A MOVE towards more sustainable and ethical weddings is helping ensure one historically important property is preserved for future generations.
Grade I-listed Samlesbury Hall, in Lancashire, has long offered a timeless, romantic setting for couples looking to tie the knot.
But ceremonies held at the venue every year are now helping to protect the unique heritage of the eye-catching 700-year-old building - with the income generated contributing to its upkeep in order to keep it safe for years to come.
Samlesbury Hall director Sharon Jones explained more couples are looking to incorporate elements to their wedding that leave a longer-term benefit to the venue or local area.
“We always feel privileged when couples choose to get married at Samlesbury,” she said.
“It’s a very special place to host such an important day in people’s lives.
“But while the ceremony and the celebration may last a day, they actually help to leave a long-lasting legacy for future generations here because the income they provide goes straight back into preserving this beautiful property.
“Many couples want to find a way to make their wedding more sustainable and we think helping to keep such an important part of our heritage safe is one good way to do just that.”
The historic hall - Samlesbury Hall, near Preston, has existed since 1325. 
It was a grand family home for centuries before going on to become a boarding school in the 1800s.
The building fell into disrepair in the 1920s and came close to demolition before it was saved by a group of local people.
Now, the restored hall hosts weddings throughout the year as well as offering free entry to the public in order to share its beauty, history and legends with people of all ages.
This year, an ambitious project to create a hamlet of shepherd’s huts in the picturesque grounds was completed, providing luxury accommodation on site for guests.
It is hoped this too will help boost income for the hall’s upkeep, with running costs totalling £500,000 every year.
Sharon added: “Our next big project is to reroof the hall which we know is a huge task and one that will cost a lot of money.
“But it will safeguard this beautiful old building for the next generation which is what everything we do here is all about.”
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