Wedding hotels

The Gore 

London, United Kingdom

Wow factor   The richly decorated Tapestry room has panelled walls hung with beautiful gilded mirrors and French verdure tapestries.

Need to know   Wedding ceremonies are conducted in the sumptuous Tapestry room, and receptions are held in a separate private dining space; the hotel can arrange all catering and flowers. Honeymooners usually stay in either the Tudor or Venus room.

Inspiration   The Gore team has organised many weddings, and is prepared to tailor the event to make your day special; according to them, ‘The impossible is just something that has never been done before.’

The Metropolitan London

London, United Kingdom

Wow factor   The ultimate in sophisticated urban venues. Book the Penthouse suite for panoramic views of Hyde Park, and see how many celebrities you can spot in the members-only Met Bar and Michelin-starred Nobu restaurant. The Como Shambhala Urban Escape offers Asian-inspired treatments to calm pre-wedding nerves.

Need to know   They're mentioning no names, but one couple hired Nobu, the Met Bar and The Penthouse on an exclusive basis for their nuptials, which the hotel billed, 'the Ultimate Wedding Reception in London'. A Met Bar mixologist can be booked for cocktail drinks receptions.

Inspiration   The events manager and team of planners (020 7447 1064) oversees every aspect of the big day. Her comprehensive contacts book has lists of florists, photographers and transport providers for the couple to choose from. The look that works best here is pared down and minimalist, decorated with subtle floral arrangements.

The Olde Bell Inn

Berkshire, United Kingdom

Wow factor   All the charm and heritage of a mediaeval coaching inn, with the added glam of Ilse Crawford’s stylish modern decor.

Need to know   Depending on the number of guests, you can choose between the 16th-century Tudor tithe barn or the smaller, equally historic malt house for your ceremony. The inn can set up marquees all year round (possibly for more than 140 guests, if necessary), and in summer, can position tables under the trees in the meadow garden for the ultimate rustic reception. The Olde Bell maintains a list of trusted suppliers, but is happy to work with your own recommendations too.

Inspiration   With the Thames at the bottom of the road, you can choose to arrive at the ceremony – or slip off for your honeymoon – by boat.

West Stoke House

West Sussex, United Kingdom

Wow factor   An imposing white Georgian mansion on the edge of the South Downs. Receptions can be held in a smart dining room, grand ballroom, or the large garden with views of the Downs.

Need to know   You must contact the registrar in Chichester (+44 (0)1483 782307) to set a date and time for a wedding ceremony. Guests must hire the entire hotel for both Friday and Saturday night for a Saturday wedding. Music must stop at 11.30pm, and the reception must end by midnight.

Inspiration   There's a dedicated events team here to ensure the wedding runs smoothly. Lunches are sit-down for up to 72 guests; evening receptions with platters of cheese and Continental dishes can be held for up to 120.

Whatley Manor

Wiltshire, United Kingdom

Wow factor   Vows can be taken in the enchanting loggia garden.

Need to know   Exclusive use is required for wedding parties of more than 60 people. 90 people can be accommodated at the hotel without the use of marquees. Whatley Manor can also organise all catering, flowers and entertainment, including pianists, harpists or string quartets. The bride and groom also receive a six-month gift membership to the Aquarius spa.

Inspiration   Whatley Manor has been the keen host of some incredibly stylish weddings, including grandly luxurious and private two-day events. A recent wedding featured sumptuous Moroccan tents pitched in the grounds and courtyard.