5 Things We Love About Huntsham Court in Summer
Summer is one of the most magical times of year at Huntsham Court. The house is alive with bright light, the gardens are in full bloom, and warm, golden evenings await. The longer days create a natural rhythm to the day that’s impossible to replicate at any other time of year. Whether you’re here for a wedding, a celebration, or a weekend retreat, there’s something about summer at Huntsham that feels effortless, joyful and deeply atmospheric.
Here are five things we love most about Huntsham Court in the summer months.
1. The Gardens in Full Bloom
Huntsham Court’s gardens are at their most beautiful in summer. White roses, lavender and alliums burst into colour, softening the borders and filling the air with that unmistakable English‑garden scent. The lawns are lush, creating the perfect backdrop for photos, drinks receptions and those relaxed in‑between moments.
There’s plenty of natural shade beneath the grand chestnut trees, ideal for guests who want a quiet moment away from the sun. Up on the top lawn, the parasol on the patio provides even more shaded seating, with rattan furniture arranged in both sun and shade so everyone can settle comfortably.
And of course, the garden games are always a hit. Croquet, giant Jenga and other classics are included as standard — perfect for downtime between the ceremony and dinner, or for a competitive moment during the drinks reception.
The gardens don’t just look beautiful; they feel beautiful.
2. Cool, Comfortable Interiors
One of the joys of a historic house like Huntsham Court is how naturally cool it stays in summer. Thick stone walls, high ceilings and shaded rooms mean the ground floor remains wonderfully comfortable, even on the hottest days.
For the wedding breakfast, the Yellow Room and Library feel airy and fresh, especially when the large windows are thrown open. The trifold doors in the Yellow Room open directly onto the grounds, allowing guests to drift between indoors and out — perfect for a breath of fresh air or simply enjoying that seamless indoor–outdoor flow.
As evening arrives, the Great Hall becomes the heart of the celebration. The dark panelled walls create a deep, atmospheric space that feels instantly inviting. With a few discreet fans to keep the air circulating, guests can dance comfortably right through until 1am (yes, your read corretnly — that’s our late licence for live amplified music).
3. Al Fresco Dining (For the Brave!)
For couples feeling bold and blessed by the British weather – al fresco dining at Huntsham Court is pure magic.
Imagine long serpentine tables winding between the chestnut trees, dappled shade falling across linen, glassware catching the afternoon light, candles flickering and a cool summer breeze drifting through the branches. It’s the closest thing to Tuscan‑style dining without leaving Devon.
Whether it’s a rehearsal dinner, a relaxed Friday‑night feast, or a full wedding breakfast outdoors, the gardens offer a setting that feels intimate, romantic and completely unforgettable. When the weather plays along, it’s extraordinary!
4. The Flow of the Day: Following the Sun
The way the sun moves across the estate in summer creates a natural rhythm that shapes the whole celebration.
In the morning, the sun sits over the tennis courts and lawns, encouraging guests outside with a cup of coffee. It’s the perfect moment for a gentle stretch, a walk around the grounds, yoga on the lawn, or even a game of tennis — anything that helps guests settle into the weekend and enjoy their surroundings.
By early and mid‑afternoon, the sun moves across the top and bottom lawns, bathing the gardens in warm light. This is when canapés and drinks feel their most magical — guests chatting on the grass, children playing garden games, and groups gathering on the terrace to watch a competitive round of pétanque.
As the day softens into evening, the sun shifts to the West Terrace. Guests can spill out from the Yellow Room with a coffee or cocktail and enjoy sweeping views across Devon as the sky begins to glow with the anticipation of a stunning sunset.
Finally, as the last rays fall across the front forecourt, the firepits can be lit to keep away the cool evening breeze — the perfect spot for sparklers and late‑night conversations.
5. The Hidden Garden Tipi: A Secret Summer Escape
Tucked away behind the house, hidden from plain sight, the Hidden Garden Tipi is one of Huntsham Court’s most enchanting summer features. In situ only for the warmer months, it transforms a quiet corner of the grounds into a secluded retreat surrounded by wildflower borders, soft grasses and a gentle, almost woodland feel.
Licensed for ceremonies, the tipi offers couples a completely different atmosphere to the main house — intimate, natural and wonderfully private. It’s the kind of space where vows feel deeply personal, framed by the rustle of leaves and the soft glow of natural light.
Throughout the weekend, the tipi becomes a flexible, multi‑use haven. In the late afternoon it can serve as a hidden bar, a delightful surprise for guests who wander down the garden path and discover a tucked‑away spot for cocktails or toast drinks. Later in the day, it becomes a calm breakaway space — somewhere quieter, cooler and more peaceful for guests who want a moment to themselves.
Summer in Summary
Summer at Huntsham Court is all about atmosphere — the gardens in bloom, the cool interiors, the long evenings, the shifting light, and the hidden corners waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re celebrating with 30 guests or 130, the estate offers endless ways to shape a weekend that feels relaxed, joyful and completely your own.
Photographers: