Ideas to help couples planning a small wedding at Farnham Castle under social distancing measures.
Social distancing may become the new normal in the coming months, and although it may be hard to imagine celebrating your wedding in this way with your family and friends, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy your wedding at Farnham Castle, regardless of how many guests you are able to invite. Below, we’re sharing our collection of unique ideas for a small wedding at Farnham Castle on the Surrey/Hampshire border, all with social distancing measures in mind.
Book an Intimate Wedding Ceremony
There are 7 locations to get married in at Farnham Castle and all of them work perfectly for small wedding ceremonies. Explore our unique wedding ceremony areas and choose which location would be perfect for you as a couple.
The Lantern Hall
This beautiful light, bright and airy room, with stunning arched windows, gives you the option to set up your ceremony in one of two ways.
The Library
This lovely, bright room located on the first level of Farnham Castle, boasts incredible views across The Great Lawn and the historic market town of Farnham.
The Winchester Suite
This spacious suite is full of gorgeous architectural detail and overlooks the pretty Rose Garden – perfect for post-ceremony photography.
Outdoors under the Fox’s Tower (from Spring 2021)
Tie the knot under the historic Fox’s Tower arch while your guests witness your vows with the backdrop of Farnham Castle and the Fox’s Steps behind you.
The Great Hall
This beautiful Great Hall is by far the largest ceremony room in Farnham Castle. You may be able to invite a greater number of guests to your wedding if you celebrate your ceremony in this room.
The Norman Chapel (CofE Ceremonies)
The Norman Chapel is simply perfect for Church of England wedding ceremonies. The historic architecture, simple wooden chairs and romantic arch to marry under, make this Chapel, within Farnham Castle, idyllic for intimate wedding ceremonies.
The Bishop’s Chapel (CofE Ceremonies)
The second of Farnham Castle’s Chapels is The Bishop’s Chapel. The detail in this room is spectacular; from the grey and white walls, to the stained glass window and even the chandelier. A must-see chapel if you plan on holding a Church of England wedding ceremony in Farnham Castle.
Cocktail Drinks Reception
Post-wedding ceremony receptions are fun, regardless of the size. Take this opportunity to do something exciting for your guests. A cocktail stand where unique drinks can be created on the spot could be an idea. We see this working well on The Great Lawn in front of the Castle. You could even have a personalised His ‘n’ Hers cocktail recipe.
Luxurious Wedding Dining
There’s no better time than your wedding breakfast to splash out on an incredible meal. Why not upgrade your menu from a three course to a five course menu so that you and your guests can spend longer enjoying an extremely special meal to celebrate your special occasion? If there’s a specific dish you’re looking for, or you’d like to add additional courses to one of our silver, gold or platinum menus, our creative team of chefs would be delighted to speak with you.
Evening Celebrations
Social distancing sounds neigh on impossible when it comes to a dancing, so rather than have guests dance apart, here are 5 ideas to consider away from the traditional dance floor.
1. Live Entertainment
Have guests stay seated to watch a live band play your favourite tunes.
2. Wedding Magic
Hire a wedding magician to perform tricks for everyone to see.
3. Get Creative
Invite your guests to paint something you’ve prepared on their table – so that you can piece all of the art together as a memento after your wedding.
4. Wedding Karaoke
Turn your wedding reception in to a fun night of Karaoke. Social distancing is guaranteed, and everyone will have a great time.
5. Fun and Games
Place a stack of board games in the centre of each table for guests to play once the wedding breakfast and speeches have come to an end. Alternatively, you could run a wedding pub-style quiz with a prize for the winning table.
Outdoor Wedding Celebrations
If you’re planning a small, summer wedding at Farnham Castle, our grounds are perfect for tipi style marquees or outdoor celebrations.
- Explore The Rose Garden
- Find our ‘Blue Doors’
- Enjoy Croquet on the Great Lawn
- Dine outside
- Tour the Castle’s Norman Keep
Image: Hannah McClune Photography