Without a doubt one of the most romantic places in Adelaide, Thorngrove Manor is an architectural wonder. There’s just something about medieval style castles that transports your thoughts to a fairy-tale land of renaissance, royalty and romance. Despite being built in the late 20th century, this exquisite replication of middle-age opulence has won Thorngrove Manor a swathe of awards, including becoming a member of the exclusive club of Small Luxury Hotels of the World in 1995. Stone forts may have been originally designed with the objective of keeping enemies at bay, but the charm and elegance that came along with them is indisputable.
A wedding at Thorngrove Manor is probably the closest thing you’ll get in Australia to being in an actual European castle. The owners have gone to great lengths to lovingly design and build a property that is captivatingly artistic. They claim to have wanted to build something that was beyond just housing pieces of art – they “wanted the walls themselves to be art.”
They also pride their venue on being uniquely private and intimate, which means very small (tiny) wedding ceremonies and couples seeking post-ceremony photoshoots are the clientele of choice here – Thorngrove Manor is first and foremost a boutique hotel. If you stay in the amazing hotel, the site fee for photoshoots will be waived. Staying here is an experience in itself; each suite has been given its own individual character and fantasy themed name: The King’s Chambers, Queen’s Chambers, Castle Chambers, Tower Room and Observatory. Spiral stone staircases, arched balconies, four-poster beds and open log fires are some of the delightful elements that furbish these adorable rooms.
As far as photoshoot backdrops go, there is a wide assortment of majestic options to choose from around the property. The immaculately maintained gardens feature tall privacy hedges, trees bursting with bright reds and oranges in autumn, flowering and fruiting trees, and wandering resident geese. Life-size animal topiaries can be found hidden amongst the hedges. There are sprawling green lawns, and dainty cobblestone paths to meander along. The long gravel driveway to the front door of the house presents a lovely view, and the unique external architecture of the manor provides many interesting scenes. There are several wooden balconies, masoned archways and stained glass windows to make the most of.
Additionally, if you are staying in the hotel, you’ll have access to extra photo opportunities in and around your picturesque room. Each room has its own pretty private entryway which frames a prime shot. If you get a room with a small private balcony, this is the perfect place to recite love notes down to your new spouse below – Romeo and Juliet style.
Even though you may feel like you’re in antique Europe while you’re there, Thorngrove Manor is only 30 minutes from Adelaide city, nestled in the lovely, leafy Adelaide Hills suburb of Stirling. There are many excellent cafes, restaurants and parks nearby which could host larger wedding ceremonies and receptions if need be. The magnificent Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens are within walking distance, and there are a couple of alternative accommodation options in the area.
Overall, Thorngrove Manor is the perfect choice for couples looking for a private elopement or intimate ceremony amongst fairy-tale like surroundings. It is a rare and exclusive thing to get married or have photos taken here, due to the venue’s policy of not accepting group bookings or hosting large events or functions. Any visit here is truly unforgettable, and an absolute treat for romantics, dreamers, and the prince and princesses at heart.
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