The Pilgrims Rest – beautiful venue directly opposite the historic Abbey in our home town of Battle.

Mandie and John live in Battle and chose this perfect venue just a stone’s throw from their house. The guests were greeted at the front of the building with pre-ceremony drinks & a two-piece band and then it was time to move into the Great Hall to see Mandie and John tie the knot.

With the deed done it was time to get on with the eating and drinking, whilst milling around the beautifully characteristic but intimate rooms of this venue. A scorcher of a day many chose to stay inside where it was considerably cooler. The kitchen reached a sweltering 48.9 degrees!

Canape consisted of:

Gazpacho shots

Basil pesto & cream cheese with sun-dried tomato filo tartlets

Roasted Mediterranean vegetable bruschetta

Mini toad in the hole

It was then time for the guests to move into the dining area, which had been simply decorated with hand-printed runners. This room speaks for itself and really doesn’t need much in the way of embellishments. Although that being said, the pink flamingos in the bar area were wonderful!

Mandie and John are foodies and chose a really impressive menu – which seemed to tick all the boxes for their friends and family as well. The menu was:

Mediterranean Sharing Platter

Italian Salami, Serrano Ham, Spanish Manchego, Mini Tomato, Basil & Mozzarella Kebabs, Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables with a Balsamic Drizzle, Marinated Olives

Home-made sea-salted & rosemary Focaccia

~~~

Slow roasted pork belly with wilted greens, served on Boulangere potatoes with a white wine & thyme jus & parsnip crisp garnish

Filo basket filled with a wild mushroom & spinach ragout, served with a root vegetable mash & pesto oil drizzle

~~~

Trio of Desserts

pavlova, lemon pot, chocolate brownie

A truly stunning menu complemented with beautiful wines that Mandie and John had selected from local wine producer Chapel Down. With our Chef’s fantastic home-made curries for evening food it was a gastronomic day for those that love their food.

Mandie and John were delightfully laid-back to deal with from start to finish and the emphasis was how a wedding should be – lovely food, wine, company and a beautiful setting. The sunshine was an added bonus.

We wish Mandie and John all the very best!