Whether you’re dreaming of a formal garden wedding, walking down an aisle of wildflower meadows or exchanging vows in a rustic woodland setting, the following venues have been reviewed by our team to bring you the best outdoor wedding venues.
Cornwell Manor, Oxfordshire
Sleeping 24 guests, the manor house and gardens can be rented for weekends from June to September, ensuring a level of exclusivity most discerning couples look to prioritise. Envisage the morning of the big day amid four poster beds and thick-curtained framed views of the garden topiary, services in a traditional, honey-stone church, the emerald English gardens or The Ballroom for civil ceremonies, and Champagne-laced receptions along a terrace, with sweeping views of the lakes and formal gardens. As if it were their own home, couples and their family and closest friends have the full run of the grounds across the weekend, with lazy Sundays along the pool following breakfasts anywhere at anytime and a clever assortment of venue locations for every step of a weekend-long wedding. It’s worth noting that all weddings at Cornwell Manor require the hire of a marquee and a wedding planner, as well as one of the venue’s approved caterers. cornwellmanor.com/
The Walled Garden at Cowdray, Sussex
The second wedding venue on the Cowdray Estate is the Tudor Walled Garden, which sits adjacent to the dramatic Cowdray Ruins (a spectacular feature for wedding photographs). Think Alice in Wonderland – you’re even given the large rusty key to unlock the original heavy oak door to enter. You and your guests can celebrate in this colourful and historic setting, enjoying the delicious scents filling the air from the garden’s plentiful herbs and fruit trees. cowdray.co.uk
Port Lympne Reserve, Kent
Stretching over 600 acres with animals roaming freely, this venue has a tropical feel making it hard to believe you’re in the UK. Say ‘I do’ in an enchanting Pergola situated in the old walled garden followed by a reception in an orangery filled with foliage with tigers roaring in the background. There are many wedding options within the reserve, including the eccentric hotel with Moroccan courtyard and colourful mural-decorated reception rooms. Smaller parties can opt for Giraffe Cottage, with private ranger for tours, or go for a luxury glamping experience at Bear Lodge. But of course, the real thrill is the view wherever you opt for at the reserve. aspinallfoundation.org
Coworth Park, Berkshire
Home to one of the most breathtakingly beautiful wildflower meadows we’ve seen, Coworth Park is the ultimate place for a quintessentially English wedding. The Rose Garden and Lime Grove create endless photo opportunities and each wedding here is totally bespoke. The Garden Room is designed so that guests can spill outside – a dance floor can be set up under the stars. For an intimate party, choose the Tudor-style Dower House overlooking the lake with resident swans. Check into the Mansion House Premium Suite for the most luxurious start to married life. dorchestercollection.com
Kin House, Wiltshire
One of the hottest new openings for 2022, Kin House is a lovingly restored Georgian manor house in the Wiltshire countryside, available for exclusive hire for weddings and events. Located on the edge of the pretty village of Kington Langley, this Grade II listed house is set within 10-acres of walled gardens and private woodland and has been sensitively restored to its former glory with interiors led by the British design studio Barlow & Barlow. Kin House has a variety of options for magical outdoor wedding ceremonies for up to 200 guests, as well as alfresco feasting set ups. Take a wander through the gardens and you’ll find a secluded wooded glade – the ultimate setting for celebrations under the stars. kinhouse.co.uk
Penshurst Place & Gardens, Kent
Steeped in heritage, this is a must-see for couples craving an outdoor celebration thanks to its Italian Garden and enormous walled garden which is divided into eleven distinct sections, all manicured to perfection. The Inner Courtyard is an enchanting and unique place for an outdoor ceremony, the ancient walls blooming with roses. Inside, Baron’s Hall has all the medieval features you could wish for – ladies can hang their hats on the magnificent suits of armour and dance the night away. penshurstplace.com
Tythe, Oxfordshire
Set in the Oxfordshire countryside, Tythe delivers so many beautiful ceremony backdrops. Take the blooming wisteria aisle or imagine walking up the avenue of silver birch trees. Or you could opt for the landscaped and flower-filled lawns in front of the newly-renovated Farmhouse. Say your vows framed by the wooden arbour or standing in front of the imposing original barn doors – the options are truly endless. You could marry with the backdrop of the open English countryside at this centuries-old working farm or in the pretty local church, with pathways that lead directly into Tythe’s manicured grounds. And if the weather doesn’t play ball, the indoor options are every bit as beautiful. www.thetythebarn.co.uk
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath
Everything at this five-star hotel is exceptional – friendly staff, a tranquil spa and, of course, the unique location. In the historic heart of Regency Bath, the golden-glowing Crescent provides a wondrous backdrop for your big day. The beautiful private gardens can be transformed into an elegant wedding setting. Guests can join you on the Crescent Lawn for a Champagne reception. Check into one of the uber-luxurious bridal suites. The hotel is also available for exclusive hire. And for couples looking to be environmentally friendly with their wedding plans the hotel has a Green Key accreditation – meaning they go above and beyond to make weddings as sustainable as possible. royalcrescent.co.uk
Crockwell Farm, Northamptonshire
This family-owned farm is a true home away from home and have become experts in hosting wedding with over 20 years experience. The venue has views over the South Northamptonshire countryside and can be exclusively yours for three days and two nights. Guests can stay in the 18th-century farmhouse and cosy cottages. Dryden cottage was designed for the newlyweds and comes complete with copper roll-top bath. Marry in the stone vaulted barn, starlit marquee or outside in the romantic Orchard Pavilion. Crockwellfarm.co.uk
Wasing Estate, Berkshire
Only an hours drive from London, this vast estate boasts multiple event spaces. There’s an exclusive-hire main venue with 26 boutique bedrooms, church and Victorian Summer House. The Secret Walled Garden is just perfect for marquee weddings. Finally, Wasing Woodlands, is a magical venue for a modern-boho couple looking to host an eco-friendly, festival-style day. There’s even a stage for you to perform your vows in front of your loved ones. wasing.co.uk
Larchfield Estate, County Down
Without a doubt one of the best wedding venues in Northern Ireland. Located in the heart of the rolling County Down countryside, this family-owned walled estate offers a rural haven brimming with character. The 19th-century stone barn, walled garden with orangery, lake and cobbled courtyards can all be yours for the day. Guests can check into cottages just moments from the action. And for something a little different we love the luxury glamping truck, Myrtle, for the newlyweds. larchfieldestate.co.uk
Notley Abbey, Buckinghamshire
Built in the 12th century and lovingly restored, Notley Abbey is a medieval masterpiece complete with fairytale turret. Once the grand home of Laurence Olivier, it can now be yours for the weekend and with nine stylish bedrooms. Exchange vows under The Nook in the ivy-clad walled garden, then follow this with a grand wedding banquet in the Monks Refectory. bijouweddingvenues.co.uk
Elmore Court, Gloucestershire
Eco-friendly Elmore Court is home to an impressive events space, The Gillyflower. Sustainably built, the futuristic building has stunning countryside views is totally soundproof with meadow roof. The grounds here are stunning, marry in any of their beautiful outdoor spaces including the the Walled Garden, The East Lawn and Cedar Lawn. Food is a forte, sourced locally and from the estate’s own gardens. The estate is in the process of rewilding 250 acres of the land and building treehouses in the woodland. There will be a dedicated ceremony space for woodland weddings. Treehouses will be open for stays in May 2023 and will eventually open to the public too – meaning couples will be able to book in to celebrate anniversaries. elmorecourt.com
Brinsop Court, Herefordshire
This moated manor house has everything you could wish for. Formal ceremonies can be conducted in the candlelit Banqueting Hall or Elizabethan Library with its ornate sculpted ceiling. For an alfresco setting, choose the historic courtyard under the vine gazebo or head into the woodlands. Fun receptions are encouraged – think live music and food stations. brinsopcourt.com
Finnebrogue Woods, County Down
Looking for a laidback festival setting? Opt for this magical woodland hideaway in Northern Ireland. Wind through the mature forest and reach the giant Nordic tipis situated in a glade next to the idyllic lake. A woodland ceremony, quirky bridal retreat and outdoor campfire area add to the boho vibe. The passionate team here will help to plan every detail, offering a full bespoke decor service. finnebroguewoods.com
Lucknam Park, Wiltshire
The mile-long tree-lined driveway leading to this Palladian mansion is certain to wow your guests. Enjoy the ultimate five-star luxury experience from the moment you check in (dogs welcome too). Set in 500 acres of stunning parkland, the hotel boasts Michelin-Star dining, a state-of-the-art spa, equestrian centre, cookery school, family play facility and two cottages. It’s the perfect spot for intimate weddings, opulent celebrations or romantic escapes. lucknampark.co.uk
Hatch House, Wiltshire
This cherished family home has an old-school air of romance. The 17th century two-tier Dutch walled garden provides incredible views over the stunning Vale of Wardour and beyond. There are three licensed outdoor areas for ceremonies – the Lime Avenue is a very special way to make an entrance on your big day. hatch-house.co.uk
Related Articles: The Best Wedding Venues In The UK
