A Lincolnshire couple say they felt “left in the dark” over their wedding plans after the unexpected closure of a National Trust property.
Tattershall Castle – a medieval site and popular wedding destination in Lincolnshire – has been temporarily closed for safety reasons since April 17.
The trust acted after fallen debris was found on the grounds.
Like many others, Katie Chalmers and Peter Richardson – a couple from Boston, Lincolnshire – were set to be married at the historic site this month.
But after weeks of uncertainty, they say they have now been effectively forced to relocate their big day at the proverbial last minute.
Bride-to-be Katie said: “It’s the biggest day of my life – I’m 46, I’ve never been married before, and I have no intention of getting married again.
“We can deal with the facts of it all, but it was just the waiting which was frustrating.”
The pair had been planning their wedding over a year, with the castle being the highlight of the event.
Katie added: “The main issue was that the National Trust is hardly communicating with us. We had to reach out to them first.”
It is understood that many couples face the same uncertainty because the castle – which was built in 1434 – hosts multiple weddings each year.
Katie’s fiance Peter Richardson, 59, said: “I’ve lived here all my life – the castle means a lot to us. With my mum in a care home, we can’t afford to take her anywhere else.”
In a statement, Caroline Killeavy, general manager at the castle, said: “This is not the experience we want for anyone, and we acknowledge that this is a difficult situation.
“We have had regular communication [with the couple], providing updates as and when we can. The option of a full refund and using alternative sites has been offered.”
According to the National Trust, Tattershall Castle remains closed, with ‘greater clarity’ expected in the coming weeks.
