Best of Britain by Bridebook

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Take a look at all of the top venues, as nominated our past couples, and show support by sharing the great news!

Browse Best of Britain venues by region:

  1. Scotland
  2. Northern Ireland
  3. Wales
  4. North East
  5. North West
  6. Yorkshire and the Humber
  7. West Midlands
  8. East Midlands
  9. South West
  10. South East
  11. East of England
  12. Greater London

Looking for your perfect venue? Why not browse from the Best of Britain, as voted by our past couples!

Already married? If your venue is featured you can show them support by sharing their great news. Post on Instagram using #bridebookbestofbritain and tag @bridebookhq and @bridebookbusiness and we’ll reshare!

Best of Britain – Yorkshire & The Humber

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in Yorkshire & The Humber.

The Orangery, Settrington, North Yorkshire

The Orangery at Settrington is a private and exclusive venue which forms part of a Yorkshire country estate which is not open to the public. The Orangery hosts up to 12 weddings per year and their wedding planning team are on hand all year round to ensure every last detail of the couple’s wedding day is perfect. The venue is one of the largest indoor venues in the North of England and has stunning ornamental gardens for the private use of the guests. The Orangery is licensed for indoor and outdoor ceremonies and there is also an idyllic Church located alongside the venue.

“We absolutely loved helping Andy and Tamara to plan their special wedding day. They chose an autumnal theme for their October wedding with beautiful candle lit lanterns decorating the Church aisle and the Orangery gardens. Andy and Tamara were such a fun couple to get to know. We are delighted that they have nominated us for this award. It means so much to us to get this lovely feedback.” – Sara, The Orangery, Settrington

Wentbridge House Hotel Yorkshire, West Yorkshire

We’re confident that our exceptional service, delicious food & outstanding setting will ensure treasured memories for any couple and their guests. We make sure every last detail is taken care of so our couples can relax and enjoy their special moment! We take pride in offering our undivided attention as we guarantee that we only host one wedding a day.

“Thank you for considering Wentbridge House Hotel as your wedding venue. We love taking care of the little details that make up your wedding day, as we know those details add up to make the day yours. From intimate to extravagant, traditional to unexpected, we’re at your service to create an unforgettable country house wedding.” – Nicola, Wentbridge House Hotel Yorkshire

Cleatham Hall, Lincolnshire

Wedding venue of the year for the East Midlands (The 2021 Wedding Industry Awards) Cleatham Hall uniquely offers a truly exclusive wedding experience by providing our couples a completely bespoke wedding experience with total exclusivity of the entire 10 acre estate, spread over three days.

“Congratulations on your engagement from all the team here at Cleatham Hall. You have both just embarked on such a special journey together and we are here to help you every step of the way. We always take the care to speak to you individually as newly enquiring couples, as we feel it is important to really tailor your specific wedding experience.” – Hugh, Cleatham Hall

Bolton Castle, North Yorkshire

It is your home for the day, exclusively yours, and we promise you a lifetime of happy memories in this glorious setting. Once the vows are spoken, you can continue your day with the reception in the captivating Norman Keep or in the splendid rooms of the Georgian House.

“Many congratulations on your engagement. You now have the excitement of planning your big day. Enjoy every minute and make it as unique and special as you are.” – Jacqui, Bolton Castle

Rise Hall, East Riding of Yorkshire

An exclusive hire, stately home venue with a laid-back vibe, nestling in the Yorkshire countryside. Rise Hall is truly your ‘stately home from home’ where you and your guests can relax and enjoy the party.

“Hello and congratulations on getting engaged! I’m thrilled you are interested in Rise Hall. Rise is a wonderful backdrop for a wedding; with its 30 acres of private grounds, and 31 bedrooms for all your friends and family, you can really kick back and relax! It has lots of stately rooms to choose from for your ceremony and reception, but has a really laid, back relaxed vibe- a unique combination! I would love to show you around this stunning house and let you see for yourself what makes Rise Hall so special.” – Helen, Rise Hall

Howsham Hall, North Yorkshire

Howsham Hall is a stunning Grade I listed Jacobean treasure near York, with a stylish funky vibe! Nestled in a secluded valley the Hall is completely private yet lies just 30 minutes from York.

“Welcome to Howsham Hall! This incredible historic building combines spectacular architecture with modern interior design, giving you some incredible photo opportunities. Watch out for the ‘eat me’ hands with love heart sweets! We have 12 bedrooms including one of the largest honeymoon suites in Europe! We’d love to show you round and let you see for yourself what makes Howsham Hall so special.” – Helen, Howsham Hall

The Mansion, West Yorkshire

Enjoy a city luxe wedding at The Mansion. Our glorious venue offers one of the most picturesque and luxurious settings in West Yorkshire for your wedding venue. It’s a country house vibe just minutes from the city.

“Welcome to The Mansion, a country house wedding venue nestled in 700 acres of glorious parkland, yet just minutes from the city. We will work with you throughout the planning and on the day itself to ensure all the little details you want are there.” – Helen, The Mansion

Allerton Castle, North Yorkshire

We are a non-profit organisation that is dedicated in not only making your wedding day amazing but also ensuring the restoration of this stunning historic stately home. The castle itself is steeped with history and unique features, that add a grand atmosphere for your unique day. We offer inclusive packages to ensure that all costs are clear and keep to your budget. With so many rooms available for your photos, you are guaranteed to ensure photos and memories to cherish forever.

“Congratulations on your engagement! We tailor all our packages to you, so get inspired and excited and tell us everything you dream of for your wedding day. If you find wedding planning daunting, do not worry, within all our packages is a personal wedding planner to assist your planning process and provide you full coordination on your wedding day, to ensure flow perfectly.” – Elizabeth, Allerton Castle

Thief Hall, North Yorkshire

Thief Hall is the perfect blank canvas wedding barn venue in North Yorkshire with absolutely no restrictions. Couples have three days to enjoy their wedding experience with their precious family and friends for the most magical experience with no rules but more support than they can imagine! If you were to ask us what the one thing was that made us unique over any other venue it would have to be our views and surroundings! You have to see them and experience them to believe how breathtaking they are and perfect for the wedding backdro[p of a lifetime!

“Congratulations on your engagement and entering into the most magical time of your lives and as a couple! Your friends and families will join to meet and celebrate the love you have and we understand how important this is to you! We offer 24/7 support for all couples so please feel free to pop us a message, email or social media contact and we will do everything we can to help and support you in this journey even if we are not the venue for you we still love to help everyone where we can xxx” – Jessica, Thief Hall

Sheffield Manor Lodge, South Yorkshire

Sheffield Manor Lodge is a unique historic and barn venue with flower filled gardens. We offer stunning, rustic spaces with a casual and relaxed, DIY approach where you can truly make your wedding your own. From wandering through wildflowers once you’ve said your “I do’s” to cosying up at our campfire as the sun sets, you’ll find an idyllic setting for your most special moments

“Congratulations on your engagement! At Sheffield Manor Lodge we love hosting personal and relaxed weddings that look stunning and are so much fun. We can’t wait to show you round our little wildflower haven and discuss how we can help make your special day truly unique.” – Kate, Sheffield Manor Lodge

Raven Hall Country House Hotel, North Yorkshire

Raven Hall Hotel in Ravenscar, between Scarborough and Whitby, is the idyllic location, with its UNIQUE cliff-top views, especially from our Battlements, of Robin Hood’s Bay out to sea and over the North Yorkshire Moors, and provides the dream location for your dream wedding.

“Thank you for choosing Raven Hall for your special day.” – Gemma, Raven Hall Country House Hotel

Woodstock Weddings, North Yorkshire

Set in 20 acres of secluded countryside with the added benefit of being just 12 minutes from York city centre and minutes from local amenities and Hotels.

“When first visiting , you will receive a warm and friendly welcome followed by a tour of the venue and everything it has to offer with in depth guidance and support for your special day .” – Darren, Woodstock Weddings

The Fleece Inn, West Yorkshire

The award winning Fleece Countryside Inn is situated amongst the rolling hills of the Ryburn valley in Halifax West Yorkshire. Overlooking the picturesque village of Ripponden, boasting stunning views across the Calder Valley, you can say ‘I Do’ in a truly beautiful countryside setting!

“Firstly let me start by saying congratulations on your engagement! The exciting experience of wedding planning begins. The reason I love the Fleece Countryside Inn as a wedding venue so much is the stunning views, effortless planning and affordability. We really are blessed with gorgeous countryside views that act as a perfect backdrop for your pictures! I will be there to help you pick the right date and package or create a whole bespoke day just for you. We will then go through all the planning process together to help with any questions you have and will make organising your wedding day a dream come true. I look forward to planning your special day with you!” – Carrie-Anne, The Fleece Inn

New Craven Hall, West Yorkshire

New Craven Hall is an industrial, urban luxe event space in the heart of Leeds. Our aesthetics embrace the buildings fromer life as a warehouse whilst still housing a gorgeous, contemporary space. Exposed brick walls and large metal beams combine with warm lighting, soft furnishings and modern features make the venue truly unique.

“Our small but mighty team of experienced coordinators, event managers and venue staff have helped hundreds of couples celebrate their dream wedding. Our focus is on you, making sure you are able to put your stamp and identity on your big day; and our team is with you every step of the way, from the moment you arrive at your first viewing to the moment you leave the venue as a newly married couple!” – New Craven Hall

Carlton Towers, North Yorkshire

You will be enchanted by the elegance and beauty of this 17th century hidden gem. Set in 250 acres of parkland, Carlton Towers is an historic treasure – and it is all yours for the most special day of your life. With exclusive use of the house and gardens, you and your guests will love exploring. From the epic grandeur of the staterooms to the informality of the bar tucked under the Minstrels’ Gallery, it is filled with secrets to discover. A spectacular backdrop, wonderful accommodation, the finest food and drink and your own dedicated wedding team: Carlton Towers will stage the day of your dreams.

“We see it as our job to make your vision come true – You design the day. We make it happen. Our team will be there to guide you through to make sure everything runs smoothly so you are free to fully enjoy a day of joy and laughter.” – Janet, Carlton Towers

The Kilnwick Percy Resort, East Riding of Yorkshire

Ideal for weddings of all sizes, from an intimate gathering to a large party with up to 160 guests of family and friends. Kilnwick Percy Resort is fully licenced for civil ceremonies and has a few areas where you can choose to create your ceremony and reception. Our fantastic team can help you create a wedding tailored to you with a completely bespoke package. Our stunning Pocklington, East Yorkshire venue is a blank canvas waiting for your dream Wedding day, spend time choosing your favourite dishes for your menu, find beautiful blooms and let your photographer snap memories of your day. Your family and friends have an option of staying in our 28 hotel rooms or 27 luxury lodge accommodation, we also have a fantastic bridal suite waiting for you. Say “I do” and have a completely bespoke Wedding day tailored just for you.

“Firstly Congratulations on your engagement…. Thank you for looking at our wedding venue, we would love to be part of creating your wedding day just the way you would like it. All our weddings are different so that is why we create you a bespoke proposal based on your wants and dreams. Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a meeting, it would be a pleasure to meet you to discuss your dream day.” – Jessie, The Kilnwick Percy Resort

The Bridge Hotel and Spa, West Yorkshire

The Bridge hotel and spa is a beautiful historic building. The Byron room is a stunning room which houses the original English woodcarving and Italian plasterwork from the great Halnaby hall. Lord Byron dined in this room surrounded by the plasterwork for his honeymoon in 1815. This now makes for a perfect setting for a wedding ceremony. We are also lucky enough to offer our potential couples the option of an alfresco wedding ceremony in our beautiful outdoor gazebo.

“I am delighted that you are considering our beautiful venue for your special day. We have a stunning venue and grounds along with a very friendly and helpful wedding team who will ensure your every need is accommodated from the beginning to the end.” – Becky, The Bridge Hotel and Spa

York Barn at Villa Farm, North Yorkshire

York Barn is nestled in the Countryside of York, North Yorkshire and located only 4 miles from York City Centre. We pride ourselves on providing a wedding venue for couples to enjoy your special day with everything in one place. With our farmhouse, converted barn and stable styled on-site accommodation able to sleep up to 113 guests over 13 cottages, York Barn offering the warmest of welcomes by blending the rustic, homestead decor along with a modern twist and of course the benefit of being able to tie the knot under our venue’s approved licence for civil marriage and civil partnership. Our beautiful barn can accommodate up to 150 for ceremony and a seated meal and 220 guests for a standing reception. It boasts stunning blank canvas features, allowing our brides and grooms to get creative and add in unique personal touches to their special day.

“It’s great to hear that you’re considering York Barn as a potential wedding venue, we would LOVE to share your special day with you and your loved ones! At Villa Farm, we are dedicated to creating an unforgettable wedding for you and your guests. We have our recently converted York Barn as well as a wonderful Garden Pergola set up in Villa Farm’s beautiful grounds. This means you have the option of an indoor, or outdoor wedding ceremony, to create the perfect wedding day for you. Also not forgetting the fact we have onsite accommodation available for you and all your guests. Villa Farm can accommodate intimate celebrations for just immediate family and friends or we can accommodate larger celebrations of up to 150 ceremony and reception guests and up to 220 evening guests, so do bring your ideas along and we can suggest how we can help you create your dream day using our fabulous facilities. We do have a large portfolio of images on our website and we’re very active on social media! So if you would like to see any images of our venue, please feel free to take a look at our social media handles.” – Corrina, York Barn at Villa Farm

Wharfedale Grange, West Yorkshire

Location is everything! We are the only super luxury barn in Yorkshire and conveniently situated midway between Leeds and Harrogate. Our ceremonies are unforgettable, our receptions are sensational, our parties are next level and the whole experience is what we like to call #wharfedalestandard

“We’re so happy for you, it’s the biggest day of your lives so far, why not make it the best? Celebrate your wedding at Wharfedale Grange and start your future like you mean to go on!” – Wharfedale Grange

Yorkshire Heart Vineyard, North Yorkshire

Yorkshire Heart Vineyard provides an idyllic rural location to celebrate in style. With fantastic views over their 35-acre vineyard, this setting will make for a truly memorable day. As a family run business, the idea of bringing together weddings and their vineyard was a dream pairing.

“Getting married has to be one of the most memorable moments in a couples life and one which you want to be perfect. There is so much to plan for a wedding but top of the list is your dream venue. Louisianna’s Weddings is the place to start when planning a wedding in North Yorkshire. With a selection of hand picked, unique wedding venues we are sure to find the perfect home for your big day. Established in 2016, we quickly established ourselves and were awarded the 2019 Wedding Guide UK North of England Award for Outstanding Customer Service.” – Lee, Yorkshire Heart Vineyard

Aldby Park, North Yorkshire

Aldby Park is simply a stunning and, with deliberate limited availability, every one is extra special to us. With stunning grounds and the house as a beautiful back drop I think it’s THE perfect marquee venue in Yorkshire

“Getting married has to be one of the most memorable moments in a couples life and one which you want to be perfect. There is so much to plan for a wedding but top of the list is your dream venue. Louisianna’s Weddings is the place to start when planning a wedding in North Yorkshire. With a selection of hand picked, unique wedding venues we are sure to find the perfect home for your big day. Established in 2016, we quickly established ourselves and were awarded the 2019 Wedding Guide UK North of England Award for Outstanding Customer Service.” – Lee, Aldby Park

Millennium Gallery – Museums Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Millennium Gallery is a landmark space that typifies this vibrant, contemporary city. It is home to the very best in art and design; a celebration of Sheffield’s rich history of innovation and craftmanship, its Metalwork Collection is one of the finest in the world. The white walls of the Arundel Room provide a blank canvas for the happy couple to create the wedding of their dreams. There are no limits to the colours, themes and styles that can be added to this modern, versatile space. From vintage memorabilia to flora and fauna or garlands of paper lanterns, couples can add their own personal motifs and designs to transform this grand, light-filled room into the setting for the perfect wedding. Millennium Gallery is adjacent to the Winter Garden and the Peace Gardens, which provide an oasis of green in an inner-city landscape and a beautiful backdrop for wedding photographs – alternatively, the terrace offers a panoramic view of the urban cityscape.

“By having your wedding at Millennium Gallery you are supporting our charity Museums Sheffield. All profits from your big day will go directly back into our sites: Millennium Gallery, Weston Park Museum & Graves Gallery and continue to make our cultural spaces free and accessible to all.” – Millennium Gallery – Museums Sheffield

Halifax Hall, South Yorkshire

We understand that your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life which is why we have a dedicated team of wedding coordinators to help create a bespoke wedding package that’s unique to your special day. We have a range of function rooms available with floor to ceiling windows looking out over our gardens, so you can enjoy beautiful views whilst indulging in our menus created by our chefs.

“Since opening in 2013 we have been dedicated to providing unique and affordable weddings to couples that reflect their personality through our flexible packages and bespoke catering. There is nothing we love more than working with a couple from start to finish and then seeing them tie the knot, it makes our job so rewarding. The last year has been incredibly difficult for everyone, with the wedding industry being hugely affected, but we can’t wait to get back to doing what we do best and seeing friends and family come together again to celebrate!” – Halifax Hall

Bedern Hall, North Yorkshire

As a small independent venue, we create classic, intimate weddings through personal relationships between the couple and our regular team. Couples will get to know everyone involved in helping to plan their special day. We operating on a ‘not for profit’ basis meaning that when you celebrate with us you also ‘pay it forward’ for others couples to celebrate with us in the future.

“Over the past months we have supported couples in their decisions about their celebrations and shared their disappointment. In these uncertain times, there are three things our couples can be sure of; our personal commitment to helping you create your day just as you envisaged, a deposit refund guarantee, and, most importantly, each other – so perhaps for that reason alone, now is the time to celebrate certainty and tie the knot!” – Roger, Bedern Hall

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel, South Yorkshire

Here at the DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel we understand that no two weddings are the same. Our venue is one of the largest wedding venues in South Yorkshire accommodating a maximum of 370 guests which allows us to accommodate both intimate & large weddings! Our suites have a blank canvas so each couple can transform the venue to be how they like for their special day!

“Congratulations on your engagement! I would really love to help you plan your wedding day at DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park. I absolutely love helping couples plan their dream day. We have some great packages available at our hotel, for all types of weddings, so for more information please do get in touch. It would be wonderful to meet with you to have a chat about your wedding plans and to show you our Hotel and Function Rooms.” – Megan, DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel

Kenwood Hall, South Yorkshire

Our venue is traditional but also modern, set in an idyllic location surrounded by 12 acres of land and a stunning lake which makes it the perfect back drop for your wedding day! We can bespoke packages which meet your individual requirements to ensure that you receive the wedding of your dreams.

“At Kenwood Hall we pride ourselves on making sure the dream wedding you have in mind becomes a magical reality. We care about the little details and we will be there on the day to ensure everything runs smoothly, and help making your special day perfect, you have nothing to worry about!” – Emma, Kenwood Hall

Coombe Lodge, North Yorkshire

The romance of Coombe Lodge is one that we believe will be hard to beat. It is truly a beautiful venue, loved and cared for by a devoted team. The venue still takes our breath away, its sheer elegance and warming atmosphere always creates a welcoming and relaxed feel. We offer a bespoke service that we are extremely proud of and have complete confidence in. We work and listen intently to every couple offering them a tailored and individual experience. We are extremely transparent as far as pricing is concerned – and our brochure and website tell all there is to know in this regard so that the bride and groom can budget accordingly. Above all, it is simple, fair, honest and reasonable.

“We are very proud of the great reputation of the cuisine at Coombe Lodge. The care and imagination taken to prepare our menus is paramount – the credit for this lies with our team of skilled chefs who take delight in creating mouth-watering dishes. Each of our chefs take enormous pride in all they do, and they have carefully designed a tempting selection of delicious menus, made with only the finest ingredients from suppliers we know and trust. Wherever possible, these suppliers are local, organic and use free-range production methods. We are so proud of our team here at Coombe Lodge. The care, imagination and sheer hard work each individual gives to the venue is first class. We all work towards the same goal – to make every single person that walks through our doors love Coombe Lodge as much as we do. Overall, we feel Coombe Lodge has the complete package! Its true beauty and romance can only be exceeded by the dedicated team that continues to build upon the values and goals in making Coombe Lodge an even better place than it already is. Our reputation has been built upon great service, outstanding food, drink and attention to detail, so that our couple’s will have nothing but wonderful memories of their special day at Coombe Lodge. We truly feel that what Coombe Lodge has to offer is unique and simply stands out from the crowd.” – Martha, Coombe Lodge

Whirlowbrook Hall, South Yorkshire

Whirlow Brook Hall is so unique because it is a completely exclusive use venue. When you book your wedding with us, you will receive full use of the whole hall including a private bar, terrace area and rooms to get ready in. The venue is set within 39 acres of landscaped gardens which are perfect for wedding photos and look stunning all year round. We have a range of exciting catering options, including traditional three course meals, tapas, street food, BBQs and more… including the option to design your own menu!

Barmbyfield Barns, East Riding of Yorkshire

Set in beautiful open countryside between the Vale of York and the Yorkshire Wolds, Barmbyfield Barns is a collection of renovated agricultural barns, some of which date back to late 18th century. Our exclusive 3 day hire offers each couple an opportunity to bring their own unique style to the venue, whilst we provide all the basic requirements needed to ensure the wedding day runs smoothly and their dreams come true.

“Every wedding is different and as individual as you are. Our team at Barmbyfield Barns, led by Paul & Harriet, are here to listen to your desires & wishes, then assist you to make them become a reality. We offer help and advice as well as time and space, to ensure your wedding day a truly joyful, memorable occasion for you, your families and guests. From early planning stages through to running the event on the day, we’re here to make your first steps on the journey of marriage a relaxed and enjoyable experience you will treasure forever.” – Charlotte, Barmbyfield Barns

Dunedin Country House, East Riding of Yorkshire

Personal and expert planning from conception to confetti, weddings are Dunedin, lets take this journey together.

Hackness Grange Hotel, North Yorkshire

Hackness Grange is a Grade II listed Manor house nestled in the North York Moors National Park. With two beautiful ceremony areas and the stunning grounds as your backdrop this really is the perfect place for your wedding venue. The stunning pavilion is set on its own island on the lake surrounded by gorgeous woodland it truly is a beautiful unique place to say your vows. The best bit is all weddings have exclusive use of all function rooms on the day of your wedding, you will also have a dedicated wedding coordinator from the moment of booking and with you on the big day.

“We are so excited that you are considering Rushpool Hall as your wedding venue! We would love to show you around and tell you more about this beautiful estate. We are ready and waiting to make your wedding dreams come true.” – Sharon

Angelica

Angelica is the ideal location for any wedding, whether you are looking for an exclusive experience, a more intimate occasion or drinks and canapé reception. We also have an exclusive private dining room in Crafthouse seating up to 20 guests. Our dedicated Event Team are here to help with your requirements from table plans to place cards we will look after every detail to ensure that this is a truly special occasion.

“Meet with our Event Team and allow us to build a perfect package to suit you. From a Champagne and canapé reception to a private dining room or even a rooftop barbecue, our team will work with you to create your perfect day.” – Rebecca

Crafthouse Restaurant, West Yorkshire

Crafthouse is nestled in the heart of Leeds city centre; a superb location just a stone’s throw from Leeds Town Hall. Their airy open plan restaurant with it’s bar and rooftop terrace is perfect for intimate gatherings or large groups. Whether you wish to transform and theme the venues or keep Crafthouse’s own stylish feel, our dedicated wedding team can assist from concept through to the big day itself, looking after every detail from concept through to the big day itself offering expert advice ensuring your special day is a truly spectacular occasion..

Issho, West Yorkshire

Issho – meaning ‘together’ in Japanese – is a contemporary Japanese rooftop restaurant & bar. The perfect spot for those looking for something that little bit different. You can hire Issho’s whole restaurant with Kori bar and our beautiful rooftop terrace. Issho is committed to offering something different and unique to Leeds. Combining exceptional service, high-quality food, unique menus and a stunning, relaxed setting, Issho is the place to come together for a truly unforgettable day.

Rushpool Hall, North Yorkshire

Rushpool Hall is a beautiful fairy tale wedding venue with sea views in the North Yorkshire Countryside. With two gorgeous ceremony rooms and stunning grounds this really is the perfect place for your wedding. We have a brand new getting ready room which is a stunning space for you and your wedding attendants to prepare for your special day. The pretty temples scattered throughout the estate make for truly memorable wedding photographs. The best bit is all weddings have exclusive use of all function rooms on the day of your wedding, you will also have a dedicated wedding coordinator from the moment of booking and with you on the big day.

“We are so excited that you are considering Rushpool Hall as your wedding venue! We would love to show you around and tell you more about this beautiful estate. We are ready and waiting to make your wedding dreams come true.” – Sophie

Best Western Plus Mosborough Hall Hotel, South Yorkshire

The majority of weddings at Mosborough Hall Hotel will take place in the Chatsworth Suite, which in an exclusive use building just a stone’s throw away from the main hotel. You will have sole use of the Chatsworth Suite, including the private bar area and courtyard which features plenty of outdoor seating and an inbuilt pizza oven. The suite is neutrally decorated throughout, allowing you to decorate the space however you choose and bring your colour scheme and theme to life. Having exclusive use of the Chatsworth Suite helps make your wedding day extra special, whilst still having the convenience of the on-site hotel rooms which are just a short walk away.

“We would love to host your wedding at our hotel! We love how each wedding with us is completely unique and personal to the couple and how no two are ever the same. Right from the moment you enquire with us until the big day itself, we will be on hand to assist and offer help and advice every step of the way.” – Lucy

Allington Manor, Lincolnshire

The majority of weddings at Mosborough Hall Hotel will take place in the Chatsworth Suite, which in an exclusive use building just a stone’s throw away from the main hotel. You will have sole use of the Chatsworth Suite, including the private bar area and courtyard which features plenty of outdoor seating and an inbuilt pizza oven. The suite is neutrally decorated throughout, allowing you to decorate the space however you choose and bring your colour scheme and theme to life. Having exclusive use of the Chatsworth Suite helps make your wedding day extra special, whilst still having the convenience of the on-site hotel rooms which are just a short walk away.

“2021 is going to be a exciting year for us at Allington Manor, we have used the lockdown to refurbish and redecorate ready to welcome you all to our beautiful home and your exclusive venue.” – Leo

Millennium Gallery – Museums Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Millennium Gallery is a landmark space that typifies this vibrant, contemporary city. It is home to the very best in art and design; a celebration of Sheffield’s rich history of innovation and craftmanship, its Metalwork Collection is one of the finest in the world. The white walls of the Arundel Room provide a blank canvas for the happy couple to create the wedding of their dreams. There are no limits to the colours, themes and styles that can be added to this modern, versatile space. From vintage memorabilia to flora and fauna or garlands of paper lanterns, couples can add their own personal motifs and designs to transform this grand, light-filled room into the setting for the perfect wedding. Millennium Gallery is adjacent to the Winter Garden and the Peace Gardens, which provide an oasis of green in an inner-city landscape and a beautiful backdrop for wedding photographs – alternatively, the terrace offers a panoramic view of the urban cityscape. By having your wedding at Millennium Gallery you are supporting our charity Museums Sheffield. All profits from your big day will go directly back into our sites: Millennium Gallery, Weston Park Museum & Graves Gallery and continue to make our cultural spaces free and accessible to all.

“Thank you for your interest in hosting your wedding at Millennium Gallery. Based in the heart of the City Centre, we are a cultural venue that can provide your big day with that unique edge you’re looking for! Our onsite event & wedding specialists will guide you through the process of your wedding day from start to finish, help with any decor and give you inspiration and recommendations for suppliers and with how to dress the room according to your style and taste. We’re on hand here for multiple meetings whether you want to adjust the plan of your day, test out some decor or if you just want to come in for a cup of tea and a chat! We will do our best to exceed your expectations of your special day and make it one for you to remember for the rest of your life.” – Alexandra Knowles

Holiday Inn Leeds Garforth, West Yorkshire

Our contemporary, fully flexible wedding venue is perfect place for the wedding or civil ceremony you’ve always dreamed of. The perfect blank canvas, you can dress our venue anyway you’d like.

“Have the perfect wedding day at one special venue… At the Holiday inn Leeds – Garforth our contemporary, fully flexible wedding venue is the ideal place for the wedding or civil ceremony you’ve always dreamed of. With a perfect blank canvas, you can look to dress our venue anyway you’d like. Licensed to care for every detail, each of our impressive function suites have their own unique character and features, allowing us to tailor your wedding to exactly how you envisioned it to be. The Holiday Inn Leeds – Garforth offers an amazing garden area, ideal spot for a drinks reception and canapés with your guests and provides a lovely backdrop which is elegant and sure to create the perfect location those ever-lasting memories and picture moments. Your wedding day is our priority and we will ensure we make it a day to truly remember! What’s more, with our venue ideally located just off the M1 and M62 motorway, the Holiday Inn Leeds – Garforth is perfect for guests travelling from afar to attend your special day.” – Julie-anne Passey

Holiday Inn Leeds Wakefield, West Yorkshire

Set in a leafy, rural locale on the outskirts of Wakefield, the Holiday Inn Leeds Wakefield hotel provides the perfect backdrop for your wedding day.

“With plenty of offers available for your to explore here at Holiday Inn Leeds Wakefield M1 J40, we’re sure that you’ll be able to find something that ticks all the boxes to create the most perfect day for you and your guests. Contact our wedding coordinators for more information or drop us a contact us form. We’ll look forward to planning your wedding very soon!” – Julie-anne Passey

Holiday Inn Leeds Brighouse, West Yorkshire

What better place is there to host a wedding than in the lush Yorkshire countryside? We can host your entire day and offer discounted rates to your guests if they wish to stay overnight.

“Have the perfect wedding day at one special venue..
When it comes to weddings, the Holiday Inn Leeds – Brighouse hotel provides an amazing venue for Civil Ceremonies, Wedding Breakfasts and Evening Receptions. We offer a range of Wedding Packages and also offer bespoke and self-catering, so there is something to suit everyone and we have the flexibility to tailor-make every event to help make your special day even more perfect. With sweeping landscapes and views over the Yorkshire countryside – what better venue to have your wedding? Take advantage of the courtyard with water feature and beautiful grounds for your treasured wedding photographs. If you choose Holiday Inn Leeds Brighouse for your wedding, we offer Discounted Bed and Breakfast room rates for family and friends to stay on the night of the wedding for added convenience, and to enable them to use the hotel facilities.” – Julie-anne Passey

Holiday Inn Rotherham-Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Whether you’re looking for something grand or a little more intimate, we’re sure that Holiday Inn Rotherham – Sheffield will deliver.

Goldsborough Hall, North Yorkshire

Every Goldsborough Hall wedding is as individual as you are. A perfect haven uniquely combining vibrancy and serenity, fun and sophistication. Create your own history in our beautiful historic stately home.

“I would be delighted to meet with you to discuss your requirements and showcase the Hall and together we can create your perfect wedding day. Best wishes, Alison”

Thicket Priory, North Yorkshire

Thicket Priory is an exclusive use home-from-home luxury wedding venue, filled with home comforts, spaces to create your dream wedding, incredible grounds and above all a team that will make your wedding journey so much fun and of course stress free! We cannot wait to meet you!

“With a wealth of experience and knowledge amongst a small team, we don’t just become your wedding coordinators at the venue, we become your friends in the planning process, we guide and help where you may need it and we become additional guests that make your friends and family feel completely at home when they come to Thicket Priory. If there is one thing we can be sure of it is that you will fall in love with each other all over again within these walls and you will have memories to treasure forever!”

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Best of Britain – Greater London

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in Greater London.

Nonsuch Mansion, London

Nonsuch Mansion is a Georgian Gem set in stunning manicured grounds. Imagine an amazing setting, an atmosphere buzzing with excitement and emotion, sensational food, attentive service, flowing drinks, great music, happy guests… Now put yourself at the heart of it all. We are dedicated to the art of creating a stunning event just for you, an occasion that will be talked about and looked back on fondly by everyone involved.

“Huge congratulations on your engagement! We cant wait to get excited with you to make your dream wedding a reality no matter how big or unique this vision may be. We have a fantastic team at the mansion with a wealth of experience who are personable and here to guide you every step of the way. 2020 has been a roller-coaster year so let’s end it on a high and make your plans come to life.” – Nonsuch Mansion

Fulham Palace, London

Fulham Palace favours a fantastic location – so close to central London for commute, but once on site – you feel in the countryside. The riverside location, as well as the in- and outdoor feel of the venue allows couples to enjoy the weather and make the most of the daylight. Our historic rooms are filled with elegance, romance and style but also give you the chance to personalise it to make it your own private mansion. The alfresco style for dining, the Tudor courtyard for a reception and our stunning view at the front of the Palace for dancing, accompanied with beautiful botanical gardens for private photoshoot will keep you and your guests entertained; exploring various decades and keeping them on their feet all night long!

“With 2020 gone with everything other than to plan, we are itching to make our couple’s special day come true in the best way possible in 2021 and beyond. We are a team of three, very dedicated to bringing your vision to life, working closely with you and taking off any stress you might have, be it with suppliers or nerves. Fulham Palace is ready to take on more Princesses & Princes to tie the knot and remain in the history that rolls to 704.” – Chichi, Fulham Palace

The Lansdowne Club, London

The Lansdowne Club is a hidden gem in the heart of London’s Mayfair. This quintessentially English venue combines the 18th – century grandeur and Art Deco glamour. It opened its doors over 85 years ago as one of the first private members clubs in London which allowed both man and women on equal terms. Since then it has been renowned for its delicious food and drinks, the best service, beautiful interiors, and friendly atmosphere. It is “Home away from Home” for its members and guests. Over the years it has hosted many fantastic and unforgettable events which became the talk of the town long after all the champagne was drunk. With its beautifully landscaped Courtyard & Winter Garden perfect for your champagne reception, the stunning Ballroom ideal for your sumptuous wedding breakfast and dancing, and the magnificent Crush Hall perfect for your cake cutting and all these important group photos, the Lansdowne Club has it all.

“If you are looking for a beautiful, picture perfect venue for your wedding day, delicious food and drinks you and your guests will love, the most efficient and seamless service, and friendly atmosphere, look no further; you have found the perfect place for your Big Day! Whether you are looking for a venue for both the ceremony and reception or just reception, the Lansdowne Club is the perfect place for you. Your wedding day is all about You and we know it. All of us here at the Club are really good at exceeding our guests’ expectations. Let us prove it again by hosting your truly special and beautiful wedding celebrations.” – Berenika, The Lansdowne Club

The Coach House at Forty Hall, London

Forty Hall Estate is a hidden gem, barely known, within the confines of the M25. With over 100 acres of parkland the scenery is simply stunning and totally unique. Our Jacobean Coach House offers unrivalled flexibility to ensure that each couple’s special day is distinctive to their individual requirements.

“We cannot wait to welcome you to The Coach House at Forty Hall. Our team are passionate about weddings and love being fully immersed in each couple’s special day from the moment we meet for the show round until the final song is played. No detail is too small and we are always on hand to assist with any elements of the wedding planning process. Our executive chef will create mouth watering dishes that last long in the memory, from traditional British to bespoke fusion concepts created from scratch. Once you visit Forty Hall you will be blown away and not need to view any further wedding venues as we believe our setting, stunning building and team are second to none.” – The Coach House at Forty Hall

Morden Hall, London

Morden Hall is a London wedding venue like no other, situated within 125 acres of National Trust parkland. An 18th-century country house offered on an exclusive use basis. Leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind you and step into a world of tranquillity and natural beauty. This Mansion House exudes elegance, charm and sophistication, making this a truly spectacular place to celebrate. With intimate ceremony rooms where your loved ones can watch you take your vows, a dining room flooded with natural light and landscaped gardens for you to take in your idyllic surroundings, Morden Hall offers everything you could wish for and more for your special day.

“This year has been a strange and challenging one for us all. I for one, cannot wait to be back to what we do best and host fabulous weddings of all sizes once again. The team and I haven’t stopped this year and have been there for our couples throughout this pandemic, guiding, supporting and advising them every step of the way through this turbulent year. We will continue to do this and be there for you all in your engagement journey. We look forward to being part of this exciting time ahead!” – Morden Hall

St Mary’s London, London

Grade 1 listed and designed by Robert Smirke who is renowned for his architectural designs such as the British Museum’s facade and featured in famous films such as Last Christmas St Mary’s is a fantastic, impressive and unique space. It is brilliantly situated between Hyde and Regents Park (ideal for photographs!) and offers plenty of beautiful, open plan space where we can help bring your dreams to life. There is even a public courtyard outside – great for that perfect, instagramable shot!

“Congratulations! We are so excited to help you have one of the best days of your life! We know wedding planning during a pandemic can feel overwhelming and uncertain at times but we are here to help you have the beautiful and memorable wedding you deserve. St Mary’s is a gorgeous venue and the perfect backdrop for stunning photographs and a celebration which will without a doubt impress your guests and create precious memories to last a lifetime.” – Charlotte, St Mary’s London

Bingham Riverhouse, London

With a romantic riverside location, elegant decor and excellent service, this is the ideal venue for your wedding day. Tucked away in Richmond-upon-Thames, a short distance from Central London, our boutique hotel effortlessly combines a stylish city vibe with a charming, tranquil country atmosphere.

“After the thrill of your engagement, comes the joy of planning your special day! We can host weddings and civil ceremonies for up to 120 guests or smaller, more intimate affairs. These special occasions generally take place downstairs in the garden rooms, opening onto the riverside terrace and English garden. Here at the Riverhouse we believe that every wedding is unique so instead of set wedding packages we love to create something bespoke based around how you see your day unfolding.” – Bingham Riverhouse

Battersea Park Weddings

Hidden within this green oasis are our three unique venues; The Bowling Green Pavilion & Lawn, Pump House Gallery and The Victorian Bandstand. With their historic charm, these dynamic indoor and outdoor event spaces are suitable for a multitude events. With picturesque venues offer stunning views of the park, including the boating lake and botanical gardens and are easily adapted to suit any event style. All the venues are licensed for civil partnerships, civil marriages, ceremonies and live music. We do not charge a corkage fee.

“If you are looking to get married in an iconic and unforgettable venue, Battersea Park is the place to come! We work closely with our couples to ensure you have everything you could dream of for your wedding day, helping you with all the logistics during the planning stages and answering any questions you may have. On the day of your wedding, you will have us on site, ensuring everything runs perfectly! It’s always a pleasure showing off our venues so please pop me an email if you would like to come and visit; I would love to hear from you!” – Tess

The HAC

Our incredible wedding venue, situated in the City of London, offers couples the unique opportunity to enjoy not only a stunning, period manor house in which to carry out their nuptials, but also five acres of beautiful lawns – perfect for reception drinks, and that all important back drop for photographs to create everlasting memories of your special day. Situated within Armoury House, the Long Room is a beautiful space in which to exchange your vows and celebrate with friends and family

Bluebird Chelsea

Weddings at Bluebird are a luxurious affair, an excellent choice in the affluent neighbourhood of Chelsea. The location on the bustling Kings Road is superb, and is close to luxury and boutique hotels for guests to stay in.
The west London restaurant regularly serves up its traditional British fare for product launches, film premieres and celebrity dinners. It is also proving popular for weddings and comes with an in-house event manager who is an experienced wedding planner.

Bluebird will work with couples to create bespoke menus of food and drinks from canapes to cocktail hour, and the dedicated team are well-experienced in hosting extravagant weddings and civil ceremonies.

Plateau

With stunning views over the Canary Wharf skyscrapers and its mid-century Manhattan interior, Plateau is the perfect wedding venue for the modern couple. We hold a wedding licence so every element of your big day can happen in one place and can cater for parties large or small – up to 500 for a standing reception or 200 for a seated wedding breakfast.

The striking glass façade at Plateau bathes the restaurant in natural light, creating a special sense of well-being for a beautiful day.

The Hurlingham Club

A stunning private member club surrounded by 42 acres of magnificent grounds, provides a countryside feeling in the heart of London. A truly unique venue for your wedding.

RSA House

Voted one of London’s best wedding venues by the Evening Standard. RSA House is a stylish and romantic Georgian townhouse, providing a historic yet modern backdrop for your London wedding.

“Thank you for considering RSA House for your wedding celebrations, you must be so excited and we would love to host your special day. Through all of your plans and preparations, our team are here to create your dream day. Our dedicated wedding planner Olivia will be on hand throughout the whole process to provide advice and expertise to guide you through your wedding journey. We have invaluable relationships with some of the best wedding suppliers in the industry. We can help guide you with your selection of florists, wedding photographers, cake makers, wedding dress designers, stationers, hair & makeup artists, entertainment and so much more! Planning for the most memorable day starts here…” – Olivia

Weddings at Queen Mary

Nestled in the heart of East London, this extraordinary Grade II listed venue provides a truly atmospheric setting for your special day! The Octagon’s shelves are lined with brightly coloured books and busts of eminent authors which compliment the beautiful domed ceiling. We can accommodate ceremonies for up to 200 guests and the breathtakingly romantic Octagon offers peace and opulence allowing unrivalled opportunities for photography and videography on your special day.

“Weddings at Queen Mary are an experienced and dedicated team who are here to offer you support throughout the essential planning stages and ensure your wedding day is everything that you dream of, and more! We have a variety of packages available which are set within our magnificent Grade II listed Octagon space, which we are looking forwards to discussing with you.” – Fleur

Dartmouth House

With its beautiful interiors, grand marble staircase and private courtyard, this elegant mansion in the heart of Mayfair is the perfect setting for an exclusive, quintessential London wedding.

“We’d love to hear from you to have a chat about your wedding. Often when I speak to couples after their wedding their top tips for future brides and grooms are to make sure you have great photos, food and drinks, and we can make sure you get all of that here. Having Dartmouth House exclusively to yourself provides the most stunning backdrop for your wedding. We’re here to make sure you have the wonderful day and we’re always excited to work with you to make it really special, so let us know what you have in mind so we can help you make that happen!” – Lily

Sofitel London St James

Sofitel London St James is the home of modern French luxury in the heart of London. The grade II listed building represents one of the most prestigious hotel addresses in London. With an iconic location on Waterloo Place, close to the internationally landmarks of the city, the 5-star hotel is ideal for weddings in the capital. With our bespoke 5-star service “from the heart” we take great pleasure in making you feel special.

“Every wedding is special, and we ensure this moment will remain unforgettable. From a stress-free planning to a gorgeous reception, I will accompany you to make this one-in-a-lifetime experience unique.” – Sephora

Altitude London

Altitude London is a unique luxury wedding venue. Each venue offers a unique style and vibe to make your special day one to be remembered. Both venues boast jaw dropping wraparound views of the London skyline and beyond, a truly beautiful scenic view providing a magical experience for all guests.

“Firstly congratulations. Altitude London are all about making events memorable, inspiring and engaging. Allow us to help navigate your special day with our one-stop shop from mouth watering menus, to creative design our team can help you navigate all areas to create your perfect day.”

Loft Studios

I think our venue is unique due to the level of freedom couples have to create their special day, as no two weddings are ever the same. We offer clients a professional hand to hold throughout the planning process and we are always there on the day. Our late license and flexibility also make us stand out amongst the competition. Every wedding is unique at Loft Studios.

“To all future couples of Bridebook I want to congratulate you on this next life step. If you like our venue and can see yourselves celebrating one of the best days of your life here then please come and see us. We have a wealth of experience, ideas and creativity which makes us the perfect guide for you during these exciting times.” – Josephine

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Best of Britain – West Midlands

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in the West Midlands.

Davenport House, Shropshire

The thing that stands out the most for people visiting Davenport House, as side from the breathtakingly beautiful house, is the attention to detail. Owner Lizzie has spent a lifetime mastering her craft and the art of wedding planning, when our couples begin their journey at Davenport House we make it very clear that Davenport House is theirs for the journey. Our couples benefit from the wealth or decorations and props Lizzie has included, from candelabras to garden games and even our own outside bar that can be personalised to have your favourite tipple. When it comes to planning your big day, our doors are always open and we collaborate with you every step of the way, we don’t have set menus, instead you are introduced to one of the UK’s leading catering co-ordinator who will guide you through the process of creating your own menu. We do in house styling meetings, supplier visits, menu consultations, tastings, wine pairings and a rehearsal for civil ceremonies, so on the day there is no stone unturned. When we say attention to detail, we mean attention to detail.

“For anyone who is looking to truly looking to indulge in their wedding journey, to create something completely bespoke and personal to you, then Davenport House should be an absolute must for your list. From the moment you arrive for your first visit, to the day we wave you off after your wedding, we aim to create a truly magical journey for you. When you book Davenport House you don’t just get a venue, you get a home away from home and that carries on long after the day too, there is nothing we love more than when our couples come to Davenport House to celebrate their anniversaries.” – Dawn, Davenport House

Heaton House Farm, Cheshire

Heaton House Farm is located in a picturesque location surrounded by the rolling hills of Staffordshire and Cheshire, a breath-taking backdrop for your wedding pictures! Our highly experienced events team make sure everything is perfect from getting ready in our luxurious preparation room, tying the knot in our of our FOUR incredible ceremony locations, dancing the night away under the stars to waking up after your stay in one of our luxury accommodation rooms.

“Congratulations on your engagement! We’d love to hear about all of your exciting plans and we hope to show you exactly what Heaton House Farm can offer you for your special day soon.” – Sarah, Heaton House Farm

The Oak Tree of Peover, Cheshire

The Oak Tree of Peover is a beautifully unique wedding venue with oak-frames and floor to ceiling windows which flood the rooms with natural light. The venue is dressed with twinkly fairy lights inside and outside and our living plants are always growing and spiralling along the oak beams and the flowers bloom throughout the year. Set in acres of private countryside, The Oak Tree offers stunning photo opportunities and is the perfect setting for your exclusive wedding. We know that the food is also an extremely important part of your wedding day you so here, at The Oak Tree, you are not restricted to just one caterer as we have several to choose from, all offering a variety of menu options.

“The Oak Tree is a bespoke wedding venue which allows you to plan your perfect the day exactly how you have always dreamed. We are a small, dedicated team who will be there to assist you throughout your planning process and on your big day to help make your dream become a reality. We love to say ‘yes’ so will always try our absolute best to accommodate any ideas you might have, no matter how wacky they sound!” – Jacqui, The Oak Tree of Peover

Cressbrook Hall, Derbyshire

Cressbrook Hall is a rare gem nestled in the heart of the Peak District. Every corner of our 26 acre estate provides a stunning backdrop for your photographs and our outdoor ceremony area has jaw-dropping views. With accommodation for up to 42 guests on our estate and extra accommodation in the nearby villages, you and your guests can relax and enjoy a whole wedding weekend in the countryside.

“When you choose Cressbrook Hall for your wedding, you can expect a friendly and professional team to help you throughout your planning and the big day itself. As well as being our family home, Cressbrook Hall is a loved country house that oozes character and has a fun atmosphere.” – Emily, Cressbrook Hall

Wrenbury Hall, Cheshire

Wrenbury Hall is an exclusive use wedding venue in the heart of Cheshire, offering a bespoke and personal service to create the wedding of your dreams. Through the gates and along the picturesque tree lined drive, the family welcome you to Wrenbury Hall, Cheshire’s finest Exclusive Use Wedding & Events Venue.

“From our family to yours, we look forward to welcoming you and can reassure you that we have been hosting beautiful weddings here since 1999. We pride ourselves on our dedicated team and exceptional service that we offer to our bride and grooms. We love that no two weddings are the same, and look forward to seeing what each couple has in store for their big day. By the end of the planning process, many of our brides and grooms become a part of our Wrenbury Family, whom we stay in touch and welcome back to our events following their weddings.” – Davinia, Wrenbury Hall

Manor Hill House, West Midlands

Every wedding at Manor Hill House is unique and the format is different for each couple, which is why we are an exclusive use wedding venue. You get to arrange your perfect day, without having to accommodate anyone else. Manor Hill is a family owned wedding venue and will provide you with a highly professional service whilst offering a fun and flexible approach to your wedding

“We never forget that it is a great honour to be involved in your wedding day and want you to enjoy the experience from the first time you arrive for your initial viewing, through the planning phase and on to the big day itself. Our dedicated, awards winning, events team are committed to helping you have the perfect wedding day.” – Michael, Manor Hill House

Blakelands Country House, West Midlands

Blakelands Country House is such a unique venue, exclusively offered to all our couples, mixing Georgian splendour with high beamed original barn buildings. The best of both worlds for a truly magical wedding. Designing wedding days entirely around couples wishes, Blakelands delivers a reception that reflects them as a couple, one they have been invested in its planning right from the start. A wedding that looks and feels like them.

“We invite you to Blakelands Country House to truly appreciate the diversity we have to offer. It would be our pleasure to meet with you, to share in your dreams and wishes for your ultimate day, how we can be a part of it and how we can become invested in your plans.” – Chloe, Blakelands Country House

Alcumlow Wedding Barn, Cheshire

Alcumlow Wedding Barn is a unique and magical venue offering both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. Set in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, the manicured grounds including spanish courtyard garden and quirky crop fields offer breathtaking views and amazing photo opportunities.

“Hi there! Are you a relaxed couple looking for a venue that you can really put your own stamp on? Then Alcumlow Wedding Barn is perfect for you. Feel free to get in touch to chat about how we can turn your dream wedding into a reality.” – Alcumlow Wedding Barn

The Holford Estate, Cheshire

THE HOLFORD ESTATE takes its inspirations from nature. There is a world of beauty outside waiting to adorn your celebration with us .The glory of the natural world surrounding tHis historic estate shines through with its own nature reserve, ancient woodlands, bubbling brook and walking trails. Private and secluded THE HOLFORD ESTATE emphasises all things seasonal, our wedding ceremonies rotate with nature giving you a backdrop of secret gardens or inspiring barn. Both offer simple but relaxed elegance.

“It is a complete privilege to share this truly special place with you and your guests. From the first meeting to the joy we see on your special day makes me and T.H.E. team very proud of Holford.” – Frances, The Holford Estate

The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel Stratford, Warwickshire

The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel is a truly unique wedding venue as it has its own self-contained building, which includes a private bar, toilets, foyer area and private gardens. The Hampton Suite originally dates back to the 16th century and was the Hay-loft for the farm which can seat up to 120 guest. The hotel also features a Wedding Pavilion which is license to perform civil ceremonies, so your wedding day can happen all under one roof! The Hotel has its own restaurant, tennis court and features 72 beautiful bedrooms. Within the hotel we also have 4 acres of land to host marquee & festival weddings.

The Plough Inn, Congleton, Cheshire

Dating back to the 15th Century, former farm and coaching inn The Plough is the perfect place to host your country wedding. The gorgeous Oak Barn dates back to as long ago as the 13th Century, and was transported from its home in the quiet Welsh hills to the village of Eaton in the late 20th Century, where it was carefully restored to create the stunning wedding venue you see today. With an idyllic atmosphere, impeccable catering and the perfect mix of accommodation, the Plough at Eaton offers you the perfect setting for your wedding with a difference. We can cater for both small and large events, and will do whatever it takes to make your event as unique or traditional as you wish. When you choose a wedding at The Plough, you can rest assured that your day will be as unique as you are.

“To our prospective Brides and Grooms! We look forward to meeting you and being a part of this exciting journey, helping you create the most perfect day that you have always dreamed of. With many years of experience in weddings between us, and much more in hospitality, you can feel comfortable leaving the stressful bits down to us whilst you enjoy the rest!” – The Plough Inn, Congleton

Capesthorne Hall, Cheshire

Capesthorne Hall is a truly unique Cheshire wedding venue where old meets new. Couples have exclusive use of the 300 year old stately home as their own for the day, moving over to the contemporary Lakeside for the evening reception overlooking the stunning formal gardens and lake. As every wedding is different, and every couple wants their day to be uniquely special, we are happy to be flexible and work around their requests.

“We aim to give a truly attentive service, with help and advice always on hand. It is our attention to detail that helps make Capesthorne Hall one of the most desirable wedding venues in Cheshire.” – Lynn, Capesthorne Hall

Hampton Court Castle, Herefordshire

Hampton Court Castle is an exclusive 15th-century wedding venue nestled in the Herefordshire countryside. As well as being an idyllic countryside getaway, this versatile venue boasts magnificent function rooms, stunning courtyards, and a historic chapel. The exquisite formal gardens are the perfect setting for exceptional wedding photography and include a maze, waterfall, and beautiful pavilions. As well as a sumptuous bridal suite, the Castle offers a wonderful and unique guest experience with 24 luxurious bedrooms and exclusive overnight packages. It really is a true hidden gem.

“From the outset I start building a relationship with a couple; this is key to understanding what they want from their day.” Sarah Albutt is our dedicated and experienced Weddings Manager. With you throughout the process, Sarah is on hand to give you guidance, answer your questions and to turn your ideas into a practical reality. Couples often comment that Sarah’s meticulous planning skills, enthusiasm and kindness, were an essential part of their wedding journey.

Macdonald Ansty Hall Hotel, West Midlands

Here at Ansty Hall we would provide a unique setting for your wedding, overlooking the stunning views of the Warwickshire countryside, this provides the perfect backdrop for your photographs which you would cherish forever, as well as our beautiful gardens set in 8 acres of grounds. Within our stunning 17th century Georgian house, this provides some timeless features such as our open fireplaces, our picturesque staircase and high ceilings. Our team at Ansty Hall are like a family so we would all ensure you and your guests are looked after and felt very welcomed here.

Hilltop Country House, Cheshire

Hilltop is simply the best – an enchanting venue with an enchanting team to fulfil your every wedding wish.

“We would love to welcome you to Hilltop Country House and look forward to planning exactly the wedding you would like. Our aim is to create the most wonderful day which exactly reflects your style and personality. Every Hilltop wedding is unique – just like you!” – Louis, Hilltop Country House

Iscoyd Park, Shropshire

We are a romantic country house, full of warmth & magic and where you can have your wedding exactly the way you want it. Everything done is fuelled by the teams passion and love for the house, we are like one big family! Iscoyd has been in the same family for generations and has been lovingly restored by Phil & Susie Godsal. Exceptional and unique spaces that invite all types of celebrations, no wedding or event is the same. So come and be part of the Iscoyd Family, we think you will love it here!

“Massive congrats on your engagement, we are so excited you are considering Iscoyd Park! Come and say Hi, we can’t wait to hear all about your plans for your day. Time for the fun to begin!” – Iscoyd Park

Sandon Hall, Staffordshire

Sandon Hall is one of Staffordshire’s most sought-after Country House Wedding venues . The ancestral home of the Harrowby family, the Grade II listed mansion, with its magnificent interiors and picturesque gardens, provides an elegant backdrop to your celebration. Sandon has a host of stunning rooms for your civil ceremony and in sunnier months you can head outside to the tranquility of our Temple Gardens. For couples looking for a church wedding, the 13th Century All Saints Church is nestled on the edge of the Estate. Our small and friendly team is always on hand to guide you through your planning, you can rely on a wedding at Sandon Hall to provide truly unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime

“Here at Sandon Hall, we understand the importance of finding the wedding venue that is perfect for you! We are excited to discuss your plans to ensure your wedding day is everything you have ever imagined. Whether you are planning an intimate celebration or a grand occasion, we are on hand to guide you throughout your wedding planning journey and ensure that the smallest of details are taken care of, creating memories that last a lifetime.” – Melissa, Sandon Hall

Bourton Hall, Warwickshire

I believe that Bourton Hall is unique because of its unrivalled location in the Heart of Shakespeare Country overlooking the stunning rolling Warwickshire countryside. Bourton Hall is an amazing striking Italianate style mansion and offers a choice of Ceremony locations including a former Catholic chapel. Bourton Hall is part of Country House Weddings Ltd, a family-owned and run wedding venue group that has collectively held over 10,000 weddings between our six exclusive use venues.

“I can assure you that you will have the most perfect wedding day here at Bourton Hall as we have been making Wedding Day Dreams come true (as a group) for over 30 years. We are passionate about your day and will guide you through your planning from the moment you book your wedding day with us until the special day itself. You will have a Personal Wedding Manager to help you plan your day and to make sure your day runs exactly as you planned. Also, rest assured that during these uncertain times your wedding day is protected by our Covid – 19 Promise ‘Should Government legislation surrounding Covid-19 prevent your wedding from going ahead, we will transfer your date to an equivalent package in the future with no additional fee” – Nick

The Fox & Goose Inn on Pudding Pie Hill, Derbyshire

Pudding Pie Hill provides unparalleled panoramic views of the beautiful Derbyshire countryside to create amazing memories of your special day. The Historic Fox & Goose Inn compliments the traditional, relaxed feel and our unique approach of working hand in hand with you to create the perfect Wedding Day you always dreamed of.

“I take great pleasure in meeting all of our couples and showing them the stunning surroundings on Pudding Pie Hill and feel honoured when we are chosen as the venue to host their special da” – Craig

Lower House Farm, Herefordshire

At the foothills of the Black Mountains, our beautiful oak-framed barn is surrounded by 70 acres of wildflower meadows, woodland and natural grassland. Our outdoor space is just as magical as the barn itself! Nestled in the valley alongside the brook and secret waterfall, it’s a beautiful secluded spot to celebrate a special day. Our experienced team of passionate chefs use produce from our farm and the surrounding area, cooked over the open flames of our outdoor, wood-fired kitchen and served generously offering a feast to remember.

“We love getting to know our couples and working with them to create a day that is unique, filled with personal touches, happy faces and full tummies! We like to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere on the farm to make sure our couples feel comfortable and enjoy the experience of planning a wedding. Sit back, enjoy the epic view, grab a plate of some local deliciousness and we’ll work it all out together.” – Emily

Tissington Hall, Derbyshire

Tissington Hall, in the heart of the Peak District, strikes the perfect balance between historical grandeur and relaxed contemporary sophistication. On the day of your wedding, it is exclusively yours

“Congratulations on your engagement and thank you for considering Tissington Hall as a venue for your wedding celebrations. We would be delighted to share our home with you to celebrate your special day and hopefully look forward to welcoming you to Tissington soon.” – Fiona

Cheshire Woodland Weddings, Cheshire

Cheshire woodland weddings is truly one of a kind. Not only do we have a large open barn where up to 200 guests can dance the night away, but we also have a 15 acre woodland, thatched outdoor chapel for you ceremony & a lakeside bandstand to serve your reception drinks. Your guests will also be kept occupied & entertained throughout your amazing event as you get to utilise all of our activities and falconry. All of this allows you and your guests to become one with nature in our magical venue & create a day they will never forget!

“Congratulations on your engagement 🙂 To introduce myself my name is Ebony Hughes and I am the wedding coordinator at Cheshire Woodland Weddings. I have three years’ experience in wedding coordinating and over 6 years in the wedding hospitality industry. Here at Cheshire woodland weddings, we strive to create our couples dream weddings and there’s no limit to what we can achieve. Every wedding is different, therefore our package isn’t a one size fits all, it can be changed to be completely unique. I am not just your wedding coordinator I am your personal fairy godmother and best friend there to make your wishes come true.” – Ebony

The Orchard at Munsley, Herefordshire

Our venue oozes rustic charm and festival vibes and can be hired for a weekend to create the ultimate experience for you and your guests. Let your ideas run wild in the Orchard, ensuring it’s your wedding, your way in relaxed and informal surroundings.

“We are a friendly and flexible husband and wife team who got married in the orchard 10 years ago! We want you to have the time of your life and remember your day forever. For the ultimate experience, why not hire the space for the whole weekend and make the most of your time with your faves. We want to ensure your day has your name written all over it, that’s why there are minimal restrictions and lots of options!” – Jayne

Stanford Farm, Shropshire

Holiday Inn Bromsgrove, Worcestershire

Here at the Fair eld Suite, every wedding is unique and special and we promise to give you the perfect day that you will both remember and treasure for the rest of your lives together.

“With its rural setting in the Bromsgrove countryside, the hotel o ers stunning views and a superb banqueting suite with modern contemporary decor that can cater for up to 220 guests. Our Wedding Co-ordinators and dedicated team o er the highest standard of service, ensuring every little detail is exactly as you imagined.” – Julie-anne Passey

Holiday Inn Inn Birmingham M6J7, West Midlands

Here we pride ourselves on being one of the area’s premier wedding venues. Our impressive function suites have their own unique character and we can tailor them exactly to your vision.

“With your own dedicated wedding planner on hand to help, your day is sure to be planned to perfection. They will guide you through every detail offering help and support throughout to ensure everything runs smoothly. You could also opt for a complete, all-inclusive wedding package for a set price. From your big entrance to the last dance of the evening, you can rest assured that every detail will be in place for your dream day. The hotel is set within seven acres of landscaped grounds with views over Barr Beacon. While the Birmingham wedding venue enjoys a private setting, it is located just a short drive from Junction 7 of the M6 motorway, perfect for travelling guests. We would love to meet with you for a wedding consultation and to show you around and give you a clear idea of all the venue has to offer for your big day. If you would like to speak with our wedding consultants or arrange a visit, please get in touch.” – Julie-anne Passey

Mallory Court, Warwickshire

Our venue is unique due to the care & attention of our wonderful team’s personal approach to all couples & their special day making their dreams a reality.

“Wedding planning is such an exciting time, I live & breath weddings during my time at Mallory Court I have planned over 350 weddings, I love the entire process from our initial meeting to watching the wedding take place. I’m immensely proud that a number of couples have become true friends for life & we keep in regular contact.” – Byony-Jane

Alrewas Hayes Country House, Staffordshire

Hidden away in the heart of England, Alrewas Hayes is a historical country
estate where exceptional event experiences happen. A place to escape
from the everyday, our Grade II listed Queen Anne residence has been
hosting weddings for the past decade. Exclusively yours for the day or
weekend, our 100-acre estate is ready to welcome you.

“A huge Congratulations to you both on your engagement!
We recognise this is one of the happiest times of your life, with a journey of planning and celebration ahead. It important to ensure you choose a venue that can offer all that you wish for. With over 10 years’ experience in hosting weddings, we know how to execute
events with absolute precision. Our team of professional planners will work alongside you every step of the way to offer as much or as little support as you need, transforming your vision into a
truly unforgettable occasion. Alrewas Hayes is a place where anything is possible, let your imagination run wild.” – Tom

Manor House Hotel Ltd, Cheshire

Our venue is a perfect setting for your wedding, we are a dedicated team who will make your dreams come true.

“Congratulations on recent engagement, thank you for your interest in the Manor House Hotel, Alsager, we really hope you love our venue. We look forward to welcoming you to the hotel soon.”

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Best of Britain – North West

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in the North West.

Heskin Hall, Lancashire

The Tudor Manor House Heskin Hall is a “hands on” family run venue. Our priority is to support couples through their wedding planning. We take their ideas and collaborate with our couples helping them to have a successful and relaxed day

“We would like Thank all of our couples who have all worked with us through what has been a difficult year. We have had some fabulous Lockdown weddings and are looking forward to the fun of all of those who chose to delay theirs. We have always felt that communication with our couples is always the best way forward to create the best of successful days. It has never been more true.” – Lynne, Heskin Hall

Samlesbury Hall, Lancashire

Samlesbury Hall is a stunning wedding venue for the best day of your lives! You will be drawn into ancient wooded grounds before you catch your first glimpse of this magnificent black and white medieval building, with a gorgeous emerald green lawn and sweeping driveway. It will be completely yours, exclusively for the day. The Whittaker Room is the perfect romantic setting for your ceremony and our 700 year old Great Hall is the most atmospheric room in Lancashire for your delicious wedding breakfast. Our Italian courtyard is the best spot for relaxing during your evening reception, especially when we have our wood fired pizza oven and street food shack fired up and cooking up tasty food for your guests. The front lawn is often the setting for garden games to keep guests entertained all day. Not forgetting of course, the best and quirkiest wedding accommodation in the UK.

“We would be delighted to welcome you to our beautiful wedding venue here at Samlesbury Hall. From the moment you arrive for your initial meeting through to the day we celebrate your wedding and you leave as a married couple we can assure you our passion and enthusiasm will shine through providing you with the most magical day of your lives.” – Rebecca, Samlesbury Hall

The Tithe Barn at Browsholme Hall, Lancashire

Browsholme and Tithe Barn has everything! Five potential locations for your ceremony in one, exclusive and stunning venue. Choose between the rustic yet contemporary splendour of the Tithe Barn; the outdoor tranquillity and beauty of the Pavilion by the Lily Pond; perhaps choose a forest setting at The Lonesome Pine (who’s whistling along?); the historical grandeur of the Regency Drawing Room; or for a smaller and more intimate setting, the newly refurbished Cart Shed. And on top of all that, the very best and experienced team to guide you through your day.

“I can’t wait to welcome you to Browsholme to show you our beautiful, romantic and friendly wedding venue. Let us transform your ideas and dreams into reality; a chat, a show round and a cuppa, the best way to start your wedding planning! And don’t forget to bring your pets if you want them to be part of your day.” – Rebecca, The Tithe Barn at Browsholme Hall

The Lowry Hotel, Greater Manchester

At The Lowry Hotel we offer a bespoke experience, making your special day an occasion to remember. Unique and innately stylish, The Lowry Hotel is the perfect setting for sophisticated and charming celebration. Whether you are holding a small intimate gathering or an elaborate party, we have a venue space to suit your needs. Our dedicated events planner will be on hand to guide you through every aspect of your special day, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

“Congratulations on your engagement and upcoming wedding! I believe your wedding should be as unique as you are and that is why I will be on hand to help build the perfect wedding package that showcases you as a couple. We have some brilliant packages available as a starting point, which are based on years of experience and the most requested elements, however these are be changed to really bring your vision to life. From your initial enquiry up to your wedding day you will deal with one event planner to ensure your day runs smoothly and is as stress free as possible. I hope to hear from you soon.” – Laura, The Lowry Hotel

Eden Barn, Cumbria

Eden Barn is an exclusive, family-run wedding business with our couples at the heart of everything we do. Situated in 100 acres of beautiful open countryside, our rustic Barn together with our very personal approach make our venue the perfect place for your dream day.

“We would be delighted to welcome you to Eden Barn, our unique and charming ‘rustic’ barn wedding venue. Come and have a tour of the Barn and picturesque grounds either virtually or in person and our family can talk you through how we can work with you to create your perfect wedding day at a price to suit most budgets.” – Eden Barn

Hidden River Cabins, Cumbria

Hidden River Barn is a newly built unique venue set in the stunning Cumbrian countryside. The barn sits has a stunning riverside location and has been designed to incorporate a rustic chic design with 11 chandeliers, a double roaring log fire, wood fired pizza oven and a stylish ceremony space. Couples can treat their guests to staying in one of the 5 luxury log cabins with hot tubs onsite and exclusively hire the site including the Hidden River House which can sleep up to 20 people with private hot tubs.

Skitby House, Cumbria

Skitby is licensed for Civil Ceremonies,and our quirky barn venue offers full exclusivity for your special day. We pride ourselves in our ability to offer a very personal and bespoke wedding planning experience and view the process as an exciting journey leading to your “Happily ever after!!” We ensure that you have a designated member of the team on hand throughout the day.

Sparth House, Lancashire

We like to think that we are the venue with serious personality, from our packages to our team our personality and love for weddings shine through. Just like other venues we have accommodation, grounds, beautiful spaces, awards but it is our personality and flair that sets us a part.

“Congratulations on your engagement, you must be so excited! Make sure to enjoy the initial wedding planning stages and focus on what you as a couple want from your wedding day!” – Olivia & Katie, Sparth House

The Glass House at Staining Lodge, Lancashire

Blending modern elegance with charm and romance The Glass House is a unique and neutral venue can be transformed into your theme but also looks beautiful with minimal styling. Twinkling fairylights, glittering crystal chandeliers, crisp modern lines and glass walls blend seamlessly with wooden beams and endless countryside views to capture the beautiful elegance of an English wedding.

“Congratulations on your engagement, now comes the exciting part of the planning process choosing your venue. This can be a daunting process but Bridebook is the perfect platform to help. The Glass House top tip is to trust your heart as well as weighing up the more practical pros and cons. During a viewing you should be able to visualise your wedding in the venue and get excited at the prospect of planning your special day there. One of The Glass House’s key features is its versatility and ability to showcase your vision and theme in a beautiful space. You won’t find distracting swirly carpets or curtains just fresh white walls, fairylit wooden beams, glittering chandeliers and expanses of glass with countryside views stretching for miles.” – Laura Cobain, The Glass House at Staining Lodge

The Swan, Cumbria

Nestled at the southern tip of Lake Windermere in the Lake District, The Swan is the perfect wedding venue for you and your loved ones to celebrate the most important day in your lives. The views are breathtakingly beautiful, and the hotel has a cosy yet glamorous feel, well suited to a range of weddings styles from quirky and vintage to elegant and glamorous.

“We are delighted that you have found your way to us and are interested in celebrating your very special day at The Swan! Nothing brings a smile to our face like seeing a happy couple tie the knot, and we understand it’s not just about the flowers and first dance, but all the details in between. From the day of your first meeting with our wedding coordinator to the day you say “I do” you will receive an excellent service from our team and we will together tailor the perfect day to suit your idea of how you want to celebrate this very special occasion.” – Hanna, The Swan

The Old Grammar School, Greater Manchester

The Old Grammar School is a beautiful, historic barn-like venue built from stone and oak. Only 10 minutes from Manchester city centre yet set in a secluded setting by a stream. Every wedding reception includes exclusive hire of the venue. For every wedding reception, absolutely everything is brought to the venue and set-up from scratch (the bar, kitchen, tables and chairs etc) enabling every wedding reception to be as unique as possible but without the big price tag. All of our menus etc are quoted specifically for each customer based on their number of guests enabling our customers to build their own package.

“If you are looking for a beautiful, characterful, friendly venue within the Manchester area we would love to hear from you. Please do get in touch to speak to us and to arrange a viewing” – The Old Grammar School

The Villa Wrea Green, Lancashire

The Villa Wrea Green is a quaint country house hotel set in the wonderful surroundings of rolling parkland and open fields in the Lancashire countryside. At The Villa you can have a bespoke wedding, The Hall is available for ceremonies and smaller wedding breakfast’s, a stunning purpose-built Pavilion is suitable for all occasions and our Piano Lounge is ideal for meeting and greeting your wedding guests. Our venue is furnished to a high quality standard and it has been delighting visitors for years, often inspiring them to return again and again.

“At The Villa Wrea Green you can be sure to capture those fairytale wedding moments and we are here to help make your dreams come true. You can be assured of a warm welcome from The Villa Team. Nothing is too much trouble and we pride ourselves on the high standards our guests have become accustomed to. Our highly experienced team includes a dedicated Wedding and Events Manager & Wedding Coordinator to advise, support and assist you in all aspects of planning your wedding to ensure your day is everything you want, and more. It is your day your way.” – Kathryn Dagger, The Villa Wrea Green

Stirk House Hotel, Lancashire

At Stirk House we combine the charm of the 16th Century building with a modern twist, so our couples have the best of both worlds for their photos. We also pride ourselves on the staff at the venue – “the whole experience from the day of booking through to the wedding day itself and beyond, the staff will go above and beyond to make your dream wedding day come true”.

“I am so excited to meet you all and discuss all things weddings! After a tough 2020, a wedding is something for you both to look forward to, and it’s the perfect time to start planning. Myself and the team at Stirk House have years of knowledge between us, and cannot wait to help with all aspects of the planning, and to answer all of your questions. We build amazing connections with all our couples, and you will usually find me crying at the back of the ceremony room too on your wedding day! We can accommodate both small intimate weddings, to huge parties for all your friends and family; either way, we will look after you throughout this whole process to make sure your day is tailored to you and your vision, so that you can have the day exactly how you want. We look forward to speaking with you soon to plan your special day!” – Danielle, Stirk House Hotel

The Castlefield Rooms, Greater Manchester

Our wedding event spaces are situated in the conservation area of Castlefield, located in the heart of Manchester City Centre, minutes from tram and train links and with ample parking for customers. Natural daylight floods all our spaces, some of which take their inspiration from the industrial heritage of Castlefield, and others which our architect designed and are unashamedly modern. We offer a wide range of menus specially created by our chefs at Alberts Shed.

“If you are looking for your perfect wedding venue in Manchester, look no further. Our venue has beautiful, contemporary spaces and award winning cuisine! There are no rules, we simply help you create the day of your dreams, we cater for everything from champagne and canapés to beer and bangers and mash! Nothing is too much trouble and please do not hesitate to pick up the phone and chat to us!” – The Castlefield Rooms

Grains Bar Hotel, Greater Manchester

The hotel is set in over 9 acres of beautiful Saddleworth countryside with incredible views across an open valley. With the original farmhouse buildings, now home to our ceremony chapel, being constructed in the 17th Century and with the recent addition of a reception hall, the Grains Bar Hotel is a perfect blend between rustic and modern. This diversity allows us to cater for weddings of all sizes, from intimate days for 10 to 150 evening guests, we have the space and versatility to provide all you need.

“The Grains Bar Hotel is so proud to have been nominated as a ‘Best of Britain’ Wedding Venue. Seriously, on behalf of Lisa, Louise and our dedicated wedding team, we owe a huge thank you to everyone who has supported us since 2017 and we are looking forward to the future and being a part of those precious days for many years to come. Since our first conversations about hosting weddings at the Grains Bar Hotel, it has been a passion to provide the best possible day to our couples. It’s something we are, and always will be working on, as we try to offer everything you need to help take the stress away from organising a wedding. This includes every member of our hardworking team, a dedicated wedding planner, an on-site florist & decor coordinator, talented chef, ‘Scenic’ Hairdressers & Beauticians and all our other trusted local suppliers.” – Grains Bar Hotel

The Hayloft, Cumbria

Set within the stunning Lorton Valley, New House Farm is a dream venue offering uninterrupted views down towards Buttermere and beyond. Dating back to 1650 and with a capacity of 130, The Hayloft is a complete blank canvas ready for you to create the wedding of your dreams, exactly as you wish. Coupled with the newly

“Hello to all newly engaged couples and a huge Congratulations on the start of your new life together. My team and I can’t wait to help make your wedding dreams come true. I look forward to hearing from you.” – Hazel

Knowsley Hall, Merseyside

We are the only authentic stately home in Merseyside and one of the few stately homes operating as an event venue that have strong backing and influence of their owners especially an Earl & Countess. Their high standards in quality, service and excellence are invaluable to the team who strive to deliver a 5* service each and every time. This quality and professionalism can be seen evidently from the 5* reviews we receive on Facebook and questionnaire feedback. We have also won many accolades from, Best Wedding Venue in Merseyside for the 4th year running by County Brides, to the most recent regional award for Best Historic Venue by The Wedding Industry Awards 2021. Everything we do we take pride in and is managed directly in house by a dedicated and passionate team. From our very own housekeeping, gardener’s, chefs using fresh produce grown on the Knowsley estate, to the running of a slick and seamless event. Our aim is to deliver the most memorable and wonderful experience to each and every guest who enters our doors.

“My wedding was one of the best days of my life and now, my husband and I invite you to celebrate your big day in our home, Knowsley Hall. All weddings held here have one thing in common; they all provide a truly memorable experience to be cherished by all involved.” – The Countess of Derby

Manchester Hall, Greater Manchester

Our stunning grade II listed building situated in the heart of Manchester city centre, boasts 13 suites including Manchester largest rooftop terrace and 8 guest bedrooms onsite. Combining glamorous 1920’s architecture with 21st century cutting edge design, we are a hidden gem in the city. Our recent restoration has seen a full refurbishment of stunning original features, making this the beautiful setting for you and your guests to celebrate this special occasion. This is the ultimate venue for those seeking an elegant urban grandeur never seen before in Manchester and with a licence to hold civil weddings and civil partnership ceremonies, your whole day can be planned around the one venue, ensuring your guests a day to remember.

“Our reputation has grown due to our personal service and exquisite food and we would love to invite you in to see our beautiful spaces and to discuss your wedding in greater detail. If you choose to visit us, we will take all of your ideas and plans and can add and assist as much as you need including suppliers that best suit your style. We hope you love the venue just as much as we do and hope to be part of your special day. With love, Kelsey & Ritchie”

The Venue at the Royal Liver Building, Merseyside

Panoramic views over the River Mersey and a prime location on Liverpool’s world-famous waterfront; The Venue at the Royal Liver Building offers an impressive setting for every occasion. The contemporary white interior offers a complete blank canvas space with a polished finish that easily transforms into your vision, making it the perfect backdrop for your perfect day. This unique wedding venue provides the perfect space for ceremonies and receptions at Liverpool’ most iconic venue, in the heart of the city. The Venue can seat up to 160 people for vows and up to 200 people for a wedding reception and evening party and is licensed for ceremonies, civil ceremonies and civil partnerships. Say I DO in the Royal Liver Building with unforgettable views whilst you take your vows. If you love Liverpool, there’s no better place to be.

“Did you know you can get married in The Royal Liver Building? Here at The Venue we will tailor a classically stunning Wedding package just for you, and turn your day into the weddding of the year. Plus your will be celebrating in one of the most iconic buildings in the City.” – The Venue Team

BW Cresta Court, Greater Manchester

A very experienced and super friendly team, always on hand when you need. We can tailor packages to suite your budget and ideas. Your wedding your way.

Foxfields Country Hotel, Lancashire

Complete with an 18-hole golf course, spa and several on-site dining options, Linden Hall offers a fully immersive retreat for your wedding stay.

The Casterton Grange Estate, Cumbria

Function suites…

The Astley Bank Hotel & Wedding Venue, Lancashire

Intimate ceremonies can take place in the manor’s conservatory with a panoramic view of the manicured grounds.

Macdonald Kilhey Court Hotel, Greater Manchester

Macdonald Linden Hall Golf & Country Club rests within 450 acres of park and woodland in the heart of Northumberland. Just 24 miles from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Linden Hall is a natural oasis of calm away from the bustling city. You will be captivated before reaching the end of the quarter mile, tree-lined driveway where this Georgian Grade II mansion house awaits you.

Castle Green Hotel, Cumbria

The interiors radiate charm and sophistication with luxurious furnishings, period features and roaring logs fires in the winter. With grand stone masonry, a sweeping staircase and dome skylight, your photographer will be spoilt for choice.

Macdonald Manchester Hotel & Spa, Greater Manchester

The manicured lawns provide the perfect setting for an outdoors ceremony or a garden drinks reception. Bursts of colour from seasonal blooms provide the perfect backdrop all year round.

Trafford Hall Hotel, Greater Manchester

We have several function suites for you to choose from and our coordinators will guide you, led by your vision for the perfect day.

Weddings at The University of Manchester, Greater Manchester

The University of Manchester boasts some of the most stunning and iconic venues within Manchester and the north-west that provide the perfect backdrop to a memorable day. From an original library, a Hogwarts-style Great Hall, and Stan the T-Rex in our Manchester Museum – we’e got something a great collection of venues to offer something for everyone. Whether you studied at Manchester or not, we’ve got everything to go provide forever last memories!

“We understand that your wedding day is a truly unique and memorable occasion and we’re on hand to ensure it’s just that. Our team has a wide range and depth of experience and knowledge collected over the years that we use help every couple make their special day everything that it means to them. It would be a pleasure to host your special day.” – Adam Woof

West Tower Exclusive Wedding Venue, Lancashire

With 27 guest rooms in addition to a stunning Bridal Suite and state-of-the-art Cristal Suite dressing room our Country House has everything you could ever want for your wedding day and more. Our ten acres of grounds which are exclusively yours for the day include a magical woodland walk and extensive gardens with uninterrupted views of the Lancashire countryside. Our Ballroom which can accommodate up to 145 daytime and 250 evening guests is elegantly styled in a neutral decor to complement any wedding day theme.

“Winning County Brides Best Wedding Venue Lancashire for an unprecedented 10 consecutive years is testament to the fantastic team we have; every single person goes above and beyond to consistently exceed expectations ensuring that you have the wedding day you’ve always dreamed of. Our friendly dedicated team are with you every step of the way from the moment you walk through our doors.”

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Best of Britain – Wales

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in Wales.

Glyngynwydd Wedding Barn, Powys

From simple rustic charm to flamboyant and breath-taking; we provide a blank canvas that can be adapted to suit any budget and taste whether it’s festival, vintage or just a little different.

“Huge congratulations on your engagement and thank you for your interest in Glyngynwydd. We offer a relaxed approach to planning your wedding without pages of things you can’t do. It’s your day and we strive to make it everything you could wish for. We’re a family run business offering a relaxed, hands off approach, giving you the flexibility to tailor every part of your day, your way.” – Carla, Glyngynwydd Wedding Barn

Bron Eifion Country House Hotel, Gwynedd

Bron Eifion is an extremely impressive Grade II Listed Country Manor House. It exudes lots of elegance and charm whilst providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere within, where friends and family can relax and enjoy. The stunning gardens and fabulous sea views, along with the benefit of being only a stone’s throw away from the Beach and a historical castle, provides all the elements to make Bron Eifion a truly unique and beautiful wedding venue.

“2020 has been the ultimate challenge for all couples trying to plan their big day. Whilst some uncertainty will remain for a while the future does looks brighter and more hopeful and here at Bron Eifion our aims and focus will always be on planning your day with you to ensure we meet your wishes and desires whilst being flexible enough to manage and change things if needed, and certainly without compromising your expectations, which is to provide you with your Perfect Wedding Day.” – Mary, Bron Eifion Country House Hotel

Highfield Hall, Flintshire

Highfield is a family country house, small enough to give complete exclusive use with amazing gardens for outside weddings, and traditional rooms with a modern feel for inside weddings, and receptions all with a warm friendly personal touch to make each wedding as special as each of our couples.

“We live, breathe and dream weddings. We are in this business because its what we love to do.. There is nothing better than at the end of a day a couple saying they had their perfect day and it was everything they hoped for and more. Contact us to share your ideas with us so we can help create YOUR perfect day.” – Lorraine, Highfield Hall

Tower Hill Barns, Denbighshire

Tower Hill Barns is a countryside barn where incredible weddings happen! With indoor and outdoor ceremony areas, an outdoor bar and firepits, expansive grounds and a rustic barn-inspired dining hall, our venue has been designed with breathtaking weddings in mind. From your ceremony to the just married celebratory drinks, to your wedding breakfast and then on to your epic night party, your day will flow seamlessly. Our passionate Welsh hospitality means you don’t have to worry about a thing we’re here to help you create a day you and your guests will talk about forever. And from the time you book a viewing until you float down the drive on that newlywed cloud of happiness, our wedding managers have you covered every step of the way. Plus, we’ll help you break bread, raise a glass, and toast your guests with mouth-watering food and expertly mixed cocktails. You’ll soon find that here in North Wales you might come as strangers, but you’ll leave as friends with warm hearts, full bellies, and a full cup of memories worthy of your most special day!

“We get it – finding a venue can be daunting right?! Honestly, there’s no need to worry – we’ll look after you. Come and see us for a personal tour when we can chat as friends. No question is too silly to ask – we know you’ve never done this before but we have, so you are in safe hands. We will talk you through all the possibilities for your wedding day and we love hearing all about your plans. The best bit for us is seeing how we can make your dreams come alive, so that you can have a wedding as unique as you are.” – Tower Hill Barns

Pentre Mawr Country House, Denbighshire

Each time we see a couple they say how they loved the look of Pentre Mawr with all its different places to marry, it’s lovely gardens for photos but most of all the total freedom to do whatever they please on their wedding day. If you have the ideas then we love to say “Yes!” as this is the only word you want to hear!

“Thank you so much for choosing Pentre Mawr for your special day. The kettle is always on here and you know that if you want to bring your gang around there’ll be a tray with cake and coffee waiting. We’re here for you, most of all give you time and help you through to your most wonderful wedding day.” – Nina

Craig Y Nos Castle, Powys

Craig Y Nos Castle boasts its own Grade Two Opera House, ideal for Wedding Ceremonies. With the Theatre for your Ceremony and Conservatory to hold your Wedding Reception and Function Room for your Evening Entertainment, why go anywhere else. We have 4 Wedding Planners and a wide range of Wedding Packages, to ensure that we can tailor-make your day. We also have ample accommodation to meet the biggest of Wedding parties. Excellent grounds for ample photography ideas. Award-Winning Welsh Wedding Venue.

“Contact Craig Y Nos Castle, to be put in touch with one of our Wedding Planners to discuss your special day. Each Wedding Planner has many years of experience and we plan over 80 weddings a year, from small intimate weddings to our VIP weddings over 2 days. I am sure that Craig Y Nos Castle will have something to make your day special.”

Talhenbont Hall, Gwynedd

Our venue is unique as it offers couples the historic Elizabethan Manor House, a beautiful Grade II Listed Coach House and a stunning outdoor pergoda overlooking the River Dwyfach. We are in a beautiful part of the World, the Llyn Peninsula and are based just 2 miles from the sea & beach. All of our couples have exclusivity of the whole Estate when they marry with us. We are a small family business and every wedding with us is unique.

“We love hosting weddings on our private country Estate. We are heavily involved in the planning and delivery of your day, making sure everything is just as you planned it!” – Alicia

The Barn at Brynich, Powys

At Brynich we aim to offer you a relaxed and enjoyable wedding that is tailored to your needs. Our friendly, unpretentious approach means you can arrange your weekend the way you want. The Barn at Brynich is a stunning Grade II listed building, refurbished to the highest standards. With its original oak beams, open fireplace and flagstone floor, The Barn will be a truly unique setting for your wedding day. Our five star self-catering accommodation sleeps up to 22 of your guests for the whole weekend – giving you space and time with your friends and family to make the most of the delightful setting and this important occasion.

“Thank you for your interest in Brynich. We are a family run venue and limit the number of bookings each year, so that we can give each couple the time and attention they need and deserve! We pride ourselves on our friendly, attentive and enthusiastic service and our team here will help plan your special day and make it perfect in every way.” – Cath

Woodbank House, Monmouthshire

Our breathtaking views of the Usk Valley and River Usk makes it a perfect back drop for memorable photos in years to come. Choose to have your Welcome drinks on our terraces or in our formal gardens then dance until midnight in our Main Hall while our on-site wedding coordinator ensures the day runs perfectly. Our 5* Visit Wales accommodation means that close family and friends can stay the night. Our location off the M4 makes the venue easily accessible for all the guests. We can also tailor your package to include a civil ceremony, bridesmaid/groomsmen accommodation, rehearsal dinner and our very popular celebratory stays which include additional days wrapped around your special day.

“My ethos is that every couple is unique and we will work with you to create a bespoke wedding that suits you. We limit our weddings to a select few every year. I can provide experienced guidance and tips to help create a stress free and perfect day for you and all your friends and family. Woodbank House and it’s breathtaking views of the Usk Valley will provide a beautiful back drop for your photos so that you can take your memories home with you and remember the day forever.” – Bess

Plas Dinam Country House, Powys

Here, at Plas Dinam you have the freedom to make the house your own for the duration of your wedding weekend. It’s stylish yet intimate, and completely and utterly yours to enjoy. Let your imagination run wild! Overflowing with colourful blooms, an abundance of greenery and endless views over the hills and wild flower meadows, the lawns and gardens offer a wonderful setting for you and your guests to sip champagne and nibble on canapés after your ceremony. Old fused with new, the Victorian Stables are unique, authentic and full of character. Featuring a glass roofed courtyard bounded by stables with the most fabulous original tiles and unique lighting, it is a truly epic space.

“Welcome to Plas Dinam!! Plas Dinam was my family home, so I know it well! We love seeing it full of love and happiness and buzzing with life. You will have complete exclusivity of the house and the grounds for at least two days, which includes an indoor or outdoor wedding ceremony, a drinks reception and wedding breakfast, followed by your evening party. Our flexible and accommodating approach means we don’t charge corkage, offering a huge saving! We want you and your guests to have an amazing stay at our magnificent country house in Mid Wales, providing you with garden games, a fire pit, pizza oven, tennis court, treasure hunts and walks over the hills. A perfect place for your wedding weekend!”

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Best of Britain – North East

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in the North East.

Ellingham Hall, Northumberland

Our venue specialises in a two-night fully exclusive wedding experience which goes beyond the traditional one day in and out wedding.

“A big hello and congratulations from everyone at Ellingham Hall – we’re delighted you’re potentially interested in an Ellingham Hall wedding. At the venue we have so much to offer, but our number one priority is ensuring you have the most memorable two-night wedding experience possible. We also pride ourselves in making sure your wedding journey is as enjoyable and relaxing as possible! If you have any questions or you’d like further information – just drop us an email on info@ellingham-hall.co.uk or pick up the phone 01665 568118!” – Rachel, Ellingham Hall

Shotton Grange, Tyne and Wear

Shotton Grange is a beautiful Georgian manor house perfectly located less than 5 miles from Newcastle City Centre, tucked away in 6 acres of Northumberland woodland. Our style is quintessentially Northumberland with a modern touch, ideal for couples looking a venue that will suite a celebration for family and friends of any age. We believe that your wedding day should be personalised as much as possible which is why we encourage you to customise your drinks options and give your guests choices for their wedding breakfast.

“Congratulations on your engagement! We are so delighted that you have decided to celebrate your wedding in the northeast. This corner of the country is not only beautiful, but also spoiled for choice when it comes to your wedding. Our biggest piece of advice is to make a shortlist of venues and tour the northeast visiting a few of your favourites. Every wedding venue you visit will help add another piece of the puzzle as you learn what you want and do not want for your wedding experience. Eventually, one will slowly emerge as the venue you compare all others to; one will simply feel right. Regardless of where you choose to marry, we hope you enjoy the planning process and start your married life together at the wedding venue perfect for you. Happy wedding planning!” – Shotton Grange

The Barn on The Bay, Northumberland

The Barn on The Bay we can offer a truly flexible outdoor wedding experience with beachside and paddock ceremony areas all with the confidence of our large wedding barn and a smaller, more intimate stone barn.

Add in accommodation, glamping, beach camping, alpacas and farm touches like the vintage tractor and we believe we have a unique place on the Northumbrian coastline.

“Our team can’t wait to meet you! We have a co-ordination team who are all involved in your big day and we start to get to know you from the very beginning of your planning journey. You’ll then be invited to social events and couples open days in the build-up to your wedding and you’ll even mark your stay here permanently at our tree planting ceremony.” – Alison & Phil

Charlton Hall, Northumberland

Charlton Hall is a private Grade II listed, 18th century hall located on a private 150-acre country in Northumberland. Charlton Hall is a stately home wedding venue that looks out towards the coast and enjoys uninterrupted views across our secluded estate. Charlton Hall is the perfect exclusive wedding venue for your ceremony and wedding reception with three reception areas, two bars, magnificent grounds and 20 bedrooms on site.

“We are delighted that both Doxford Barns and Charlton Hall have been nominated to be part of the Best of British Campaign. Our dedicated team work incredibly hard to ensure all our couples have their dream day and we couldn’t be prouder that our venues have been recognised as some of the best in Britain!” – Jess Lilley!

Doxford Barns, Northumberland

Doxford Barns is an award-winning barn wedding venue in Northumberland. We specialise in delivering exclusive long weekend weddings, as well as single day weddings on our private country estate.

Standing proudly amongst 550 acres of rolling green fields lies our stunning barn wedding venue – Doxford Barns. Set within our private country estate, Doxford Barns is available on a completely exclusive basis to you and your guests.

Macdonald Linden Hall Hotel, Northumberland

Our History, your future…

“I have an unrelenting commitment to perfection and personal service, and with hundreds of exquisite weddings under my belt I will ensure your wedding doesn’t fall short of perfection. In the past my couples have voted me North of England Wedding Coordinator of the year 3 times! I can’t wait to meet you and hear your vision, See you soon x” – Tanya

Woodhill Hall, Northumberland

Entirely Exclusive, Utterly Unforgettable. Woodhill is a beautiful wedding venue dating back to the Georgian times that has been redeveloped into one of the best wedding venues in the North- East. Nestled in a 100 acres with a quarter of a mile tree lined drive, Woodhill offers two night three day weddings, unrushed and as individual as you are. We have 16 uniquely designed bedrooms at Woodhill along with three party spaces. From our exciting new Ceremony space, The Olive House to our light filled Orangery to our rustic tepees, we offer a choice for you and your guests to savour three different experiences during their stay. We have a friendly and highly creative wedding team that can deliver your dream day.

“Woodhill is a family run business with a dedicated and enthusiastic team that work tirelessly to ensure that you have your dream wedding. We are creative group of people who just LOVE weddings and the hard work and fun that goes into planning one of the most memorable days of your life. We have a beautiful romantic relaxed venue where we offer 2 night / 3 day of unrushed wedding celebrations so make an appointment and see what everyone is talking about.”

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Best of Britain – Scotland

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in Scotland.

Altskeith Country House on Loch Ard, Stirling

Altskeith Country House is such a special place. If you want your wedding day to be magical, unique, relaxed with a house party vibe this is the place for you. Exclusive use whatever size of wedding, spectacular views to create those life long memories, a true photographer’s dream, a retreat to stay overnight and spend quality time with those people who hold a special place in your life.

“Congratulations you are now planning the most exciting party of your life, your wedding day. You can now start to plan the wedding of your dreams. Finding your venue and setting the date is the first part of the adventure. We would love to hear your ideas and dreams for your wedding day to see if we would be a match. To describe us in 3 words: Unique Romantic Exclusive. We wish you much fun and adventure planning your special day.” – Alison, Altskeith Country House on Loch Ard

Broxmouth Park, East Lothian

Exciting news! East Lothian’s historic Broxmouth Park has big plans to restore its courtyard into a rustic, yet ultra-luxury space, tailor-made for weddings, which will be completed by November 2021. The venue will benefit from a stunning and proud ceremony chapel, separate wedding function gallery, exclusive bar facilities, plus a picturesque outdoor courtyard for your dreamy drinks receptions. There’ll even be a bridal preparation lounge! Additionally, this spectacular development will also be complemented by seven beautifully appointed self-catering cottages with accommodation for up to 40 guests – we say, roll on November 2021!

“After a decade of proudly delivering and planning hundreds of weddings for luxury venues throughout Scotland and receiving four Scottish VOWS and Scottish Hotel Awards, I have finally settled at Broxmouth Park and I am delighted to be your dedicated resident Wedding Venue Planner! Will you allow me to let you in on a secret? I’ve fallen in love with Broxmouth myself too! Most of our clients are inspired by the tranquillity and natural beauty of our country estate, coupled with attention to detail and stress-free approach, leaving them to enjoy the fun parts of wedding planning and making the most of the time with their guests on the wedding day! Would you like to find our more? Contact me today at oskar@broxmouth.com” – Oskar, Broxmouth Park

Newhall Estate, Midlothian

A family home until 2018, Newhall has retained its unpretentious charm and relaxed feel in spite of the luxurious renovations which have taken place throughout the house. Situated just 30 minutes from Edinburgh, the magic of the Estate transports you to another world entirely which you and your guests (accommodation for up to 40, hosting space for 160) can enjoy at your leisure. Whether spotting fairies in the glen, enjoying a sundowner in the lyrical walled garden or settling in beside one of the roaring fires, Newhall is a place for generations to share.

“The Estate is offered on a weekend basis, with a no rush service to ensure that everyone has ample time to enjoy the glorious surroundings. As a family owned and run business, the Kennedy’s want you to feel at home; they aspire for you to be comfortable walking around in your wedding dress, or your pyjamas!” – Newhall Estate

Old Course Hotel Golf Resort and Spa, Fife

The Old Course Hotel is synonymous with luxury and elegance, with unbeatable views and a feeling of a destination wedding. We have a variety of spaces available for your dream wedding and can offer flexibility dependent on your numbers. Our team of award-winning chefs are ready to help you create your dream menu accompanied by fines wines, and we can offer accommodation for you and your guests in our stunning rooms and suites. St Andrews is the ultimate romantic destination.

“We love weddings and are here to help you throughout the process making it a 5-star experience. Our specialist team have a little black book full of dream teams of suppliers who will do everything they can to make your wedding magical. We look forward to helping you write the first chapter of your married life together…” – Old Course Hotel Golf Resort

Borthwick Castle, Midlothian

Borthwick Castle , Exclusively yours, steeped in authentic style, understated luxury and unparalleled intimacy in service. With no set rules The Borthwick team will bring to life your very own hopes and dreams for your Scottish Castle Wedding.

Kippilaw House, Scottish Borders

A welcoming bespoke Castle sized Mansion, where you have the whole place to yourselves, with fabulous food & drinks. We have a relaxed ethos and not a production line place. At Kippilaw we help create your dream wedding with lots of fun and freedom. Beautiful Reception Rooms & Fabulous Bar with Outdoor seating on veranda Terrace leading into the Rose garden and onto private woodland with an ancient tree.

“Your wedding is an exciting adventure and we are here to help you. “Take your time and keep an open mind, and remember to get what you want “

Holiday Inn Glasgow East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire

An excellent venue that can host both your wedding ceremony and your celebrations and also host your wedding guests at discounted rates.

“Have the perfect wedding day at one special venue… Our spacious banquet room makes the ideal setting for your wedding breakfast and reception. Please contact us for more information about how we can help make your day truly special. Set in the leafy town of East Kilbride,Set in the leafy town of East Kilbride the hotel grounds have a beautiful decked area with ornamental pond – a picture perfect spot which offers the ideal backdrop for your wedding photos. Our meticulous Wedding Co-ordinators and impressive facilities help personalise your day to make it everything you’d ever planned. With a private red carpet entrance, air conditioning, large windows providing plenty of daylight, unique portable dance floor and a private bar & foyer area, it’s perfect for drink receptions. We can cater for large weddings (up to 260 guests) and for more intimate celebrations in the Suite, which can host up to 90 guests and has its own lobby area & bar. The lovely grounds of the hotel have a beautiful decked area with an ornamental pond – a picture perfect spot which offers the ideal backdrop for your wedding photos. And if the Scottish weather does not co-operate on the day, we have plenty of indoor space as an alternative.” – Julie-anne Passey

Macdonald Inchyra Hotel and Spa, Falkirk

Ceremonies for up to 120 guests are best arranged in the striking Adamson Suite where wooden beams are adorned with romantic fairy lights.

Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa, Scottish Borders

Smaller parties may use the highly recommended Drawing Room where dual aspect windows overlook the pretty manicured garden and a glittering chandelier sits proudly overhead. A grand piano in this room is available for you to use and the marble fireplace is ideal for inside group photographs.

Coul House Hotel, Highland

The largest room, accommodating up to 200 people is the Bigge Suite, typically used for Wedding Breakfasts and Evening Receptions. This former coach house is popular for its grand appearance and complete with double doors that open the room up to greenery and fresh air.

Macdonald Holyrood Hotel, Midlothian

Romance blossoms in the historic old town of Edinburgh, with its picturesque location in the country’s capital, Macdonald Holyrood Hotel is the ideal venue for a Scottish wedding. Offering luxury accommodation, a health and beauty spa, fantastic food and drink, elegant wedding suites and beautiful photogenic surroundings, this citycentre hotel will make your big day one to remember.

“I’m glad we caught your eye! Edinburgh’s Old Town is full of history and romance, I truly believe it’s the perfect location for a luxurious Scottish wedding. I would be delighted to invite you to the hotel to discuss your tailored wedding package, and the finishing touches that will make your dream day come true!”

Myres Castle, Fife

Myres Castle is an award winning Scottish wedding venue with a difference. The 44 beautiful acres will be exclusively yours, there are rose gardens, fountains, lawns, woodlands and the unique larch Barnquee and Applestore chapel. Everything is included for your weekend, up to 24 guests can stay in the luxury castle, stunning bedrooms and bathrooms, delicious meals and wine – a weekend to be remembered! Myres is easy to get to, we are in the Kingdom of Fife with speedy access to Edinburgh airport and a main line station 4 miles away.

“If you are looking for a dreamy venue to enchant your family and guests then Myres Castle, with its unique blend of ancient, rustic and spectacular is the place for you. With an unparalleled setting and outstanding service, you will have the freedom to decide how you want to do things with constant help if you need it from the dedicated and caring Myres team.”

The Lodge on Loch Goil, Argyll and Bute

Over the past 20 years we have arranged many small weddings & elopements at The Lodge on Loch Goil. If you want to elope somewhere beautiful and completely breath taking, then there is nowhere else in the world you could wish to do so than here…. You can use the beauty of nature as your venue. You really can’t beat the mountains that are overlooking the sea and when the fog rolls in it just makes everything so much more dramatic. Is there anything more intoxicating than the idea of eloping? The act of stripping everything back to what truly matters… You and your beloved, your promises, your passion is superbly simple but romantic, and these elopements will certainly leave you weak at the knees. Get ready to exhale as we share some incredibly stylish and utterly adorable couples who decided to elope to “Bonny Scotland”.

“If you are deliberating over whether or not to elope or if you ever wondered what eloping actually involves… When you only have eyes for each other, which is just as it should be, and look breath taking against the beautiful backdrop of the Scottish Mountains… First things first, Scotland is a land of mountains and lochs.
Many of the most beautiful locations in the world are here, but remember… The weather in this part of the country can be completely different to what you find in other parts of the UK and
it’s not uncommon to have 4 seasons in one day. But not to worry, that cosy log fire roaring in our Summerhouse, that is so much more inviting after your wedding meal served in our spectacular famous Treehouse… If you are brave and want to escape from the large traditional weddings, then why not elope to the beautiful
Lodge on Loch Goil, a little piece of heaven…”

Logie Country House & Estate, Aberdeenshire

Logie Country House Exclusive Use Wedding Venue is a multi award winning Aberdeenshire 1680s Country House. It has a stunning purpose built ballroom for up to 160 day guests and a dining room in the main house for up to 50 day guests. The house has 17 bedrooms and sleeps up to 50. It is available for three day and night weekend wedding celebrations or two days mid week. With an indoor infinity pool, hot tubs, a salmon river across the front lawn and a private island, your wedding will be a celebration to remember.

“Stef and Tim rebuilt Logie Country House from a ruin in 2009 and have poured their heart & soul into making this stunning house the multi award winning venue it is today. Look at our reviews on TripAdvisor, Yelp, Google and many more to get a better feel of what we offer.”

Macdonald Houstoun House, West Lothian

Pose for pictures in the beautiful walled gardens, dine on award-winning cuisine prepared by our fantastic chefs and spend your wedding night in one of our beautiful bridal suites. Host your drinks reception in one of several elegant function rooms or gardens and, for a truly unforgettable wedding, book our Houstoun Suite – a ballroom which can host up to 200 guests.

“Congratulations on your engagement! Here at Macdonald Houstoun House, we believe that every couple is unique – with our flexible and bespoke packages we can ensure that your wedding day will be as unique and special as you are. We would love to meet with you and discuss your dreams for your day. Get in touch with one of our specialist wedding team to arrange a viewing of the venue.” – Linsey

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Best of Britain – Northern Ireland

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in Northern Ireland.

Ballyscullion Park, County Londonderry

Ballyscullion Park is a private stately home which offers exclusive use of its beautiful historic gardens and grounds for your wedding ceremony and reception. Ballyscullion Park is family run venue which ensures a very warm and personal welcome, with relaxed elegance with a very couple-focused approach. Our beautifully landscaped grounds and stunning scenery will cast a spell over the most special day of your lives. Multi-award-winning Ballyscullion Park is one of the best luxury five-star wedding venues in Northern Ireland. Hosting any size of wedding from small intimate weddings, to up to 250 guests, at Ballyscullion Park you can celebrate your wedding ceremony and reception in one beautiful location. A perfect exclusive use wedding venue where you can take your vows, dazzle your guests, and create everlasting memories.

“At Ballyscullion Park, we only offer private exclusive weddings – they are our speciality. From the moment you book, and throughout your wedding day, the whole team will be there just for you. You have exclusive use of the entire venue for your big day, allowing you to mould it exactly how you wish. With total control, comes total flexibility, making every wedding unique. By limiting the number of weddings held here each year, we ensure that Ballyscullion Park is still something of a best kept secret. Having our undivided attention means that you receive the very best wedding planning service and personal assistance from our expert team start to finish.” -Rosalind, Ballyscullion Park

Larchfield Estate, Antrim

Larchfield Estate is a privately owned Estate, based in the heart of the Co. Down countryside in Northern Ireland. At Larchfield Estate, we believe that couples should be able to create the most memorable day, unique to them, and our in-house wedding coordinators are on hand to help our couples right from the moment of the initial enquiry and throughout their wedding journey. We love getting to know our couples, understanding how their dream day will look, and knowing all of the little details that are important to them for their day. With a venue spanning across several acres including beautiful Walled Gardens and a private lake (providing a backdrop for the most spectacular photographs!), we host large celebrations as well as more intimate wedding days.

“At Larchfield Estate we simply love getting to know you right from your very first enquiry – we are here to help you create the most memorable day that is unique to you, taking care of the little details, and paying attention to what is most important to you. Drop us a line via the Bridebook enquiry form, and a member of our team will be in touch with some additional information. Please do leave your phone number if you would like us to give you a call – we love to chat! If you think we are the right fit for you, we would love to welcome you to Larchfield Estate for a viewing in person. If you are based overseas or unable to make it to visit us, just let us know and we can arrange to provide a tour via video call instead!” – Larchfield Estate

Breckenhill, County Antrim

Breckenhill offers a venue with complete freedom to create your own day, and stamp your character and taste on a blank canvas (though a very pretty one to start with!) It is set in the rolling hills of south Antrim, a beautiful rural area, only 30 minutes from the centre of Belfast. Breckenhill’s gardens and landscape have been carefully developed over 30 years of extensive tree-planting and garden creation and restoration and now provide multiple outdoor spaces which we use for outdoor ceremonies, photographs and for guests to enjoy. Everyone always says how relaxed they feel here, and that it does feel like their own place for the day. Breckenhill has two main buildings (The Stone Barn and the Green Barn) with several different-sized spaces and these provide couples with incredible scope to plan their ideal day. We believe that this flexible space is so much more attractive to couples than the single room offered by many venues. At Breckenhill we also try to offer as much as we can that couples need for their wedding day to reduce the amount of equipment that they have to hire in. We have a lot of very suitable rustic decor, curtain drapes and lights, wooden tables and chairs, a PA system, garden games and lots more.

“If you are looking for a unique, private, and tranquil venue for your special day, with the space, freedom and flexibility to bring your creative vision to life, come and see us at Breckenhill.” – David

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Best of Britain – East of England

Britain has the best wedding venues in the world. Our Best of Britain campaign is here to celebrate just that. Check out the top venues in the East of England.

Hedingham Castle, Essex

Thank you for your interest in Hedingham Castle. Steeped in 900 years of history and with effortless romantic appeal, we have the perfect fairytale setting for your happily ever after. We are exclusively yours for as long as you wish, be it the whole day or the whole weekend, with many options to tailor your day to suit your wishes perfectly. We look forward to meeting you soon and making your dreams come true.

“Hedingham Castle is an unforgettable wedding venue setting for all styles of celebration. We host exclusive weddings each as individual as the couple at the heart of them.” – Demetra, Hedingham Castle

Micklefield Hall, Hertfordshire

Micklefield Hall is a totally exclusive venue, allowing you and your guests to enjoy the splendour of the our historic buildings, in total privacy.

“It has been such a tough year for everyone and especially couples wanting to get married and start their new lives together. We have worked tirelessly to support our couples through the ever.” – Jennifer, Micklefield Hall

Curdshall Barn, Norfolk

Our picturesque Norfolk wedding venue surrounded by parkland, offers everything you can dream of to ensure a memorable experience for you and your guests.

“We would love to be able to help you with your wedding plans and host your celebrations.” – Kevin, Curdshall Barn

Smeetham Hall Barn, Essex

Smeetham Hall Barn is an authentic rural English Barn wedding venue – a 16th century, beautifully converted and tastefully decorated building that creates the most romantic wedding venue in Essex. The venue and grounds offer incredible photo opportunities and a stunning location to begin married life. Hugely popular wedding packages include the venue fee, catering, the DJ for your evening party and a wedding video – removing the stress and strain of couples having to find their own reliable suppliers. Ideal for small and large weddings, the Barn can accommodate up to 150 guests for the ceremony and wedding breakfast and up to 250 for the evening party with a large dancefloor close to the bar. Personalised wedding planning advice and support based on 20 years of experience in delivering the day couples dream of – see the Reviews on our website.

“Since 1906, Smeetham Hall has been our family home and now our family would like towarmly welcome yours to join us for your wedding day. We have hosted weddings for 20 years and we are more convinced than ever that your wedding day should be one of the best days of your life! Sophie and I look forward to welcoming you here and working with you in the lead-up and planning of your wedding day to ensure every detail is taken care of. We are happy to be on hand to give advice and support, to answer any questions and to show you around the venue as many times as you like.
Please contact us to arrange a visit or ask any questions you may have. We look forward to playing our part in your special day!” – Bridget, Smeetham Hall Barn

Alpheton Hall Barns, Suffolk

Alpheton Hall Barns are part of an ancient settlement which includes Alpheton Church, all set at the end of a no through road and surrounded by rolling Suffolk countryside. The Barns are an exclusive use blank canvas venue but with a host of added extras so that all you need to add is your choice of friends, food, entertainment, and a little decorative flair to make your day your own!

“We are no ordinary venue. Alpheton Hall Barns is a family owned business and Nic and I (Carol) have been helping couples to host their weddings for over 10 years now. Whilst we are a blank canvas venue we are happy to offer as little or as much help and advice (and a sprinkling of crazy ideas) as you want or need to make sure you get the day you are dreaming of!” – Carol and Nic Willcocks, Alpheton Hall Barns

Kimberley Hall, Norfolk

Unlike most venues, Kimberley is privately owned and exclusively yours for the duration of your hire. It is set in the most beautiful parkland with a vast lake that reflects Norfolk’s spectacular sunsets and skies. It has a multitude of interesting spaces that can be utilised throughout the seasons, ensuring your day is truly memorable.

“Kimberley has played host to multiple gatherings over the years and as the current custodians of this magnificent family home, it is an honour to share these historic spaces and spectacular landscape with you and your guests.” – Robbie & Iona, Kimberley Hall

Moor Park Golf Club, Hertfordshire

From Lords to Dukes and even Kings, Moor Park over the last 300 years has always been a home for the most spectacular celebrations. The stunning 17th architecture, bespoke menus and various sized private rooms to fit your needs perfectly. Moor Park offers you a one of a kind venue creating a magical setting to get married in style. But don’t just take our word for it… Become part of the history, experience the magic for yourself and start your happily ever after.

“We are here to make your special day as magical and breath-taking as our venue. We will stun your guests the moment they enter and there is no doubt of extraordinary photo’s to look back on for the rest of your lives. So whether you are planning a micro-wedding, civil ceremony, religious ceremony or wedding reception we would be delighted to hear from you and guide you and your partner on this important journey as you start your married lives together.” – Moor Park Golf Club

The Old House, Rochford, Essex

Our beautiful medieval Old House is located in the heart of historic Rochford, Essex and still boasts many of its original features, including hammer beam ceiling and alter inspired fireplace. Also offering garden space for photographs, a suite to get ready ahead of the ceremony and reception rooms to toast the happy couple, the Old House is perfect for intimate ceremonies.

“Hello, I’m Elizabeth and I look forward to discussing your special day with you with us here at the Old House, Rochford.” – Elizabeth, The Old House

Pendley Manor Hotel & Spa, Hertfordshire

Unforgettable memories are made at Pendley Manor. A beautiful Grade II Manor with the backdrop of the Hertfordshire countryside, it’s the perfect place to seal your love in the company of your dearest. Enter the enchanting tree-lit driveway before arriving at the stunning Manor House, enveloped with immaculate lawns, landscaped gardens and wooded surroundings. Pendley Manor’s dedicated events team and excellent Chefs ensure a memorable event within an ideal setting for intimate gatherings to sumptuous banquets. Both indoor and outdoor locations provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding and photography. With over 35 acres of grounds to call yours for the day (shared with our resident peacocks), it’s bound to be the wedding of the year.

“Thank you for letting Pendley Manor be part of one of the most special days of your lives, it is our honour & privilege to be assist you both in helping your dream & visions become a reality.” – Pendley Manor Hotel & Spa

Copdock Hall, Suffolk

Copdock Hall – a beautifully restored Tudor brick barn with tall ceilings, oak beams and romantic ambience – boasts its own wine and fizz from its on-site vineyard. The family-run venue is set in extensive grounds, next door to the parish church of St Peter’s and offers couples access the day before and an event manager for the day.

“I’m Diane and together with my husband Ian, we run Copdock Hall, taking pride in offering the best service as well as a stunning wedding venue. All our recruits from our fantastic event managers to our friendly bar staff follow the same ethos too and our attention to detail is second to none. We look forward to showing you the venue and helping you create exactly the day you are looking for.” – Diane, Copdock Hall

Houchins, Essex

The private estate has proudly been the home of the Brudenell family since 1514 and their beautiful gardens are offered for exclusive use fairy tale weddings on just a handful of dates a year. Set in tranquil parkland with lake views and framed by beautifully planted south facing gardens, the house provides a timeless and breath-taking backdrop for your wedding day celebrations – the perfect mix of grandeur and relaxed country garden charm.

Caistor Hall Hotel, Norfolk

Our venue is unique and stunning. Being an independent, small, boutique hotel we are one of a kind and this helps us stand out from others. Being at our venue is seen as a little retreat from the world, we are a hidden gem

“We pride ourselves on our friendly, attentive and enthusiastic team who are here to help prior and on your special day. We all love the venue, and do our best to make sure our guests feel the same way about the hotel as we do.” – Gemma, Caistor Hall Hotel

The Compasses at Pattiswick, Essex

We love our venue and we hope you do too! But weddings are really about people and the relationships between them.  Nothing means more to us than a couple celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary with a picnic in the garden at The Compasses on a beautiful sunny day! It is testament to their relationship with this beautiful location and testament to the relationships our team build with our couples.

“This year has been tougher than anyone could have possibly imagined. And that simply isn’t fair. But it doesn’t alter your relationship. If anything, it will make it stronger and it will make your journey down the aisle, whenever that happens, even more incredible and even more memorable.” – Claire, The Compasses at Pattiswick

Hockering House, Norfolk

For 10 years we have helped couples create individual, personal weddings. We do not offer set packages or price per head options, couples imagination is their only limitation. Every week is wonderfully different from festival and woodland weddings to top hat and tail quintessentially English garden parties, we love them all!

“We are always proud to show couples around our home and promise to personally do everything within our power to ensure your wedding is exactly what you hope for and more. Each and every wedding at Hockering House is exceptionally special and we feel great responsibility to ensure you and your guests have a day to remember. Come with a seed of an idea and we will help you develop it and support you through your journey.” – Sam, Hockering House

Happy Valley Norfolk, Norfolk

Happy Valley is a blank canvas, dry hire venue so you have the flexibility to create the wedding you’ve always dreamed of. Set in nine acres of enchanting woodland, Happy Valley Norfolk is an outdoor wedding venue like no other. Perfect for intimate weddings and elopements, or large family gatherings and festival style events, you can have a woodland ceremony, a barn ceremony or even get married on a private island. Complete with hot tubs, luxury, onsite, glamping accommodation for up to 28 guests and endless views of glorious countryside, this venue is perfect for the bohemian-chic, authentic couple who dance to the beat of their own drum.

“Welcome to Happy Valley! “We” consist of Scott, master craftsman, maker of all cabins and Katy, co-owner of Happy Valley and Founder of Tribe Norfolk. We are a small, family business, who believe in the magic of bringing people together and the endless possibilities created when friends and family are taken out of their normal day-to-day and introduced to a stunning haven of tranquillity. It’s a pleasure to share our piece of paradise with you and we hope you love it as much as we do xx.” – Scott & Katy, Happy Valley

That Amazing Place, Essex

That Amazing Place isn’t just a beautiful venue set in idyllic grounds, it’s much more than that. What really makes us unique is the relationships that we build with our couples. We really want our you to have the most amazing day and we put our heart and souls into making that happen. Why not check out our reviews to see what our lovely couples have said about us!

“Thank you for taking the time to look at our venue in consideration for your wedding day. I met the venue owners Paul and Jayne, around 7 years ago and they asked me to set up the wedding business for them. Since that day, I have put everything I have into making it the successful wedding venue that is today. I have been at every wedding I have organised and have personally made sure that the couple got to relax and enjoy the wedding day the have always dreamed of. We are a small independent venue and we LOVE what we do. Trust me, your wedding day is just as important to us as it is to you! Please let me help you to create a magical day, that you can cherish forever more.” – Angie, Paul & Jayne, That Amazing Place

Vaulty Manor, Essex

Our venue is the perfect mix of old and new with a beautiful barn for your Wedding but luxury accommodation and Manor House for a bit of elegance.

Holmewood Hall, Cambridgeshire

I believe that Holmewood Hall is unique because it is a stunning Tudor Gothic style mansion surrounded by 10 acres of manicured grounds and parkland, steeped in history and exuding elegance, Holmewood Hall is the perfect venue for your wedding. Holmewood Hall is part of Country House Weddings Ltd, a family owned and run wedding venue group that has collectively held over 10,000 weddings between our six exclusive use venues.

“I can assure you that you will have the most perfect wedding day here at Holmewood Hall as we have been making Wedding Day Dreams come true (as a group) for over 30 years. We are passionate about your day and will guide you through your planning from the moment you book your wedding day with us until the special day itself. You will have a Personal Wedding Manager to help you plan your day and to make sure your day runs exactly as you planned. Also rest assured that during these uncertain times your wedding day is protected by our Covid – 19 Promise ‘Should Government legislation surrounding Covid-19 prevent your wedding from going ahead, we will transfer your date to an equivalent package in the future with no additional fee’.” – Nick, Holmewood Hall

Ivy House Country Hotel, Suffolk

Situated on the edge of the Broads in Suffolk, Ivy House is a rustic, quiet, idyllic venue with all the class and style and a 17th century thatched barn where couples can say ‘I do’.

Gosfield Hall, Essex

I believe that Gosfield Hall is unique being a former Royal Palace set in ten acres of manicured grounds and overlooking Gosfield Lake. Our extravagant ballroom, reception rooms, bridal suite and a choice of Ceremony rooms makes this magnificent mansion a perfect wedding venue. Gosfield Hall is part of Country House Weddings Ltd, a family owned and run wedding venue group that has collectively held over 10,000 weddings between our six exclusive use venues.

“I can assure you that you will have the most perfect wedding day here at Gosfield Hall as we have been making Wedding Day Dreams come true (as a group) for over 30 years. We are passionate about your day and will guide you through your planning from the moment you book your wedding day with us until the special day itself. You will have a Personal Wedding Manager to help you plan your day and to make sure your day runs exactly as you planned. Also rest assured that during these uncertain times your wedding day is protected by our Covid – 19 Promise ‘Should Government legislation surrounding Covid-19 prevent your wedding from going ahead, we will transfer your date to an equivalent package in the future with no additional fee’” – Nick, Gosfield Hall

All Saints Hotel, Suffolk

All Saints Hotel is a contemporary hotel located on the outskirts of historic Bury St Edmunds with fantastic transport links. Offering a variety of function spaces and state of the art facilities we cannot wait to show you what we have to offer!

“Our experienced Events Team are here to welcome you to All Saints Hotel, from the moment you first walk through our doors to walking down the aisle, we will be with you every step of the way.” – All Saints Hotel

The Barns at Lodge Farm, Essex

The Barns at Lodge Farm is a unique venue just outside London, with all packages giving couples exclusive use of the entire venue for two days. Fully licensed for civil wedding ceremonies in a number of different spaces, we can accommodate anywhere from 50 to 250 guests. We firmly believe that as no two couples are the same, no two weddings should be the same – and we pride ourselves on giving you the time, flexibility and support to plan a wedding that is genuinely unique to you.’

“The first wedding ever to take place here at The Barns was my own wedding back in June 2016 – this is my family home, and I love every inch of the barns and the beautiful field that surround it. We are a family-run business, with my father running the working farm which sits alongside the venue, and my brother being responsible for setup and operations on the day. We all care deeply about every event that we host here, and you will always be welcomed with a cuppa!’” – Bryony, The Barns at Lodge Farm

Leez Priory, Essex

I believe that Leez Priory is unique whilst boasting many national wedding awards and one of the most sought after manor house wedding venues in the country. Located in the glorious Essex countryside within 40 acres of parkland and gardens but only just over an hour away from Central London. Ceremonies can be performed in any of 7 licensed settings, from outside to the historical tower. Leez Priory is part of Country House Weddings Ltd, a family owned and run wedding venue group that has collectively held over 10,000 weddings between our six exclusive use venues.

“I can assure you that you will have the most perfect wedding day here at Leez Priory as we have been making Wedding Day Dreams come true (as a group) for over 30 years. We are passionate about your day and will guide you through your planning from the moment you book your wedding day with us until the special day itself. You will have a Personal Wedding Manager to help you plan your day and to make sure your day runs exactly as you planned. Also rest assured that during these uncertain times your wedding day is protected by our Covid – 19 Promise ‘Should Government legislation surrounding Covid-19 prevent your wedding from going ahead, we will transfer your date to an equivalent package in the future with no additional fee’.” – Nick, Leez Priory

Kimbolton Castle, Cambridgeshire

Steeped in history, our four State Rooms and stunning castle courtyard offer a unique setting for your wedding and reception. The walls and ceiling of the castle’s main staircase feature some of the finest murals in England, by the 18th century Venetian painter Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini.

“We are with you every step of the way. We bring a professional approach and experienced eye, ensuring that your wedding is unique and personal to you both. Creating memories that will last a lifetime.” – Lesley

Holiday Inn Norwich North, Norfolk

From the small and intimate to the grand and lavish, here at Holiday Inn Norwich – North, we’re proud to be able to cater for both.

“Have the perfect wedding day at one special venue… From the small and intimate to the grand and lavish, here at Holiday Inn Norwich – North, we’re proud to be able to cater for both. Our experienced wedding coordinators know exactly what goes into planning your big day especially the details. With that in mind, we’re confident our beautiful suites and experience combined will be able to deliver you the most perfect day.” – Julie-anne Passey

Hales Hall & The Great Barn, Norfolk

Hales Hall & The Great Barn is one of the most stunning wedding venues in the country. The Norfolk estate, its unique luxury accommodation, Tudor Hall and magnificent thatched barn are available to hire. Licenced for civil ceremonies you
may marry in the stunning walled gardens, the Great Barn or The Hall with self-catering or fully catered options. An unforgettable setting the storybook venue is surrounded by wild-flower meadows, has a picture- perfect garden aisle, feature clipped topiary and part moated walled gardens. Hales Hall & The Great Barn allows you to create the wedding celebration of your dreams with breath-taking flexible spaces for alfresco weddings, elegant country house celebrations or resplendent receptions in the vaulted Great Barn with 180 candlelit loop-hole windows, bar and upstairs gallery. Our friendly dedicated wedding planner will help you create the wedding celebration of your dreams. Hales award-winning five-star accommodation offers four individual heritage residences set within the enchanting walled grounds close to the Great Barn. Hales Hall country estate sleeps 25+ and is exclusively yours for the entirety of your joy-filled stay, with the Gatehouse offering newlyweds the ultimate hideaway.

“We’d love to introduce you to Hales Hall & the Great Barn, its’ the ultimate private paradise for a unique wedding celebration. We offer ‘exclusive use’ packages allowing you to take-over the whole estate. Licensed for civil ceremonies you can enjoy an intimate wedding or a big celebration; or both! Specifically tailored for you, our 3-day hire packages allow you to make the most of every minute and our wedding planner will help you select the very best local suppliers.” – Helen

Fanhams Hall, Hertfordshire

We have a magical array of romantic locations at Fanhams Hall – Grade II listed Great Hall with a gorgeous original minstrel’s gallery and Jacobean fireplace; or for a more unusual wedding venue, our elegant Long Gallery has a wonderful sense of arrival and more than a touch of grandeur. Or venture outside to our Japanese Tea House licensed to host romantic wedding ceremonies. Our civil wedding venue in Hertfordshire is truly wonderful, you must come and see for yourself!

Colville Hall, Essex

Colville Hall was originally a tudor village which we have brought back to life with two thatched barns lovingly renovated into a separate ceremony barn and a separate reception barn. Our barns are set within stunning grounds with which you can find original historic artifacts around every corner!

“Congratulations on your engagement! We hope you come and visit our very special venue. Not only do we have 2 unique thatched barns with all the mod cons like underfloor heating and air conditioning, they are both blessed with plenty of natural light. Our grounds are stunning with amazing photo opportunities around every corner!  Please be assured that you will be well-looked after by our dedicated team, listened to and kept involved every step of the way. We look forward to welcoming you!” – Claire

Bressingham Hall & High Barn, Norfolk

We are a spacious, contemporary vintage Barn and Georgian Mansion house set within 17 acres of world renowned manicured Gardens. There is simply no better place as a backdrop to your wedding photos. Our style is serene, delivered within our pretty rustic barn, secluded courtyard and elegant magical marquee. Your guests will be wowed by our efficiency, delicious in house catering, creative cocktails and bespoke rustic oak Bar. You can even finish off the day with exclusive rides on the famous Bressingham Gallopers!

Sam and Team: “Welcome to Bressingham Hall and High Barn. We are a family run wedding venue who is passionate about making your special day carefree and totally perfect in every way.”

Hatfield House, Hertfordshire

Hatfield House is a stunning, unique and historical Jacobean country house venue in Hertfordshire, located just a short distance from Central London. The spectacular Hatfield House gardens provide the perfect backdrop and setting for your special day.

“We offer professional weddings packages and bespoke catering to help make your day truly magical. To find out more and view our image galleries, visit www.hatfieldhousehospitality.co.uk”

Jimmy’s Farm Weddings, Suffolk

Weddings at Jimmy’s Farm are beautifully rural, romantic and wild. When hosting your wedding at Jimmy’s Farm you say ‘I Do’ in our amazing Safari like Celebration Tent which sits proudly in our landscaped Herb Garden with our charming hand-built Eco Roundhouse for your ceremony. Stunning photo opportunities around every corner and once the reception drinks are done why not treat your guests to an Exclusive Wildlife Park visit, with your own park ranger and animal experience for the lucky couple. The 17th Century Barn will be waiting and set up beautifully after the fun of the Wildlife Park. Welcoming your guests to celebrate the first meal as a married couple and enjoy some of the best ‘Farm to Fork’ produce our region can offer.

“Our wedding was such an extraordinary occasion. A wonderful mix of friends and family made all the more special by the magical backdrop of the farm and wildlife park. Not too informal but enough so to make all our family and friends feel totally relaxed. It’s hard but try not to worry too much. I know, it’s easier said than done during what can often be a stressful time. Ultimately, it’s a day when everyone wants to wish you well and give you lots of love – so take your time to enjoy your special day. We found ourselves with a glass of bubbly, sitting together by the fire pit for five minuets and loved watching people laughing and dancing as the party kicked off. We would love for every single couple that gets married at Jimmy’s Farm to feel the same, if not more happy and relaxed as we were on our big day.”

Browning Bros, Essex

Browning Bros – Chalkley Water meadows is nestled within a water meadow, amongst ancient woodland and a beautiful tree lined lake. Humanist ceremonies take place on the willow tree pontoon with celebrations held in our giant tipis, with on-site accommodation in one of our luxury lakeside cabins, or “Nomadic” bell tents. Forget your commercial conveyor belt corporate wedding venues, booted out by midnight in preparation for the next couple in the doors the following day. Instead, allow yourself to imagine a celebration created entirely by yourselves (of us if you would prefer), in a magical setting.

“Firstly congratulations!! Now the fun begins, planning your big day! We’re here to help you every step of the way and want to make the wedding of your dreams come true. Enjoy the moment! So much planning, time and money goes into weddings which can be overwhelming at times! The overall message is to make sure your enjoy the day and don’t get stressed. Make it about you and your partner! Put your individual stamp on the day reflecting you as a couple and make it personal. It’s not about the glitz and glam, it’s about you two getting married.” – Becky

All Manor of Events, Suffolk

We are a small family-run venue in the heart of the beautiful Suffolk countryside. We offer 4 unique ceremony spaces including our stunning woodland area. Our reception area is a large marquee-lined barn which provides couples with a neutral starting point from which to personalise the area completely. The on-site Glamping Pods offer the perfect accommodation for couples and their guests to retreat to after their special day. For the animal-lovers out there, the goats and alpacas are always looking for a little bit of attention and make for a great photo opportunity!

“Thank you so much for considering us for your big day! We pride ourselves on the fantastic customer service we are able to offer each and every one of our couples and can’t wait to work with you to create some truly special memories for your wedding day.”

To see more of the top venues in Britain, head back to the main page to browse by region.

Marriage Gift List – Unlimited Choice Wedding Gift List Service

Marriage Gift List gift list example of John and Amy's wedding

Organising a wedding can be both exciting and stressful, so Marriage Gift List are here to make things that little bit easier by offering a helping hand. They give you easy access to pick and choose gifts from any online store. 

The choice is yours and it’s free to use! At Marriage Gift List, you are getting exactly what you ask for, at the price that you find, with no additional fees.

How does it work?

  1. Register – Sign up for free to start your personalised gift list.
  2. Create your gift list – Add gifts from any online store you’d like to create your dream wedding gift list.
  3. Share with guests – Share your unique gift list link with your guests
  4. Receive your gifts – Have your gifts delivered or receive them on your big day!

It really is that easy! Create your free gift list now!

Marriage Gift List setting up the gift list example

Why choose Marriage Gift List?

  • Unlimited choices – you can add any gift from any online retailer you’d like for free!
  • Access to any online store
  • 100% free – no additional or hidden fees!
  • Get exactly what you ask for, at the price you find
  • Assign your own list manager to help guests
  • Fully customisable
  • Add experience days
  • Charity options
  • Add subscriptions
  • Guests can leave messages with a purchase
  • ‘Thank You’ manager (to help you send your ‘thank you’ cards)

With all these amazing features, check out Marriage Gift List now!

Marriage Gift List Tutorial Videos

Below are 2 quick tutorial videos to show you how simple and easy it is to use Marriage Gift List, ensuring the whole experience is stress-free for both you and your guests..

Getting started for couples:

How to purchase a gift:

So what are you waiting for? Create your free wedding gift list now!

A little about Marriage Gift List

How was Marriage Gift List started?

When Cameron Runcie, Marriage Gift List’s founder was planning his wedding with his partner, they tried multiple gift lists, but there wasn’t one that could offer the flexibility to pick exactly what they wanted at a fair price. 

Some gift lists forced guests to pay up to twice as much, and others just didn’t have the gifts that they wanted. 

So they built Marriage Gift List, where you are getting exactly what you ask for at the price that you find, with no additional fees.”

So how does Marriage Gift List make money? 

Marriage Gift List earn commissions on purchases made via their website links and these commission payments help them increase the functionality of the website and keep it free to use for couples and guests.

Marriage Gift List are a unique wedding gift list, offering unlimited choice of any gift from any online retailer for free!

Visit Marriage Gift List now!

Patchwork – the gift list innovators

The gift list innovators, Patchwork removes the stigma of asking for cash.” ELLE.

Patchwork wedding registry art fund

Who are Patchwork?

Patchwork is a global platform that lets friends contribute cash, time and skills towards a group gift or event. You can use Patchwork to organise all sorts of celebratory occasions from weddings and baby showers to surprise birthday parties. 

You can use the platform to collectively fund all kinds of unique gifts and experiences, from honeymoons to handbags, campervans to cookery classes and bikes to beehives.

Common ways to use the Patchwork platform:

As a Wedding Gift Registry:

Patchwork allows couples to create an alternative wedding gift registry to allow your guests to collectively fund and chip in towards that one gift you really want. Whether it’s a piece of art or a weekend in Paris, with Patchwork wedding guests come together to fund one big gift – piece by piece. 

Create your Wedding Registry now!

Patchwork wedding registry art fund

As a Honeymoon Fund:

Patchwork enables couples to show wedding guests their dream honeymoon as a collection of images. So friends and family can choose which part of the trip to treat them to – £200 for a night in a hotel, £50 for dinner or £5 for beers on the beach.

Create your Honeymoon Fund now!

Patchwork unique honeymoon in paradise fund

To ask friends to help make and do:

Patchwork is used by thousands of couples planning DIY weddings:

  1. The organiser sets up a Patchwork to show all the things they need help to fund, make or do (from buying beer to making cakes, doing the decorations or promising to DJ)
  2. Then everyone chooses whether to contribute cash, time or skills to help make it happen.

Why use Patchwork?

With customisable templates and gorgeous image gallery, it’s easy to set up your Patchwork gift page and the Pinterest-style layout and mobile friendly shopping experience makes it easy and fun for friends to contribute too.

100,000 people (and counting) already love and trust Patchwork. Here’s why:

  • Your friends can give you money (or contribute their time, or their skills) and feel great about doing it.
  • We don’t try to sell you anything. You can spend the money you receive when, where and how you like.
  • You can collect funds in any currency from friends and family wherever they are in the world.
Patchwork Maldives honeymoon fund

Why Patchwork is so unique?

Fund, make, do

Patchwork is the only gift list in the world that lets people register not just things they want friends and family to fund but also things people can make and do. 

For example, a couple using Patchwork as a honeymoon fund can ask friends and family to treat them to a night in an Airbnb for £100 or pay for a coconut on the beach for £1. But they can also ask people to make them a travel playlist as a present, lend them a rucksack, teach them some Spanish or drive them to the airport. 

Collect gift money direct

Patchwork is independent of all retailers and so it’s entirely flexible. Patchwork also doesn’t hold customer funds. Instead the creator of a patchwork receives cash gifts (in their chosen currency) directly via PayPal or Stripe so they can pay for gift items or experiences when, where and how they like.

So what are you waiting for? Visit Patchwork now!

Or create your unique Wedding Gift Registry now!

Or create your unique Honeymoon Fund now!

Patchwork Aruba honeymoon fund

An Intimate Covid Elopement in Bristol

Brides walking down aisle with bouquets, smiling after ceremony

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Clare and Natalie were still able to plan the wedding of their dreams. Their special day was a romantic elopement at Berwick Lodge in Bristol, a year after their engagement:

“We always dreamed that our wedding day would be intimate and cosy… Covid gave us a great excuse to achieve that by eloping!”

Clare & Natalie: A Covid Elopement at Berwick Lodge
Brides outside wooden doors of Berwick Lodge, looking at each other smiling, holding hands.
Brides smiling, sitting at table toasting with champagne.

While the couple eloped just a year after their engagement, they met for the first time many years before:

“Clare was actually the one to propose, even though we’d openly chatted about it. THe day started with a mystery trip out, during which we visited various places we’d lived together… With the final stop being outside the school gates where we’d first met!”

Image of ceremony room. Pillars down aisle with ivy wrapped around, a white aisle and table at the end with two chairs
Brides outside large old building, smiling at each other with their bouquets in hand
Brides outside looking at each other, each holding white umbrellas high above their heads

Clare and Natalie started their remote wedding planning journey by searching for a venue. Since they knew exactly what they were looking for, it wasn’t long before they found the perfect place to elope:

 “We wanted a venue with plenty of character, beautiful gardens and scrummy food… A quick search on Google for “elopement weddings” during lockdown found us this gem of a place!

The simplicity of eloping was so appealing to us and the elopement package at Berwick Lodge included everything we wanted, making it stress-free!”

Bride doing up the buttons at the back of lace blush dress of other bride
Image of wedding shoes. Two white high heels
White flowered bouquet

Finding dresses to suit the natural, elegant style they were after didn’t mean breaking the bank either. Instead of going bespoke, Clare and Natalie hit the highstreet — and ended up looking absolutely fantastic!

“We always knew we weren’t going to go for traditional white wedding dresses so hitting the high street was perfect for us. As it turns out, we were spoilt for choice so we would definitely recommend doing the same to others!”

Brides holding hands, walking down aisle holding bouquets of white flowers
Celebrant and brides standing outside. Celebrant smiling, holding clear umbrella over the happy couple
Brides walking into garden, backs of lace dresses showing

Holding beautiful bouquets of white flowers picked from Berwick Lodge‘s very own gardens, the newly married couple walked out with beaming smiles.

Brides holding hands in garden, mid dance

Clare and Natalie were thrilled with Berwick Lodge, which “provided such a beautiful backdrop for [their] photographs.” They gave special thanks to their hair and makeup artist, Maria Lucas MUA, and their photographer, Christy Blanch Photography: “We absolutely love the photos by Christy! We’re so pleased with them – they’re amazing!”

Image focused on brides, holding each other's hips and touching foreheads, with a long country road going off in the distance

So what advice do Clare and Natalie have for couples planning a wedding during a pandemic?

Remind yourselves that it’s all about just the two of you. We found it easiest to focus solely on us and to choose the things that were important to us. Local suppliers were great as it was easy and quicker to make decisions.”

There’s one more thing Clare and Natalie would recommend to any couples in the South West (pandemic or no pandemic!):

“One big tip – choose an elopement package at Berwick Lodge!”

Brides smiling, holding hands in front of large stack of logs
Black and white picture of brides smiling, holding bouquets inside house, in front of a closed wooden door
Brides surrounded by tall, colourful flowers in a garden, touching foreheads and looking at each other
Brides holding hands facing each other outside quaint white and red-brick lodge

Clare and Natalie’s Suppliers

You might also like…

Parliament debate: weddings during coronavirus

9th November 2020: Parliament debates Weddings – everything you need to know.

Last night, we saw MPs from across Britain discuss E-petition 329339, the petition relating to the number of guests permitted at weddings during the coronavirus pandemic. Below is a summary of the main highlights, the video recording and the full debate transcript.

Summary:

Overall, this was a brilliant debate that finally shone a light on the struggles we are facing and the urgent needs of our industry. Bridebook, the Association of British Wedding Businesses (ABWB), Wedding Venues and suppliers across the country have been looking for a platform to voice their opinions and this was that platform.

MPs in attendance were focused on 3 main arguments:

  1. Increasing the guest numbers at venues to fall in line with venue capacity.
  2. The need for a clear roadmap for reopening so that businesses can start to rebuild and plan for the future.
  3. Financial support to assure that we are able to survive as an industry.

The debate highlights:

  • Elliot Colburn strongly opened the debate, clearly informed by the ABWB briefing note stating: “Weddings take months and even years of intricate planning. Myself and many others believe the maximum number of guests authorised at wedding ceremonies should be increased. The number of guests permitted at weddings should be calculated according to venue capacity.” He closed his opening by urging the government to “set out a clear road map for reopening so that businesses can begin to bounce back.” This was to set the tone for the rest of the debate.
  • MPs in attendance continued to stress the real need for a roadmap and clear guidelines & instructions to assure that the industry survives.
  • It was further explained that the wedding guest number should be based on venue capacity with social distancing being observed.
  • Also highlighted multiple times was the ripple effect stemming from venue capacity limits. Venues are the key to unlocking the industry as many suppliers rely on the venue’s business. The industry is an ecosystem with venues at the helm.
  • The unfairness of pubs & restaurants being able to hold receptions when wedding venues can’t was almost scoffed at. The Ministers explained that wedding venues and suppliers would do anything they can to assure they were COVID safe and that risk assessments were met.
  • MPs also plead for financial support, stating that the majority of grants, to date, have not reached or supported businesses within the wedding industry
  • January & February were highlighted as crucial months for the industry. In just two short months, venues are able to recover a substantial amount of lost revenue, as they market for future business, specifically for 2022 bookings.
  • MPs explained that there is no substantial evidence that suggests that weddings have a direct impact on COVID numbers. Specifically highlighted was that in NI, where weddings have been able to take place with higher numbers, that again there has been no direct evidence of weddings having an impact.
  • Death bed weddings – MP urged the minister to increase the restriction to allow for more family members to attend death bed weddings.
  • Sadly, the minister Paul Scully closed the session without giving any real clarity as to solutions, nor did he show any real urgency in providing further guidance or support. Scully explained that the hospitality industry has put a lot in place to assure covid-safe rules but that this would be more difficult with wedding venues as friends/family are within the given area for longer periods of time so social distancing rules would be challenged.

What’s next?

  • Scully, although lacking conviction, did state that he is working on measures to bring the industry together. He proposed to introduce a task force that would support encouraging the government to engage with the industry.
  • The ABWB will be writing an official response and will be reaching out to Paul Scully to gain clarity on the next steps.
  • Bridebook will be monitoring progress closely and will continue to share regular updates with our community.

Resources

Video recording: E-petitions debate on support for live events and weddings during Covid-19.



Full transcript: Live Events and Weddings: Covid-19 Support

Law Commission: changes to Wedding Law

Friday 6th November 2020

The Law Commission held a public Q&A session to discuss their Consultation paper. Below is a summary of the main highlights and the Q&A.

  • Provide your thoughts and feedback on the Law Commission’s proposal here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/7R3TH65

Main highlights of the Law Commissions proposal

  • The Law Commission’s proposal recommends that weddings will be able to take place anywhere with a revised focus on dignity & existing health and safety legislation. 
  • Rather than noting where the weddings take place. The new law would notify the officiant instead. In the case of registration officers, it may not be possible for a registrar to be identified and in this case, the location would then be listed. Once a schedule is listed, it will need to be signed and returned. Scheduled system to be introduced. 
  • There will be 5 categories of officiants including independent officiants (celebrants) 
  • Officiants will have to go through training in order for them to perform the legal requirements of marriage. Training has not yet been defined fully. 

Questions asked with a summary of the Law Commission’s answers

Q: Registration Services have their own rooms, for example in the Town Halls where they’re based, to be able to conduct marriages in. Is it proposed that registrars still have exclusivity over their own venues? This isn’t clear in the consultation.

  • Yes they would. Those who own buildings can still control who has access to those buildings. Local authorities could say that only their registrars can hold weddings in town halls. 

Q: I don’t have an issue with the concept but I think it is ill-timed. The industry needs to recover after COVID and does not need any more to deal with

  • We understand this. Our review is a general review. It was set up before COVID happened. And it is looking at wedding law and how weddings will happen in the future. We believe there is still a need to reform for the future. 
  • What we have been able to do is look at what has happened during covid. 
  • We know looking at other jurisdictions – outdoor weddings: outdoor weddings are less risky – future law much more resilient for future pandemics.
  • Also, we have been thinking about how emergency powers could help to support weddings to take place. E.g. enabling formalities – virtual weddings. We understand the impact that covid has had – we believe that this proposal will 

Q: The wedding industry has been decimated by Covid-19, how on earth will existing wedding venues have the opportunity to recover if the new proposal will allow more venues to host weddings. The venues market is already overcrowded.

  • To remove the residency requirement – this will make it possible for couples coming from overseas to get married.
  • New revisions will make Eng & Wales more attractive – would lessen people going abroad – 73000 individuals go oversea to get married 
  • The number of officiants – they had to turn business away because of the difficulty for registrars to book. Only one officiant would be needed.
  • Greater flexibility 
  • Existing venues have an existing business – service they offer – not all of the weddings that take place – smaller/family weddings 
  • Heard from existing venue owners – venues would be able to offer a wedding outside their buildings

Q: You’ve said by end 2021 that’s unfair

  • We will publish recommendations to the government in mid-2021. The legislation would have to go through parliament – changes wouldn’t be in place by end of next year. 

Q: If a venue for marriage / civil partnership isn’t stated on the schedule, how will registration services know which marriages / civil partnerships are taking place in their district? Without knowing this, it’s difficult to ensure all are registered.

  • Rather than noting where the weddings take place. They would notify the officiant instead.
  • Registration officers may not be able to be identified – location would then be listed. 
  • Once a schedule is listed, it will need to be signed and returned. Scheduled system to be introduced. Rather than listing the venues, it would be focused on the officiant. 

Q: Has the proposal concerned the risks hosting weddings in venues/spaces that aren’t managed professionally eg wedding suppliers will not be vetted correctly, risk of poor service, food poisoning etc.

  • Discussed Venues in chapter 7 of the consultation paper. The marriage act – only governs where weddings take place. Already wedding law does not vet reception venues. Planning law, licence & health and safety laws – people providing services are governed under that law.
  • Safety & dignity would be the focus. 
  • Officiant would be trained to address.

Q: You would not suddenly effectively deregulate the car industry without properly investigating the impact on the industry

  • We will do an impact assessment – chapter 13 and respond.

Q: I am in favour of most of the proposals. My query is how celebrants will be properly regulated – will some form of training and regulation fall on registrar services? What sort fo checks and balances are suggested?

  • Regulations will be focused on officiants – regulation will need to be met in order to officiate.
  • Chapter 5 – all officiants would have the same legal requirements – express consent and requirements are met and signed. They would have a responsibility for safety. 
  • 5 categories of officiants – independent officiants – independent celebrants: these individuals would be able to conduct ceremonies – more detailed requirements to show that they are fit and proper – completed training or that they have been approved. 

Q: Have you noted this year how when wedding receptions are (often illegally) held in private houses/gardens, they tend to be more unsafe and unregulated, and that enabling people to get married at home could have similar health/safety concerns in the future?

  • Other underlying health and safety regulations all continue to apply. 
  • It is not illegal to hold a wedding reception – what we anticipate is that the couple that owns the house – put concerns in the consultation response

Q: Would it still be a requirement to hold the ceremony under a cover/structure in order to keep the registers dry, or would anybody be able to get married literally anywhere?! This could be disastrous for already struggling venues if people are to be allowed to literally marry anywhere!

  • A wedding could take place at any place which is agreed between couples & officiant. Has to be safe. 
  • If you are organising a wedding, you would need to take into account the weather conditions
  • Impact on existing venues, some of the venue owners we have spoken to are keen to use their outdoor space – marketing this. 
  • That approach is not novel – it already happens in Scotland already. 
  • The demand by couples – structures outdoors that are then licenced as approved premises
  • Issues – there are different applications across England and Wales and these decisions are made by local authorities. There are a lot of differences across local authorities – this is an issue that needs to be addressed in reformed law. 

Q: Q from Ribble Valley Wedding Partnership Alcohol – clearly this is not currently permitted at or around the ceremony, what are your views regarding your proposals and if relaxed how will the dignity of the event be ensured. There doesn’t seem to be any mention in the consultation

  • We do in chapter 7 – currently, the only regulations relate to approved premises. Nothing currently to alcohol/decency. 
  • Nothing to stop people before the wedding or in another part. Some local authorities dictate you can’t serve weddings before. 
  • We focus on dignity and officiant to manage. Couples & officiant cannot be intoxicated. 

Q: If a venue had a nominated responsible person (currentl required by the licence), could they also supply a celebrant to run a ceremony? Two separate people. Also could venues have control over who could run a ceremony – and have the freedom to decline particular celebrants or individuals?

  • Our schemes propose this – independent officiants – propose that there will be a rule

Q: Why has a report to reform the wedding law been commissioned?

  • We have a weddings law from 1836 that hasn’t been reviewed properly since. 
  • The wedding law isn’t working for a lot of couples and proposes a number of restrictions
  • Out of date based on other countries
  • Asked to do scoping work by the government – immediate catalyst – focused on humanist 
  • Current law doesn’t work for religious groups – recognised by religion but not by law. 

Q: This seems to be an academic approach without any regard for the effects on a £10bn industry

  • Chapter in about impact – keen to collect thoughts. We will publish an impact piece. 
  • We do try to take into account the opinions of those affected

Q: from Ribble Valley Wedding Partnership Could the new ‘Officiant’ be an employee of a venue, this would make everything easier

  • Conflict rules have suggested that we will not permit that 

Q; what about the dignity and the legal seriousness of marriage. Naked Celebrant? People can be very strange so are we condoning that to an unlimited degree?

  • Officiant would be in control of this – proposal focuses on dignity. 
  • Current law only relates to the dignity of approved premises 

Q: What will the celebrant training look like?

  • We don’t prescribe this – we do talk about it in general terms – it would focus on the legal requirements – duties, consent & schedule signed. 
  • The guidance given focused on forced marriage. We don’t prescribe but do ask you to share your thoughts on this. 

Q: So basically all those unlucky couples who have had to postpone or cancel their weddings due to covid will now be able to sack off their original venue and potentially their associated suppliers and opt for a home-based wedding which will put so many venues and businesses out of work at the worst possible time! Why is this not now being stalled in order to give our industry a fighting chance?

  • We are not looking at those who supply services. 
  • Nor is out consultation paper looking at existing couple contracts. 
  • Looking at what wedding law will look like in the future. 
  • Proposals are not going to provide a solution for changes to wedding plans this year 

Q:Q from Ribble Valley Wedding Partnership The term ’guidance’ to officiants feels a little weak and open to interpretation, which is a concern, especially when it relates to health and safety, and accessibility. Is there not an argument for something more structured, maybe even qualified?

  • We welcome your views in the consultation response. The training that they would have to undertake will have to reflect that. If there are particular thoughts we would like to receive 

Q: Is there any merit in proposing a “certification” standard or exam that all officiants should achieve, regardless of how they are appointed, to ensure consistency across celebrants?

  • The difficulty is that this already exists and it might not be prop0ortionate to influence or affect this if is it is working. 
  • E.g. religious training exists. There would be concerns if priests have to take new training.

Q: I asked earlier about keeping the register dry – not sure you understood the question… I am asking whether if a couple choose to get married on a beach or a hilltop for example, do they have to be under a structure still (not a building, just a structure)

  • No, they would not. They would not need to be near a building. 
  • Schedule system – authorised to go ahead. The registrars wouldn’t need to bring the registrar book to the wedding. 
  • There will be one simple form for the record of marriages. 

Q: Much of the decision re the setting safety seems to be suggested will now rest with the celebrant, but you’ve said anybody can be a celebrant. They will not be qualified to make that decision

  • There will be clear processes around officiants and the training that they will have. 
  • We are not envisaging that officiants will be experts on health & safety or building experts. Officiants would look at other existing legal requirements.

Q: How would a venue check whether a celebrant was qualified and who is responsible if there is an incident? would there be a governing body for celebrants to call them to account?

  • All nominated officiants & independent officiants would be on a central database. There will be a means of checking. 
  • Governing body – the general registry body with oversight 
  • Nominated – by religious groups / non-religious belief – nominated 

Q: A lot of room for profiteering re independent celebrants being paid to perform a legal marriage – trafficking/forced marriage

  • All marriages would need to be preceded by preliminaries. 
  • Criminal activities – laws in place to support this. 

Q: Giving a couple a meaningful ceremony in a place and form that has significance for them, led by someone who understands them and uses the words that they would like is a wonderful and beautiful aspiration. Has any thought been given to explicitly ruling out certain places, however – for example abattoirs, sewage works and so on? That may seem extreme, and certainly, those places may be special to some but there should be some exceptions?

  • Interested in consulting these views. 

Q: We have spent a fortune ensuring disabled access and H&S – is that need out the window now if people can get married on top of a tree?

  • We do look at accessibility – existing rules on health & safety still apply independently of weddings law. 

Q: I’d be interested in the timescale you expect for any changes to be implemented.

  • Publish in the second half of next years – we will be providing recommendations not draft legislation. 
  • The government then to decide to accept/prepare legislation
  • The expectation that the government will give an initial response in the first 6 months and a full response within a year.

Q: is there any way that existing venues which are already licensed could automatically be ‘approved’ as a future venue, thereby making a pre-visit / inspection by an officiant unnecessary = saving cost

  • Good point. We do suggest that local authorities can keep their own list of venues that host weddings. This would prevent the need for officiants to go. 
  • That is something that we are keen on considering. 

Q: Are you prepared for say, 100,000 new celebrants and keeping a check on all of them?

  • I suspect that the number of celebrants will depend on demand. 
  • I’m not sure there would be 100,00 and as we’ve highlighted, these are questions for the government to decide. 

Q: What about giving notice? What would the rules be and who do they go and see?

  • Would be the same as they are now. With Anglican weddings – give notice to the registrar. 

Q: To not consider the ancillary services of weddings demonstrates your lack of understanding of how weddings operate and are delivered.

  • We are looking at Weddings Law – looking at the weddings itself. 

Q: would the general registrar office know whether they later got a criminal record for instance?

  • There would be an ability to withdraw their officiant authorisation withdrawn 
  • Disclosure of disclosing criminal records. These rules will continue to apply. 

Please put in your consultation responses to us! 


Additional comment
s

  • “We manage outdoor venues and this is a huge growth industry. We’ve also been hugely affected by Covid-19. Couples hold an outdoor blessing and then a reception in a marquee of tipi. Our couples would love it if their outdoor ceremony, could also be the legal ceremony. I think existing venues with licences should be confident that couples would still choose their venue, for service, location, catering etc rather than trying to hold onto their competitive advantage and limiting choice for couples. Venues with licences do not comprise the full wedding industry.”
  • Is there any evidence at all that the demand for traditional (country house, hotel, church) weddings will decline? These types of weddings are hugely popular – people can already have a celebrant wedding in their back garden if they want to! people seem worried that the industry will collapse which is unfounded – there will be a huge surplus of couples in the coming years who haven’t been able to marry. it may be worth showing the evidence that ‘traditional’ venues will be just as needed – if not more now that they can use their gardens/outdoor spaces?!
  • I do not support your proposal to allow weddings to be hosted virtually anywhere. This idea is very ill-thought-out and will result in the closure of many dedicated wedding venues, as the market will become saturated with the number of venues.
  • Scotland has now restrictions for weddings but we do see that weddings are still taking place
  • One thing that I do agree with is that there should only be one registrar in attendance as this would vastly improve availability and costs

Tuesday 3rd November 2020

On Tuesday, I was asked to represent our industry and the Bridebook community in the latest Law Commission consultation. A small group of industry professionals met on Zoom to discuss the provisional proposals to Wedding Law Reform. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of Friday’s public Law Commission Q&A event on weddings law reform.

The scenario

  • The Law Commission proposed that if the new law is passed, anybody will be able to apply to become an officiant.
  • Anyone looking to become an officiant will need to go through thorough training and will need to be approved by Registrars.
  • There will be a published list of official registrars and when couples give notice, they will have to list who the officiant will be.
  • Couples will be able to get married in any safe and dignified location agreed by the officiant.

As I see it, the benefits to wedding venues

  • With plentiful officiants, couples will be able to book dates and times of their marriages instantly with their venues.
  • This will speed up the venue booking process
  • There will be no more fees or red tape to be an approved premise
  • Multi-faith ceremonies can occur at your venue 

The risks to wedding venues

  • There will be increased competition in venue market place. But, we must remember that couples who have religious ceremonies are already free to choose any venue for their reception. Couples already prefer and choose approved premises already, so I believe this is a low risk.

Benefits to couples

  • Increased choice on where they get married
  • Increased ease of securing a registrar
  • More personalised ceremony 
  • Lower cost, as wider choice of officiants
  • Hugely beneficial to many faiths and religious weddings which are rather excluded by current law.

Risks to couples

  • Increased costs as officiants become a standalone professional supplier with increased demand during seasonality.
  • Officiants will require significant formal training to become an officiant, so it isn’t as easy as just asking your friend to host your ceremony.

I predict

  • Most likely this will cause an increase in the cost of weddings. Weddings will become even more personal or unique, and even a small registry office wedding will be replaced with become something much more personal, and likely more expensive. Eg Marrying on a boat or on the beach etc. Large weddings likely unaffected except for outdoor moments.  
  • Conflict that officiants choose where is safe. Currently this is the responsibility of the approved venue, hence being approved. If the officiant says they are happy to host a wedding up a mountain, are they liable for the safety of all the guests?
  • Likely damaging impact to religious premises, where marriages are a vital revenue stream eg small village churches, and due to the convenience of ceremony and reception being in one location, many of these will lose out. 
  • The industry will become even more creative as social media imagery of ceremonies occurring on boats, trains, outdoors, mountains, inspires couples to hyper-personalise even further, which often comes with added expense. 

Law Commission Agenda:

  • We have invited a range of organisations to discuss our provisional proposals, particularly as they relate to wedding venues and other vendors. The purpose of the roundtable is to facilitate an open discussion among attendees about our provisional proposals for reform.

The proposed requirements governing the ceremony

  • Couples will have to give notice to the registration service before getting married. 
  • We provisionally propose that all wedding ceremonies must be attended by an officiant. 
    • Registration officers will officiate at civil weddings;
    • Anglican clergy will officiate at Anglican weddings;
    • Officiants nominated by religious organisation will officiate at all other religious weddings;
    • If authorised to conduct legal weddings, officiants nominated by non-religious belief organisations will officiate at non-religious belief weddings; and
    • If authorised to conduct legal weddings, independent officiants will also be able to officiate at civil weddings.
  • Every officiant will have duties to ensure the requirements of the ceremony are complied with, and to uphold the dignity and solemnity of marriage. 
  • We propose that couples will be able to get married in any safe and dignified location agreed by the officiant. There will be no requirement for venues to be pre-approved by the state. Both civil and religious weddings will be permitted to take place in any type of location (but religious groups will be able to impose their own requirements about where their officiants will agree to officiate at weddings). 
  • Couples will not have to say prescribed words during the ceremony, but will have to express their consent in the presence of the officiant, each other, and two witnesses. Religious content (such as religious readings, hymns or religious imagery) will be permitted at civil wedding ceremonies. Weddings will not have to take place with open doors.
  • At the end of the ceremony, the couple, officiant and witnesses will be required to sign the schedule.

Questions

Q. Is it your experience that couples want to have their wedding ceremonies in non-approved areas of approved premises (such as outdoors)? Or in venues and locations that are not approved (eg due to cost) or that cannot be approved (eg because they are outdoors or on moving vehicles, including on water)? 

Q. Is it your experience that some couples having religious weddings want to be able to marry in secular or commercial venues?

Q. Will venues benefit from being able to offer these options to couples? Will any types of venue benefit in particular? Will any types of venue not benefit?

Q. Will venues benefit from not having to pay approval fees? From not having to meet the requirements for approval (and if so, which ones)? 

Q. Are there reasons why the location of wedding ceremonies needs particular regulation, as compared to other types of events or gatherings? 

Q. How do you think the officiant agreeing to officiate at a wedding in a given location, considering safety and dignity, would work in practice? How does it work in practice currently in relation to weddings that are not legally recognised taking place in locations that are not necessarily approved premises?

Q. Would an optional system for venues to be pre-approved be useful, or efficient?

Friday 1st November 2019

Last week I asked venues owners and managers across the UK to share their views on the Law Commission’s proposal on Wedding Law reform. Hundreds of you spoke up and as a result, Beth Wright and I were able to share representative opinions at the pre-consultation meeting on Monday.

Here’s what YOU had to say, and everything you need to know about Monday night’s meeting…

Your opinions on the proposed Wedding Law changes.

Law Commission: changes to Wedding Law

This report, along with other Bridebook couple and industry insights have been shared with the Law Commission for their use during this project.

See an Executive Summary below and the full UK Wedding Industry Law Review report here.

Wedding Venue Business Impacts

  • UK wedding venues employ 50+ employees and work with 20+ local businesses on average.
  • Almost two-thirds of venues could not stay in business without weddings.
  • Half of the responding venues have not experienced any growth in the last 3 years due to economy, competition and couple preferences.

Venues’ Current Experience with Ceremonies

  • Ceremony space: The majority of venues host weddings ceremonies as well as receptions, and two thirds do not have an outdoor approved premise. Many express frustration related to not being able to host weddings outdoors, especially when planning permission prevents them from erecting an approved structure.
  • Regulations: While a third feel costs are too high and regulations too much, most are satisfied with current costs and regulations. They do mention that some regulations feel antiquated (e.g. room licenses) and sometimes restrictions limit business growth.
  • Registrar experience: While most report a good experience with registrars, many venues mention difficulty for couples to book registrar and overly strict registrar rules which can limit business growth.
  • Fees: Fees are inconsistent across venue and council and can range from +£100 to over £1,000.

Venue Preferences for Future

  • Location: Venues feel that approved premises should still be regulated, but that rules should be relaxed with regard to outdoor space and different room options at approved premises.
  • Celebrant: Venues feel that approved celebrants should be able to administer weddings, but that these celebrants should be regulated (e.g. not friends of the couple).

Other Ceremony Requirements:
Venues are happy with regulations across many aspects of civil wedding ceremonies, and find that the current set of regulations are suitable for the formality and sanctity of marriage. However they do feel that some ceremony requirements could be relaxed.

What happened at the pre-consultation meeting on the Government Reform to Wedding Law.

What the Law Commission is doing:
The Law Commission is focused solely on reviewing the law governing how and where people can marry in England and Wales.

Who are the Law Commission?
The Law Commission are funded by the government but work independently in order to provide potential Law reform for the government. On average, 2/3 of the projects put forward by the Law Commission will be enacted and law will be amended.

The Facts:

  1. The current laws date back from 1836 so are very dated in some places and not representative of today’s market and modern couple’s needs.
  2. Based on government research 42.8% of legal marriages take place in hotels.
  3. Jewish and Quakers wedding ceremonies can currently take place anywhere.
  4. Currently:
    1. There are different ways to give notice for different types of weddings.
    2. Almost all wedding must take place in certain buildings
    3. A wedding must be either civil or religious
    4. The law is not clear as to the status of a wedding that was not celebrated in one of the legally authorised ways and some religious ceremonies have not been recognised
    5. The law is complex and contains different rules about where a wedding can take place, depending on the type of ceremony.

Who attended the Commission meeting?
12 wedding venue professionals with differing backgrounds in the industry including local authority representatives, registrars, London wedding venue owners and managers, outdoor wedding company owners and industry community representatives.

What the Law Commission & Government reform will consider:

  1. Whether everyone getting married should have to give notice to the register office.
  2. Where couples should be able to marry such as: outside, in a private home, on board a ship, on trains – or even in Tescos!
  3. Opinions for couples to express their commitment in a way that is more personal to them.
  4. How the law might allow non-religious belief organisations and independent celebrants to conduct weddings.
  5. What should be the minimum requirements for marriage to be recognised by law, such as: giving notice, the consent of each member of the couple, signing the paperwork etc.
  6. How to eliminate unnecessary red tape.

What was discussed?

  • Venues’ experience with the approved premises regulations, including:
    • the costs and how they affect venues and couples;
    • problems that arise during the approval process, or during ceremonies; and
    • hosting religious weddings on approved premises;
  • Where couples want to get married;
  • Experiences of working with registrars, religious or belief celebrants, or independent celebrants;
  • Where civil weddings should be able to take place;
  • What rules or guidelines there should be about civil weddings venues; and
  • How a more permissive system might work.

Main discussion points and opinions raised:

  • Everyone agreed that the dignity and sanctity of marriage needs to be kept in mind.
  • There were many frustrations regarding the limitations the law has on allowing outdoor ceremonies and also ceremonies in specific rooms: why is it that only 4 out of the 5 rooms in my venue can host ceremonies? It is not clear.”
  • It was agreed that there is a higher demand in today’s couple market for a wider variety of wedding ceremony location options. Wedding venues can satisfy this demand by the Law allowing more flexibility in terms of outdoor and building regulations for weddings.
  • It was posed that hosting Religious ceremonies/blessings is one of the highest heard requests from couples and that there is confusion as to why it is not possible to have such religious blessings held at approved venues.
  • Safety regulations both in terms of the security that venues provide and the implications of safety on couples and guests in outdoor / at home weddings has to be taken into consideration.
  • The local authorities’ ‘free reign’ on approved premises regulations and on costs are seemingly subjective and can be restrictive for smaller venues. More clarity needed on the reasons why different authorities have such differing costs and regulations.
  • Registrar restrictions on conducting ceremonies based on ceremony timings, the weather and location impacts couples preferences and venue flexibility massively. Standardisation and clarity is necessary.
  • There were mixed opinions on who should be able to conduct a legal ceremony. Many agreed that celebrants should have legal rights however there are concerns regarding friends or family of couples.
  • It was also noted that no one in the room has ever seen or experienced a disruption during a wedding yet, if public access is granted to wedding ceremonies this could become more of an issue.

What’s next?

A public consultation will take place in Spring 2020. This is the industry’s opportunity to have their say on the proposed changes. Based on this consultation, the Law Commission will make their detailed recommendation to the Government, with any legal changes being implemented in 2021.

Bridebook will be continuing to work with the Law Commission and I will continue to share any updates I receive with our Venue Community. If you have any further thoughts or feedback please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Micro wedding packages: Bridebook partners with Searcys

Bridebook is excited to announce the launch of Searcys intimate wedding packages and our partnership ahead of engagement season. Searcys run some of London’s most iconic stand alone restaurants and Champagne bars, including St Pancras Grand Brasserie and Champagne Bar. 

Although not new for 2020, micro weddings offer a perfect way to create your big day, where every detail can be tailored to meet any want or need. Hosting up to 15 guests, the Searcy’s team have created bespoke intimate wedding packages available for our couples.

With our 143 years’ of experience in catering for weddings, Searcy’ and its iconic venues are ready to host our couples’ special day with tailored event spaces, bespoke menus focused on the best seasonal and British product, and expertly paired wines and champagne to celebrate. 

Things may be a little different right now, but Searcys Exclusive Events team is on hand to create bespoke wedding experiences to make our couple’s day one to remember. In the past fortnight alone, the team at Searcy’s has received over 60 enquiries for weddings until the end of 2020, with 5 confirmed bookings, some within a week’s notice.

Throughout this year, Searcys Exclusive Events team has been helping brides and grooms plan their big day in the new normal. Over the past few months, the team have been curating bespoke weddings for couples, customising options from menus to music, as well as quirky touches of personalised bride and groom face masks, ensuring all is done in a secure way for all guests. Interesting food and drink themes, from miniature champagne bottles for a toast to touch-free menus delivered in stylish boxes, let your personality shine.

While a traditional big celebration may be on hold for the next few months, micro weddings offer the chance for an intimate and personal ceremony. As part of the new normal, don’t compromise and look to Searcys and the Exclusive Events team to make sure your day goes off without a hitch. 

Choose from one of Searcys iconic and historic venues, including:

St Pancras Brasserie and Champagne Bar

View St Pancras Brasserie and Champagne Bar on Bridebook

Looking for something a little quirky? Why not marry on the concourse of the station, followed by a bespoke wedding breakfast at Europe’s longest Champagne Bar. On the doorstep to France and beyond, where better to say ‘I do’ than under Tracey Emin’s ‘I want my time with you’, before experiencing a truly unforgettable day with a Champagne reception and tailored menus, set in either the Champagne Bar or art-deco Brasserie, or your very private dining room.

The Gherkin

View the Gherkin on Bridebook

For unrivalled sky-high views across London, there are few spots as striking as Searcys at The Gherkin. Able to adapt to suit the size and style of any event, the Gherkin offers majestic views, with options including a private dining room, beautifully designed and flooded with natural light,  for an intimate celebration dinner, while for a more exclusive feel, dine at the very top levels of 39 and 40 to a truly remarkable backdrop.

Carlton House Terrace

View Carlton House Terrace on Bridebook

Home to The British Academy in the heart of Westminster, the Grade I listed Georgian Townhouse offers 10 elegant private rooms, each with its own character. Carlton House Terrace is a stylish townhouse charm with views across London’s iconic landmarks offering a picture-perfect setting.

Barbican

View Barbican on Bridebook

The Barbican Conservatory is a botanical oasis famous for its cascading plants, a high glass roof and tranquil fish pools. Licensed to host wedding and civil partnership ceremonies, it is a magical space in which to entertain your friends and family. After the ceremony in the breath-taking Conservatory, you can proceed to a reception set against the lush green background or choose to enjoy your wedding breakfast at our Osteria restaurant overlooking the City.

Photograph by Andy Gaines – Instagram: andy_the_gaines / Facebook: andygainesphotography

The HAC 

View the HAC on Bridebook

Located in the heart of the City and steeped in history, The HAC offers four striking event spaces stretched across the estate, each licensed to hold wedding and civil partnerships. It is a six-acre estate and the home of the Honourable Artillery Company, a charity set up by Henry VIII in 1537 to support the Regiment that shares its name. The HAC offers a stunning, 18th century manor house and a contemporary, self-contained conference suite. What’s more, five acres of beautiful lawns provide an unforgettable background to wedding photographs and reception drinks, with all food and drink catered by Searcys to meet any requirement.

Incredible Black-owned Wedding Suppliers to Support

From photographers to caterers, to wedding dress designers, the UK is lucky enough to be home to some of the most gifted Black wedding suppliers in the world. The creativity and passion of these artisans and experts are sure to make your day one that you will treasure forever. 

At Bridebook we are creating long term action strategies, both internal and external to improve inclusion and diversity within our industry but we know there is a long, long way to go. This list is just our starting off point, which we will be constantly and consistently adding to. In the meantime, we couldn’t recommend the Noire Wedding Edit by Ofe of Studio Oudizo more, for inspiration and an incredibly detailed list of suppliers.

Photographers:

Marni V Photography: @marni_v_photography

If you’re after relaxed, informal wedding photography that is going to be as creative, quirky and fun as you are, then keep reading! Marni is all about authentic moments; tears of joy, stolen kisses, crazy dancefloor moves and everything in between. She’ll be wherever the action is, getting to know the people you love, so she never misses a moment. If you want a photographer that will feel more like an extra guest then she’s got you covered.

wedding photo by marniV

Leesha Williams Photo + Film: @leeshawilliamsphotoandfilm

Leesha specialises in emotive and creative wedding photography for quirky couples in love. Her photography style definitely reflects her love for all things artsy and romantic, as well as being incredibly detail-oriented. Leesha sees the beauty not only in the big moments but the little things too, that really tell the story of your special day!

Wedding by Leesha Williams

Joséphine Elvis photography: @joelevis_photo

Joséphine’s love for photography stems from her love of connecting with people and showcasing their genuine emotion. Both of these are key elements of candid wedding photography, and they’re the reason she specialises in laid back wedding photography for fun and creative couples. That means that there’ll be no awkward moments or cheesy poses – she’ll be snapping all the crucial little moments of connection and emotion, and she’ll do it as part of the flow of the day.

wedding by J.Elvis

Treats and Tipples:

Bubble Bar Caravan: @bubblebar_caravan

Bubble Bar Caravan is a unique and beautifully converted caravan bar, perfect for intimate weddings. They serve a full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, from IPA’s, Lager and Ciders on draught to bespoke Gin & Tonics, Prosecco and cocktails. They pride themselves on their friendly, energetic service that you and your guests are sure to love, as well as being an incredible backdrop for photos.

Bubble Bar Caravan

The Little Cake Garden: @littlecakegarden

The Little Cake Garden specialises in creating bespoke wedding cakes and other sweet treats. They create some of the most stunning and whimsical cakes we’ve ever seen, as well as incredible dessert tables. Being hopeless romantics, they deliver designs that truly capture and reflect your desires. They are ​dedicated to quality and tailor-made creations, with all of their products made from scratch, using only the very highest quality ingredients.

Little Cake Garden Cakes

Indulgent Sugar Plum: @ms_sugar_plum

The Indulgent Sugar Plum is a concept bakery & lifestyle store that produces luxurious handcrafted cakes and confectionery. They are not afraid to cross boundaries and have even been featured on Channel 4’s ‘Extreme Cake Makers! From the first moment you receive your cake, until the moment you eat it – they aim for their goods to ‘inspire your conversations’. Through the creation process the draw on inspiration from your visuals, colour scheme & themes to create a cake that’s uniquely for you and your partner.

M+H Cakes: @mandhcake

With over 13 years of baking experience, M+H Cakes are delicious and handmade with love from their kitchen in London from start to finish. Their attention to detail is second to none, and they’ll ensure that you get your dream wedding cake. Each cake is bespoke, handmade and a true work of art. 

Wedding Cake

Wedding Fashion:

Naomi Deru Bridal: @naomiderubridal

Naomi Deru Bridal creates dresses for the contemporary bride with a modern take on style and silhouettes. Every single piece bearing the Naomi Deru Bridal label is handcrafted from scratch in Kent, with every gown being impeccably tailored, perfectly executed and with beautiful detail. Naomi makes sure that each dress is a carefully thought through collaboration with the bride, making sure the bride’s unique style and personality is reflected.

Naomi Deru Bridal Wear

Kahmune: @kahmune

Kahmune’s aim was to redefine the word ‘nude’ and they have certainly succeeded. Just as ‘nude’ plasters are not a one size fits all, neither are shoes! Brides and bridesmaids should be able to find shoes that blend seamlessly with their skin tone, and Kahmune has delivered on their promise, blending style and comfort, with flats and heels in 10 beautiful skin shades.

Kahmune shoes

Floristry:

Queen of Hearts Floral Design@queenofheartsfloraldesign

Queen of Hearts Floral Design is a London based luxury floral studio in the heart of North London. Founder Bilen Zeremariam has been an Interior Designer for the past twelve years and brings forth an extensive knowledge in colour, texture, shape and interior styling. Bilen decided to pursue her passion for flowers after creating her own wedding arrangements, which led her to learn the art of floristry. Today, Bilen takes pride in creating opulent, memorable and dramatic floral displays that transform weddings & events in London, throughout the UK and abroad.

Queen of Hearts Florals

Hazel Gardiner: @hazelgardinerdesign

Hazel is a passionate floral artist and designer with a varied and rich background in the creative arts. Her style is free with an enriching take on colour, form and texture.  After a childhood surrounded by nature in south-east England, Hazel has had a lifelong appreciation for the natural world, which is a clear inspiration in her work. Training at world-class florist McQueens, Hazel continually translates the world, taking inspiration from art, fashion and architecture. Her work is a love letter to nature with creative choices and combinations creating her fresh and unexpected designs.

Hazel floristry

 

Wedding Venues: The Route Through COVID

Dear valued Bridebook Business Community,

Since March 2020, our industry has experienced the most challenging times in recent history.  Amidst the hundreds of thousands of wedding cancellations and postponements, our industry has maintained its strength and resilience through unprecedented challenges. It has been wonderful to see business owners coming together virtually to support one another through the UK Venue Slack group, the ABWB, the #whataboutweddings campaign, our Bridebook government petition, industry letter-writing to MPs and more.

I’d like to share some key considerations based on my unique experience as not only the CEO of wedding planning app Bridebook, but also as a fellow wedding venue owner of Hedsor House. I also co-founded HelloFresh and was formerly an investment banker at UBS during the last financial crisis, so have had a varied career with some very relevant experiences.  I’ve also been in direct communication with the CMA and a panel member of the Law Commission overseeing regulations for wedding venues, all of which enables me to gain insights into the current state of the industry from many sides.  

Looking ahead, we unfortunately know that 2021 will be a challenging year too. However, we all have opportunities that we can leverage to position our businesses as best we can at this time. I encourage you to think about each of these key considerations.

  • Key Consideration 1: Prioritise Cash Flows
  • Key Consideration 2: Optimise Your Team
  • Key Consideration 3: Understand the Current Market
  • Key Consideration 4: Understand the Government Regulations

Key Consideration 1: Prioritise Cash Flows

Cash is vital. This can not be emphasised enough.  Focus on cash.  We know that weddings will be back at some point, we now need to secure enough cash to ensure that our businesses are around for that moment.  Make sure you understand the implications of postponements and deposit amounts to your cash flows, and make adjustments accordingly.

  • A. Adjust deposit structure to frontload sales. Beware the underlying cash flow issues that postponements may have on your business.  Take a close look at your cost to host a wedding, and compare that with to the deposit you charge clients.  If your cost to host a wedding is >50% of the clients’ total fee, and you charge a 50% deposit, you may have an upcoming cash flow issue. 

For example: Suppose you charge £10,000 for a package wedding, it costs you 70%/ £7,000 to host the wedding, and you take 50% deposit. Whilst receiving the first £5,000 deposit is useful and lucrative, beware being lulled into a false sense of security on the second payment. Though you will receive a second £5,000, you will have £7,000 outgoings so will actually have a net cash outflow. Postponements stack these outgoing up. If your hosting costs are less than your second deposit, then you don’t have this issue.

In a normal year, hosting weddings and selling weddings balances out, so you have positive cash flow.  However, a year filled with hosting postponed weddings and selling weddings 2 years out may have a new cash impact for your business.  Know your costs, know your cash flows, and make adjustments to your cost structure or deposit structure to ensure you stay cash flow positive.  Frontloading sales early on is a key way to address this issue. The further out you can sell dates, the smoother your cash flow will be. 

  • B. Give upgrades, not discounts. A discount hits your cash flow and net profit instantly, while an upgrade doesn’t.  Think about the timing when your business is impacted from these types of incentives, and encourage your sales team to promote incentives that affect your bottom line as late as possible, with the least amount of impact to your cashflow.

For example, let’s consider £1,000 off venue hire versus £1,000 off champagne on the wedding day. The first option costs you instantly from net profit and cashflow now, while £1,000 champagne, likely only costs you £330-£500, and the cash flow impact is only at the wedding. Consider that actually £2,500 of free champagne might have the same net profit impact for you as £1,000 upfront discount, still has a later cash flow impact, and is likely much more persuasive to the couple!

Key Consideration 2: Optimise Your Team

Making sure your team is equipped to handle your upcoming business needs is vital.  As we approach the biggest engagement season of the year, with 40% of the year’s engagements occurring between December and February, a huge opportunity awaits and a capable sales team should be in place to maximise results.

  • Be mindful of redundancies. Ensure your business is ready not only to host weddings like mad in 2021, but to sell like mad into 2022. You may be considering redundancies, but I urge you to think seriously about the repercussions. For most venues, the cashflow saving of a redundancy will be less than if that person sold one (1) additional wedding a month, or took administrative duties off a salesperson so that salesperson could sell an additional one. Beware of a vicious cycle, that if you cut costs too heavily, you may be unable to sell due to administrative overload on your sales team which can become increasingly unproductive. 

A key consideration when considering the difficult decision to make someone redundant is their replaceability and the actual saving. For example, if you are making an employee redundant you may give them 2-months settlement. Hiring their replacement may cost a 20% recruitment fee, and training up the new colleague may take another 2 months. In this scenario, if you believe their role will be required within 6 months from November, then it would be a false economy to follow a redundancy route. A mutual agreement of reduced hours / sabbatical / temporary role reassignment may be a more optimal route for both parties and for morale.

  • Be prepared for engagement season enquiries.  Be ready for another 100,000 engagements at Christmas, and have your team ready to secure business.  Position your team wisely, and consider shifting roles to prioritise sales. If possible, get operational team members handling relations with existing couples and postponements, while your sales time focuses all their efforts on gaining new business.  Think ahead how your entire team can work together to maximise time dedicated to new sales. Cross-training your team now will pay off later. 

Key Consideration 3: Understand the Current Market

  • Beware increased competition. As with the last financial crisis, the competition for wedding business will increase significantly thanks to corporate business shifting to weddings. Corporate business will be affected by COVID much longer than weddings, so corporate venues will focus more on weddings in the absence of corporate events. In a recessionary environment, the first business expense cut is corporate events. Businesses have a responsibility for their employees’ health and safety so will feel very nervous about arranging large gatherings for a very long time. Just like personal travel will recover much quicker than business travel (eg Summer holidays bounced back rapidly this August, but business travel was still firmly on hold) corporate events will follow the same pattern. Ensure you are well positioned to capture and compete with this new competition for wedding business in the coming 6-12 months. We have seen this first hand, as we launched Hedsor House to focus on corporate business in 2008 until the financial crisis hit, which was when we pivoted to the stability of weddings. We already see many corporate businesses following this path.
  • Get timing and pricing right. Focus on late 2021 and 2022 wedding sales. Bridebook already has a backlog of over 100,000 2020 couples waiting to find their venue and we all need to be ready for this backlog to release. At this stage, venues should be booked around 40% of 2022.  Across the country, 2022 is already getting booked due to postponed Covid weddings taking 2021. In fact, 57% of all Bridebook’s bookings in September were going into 2022, and 62% in October.

    Filling 2022 key dates with new business, rather than postponements, is crucial for your future business viability. Selling these dates early is key to this. 

Dynamic pricing for your business is incredibly important too. This will allow you to maximise sales by actively shifting couples into weekday rather than weekend bookings. If you need any guidance on dynamic pricing, do message your Bridebook venue consultant. 

Key Consideration 4: Understand the Government Regulations

While our industry is impacted significantly by COVID-specific regulations, we are also experiencing impacts from changes stemming from the Law Commission as well as CMA guidance.  Make sure you’re up-to-date on the impacts these governing bodies have on your business’s opportunities, competitors and contracts.

  • Easing of location and celebrant restrictions. On 3 Sept 2020 the Law Commission announced suggested changes to how and where couples can get married, that will ease the red tape experienced by couples and venues for approved legal weddings.  I was on the commission panel during the consideration process, and feel that it is not only positive news that antiquated laws are being updated, but that new opportunities will arise for us amidst the easing of these restrictions.

The changes will likely allow weddings to take place outdoors, in a wider variety of buildings, with loosened restrictions on celebrants, ceremonies and notice-giving.  While many within our industry may be wary of increased competition from non-traditional venues, we should not expect a rush to weddings in McDonalds. Couples will still want large groups of friends and family, in beautiful settings, where they can dine together in one room, and not be reliant on the weather, and that are run by experienced staff. This all leads back to the professional venues of today. We can also view the easing of these restrictions as opportunities for us to conduct wedding ceremonies more freely on our own premises and in our outdoor spaces, enabling us to enhance our current wedding offerings.  Do note that celebrant weddings are already very popular, although not legal, and the vast majority of them take place at approved premise wedding venues anyway.  The easing of these celebrant and ceremony restrictions benefit our venues by offering more freedom and flexibility to our clients while on our premises.  We can expect further updates later in 2020.

  • Post-covid refund rules recommended by the CMA. On 7 Sept 2020, the CMA released guidance on wedding services affected by COVID-19, specifically on cancellation and refunds, alongside the CMA open letter to the wedding sector. Their guidance was clarified in regards to Covid and where Covid means a wedding cannot be hosted without substantial differences to the agreed contract. 

Further details of a CMA action involving Bijou Weddings Group were released which concluded the fair and reasonable non-refundable amount to be 37.2% of the total cost of the wedding.  On 9 Oct 2020, Bridebook issued an update to the CMA Guidance Summary, which includes an assessment of the decision with Bijou Weddings Group and continues to add updates to this page. 

I know these last seven months have been difficult, and I applaud all your efforts to keep calm and carry on, despite the many adversities your business has faced.  I know that we are all poised for a boom in bookings come engagement season, only two months away.  I strongly urge you to take some time to seriously think about all of these key considerations and make sure your business is in the best shape possible for the next 6-12 months. 

I see plenty of hope for our industry. From Bridebook data in September, we see newly engaged couples’ predicted budgets have remained unchanged versus 2019. Couples still want the large weddings we all know and love, and they are willing to wait for when it is possible. 2021 and 2022 will likely be the busiest years of weddings ever. We want to be sure you are there to work with them when that time comes. 

I also urge venue owners and managers to get connected with your fellow industry colleagues on the UK Wedding Venues Slack group, a forum of thousands of wedding venues across the country, supporting each other and discussing relevant issues on a daily basis.

Now is also a great time to ensure that your digital presence is in tip-top shape, in preparation of the Christmas influx of prospective couples to your website, social media and Bridebook profile. Make sure all your photos, videos and details are up-to-date. Remember that couples love social proof, so chase any outstanding reviews from clients and fellow colleagues (share this simple link to collect reviews), and add testimonials to your Bridebook profile and website wherever possible.  

Additionally, book a call with your Bridebook venue consultant to learn about ways to boost your presence among local couples, by heading to THIS PAGE or emailing business.bridebook.co.uk.   If your business doesn’t have a Bridebook profile yet, create a free profile and our team will be happy to welcome you to our wonderful community of wedding professionals. 

There are so many moving parts in our industry right now, and I truly want you to be the best equipped business you can be to navigate the difficulties and come out on the other side stronger than ever. 

If I or the Bridebook team can help with anything, do get in touch. 

Thanks for your time. Stay strong.

Sincerely,

Hamish

Top 5 tips for having a 15 person wedding (or ceremini)

1. Make it all about you

Wedding couple at the Wookey Hole Caves wedding venue

While we know how frustrating some of the rules and guidelines are, the rule book has been torn up, so you’ve effectively got carte blanche! If you want to choose an outlandish theme or a controversial setting for your wedding, go for it.

Gone is the pressure to make it the classic wedding you always thought you might have. Everything about getting married right now is different, so embrace that and make it your own.

Personalise it with loads of photos of your relationship, write special vows, or ditch the typical wedding cake for a deluxe box of Krispy Kremes. Do whatever will make you happy.

2. Treat yourself

Beautiful jewellery from UKBride jewellers

Use the savings you would have spent on guests to splurge on things that you’ll remember forever.

Whether it’s a 10 course blow-out meal or a beautiful piece of jewellery, treat yourselves with the money you are saving.

3. Bring pets

Beautiful-wedding-couple-with-pets

Pets don’t count in your 15 guests, so go crazy and bring all of your four-legged friends to the service.

Be creative with it and find ways to incorporate them, from your dog bringing your rings to goldfish bowls as the centerpiece.

Do make sure to check with your venue that this is OK with them first though!

The Donkey Sanctuary wedding venue with two beautiful wedding venues on either side of blackboard wedding sign

4. Find ways to incorporate your virtual guests

Faye and Adams Hughes virtual wedding

Sadly, there will be people who won’t be able to attend your wedding. Whether it’s friends and family abroad, vulnerable people shielding, or people who just don’t make your 15 VIPs.

Find ways to include those who can’t attend. iPads at the dinner table can be great to allow people to join via Zoom, while many venues are offering live streaming for the service itself. Look at incorporating family heirlooms to make it more personal. Use your Grandparents’ tableware to serve the meal or decorate the table with framed photos.

5. Prepare for a bigger party when this is all over

Many people celebrating and having fun at wedding ceremany

We know how gutting it is for these restrictions to have come in just as you were planning to make do with a 30-person wedding.

But remember, there’s no reason you can’t have a big blowout party once all this is over. People are going to be looking to celebrate and party with their nearest and dearest. So why not think about how your ceremany could be the social event of the year in 2021?!

People at outdoor wedding in beautiful ceremany

Here are some more wedding article we know you’d love:

Post-Quarantine Wedding Trends

After weeks of being inside, forced apart from our nearest and dearest, weddings seem like a lifetime away. And yet, the day will come when life will be full of loved ones, laughter and celebration once more. We can expect some significant effects on weddings to come later this year and into 2021.

The 2021 wedding season will not be without its challenges. With 64% of 2020 weddings expected to be pushed-back, 2021 is set to be a busy one.  Couples will have to make quick decisions on dates, to get first dibs on the date they want.  Guests can expect many more clashes, and midweek weddings than ever, making things a little more challenging. On the bright side, we’ll have a way to use up all of those saved holiday days…

Post-coronavirus, we can expect that weddings will be bigger, bolder, and even more full of meaning. Everyone is longing for the days of confetti, cake, and bubbly, and we have the scoop on the trends you can expect to see post-lockdown.

 

Digital Guests: 

One thing that has come from this period of change and online socialising is the normalisation of online meeting services, such as zoom. Travel restrictions may persist for some time, and we expect two-thirds of weddings post-lockdown to have at least some guests attending virtually. For elderly relatives, as well as friends and family living in far-flung destinations, digital access will be a great way for them to still be able to attend these special moments, even if just remotely. 

man smiling with gadgets

 

Courageous Fashion Choices:

After what feels like months of wearing the same pair of leggings and jumpers, everyone will be jumping at the chance to dress up and look their best.  We can expect adventurous guest fashion, with brighter, more fashion-forward dresses and bolder jewellery choices. 

It won’t just be guests making bold statements; we are seeing a 50% increase in the popularity of statement veils (probably thanks to Mrs. Bieber). We can expect to see many more brides making this trend their own, embroidering their veils with meaningful quotes or even initials. Alongside an increase in statement veils, we are also seeing a rise in catwalk-inspired statement sleeves and pearl-embellished dresses, seen at the likes of Dior and Chanel.

Classic Blue was announced as the Pantone colour of the year, so expect a great revival in the something blue, something borrowed tradition, featuring this beautiful shade. Think blue in newly trending hair barrettes, jewelry and even the bases of high heels!

Post-credit-crunch, boho brides were on the rise, and this trend is set to explode once more. Many 2021 brides will be going for the ethereal look, with wearable florals, and bridal crowns taking center stage.

bride with flower crown

 

Creative Wedding Decor:

If you thought wedding creativity had reached its peak, just you wait. With more time than ever to d think about wedding details, we can expect a move away from some more traditional elements to more creative and modern takes on decor.  Some creative couples will be changing up the traditional seating charts, instead painting table lists on flower-filled glass boxes. Floral hoops have also been growing in popularity, with growing in popularity by 80% this year, alongside hanging floral decorations and flower-filled aisles.

Post quarantine, there will be a revival of the Do-it-yourself Bride and Groom. Around three-quarters of weddings will include some DIY elements, as couples cut costs where they can (and have more time on their hands!), with DIY-couples saving a combined £20million. We are looking forward to personalised table settings, wedding favours, and decor, such as photo displays. 

DIY floral arrangement

 

Wedding Food Trends:

With so many couples caring more than ever about sustainability and the environment, it is no wonder that there has been a shift to a focus on menu seasonality, as well as plastic and waste reduction.  With many couples aiming to create as little environmental impact as possible, the increase in zero-plastic and reduced-waste weddings could save more than 15,000 tonnes of wedding waste from ending up in landfills (that’s 100 blue whales!). From invitations made of recycled paper,  vegan menus and leftover composting, we can safely assume that the sustainable wedding trend is here to stay and will explode in 2021.  We imagine many couples will be donating leftover flowers to local hospitals and hospices, which hopefully will be a trend that will stick.

As for the sweet stuff,  we predict a shift away from the traditional and pricy wedding cakes that often remain uneaten, to more exciting offerings. Unique grab and go dessert displays, such as doughnut walls will come into their own (there are almost 100,000 posts under the hashtag #donutwall on Instagram!).

Weddings are all about individuality and celebrating who the couple truly is. We are expecting food and drink that pay homage to the backgrounds of the couple, whether that is custom messages in fortune cookies or cocktails made with a type of Slovakian cherry liquor.  More and more couples will be selecting super-personal menus, such as family favourite desserts, or cocktails named after people and places that mean something to the couple and their families.

 

Party Central:

After the storm of COVID, when weddings begin again, they are set to go on till the early hours. Where there is partying, there is midnight feasting. Guests can expect to be sustained with anything from sweet treat grazing tables, to late-night pasta pots to keep them dancing the night away.

Missing happy hour has become a national tragedy, and it’s coming back in a big way – think serve-yourself prosecco taps, experimental cocktails, and boozy popsicles like frozen rose, mimosas, and mojitos making their way onto a dancefloor near you. 

It’s only natural that with happy hour, comes confidence in dance ability. Learning a Tiktok dance became a quarantine right of passage, and newly married couples will be eager to show off their new fancy footwork. Be prepared for some seriously questionable, but hilarious first dances. 

Post-Quarantine Wedding Trends

 

Registry Remix:

Many couples feel that this period has put things into perspective, as well as made many questioning what gifts they can live without. Cutlery and crystal bowls are a nice memento, but lots of couples are forgoing the regular registry list, asking for experiences, not things. More will be asking for starter funds for a new home, a pet, or for their honeymoons. Charity registries will also become the norm, with more and more couples wanting to donate to a cause they feel passionate about.

 

Here are some more wedding related articles you’ll love:

Still looking for that ideal wedding venue? Have a browse at Bridebook’s vast wedding venue directory to find the perfect wedding venue near you: