Couples will soon be able to tie the knot in Sidmouth's beautiful Connaught Gardens, which is now licensed to host legal wedding ceremonies.

It will be open for business as soon as Government restrictions allow, and East Devon District Council's events team are now reserving dates for weddings in 2021 and 2022 in preparation for the end of lockdown.

The formal Victorian-style gardens are divided into several areas with many spectacular options for a wedding ceremony.

The bandstand and spacious lawn area can serve as a scenic spot to host the wedding reception, and Jacob's Ladder will provide a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos.

A wedding marquee or event tent can be erected on the site to accommodate the occasion.

Couples wishing to stage their special day at Connaught Gardens can benefit from the assistance of a wedding planner, if required.

There is an onsite catering concession, or private catering is permitted on the premises.

Councillors Geoff Jung, EDDC's portfolio holder for the Coast, Country and Environment, and Nick Hookway, the portfolio holder for Culture, Tourism, Leisure and Sport, have both welcomed the news.

They said: "The Connaught Gardens in Sidmouth is a wonderful location for the hosting a wedding, and we are sure this will be a very popular location with the award-winning gardens and one of the best views in the South West."

The history of Connaught Gardens

The inception of the property dates back to 1820 when Emmanuel Losada built a villa on the land called Cliff Cottage.

The cottage came under new ownership in 1930 and was re-named Sea View.

By the time Sidmouth Urban District Council took ownership of the property, the cottage had fallen into disrepair and was demolished.

However, some of the remaining walls were incorporated into the garden's design and still feature prominently at this location today.

Email [email protected] for further information or visit the council's website.