Getting to Know - Nonsuch Mansion - The Wedding Community

Interview With: Julie Gray

Venue Name: Nonsuch Mansion

Location: Nonsuch Park, Cheam, Surrey — about half an hour from London

What type of venue is Nonsuch Mansion and how old is the building?

That’s an interesting question! The main part of the mansion was built in the late seventeen hundreds, during the reign of George IV. It was home to wealthy merchant Samuel Farmer and five further generations of his family until it was given to the public in the 1930’s. The foundations of the building are much, much older, from a keepers lodge that was part of the fabulous, ‘unequalled’ palace that was built here 500 years ago by King Henry VIII. The palace itself was ruined centuries before the mansion was built but we like to think that the spirit of Nonsuch lives here. The Tudor Gothic architecture was designed by Jeffrey Wyatt as an echo of its majestic predecessor. Nonsuch Mansion has been many things over the centuries and has always held a cherished place in the heart, memory and daily life of the whole community.

What can a couple expect from having their wedding at Nonsuch Mansion?

Their own mansion for the day, exclusively theirs. We only ever hold one wedding at a time. Bovingdons (the caterers) have twenty two years experience of London weddings and we know how to tailor-make your day to your specifications.

What is the capacity for a wedding ceremony and wedding reception at Nonsuch Mansion?

Two of the staterooms are licensed for ceremonies; the Orchid Room for 130 guests and the Rose Room for 80 guests. For the reception the entire mansion can hold up to 250 reception style or 120 for dinner but there is also the option of a marquee on the lawn for anything up to 1000.

Does Nonsuch Mansion have rooms for guest to stay, how many and at what price?

Not yet but there are 170 rooms within 8 minutes of the mansion; please ask for our hotels list.

What is the best thing about having your wedding at Nonsuch Mansion?

Initially it’s the wow factor of having a mansion to yourself but what we’ve noticed afterwards is that couples thank us for is the incredible food and intuitive service. This is what their guests really remember most on the day.

How many weddings does Nonsuch Mansion hold per year on average?

Nonsuch Mansion was refurbished last year and reopened in September 2009 so we don’t have a full year to judge! We sold out of 2010 summer Saturdays very quickly and are already taking bookings for 2012.

Does Nonsuch Mansion have a set price for weddings or is there a tiered pricing structure?

We create a bespoke proposal for every client. Wedding receptions are much like wedding dresses: one size does not fit all! Nonsuch Mansion costs are kept simple and can be summarised as “venue, menu and drinks” all of which differ depending on the time of year, guest numbers and your specification.

Does Nonsuch Mansion have a wedding co-ordinator on site and are they available on the day of the wedding?

Of course, service is our number one priority. Our wedding planning service is complimentary and starts with a friendly conversation, a show round and a personalised proposal. Because we only hold one wedding at a time, you are guaranteed everybody’s full attention on the day.

Do you have a top tip for choosing your perfect wedding venue?

There is no easy way to answer this question! From experience we know that it is much like buying a house. The right venue will be the one that feels just right, even though you can’t put your finger on why. All venues have a soul and, just like in life, you know when you have found the perfect partner. Our clients know within seconds of walking through the door whether Nonsuch Mansion is right for them.