AN HISTORIC wedding venue in a Borders village is throwing open its doors later this month to give the public a glimpse of a “hidden gem”.

Paxton House, five miles outside Berwick-upon-Tweed, is one of the finest examples of neo-Palladian architecture in Scotland.

Built for the love of his life by Patrick Home, it was designed by John and James Adam and constructed between 1758 and 1763.

It is filled with exquisite furniture and art, including a nationally recognised collection of Chippendale and Trotter furniture, paintings from the National Gallery of Scotland, 18th century costumes and beautiful interiors designed by Robert Adam.

It was donated to the nation in 1988 by John and Catherine Home Robertson and is run by a charitable trust.

Now the venue is staging a Wedding Open Day on Sunday, September 24, when it will be showcasing a real hidden gem of a venue – the Boathouse.

Built for Victorian fishing expeditions on the River Tweed which flows right past its door, the rustic Boathouse can accommodate up to 35 guests.

On the day there will also be the chance to win a free wedding ceremony and personalised humanist wedding service worth £800.

Attendees can also meet humanist celebrant, Lizzie Edgerton, and Melanie, the venue’s wedding and event manager, who will be happy to show you around and give you the benefit of her many years’ experience arranging weddings at Paxton House.

Nibbles will be provided courtesy of Kooked North and music maestro David McLeish will be tinkling the ivories.

For further information about the open day and free wedding competition email events@paxtonhouse.com