedding receptions. Our aim is to help relieve the pressure of organising the most important day of your lives.
We are always ready to listen to your ideas, both traditional and extraordinary. If your requests are possible, we will do our utmost to meet these.
Both ... more
Located in the beautiful riverside conservation village of Sonning-on-Thames (five miles from both Reading and Henley), The Great House makes the ideal venue for your Wedding Day. Our friendly and experienced staff will cater for all of your individual requirements to make your day a unique celebration.
Our Head Chef and his brigade have created an exceptionally wide range of dishes ... more
We are located in the picturesque village of Stock which is easily accessible from junction 16 on the A12. Crondon Park is set in a beautiful valley with mature trees and an undulating landscape. Crondon Park was established in 1995 and is the perfect venue for weddings and functions.
Crondon Park is the perfect venue for your perfect day. Our ... more
Located in the heart of Constable Country on the north Essex/Suffolk border; Le Talbooth is a delightful 16th century timber framed house and enjoys a stunning setting beside the River Stour. With the Milsom family’s 50 years of experience coupled with the stunning location of our properties you can be assured of a perfect wedding and reception.
Several options are ... more
The Three Tuns Staple is a quintessential Country Inn in about 3 acres amongst the fruit orchards and farms of rural Kent in the delightful small village of Staple, just outside Wingham. As a privately owned Country Inn we offer a greater degree of flexibility to create your very own special day. Our focus is on freshly prepared food ... more
We would first of all like to congratulate you on your engagement. Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and we would like to create a day to remember and one to treasure forever.
Silverstone can be booked for wedding receptions on any day of the week, all year round. We can cater for small ... more
This privately owned and passionately run boutique hotel is a unique place where old meets new & both win.
A former 16th Century coaching inn, with a picturesque village green setting ideal for photos.
The hotel interior has been transformed with chic, cutting-edge design which blends seamlessly throughout with an attention to detail and many stylish touches, the Kings is ... more
Weddings are our speciality here at the Savill Court Hotel & Spa and the venue could not be more perfect or picturesque. With a dedicated Wedding Co-ordinator who will take you from your initial enquiry through to your special day, ensuring that it is a truly memorable one, all your requirements will be taken care of in a professional ... more
Mill Hall, formerly known as Greenham Lodge, is a Grade 2* listed building set in 29 acres of beautiful mature gardens just to the south of Newbury racecourse.
When choosing Mill Hall for your wedding (or other celebration), you are choosing a venue steeped in history, set within stunning grounds, with the full support of a highly experienced, professional team.
Furthermore, by ... more
Situated on the outer fringes of the picturesque village of Cold Norton in Essex, the modern building overlooks the stunning 36 hole golf course, with exceptional views from every standpoint. The building itself has a light modern, light airy feel, with space and views second to none.
Combine these surroundings with a professional and caring staff, and we can guarantee your ... more
Barnett Hill is a beautiful Queen Anne-style mansion set in 26 acres of gardens and grounds just outside Guildford in the Surrey Hills.
At Barnett Hill we can offer you:
A personal yet professional approach to your requirements
A stunning wedding venue set in 26 acres of woodland and countryside - just outside Guildford.
Elegant function rooms for up to 70 ... more
Set in one of the oldest deer parks in the country, Parklands is offered on an exclusive use basis. Licensed for civil ceremonies both indoors, with elegant reception and banqueting suites, and outdoors, under our beautiful gazebo, making Parklands an ideal location for your wedding. The surrounding grounds make a perfect setting for reception drinks and canapés. In the winter ... more
For a unique and intimate setting for your wedding look no further than the Pier; all our weddings are exclusively tailored to suit your individual needs for your special day!
The civil ceremony with up to 50 guests takes place in the Lounge overlooking the Harbour. An interesting setting for your wedding photographs would be on the Ha’penny Pier with the ... more
If you are looking for beautiful surroundings with a team of friendly, attentive and welcoming staff, London Beach Country Hotel and Golf Club, Kent is an excellent choice for your wedding venue. Located on the edge of the charming country town of Tenterden in the Weald of Kent, our luxurious 4 star hotel opened in 2000. The London Beach Country ... more
Your Dream Wedding at Pennyhill Park Hotel
One of the most inspiring Hotels, set in the heart of the Surrey Countryside, Pennyhill Park offers the perfect romantic setting for Weddings. Created in 1849, it retains the dignity and atmosphere of the past uniting traditional styles with contemporary amenities created by the finest workmanship and design.
The Hotel has a stunning backdrop in ... more
Headcorn Lodge Hotel is situated just five miles from Maidstone on the outskirts of the ancient Wealden village of Headcorn. Our beautiful surroundings and unrivalled facilities provide the perfect place for that special day.
We hold a licence for civil marriages on our premises. Our delightful setting offers many photgraphic opportunities to make your wedding photographs simply superb.
Our facilities cater for ... more
Make Sure You've Made the Right Choice on the Day!
You have already made one right choice and now there's only one more to make. And when you choose Farnham Castle for your wedding reception, you know you have made the right choice.
The historic 12th century Farnham Castle provides a unique setting where family and friends can celebrate your special day ... more
Ramster is a much loved family home surrounded by magnificent gardens. The Long Hall and Great Drawing Room are beautiful beamed and paneled halls, built in 1604. There is a completely private courtyard garden, which is a perfect location for drinks and canapés as well as a wonderful setting for your photographs. Licensed for Civil weddings Ramster is the perfect ... more
It's the most special day of your life and every moment will feel even more romantic at our stunning venue on the banks of the River Thames. The views are stunning, the food, wine and facilities are all fabulous... it's a wonderful place to start your life together and we'll make sure every detail is absolutely perfect.
You'll sweep up the ... more
Situated in 10 acres of private grounds including some enhanced natural water features, Stirrups is able to provide a spectacular setting for your special day. Through our friendly and professional staff we are able to provide a seamless level of service, complimenting our total commitment to ensure your wedding day exceeds every expectation.
With a range of function rooms for your ... more
"Simply magnificent "
It is difficult to imagine a more elegant and stylish venue, set on the outer fringes of the picturesque village of Stock in Essex. Stock Brook enjoys sweeping views across the stunning countryside. All of this coupled with a luxuriously appointed building has made Stock Brook one of the counties most popular choices for their wedding day.
Stock brook ... more
The grounds of Mapledurham House are a beautiful setting for a wedding reception. Overlooking the river Thames, this tranquil location is perfect for a marquee setting.
We do not have a licence to perform civil ceremonies, but we can provide the venue for the perfect reception.Clients who hire the venue then can make their choice of catering and marquee company.
Need some ... more
A Victorian mansion specialising in weddings and private parties, the house has been hugely popular since it opened in 1999, and is perfect for parties of all shapes and sizes. As you would expect of such a property, the house comes with its own complement of staff – including your very own private chef – and 12 beautiful bedrooms. All ... more
This magical Elizabethan Manor House, with its stunning views of the North Downs, full complement of staff – including your own private chef – and 12 luxurious bedrooms, can be yours and yours alone for your special day. Specialising in dream weddings, Cain Manor can seat up to 123 for your Banquet, and can open its doors to many more ... more
Just 10 miles from London and a stone's throw from Croydon and Bromley, this
idyllic wedding venue is set against a backdrop of rolling hills and rural
beauty. Wedding guests can enjoy fine champagne and canapes by the
picturesque lily pond or strolling on the freshly cut lawns. The cosy
oak-beamed barn, filled with glowing candles and scented flowers, is perfect
for your special vows ... more
Gosfield Hall is a wonderful stately home surrounded by Essex countryside and 10 acres of its own parkland and gardens.
Dating back to 1545 and formerly a royal residence, the Queen Charlotte's Oak paneled gallery with a 120 ft long aisle is perfect for wedding ceremonies whilst the Marquis of Buckingham's former Ballroom provides a stunning setting for the reception ... more
Great Fosters is a fine example of Elizabethan architecture; set amongst stunning formal gardens, the hotel makes an ideal venue for a wedding ceremony and/or reception. This grand building became a hotel in the 1930s and has been sympathetically converted by the Sutcliffe Family. Great Fosters possesses a plethora of original details and features and is designated as a Scheduled ... more
The Barn at Bury Court is an elegant yet rustic wedding ceremony and reception barn located on the Surrey/Hampshire border. This beautiful wedding venue is the perfect combination of contemporary chic and authentic character.
You may like to get ready in the Oast Cottage before your civil wedding or partnership ceremony and use the corridor, leading from the doorway of ... more
You have set the date. You are looking forward to the happiest day of your life. But there is so much to arrange. That is where we can help you.
To have a truly memorable wedding day, look no further than the Holiday Inn Sutton, as the setting for your forthcoming wedding reception.
The Holiday Inn with its impeccable service has welcomed ... more
Set in 26 acres of landscaped grounds with stunning views across the Chilterns, The Pavilion at Lane End offers you a stylish setting for a wedding ceremony and reception.
The new Garden Gazebo, with stunning views over the grounds, is licensed for outdoor civil ceremonies or if you prefer, the ceremony can be held inside the Pavilion.
Unlike hotels, the venue is ... more
The Ramada Hotel Dover is the only 4 Star hotel in Dover and is a beautiful hotel set in lovely location with beautiful gardens just of the A2.
When you choose this hotel for a Wedding or any Function you can be certain that you will receive the highest standard of service ad the best value for money without compromise. ... more
Northbrook Park is on the border of Surrey and Hampshire, in 120 acres of parkland with views over rolling countryside. The Estate is very easily accessible with the entrance on the A31 one mile to the west of Farnham. The beautiful buildings and walled gardens at Northbrook Park make it the perfect wedding venue. Peacocks roam the beautifully landscaped lawns ... more
Nestling in the Surrey Hills, Loseley Park is a delightful Elizabethan House combining with a beautiful 17th Century Tithe Barn and glorious Walled Garden to provide a perfect wedding venue.
The Great Hall with its wealth of history and unique atmosphere is a wonderful venue for civil ceremonies of up to 100 people. Beside the House is the award-winning Walled ... more
Sindlesham Court is a listed building dating from the 1700s which stands in a delightful and peaceful setting, just a few miles from Reading and easily accessed from the motorway and public transport facilities. The complex has recently undergone a major refurbishment, making Sindlesham Court one of Berkshire’s most romantic wedding venues.
Weddings and Partnership Ceremonies take place ... more
Coltsford Mill is a stunning barn wedding and reception venue set within grounds featuring lakes, ponds and cascading waterfalls. Tucked away in this peaceful waterside setting, yet easily reached from London and all the major towns in Surrey, Coltsford Mill is a hidden gem.
Start your wedding day by getting ready in the Mill Cottage, your home-from-home on ... more
Gate Street Barn lies at the heart of a family estate approached down country lanes yet only minutes from the A281 and five miles from Guildford. The Barn is surrounded by landscaped gardens with views of the working organic farm and its hobby herd of English longhorn cattle.
The barns were built in 1987 in a traditional style ... more
**Enjoy complimentary room hire and use of our Bridal Suite for all Friday & Sunday weddings until March 2011! (excludes December bookings)**
Your wedding day is one of the most memorable and special occasions in your life. We appreciate that the choice of venue is a big decision and that this celebration should be perfectly planned and exquisitely styled.
Wentworth, ... more
The Management of Best Western Donnington Manor Hotel offer their warmest congratulations on your forthcoming wedding. Our professional team have put together menus and packages that will ensure you get the wedding reception you deserve, at a price you can afford.
We have two suites ideally situated for wedding breakfasts. The Riverhead Suite, accommodating up to 120 guests for your sit ... more
Private Victorian Country House Hotel and Restaurant set in 4 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens surrounded by glorious Kentish countryside. Sweeping lawns, sunken garden with lily pond, thatched summer house, sheltered courtyard, Stone fountain and swimming pool garden all provide the perfect backdrop for photographs.
Luxurious individually designed en-suite bedrooms, including 3 magnificent honeymoon suites. Elegant, spacious reception rooms and ... more
Clandon Park provides a magnificent and prestigious setting for civil weddings and wedding receptions.
The saloon is available for civil wedding ceremonies and the Marble Hall can be used to create a breathtaking backdrop for your event.
The restaurant is situated in the vaulted undercroft of Clandon Park Stately Home.
Our versatile facilities enable us to cater for 80-150 guests for an inside ... more
A beautiful Georgian Mansion set within thirteen acres of landscaped grounds. The Lodge is situated at the highest point in Richmond Park and enjoys fabulous views to the west toward Windsor. The Belvedere is a custom-built banqueting room with outstanding natural light, first class PA and sound systems, cold cathode lighting to change the colour of the room and a ... more
Set deep in the heart of the Kent Countryside, amongst the largest collection of Victorian oast Houses in the world. The Hop Farm is a unique and very beautiful venue for your wedding and /or reception.
We offer a flexible range of facilities for all sizes and types of wedding. Our main wedding and reception suite being our oak beamed and ... more
Winner of Wedding Ideas Magazine 'Best Wedding Venue' 2009.
Fennes is the perfect venue for your important day; a magnificent Georgian manor house located in the heart of beautiful Essex countryside.
Fennes is offered solely on an exclusive use basis; so you will never have to share your day with other bride and grooms. We never host more than one wedding a ... more
For over 1000 years, Stoke Park has been at the very heart of English society, playing host over the centuries to Lords and Noblemen, Kings and Queens. This unique fusion of influences has engendered within this 350 acre parkland estate, an effortless, heritage-rich blend of elegance and luxury - the perfect setting for an unforgettable day. And style and substance ... more
Here at The King Charles Hotel, we have a number of licensed rooms available in which to hold both your civil ceremony and reception. We are sure you and your guests will appreciate the friendly and relaxed atmosphere that surrounds you on your special day. Our team of wedding co-ordinators are on hand to answer your queries before and during ... more
Situated within beautifully tended wooded gardens, Macdonald Frimley Hall Hotel & Spa is a classic ivy-clad Victorian manor house. The hotel features an ornately carved wooden staircase, high ceilings and period décor, including superb pieces of inlaid mahogany furniture. Its gracious setting and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal wedding venue.
Of all the events in your life there is ... more
Pine Ridge Golf Club is set amongst acres of beautiful Surrey countryside and provides the perfect venue for your birthday parties, anniversary, christenings, presentation evenings or any other special occasion.
We pride ourselves on providing a professional but informal service and our aim is naturally to maintain to highest of standards. With two magnificent function rooms able ... more
Bradenham Manor is available for civil wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions, on Saturdays only, throughout the year with exclusive use. The rooms are tastefully decorated and contain original features with picturesque views over the surrounding gardens and valley beyond.
The Manor is a beautiful house set in the picturesque National Trust owned village of Bradenham, at the foot ... more
The club is located just outside Guildford in tranquil countryside and is just 5 minutes from the A3, convenient for London, the M25 and south coast.
At Merrist Wood we pride ourselves in treating each booking as unique as the first, so you will feel like one of the exclusive few, not one of many. Whatever the nature or size of ... more
Lympne Castle is enchanting - the historic architecture weaves its magic and you can believe that you are part of a fairy tale.
You approach the castle via the huge stone North Gate and alight in the courtyard within the main castle. The wedding party passes through into the West Drawing Room, which, with its oak panelling and open fire, is ... more
Fashioned in the style of a French Chateau complete with turrets, the Berystede is a classic country house hotel with up to date service and facilities. Of all the events in your life there is probably nothing more memorable and important than your wedding day. Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa has an excellent reputation for providing the perfect backdrop ... more