Somerley House Hampshire Wedding Photographs
As a wedding photographer, I’m always on the lookout for those moments that tell a couple’s story. Shooting Cora and GT’s wedding at Somerley House Hampshire was a dream, not just because of the couple but also because the venue is a photographer’s paradise in 7,000 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside. The history and luxury make Somerley an attractive choice for couples looking for a unique celebration.
About the Venue
Situated on the Hampshire/Dorset border, Somerley House is a privately owned country estate that offers the perfect blend of style and homely feel. As a wedding venue, Somerley provides a warm welcome and complete privacy for your guests, making it the ideal choice for couples looking for an exclusive and intimate setting. The estate is surrounded by the stunning Hampshire countryside, with beautifully appointed bedrooms that have amazing views. This hidden gem exceeds expectations with its attention to detail and personal service. The Somerley Weddings Team will make sure every wedding day is nothing short of perfect, creating a truly unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Somerley House Wedding Pictures
First Impression: Framing the Venue
From the very first moment I walked into Somerley House, I was blown away by the grandeur of this privately owned country estate. Compared to other venues, Somerley House stands out with its unique charm and satisfaction. The approach through the parkland, the main house and the views across the Hampshire countryside all add up to the perfect setting for wedding photography. Every corner of the estate is a new composition – the walled garden, the woodland wedding spaces or the picture gallery.
Storytelling Through the Lens: The Ceremony
The ceremony was full of emotion and tradition. I focused on the details: Cora’s lace dress, the light filtering through the windows and the loving glances between the couple. The Somerley weddings team made sure everything ran smoothly, so I could move freely and capture every moment. They prioritised the guest experience, so everyone felt at ease and welcome. Despite the grandeur of the venue, it never feels intimidating.
Featured Photograph: A Kiss Framed by History
This is one of my favourite photos from the day. As Cora and GT stepped out of the main house, newlyweds, they shared a kiss framed by the grand doorway. The scene opens out onto the estate’s beautiful grounds and friends and family are showering them in bubbles – a joyful, spontaneous moment that captures the feeling of celebration and having your own private world at Somerley. The composition draws the eye from the intimacy of the couple to the expanse of the estate, both the personal and the spectacular.
The Wedding Atmosphere
The seated wedding breakfast in the picture gallery was a lesson in style and luxury, with natural light pouring in and the laughter and connection between guests. After the ceremony the drinks reception was the perfect place for guests to enjoy a drink and mingle. Later, I captured the energy on the dance floor, the evening light over the gardens and the celebrations. The attention to detail and the lovely staff made the whole day extra special and an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Venue Facilities and Services
Somerley House has a range of facilities and services to make every wedding ceremony and reception truly special. The venue can accommodate up to 160 guests for a ceremony, 140 guests for a seated wedding breakfast and 200 guests for an evening reception. The Picture Gallery is the perfect place for a wedding breakfast with its elegant interiors and natural light. The gardens and grounds offer endless possibilities for a marquee reception and a stunning backdrop for every part of the day. The Somerley Weddings Team will welcome you with a smile and work closely with you to create a bespoke and personal experience so every detail of your wedding day is planned and executed to perfection.
Location and Accessibility
Located 25 minutes from Bournemouth, 30 minutes from Southampton and 90 minutes from London, Somerley House is easily accessible by car or train. Situated in the heart of the New Forest National Park, Somerley is a unique and picturesque setting for weddings. The Hampshire/Dorset border location also has plenty of nearby amenities and attractions for couples and their guests. With its rolling parkland and stunning views Somerley Estate is a true gem in the south east and a serene and idyllic setting for a wedding weekend.
Accommodation and Guest Services
Somerley House has a range of accommodation for guests including beautifully appointed bedrooms with views of the surrounding countryside. The venue can accommodate family groups and welcomes all guests with open arms so everyone feels at home. The Somerley Team will provide exceptional guest services from initial enquiry to the wedding day. With its focus on attention to detail and personal service Somerley House is the perfect venue for couples looking for a truly unforgettable and stress free wedding experience.
Why Somerley is a Photographer’s Paradise
Variety of Backdrops: Woodland weddings, elegant interiors and the Hampshire countryside – Somerley has it all.
Natural Light: The main house and gardens are bathed in soft, beautiful light – perfect for observed images and styled portraits
Meticulous Attention: The Somerley team’s attention to detail means every moment is picture perfect so I can focus on creativity not logistics.
Guest Experience: The warm welcome and comfort for guests means genuine smiles and relaxed moments that shine through in every image.
Heart’s Desire: Somerley caters to every couple’s heart’s desire – style and luxury or a relaxed celebration.
Wonderful Jatta & Bonny: The fantastic support and personal touch from wonderful Jatta & Bonny at Somerley House makes the planning process smooth and enjoyable and contributes to the overall success and enjoyment of the day.
Final Thoughts: Making Memories at Somerley Estate
For couples looking for a venue that is both stylish and natural Somerley House is the best choice. Somerley woodland weddings are a new option for couples looking for a rustic, bohemian vibe. As a photographer I couldn’t ask for a more beautiful canvas. Lady Normanton and her family’s warm hospitality means a personal and attentive service. Every wedding here is a new story to be told – one frame at a time.
Simon John, Wedding Photographer
