Discover Hinton St Mary Estate in Dorset

Credit: Photography By Louisa Jane

Hinton St Mary Estate is a family-owned, private estate in North Dorset that sits on the River Stour and farms on more than 700 hectares of the Blackmore Vale, with an additional 40 hectares of protected woodland.

The Tithe Barn is approached through a long avenue of beech trees, with horses grazing on one side and open arable fields on the other. As pairs enter through the gates to the manor, there’s a sense of history, privilege and secrecy about what lies within. It’s a calming haven of tranquillity with goldfish and lilies on the pond, and then the modest majesty of the building hits.

The Grade II listed Medieval barn, built in the 15th-century, was converted into a hall at the turn of the 1900s. The impressive timber ceiling was lovingly restored with collar-braced trusses, adding the wow factor. Licenced for wedding ceremonies, the team can host 100-seated loved ones for dinners or accommodate up to 150 dancing guests for receptions. Throw open both sets of double doors to the walled garden, offering privacy and an idyllic setting for drinks receptions.

The Summerhouse is the stone folly, nestled in the corner of the Tithe Barn’s walled garden. It’s licensed by Dorset Registrars for wedding ceremonies for those wanting outdoor celebrations and something a bit different. It’s the most romantic spot to watch the sun go down across the estate at dusk, but there’s enough seating for that special group of friends.

The Tithe Barn is available to hire for exclusive use on a dry-hire basis. The team only hosts one wedding a weekend, so couples will have time to create dream weddings. There’s also a list of tried and tested talented suppliers to help with wedding planning if needed.

Three quaint and quirky cottages are available to let, all within walking distance from the Tithe Barn and the local pub. The Lodge and the Manor Stables sleep four and were renovated by the team in 2020 to a high standard. The bedrooms can be made up into twin rooms or doubles. The master bedroom in Manor Stables is perfect for bridal preparation. No.18 is a romantic thatched cottage just for two.

Discover: www.hintonstmaryestate.com