Grant helps New Forest venue to grow

August 2019

A wedding and conference venue in the New Forest continues to go from strength to strength with a range of improvements to its beautiful building and grounds.

Minstead Lodge is run by local charity Minstead Trust as a wedding, conference and events venue.

The Victorian lodge is undertaking a range of improvements, including:

• Upgrading its audio visual equipment thanks to New Forest Rotary
• Installing new high-end toilet facilities thanks to an Rural Development Programme for England
• Lighting areas of its terrace and gardens for outdoor events, supported by HSBC.

A network of historical footpaths is also being uncovered and excavated around the Lodge’s grounds, giving a new perspective on the beautiful grounds.

Minstead Trust supports nearly 200 people with learning disabilities to develop skills that allow them to gain greater independence and lead fulfilled lives. This includes working in the kitchens and front of house at Minstead Lodge to learn hospitality skills.

Minstead Lodge dates back to 1832, however there are several features within the house that are older, having been brought from other historic buildings and incorporated into the Lodge  when it was being built.

Nowadays the venue is popular with local business for meetings, team building events and conferences, as a venue for celebrations and as a charming wedding venue.

Lois Janos, Hospitality and Events Manager, said: ‘Minstead Lodge is without doubt a stunning venue, with rooms full or period character and grounds that inspire. With the support of local businesses our facilities are now equally impressive and offer an all-round excellent experience.

‘We provide guided tours of the Lodge for anyone looking to book a wedding, event or conference, just get in touch.’

Improvements to the toilet facilities were possible thanks to a grant from the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), which is funded by Defra and the EU, and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD): Europe investing in rural areas.

To enquire about booking one of the rooms at Minstead Lodge, email events@minsteadlodge.org.uk