A labour of love at Carwinion House

While just a short drive from the coastal charm of Falmouth, the journey that Carwinion House has been on is more of a winding road. “The house was in need of massive refurbishment and the 12 acres of gardens would take a great deal of upkeep,” says Laraine Holloway, who bought the 18th century country house and gardens with her husband Paul in 2016. “It has taken us seven years to bring Carwinion up to a standard where we felt we could confidently offer the space for weddings and events.”

From beautiful subtropical gardens and expansive grounds to a Raj-style marquee and the renovated country house itself, the venue now offers a secluded and incredibly scenic setting to celebrate a wedding. The gardens boast a waterfall and an area planted with grasses, wildflowers and hydrangeas, making an idyllic outdoor ceremony area for up to 100 people, as well as a walled garden and terraced areas. “What was a very dark damp area, overfilled with bamboo, became a wonderful open space full of light and flowers,” says Laraine.

Inside the house, the couple created an indoor ceremony room as well as renovating three elegantly styled bedrooms, a snooker room and licensed dining room leading onto a terrace, which is perfect for al fresco dining. The once dated bathrooms are now light and airy with underfloor heating, a huge walk-in shower and dreamy bath.

And while Carwinion House is now the most enchanting space for a wedding, Laraine and Paul have further plans. “Our next exciting project starting this winter is the woods: an area that is perfect for clearing and turning into a woodland glade complete with flowering cherries and huge rhododendrons; it even has a stream running through it. It will make the most magical setting for woodland weddings.”

Whether you’re planning an elopement or larger-scale celebration, a series of wedding packages are available, including exclusive use of the venue and coordination by Out of the Ordinary Weddings. From the lavender-lined walkways and wildflower-filled gardens to the luxurious accommodation, you’re promised a once-in-a-lifetime celebration in this serene corner of Cornwall.

carwinionhouse.co.uk