Tried Tested and Reviewed by TWE

Best orangery wedding venues in the UK at a glance:

1. Euridge Weddings, Wiltshire: https://www.euridge.uk/
2. Anrán, Devon: https://anran.co.uk/weddings.html
3. Deer Park, Devon: https://www.deerpark.co.uk/
4. Syon Park, London: https://syonpark.co.uk/
5. Port Eliot, Cornwall: https://www.porteliot.co.uk/

Euridge Weddings, Wiltshire 

A breathtakingly beautiful venue, Euridge has English charm with a Venetian twist. Think grand moated manor house, crumbling castle ruins, sun-drenched terraces and flowering rose gardens and you’ve almost got the measure of its many extraordinary settings. The coral-coloured orangery has sparkling chandeliers plus stunning views over the valley while the ballroom downstairs features an impressive shell and stalactite entrance. In summer months, a lakeside ceremony can be arranged at The Boathouse. (euridgeorangeryweddings.com)

Anrán, Devon 

A hidden oasis in the south west, this can be all yours for three nights (minimum) and offers 40 boutique-luxe bedrooms. Hold a mesmerising reception at The Glasshouse then dance the night away at The Hut – a recently renovated treasure dating back to World War II. With lake, lily pond and 18th-century courtyard, the photo ops are endless. We love The Cow Shed for a BBQ brunch the next day. (anran.co.uk)

Deer Park, Devon   

The sky’s the limit at this Georgian party pad. Available for exclusive hire, you’re guaranteed to have a weekend packed full of fun. The ultra-stylish house has antique furniture, designer wallpapers and rich velvet furnishings throughout. Get hitched in the decadent orangery, leading out to romantic Italian gardens. Bespoke best of British menus are on offer. For the newlyweds, the thatched treehouse is an idyllic hideaway. It’s also dog friendly. Hurrah! In recent news, Deer Park have just released an ‘Exclusively Yours’ Package for all weddings commencing in 2023, which gives you total privacy, uninterrupted use and full enjoyment of eighty acres of grounds and country house, including fourteen main house bedrooms and their unique tree house. (deerpark.co.uk)

Syon Park, London 

One of the last great houses in the capital, this offers a slice of country – and it’s only 25-minutes from London central. The lavish interiors of the main house will make your jaw drop. As the sun sets the bridal procession can be led via the wooded Queen’s Walk to the Great Conservatory bursting with life thanks to the blooming flowers and exotic palms. (syonpark.co.uk)

Port Eliot, Cornwall 

With breathtaking scenery, Port Eliot is steeped in history and it is also home to the largest yurt in Europe. The 3,800-acre estate has endless wedding options – say I do at St Germans church, the romantic Boat House or light-flooded Orangery. Turn your wedding into a Cornish staycation by checking into the Georgian farmhouse with your nearest and dearest. On-site glamping is also available. (porteliot.co.uk)

Hampton Court Palace, Surrey 

Blending Tudor and Baroque architecture, Hampton Court Palace is an iconic setting for a wedding – and the grounds are simply spectacular. The Orangery and Privy Garden was originally designed for King William III and is still fit for a king. With marble sculptures and chequerboard floor, it oozes character. If you want to combine it with something more intimate, Little Banqueting House offers glorious Antonio Verrio murals and views of the Thames. (hrp.org.uk)

11 Cavendish Square, London 

An orangery with an impressive glass ceiling right in the heart of London’s iconic West  – who knew! Located in a Georgian townhouse this has a fresh, contemporary fee that makes it perfect for weddings. Another huge bonus is the pretty courtyard where you can host a fabulous alfresco drinks reception. There are numerous event spaces to choose from, with traditional period features throughout all adding to the property’s charm. (11cavendishsq.com/weddings)

Gaynes Park, Essex 

Not far from the capital, Gaynes Park also offers dramatic skyline views in the distance. Enter up the long winding driveway through park and farmland and you’ll find countryside bliss. This private estate can be exclusively yours for an elegant wedding. With historic barn, walled garden, orangery and Apple Loft Cottage, it really does tick all the boxes.  (gaynespark.co.uk)

Avington Park

For centuries, Avington Park has served as a playground to Kings and Royal Courtiers, with a rich and romantic history. A stunning country estate, the elegant Stately home and its 150 acres are entirely yours. A stone’s throw from Winchester, within easy reach of London, take your vows in the stunning Versailles Ballroom, followed by a breath-taking reception for up to 200 guests in the sun-drenched orangery. A whimsical and enchanting space, where the outside floods in, The orangery’s walls are bursting with jasmine, lemon and lime trees, and views across the estate. Featuring its own private bridge across the River Itchen, complete with a classic launch boat, extensive grounds and four magnificent  rooms, the estate can be exclusively yours. There are even majestic peacocks roaming the land. www.avingtonpark.co.uk. 

Related Article: The Best Wedding Venues In The UK

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We’ve also noticed a shorter lead time on weddings – it’s no longer the classic 18-month countdown but often six weeks – and having a smaller number makes this totally achievable. The idea of a big party is definitely not for everyone and can feel overwhelming. Then let’s not forget the couples who are planning big destination weddings but need to officially tie the knot first, and want to do it in style. 

Whatever your reasoning, there are so many beautiful venues in the capital, whether you’re looking to host an old-school sit-down wedding banquet for your nearest and dearest, a fabulously raucous drinks reception or party in a penthouse – we have got you covered. 

Best small wedding venues in London at a glance:

1. The Hari, Knightsbridge
2. Corinthia London, Embankment
3. Daphne’s Conservatory, Chelsea
4. NoMad London, Convent Garden
5. The Connaught, Belgravia
6. The Mitre Hotel, Hampton Court
7. Bvlgari Hotel London, Knightsbridge
8. Rosewood London, Holborn
9. The Goring Hotel, Belgravia
10. The Kensington, South Kensington
11. Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury

Tried, Tested and Reviewed by TWE 

The Hari, Knightsbridge

The Hari’s Garden Terrace is a hidden gem in heart of Knightsbridge, designed for celebrating your big day in the most idyllic setting. A private and intimate option, available for exclusive hire for couples looking to host up to 25 people. Adorned with living walls and hanging lights, this modern and stylish venue is not only effortlessly attractive but extremely practical – courtesy of a retractable roof and heaters. Eliminating any concerns over the British weather, The Hari’s Garden Terrace is the ideal outdoor venue for all year round. The expert team will create a bespoke wedding package for you, including a five-star drinks reception and wedding breakfast, flowers, a personalised wedding cake (created by their very own Pastry Chef) and luxurious accommodation for you and your guests. www.thehari.com/

Corinthia London, Embankment 

For true foodies, Kerridge’s Private Dining Room (seating 16) at The Corinthia Hotel has to be top of your list. Brought to you by the team of Michelin-starred Chef Tom Kerridge, it’s the ultimate wedding dining experience. There’s a smart kitchen area within the room so you and your guests can delight in watching your own personal chef prepare each course. The interiors are exquisite, it’s arty yet cosy with wooden wine cabinets lining the walls. In true Kerridge style, dishes are animated, it’s the best of British cuisine with a modern twist. To enhance the experience even further, the Head Sommelier is on hand to pair wines with each course. Alternatively, hidden within the main restaurant of the hotel, The Northall Private Dining Room, is a very special setting (seating 12). It’s a decadent space with mirrored walls, perfect for a small but sparkly celebration (www.corinthia.com).

Daphne’s Conservatory, Chelsea

Often combined with a Chelsea Town Hall ceremony, Daphne’s Conservatory, is a stunning setting for an intimate wedding reception. The private dining space can accommodate up to 32 guests for an Italian-style sit down feast or 50 for a lively drinks reception with delicious canapés. The Conservatory is designed to embrace each season. In summer months, there’s an alfresco feel thanks to the retracting glass roof and in winter a blazing fire in the open range turns it into an cosy nest. Head Chef Michael Brown creates seasonal plates, including all the Italian much-loved classics and can work with you to create a bespoke menu to elevate things further. One less thing for your wedding checklist – the room comes with lovely candles, menu cards and place names (www.daphnes-restaurant.co.uk).

NoMad London, Covent Garden 

The new hotel that everyone is talking about, and we can see why. Located opposite The Royal Opera House, NoMad London takes residence in a Grade II-listed building famously known as The Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station. There are 91 elegant rooms, and a number of cool spaces for intimate wedding celebrations. Adjacent to the dramatic Magistrates’ Ballroom are two private dining rooms, the De Veil room and the Fielding Room (both seating 16 – 24). Alongside the Magistrate’s Ballroom is the Magistrate’s Bar (seating 25) offering the ultimate privacy and seclusion, it has a dedicated entrance straight from the street. Alternatively, tucked away just off The NoMad Restaurant sits the Fireplace Room (seating 30) a richly inviting and atmospheric space with lush textures and dark hues. Ideal for a sit-down dinner or fun drinks party (www.thenomadhotel.com).

The Connaught, Belgravia 

Sister hotel to the famous Claridge’s, The Connaught is a glamorous hotel with an intimate, inviting vibe. The event spaces were designed by interior master, Guy Oliver, and strike the perfect balance of contemporary and opulence. Couples can choose a round table in the light-flooded Georgian Room overlooking Carlos Place (seating 6-10) or a cocktail reception in the wood-panelled Maple Room (capacity 20-100). The Mayfair Room is the largest space (capacity 44-200) and arguably one of the most spectacular private dining rooms in London with antique mirrored walls and a stunning parquet floor. The options are endless and the dedicated team will ensure nothing short of perfection, working with local artisans and wedding extraordinaires to bring your dream to life. The hotel also won the 2020 World’s Best Bar award and houses the Aman Spa so it’s sure to wow your loved ones (www.the-connaught.co.uk).

The Mitre Hotel, Hampton Court

This trendy boutique hotel on the banks of the Thames has its very own mooring, meaning you and your partner could impress on your wedding day by arriving by boat. The leafy light-flooded orangery (seating 24 – 60) is a stunningly designed space created to reflect a quintessential Henley Regatta boathouse. Clad with terracotta walls and dramatic colours, there’s also a fabulous private terrace for a lively al fresco drinks reception. Food and drink are the heartbeat of the hotel, with masterchef Ronnie Kimbugwe at the helm. As a little added extra, newlyweds can enjoy a complimentary first anniversary dinner and stay as part of their wedding package. There’s also a Whispering Angel boathouse bar and very affordable rooms with bags of character for all your loved ones (www.mitrehamptoncourt.com).

Bvlgari Hotel London, Knightsbrige

A glamorous hotel, a stone’s throw from Hyde Park, with a swanky atmosphere thanks to its contemporary Italian design and dark interiors. It’s a smallish hotel with just 85 bedrooms and the staff provide impeccable service, making it a great choice for intimate celebrations. Micro-wedding options include The Ballroom Foyer (seating 40) with inbuilt bar and white gold mosaic ceiling (licenced for weddings) – unlike other ballroom spaces, it has a neutral decor so you can inject your own creativity and style. Other options include the famously capacious Bvlgari Suite dining rooms (seating 8), underground bar Nolita Social (seating 71) and the Sette Private Dining Room (seating 18). It is also home to a private state-of-the-art cinema and The Bvlgari Spa with 25m pool, gold mosaic vitality pool and tucked-away cabanas (www.bulgarihotels.com).

Rosewood London, Holborn 

When you enter the dramatic courtyard of this renowned hotel you are transported to a cool oasis, right in the bustling city centre. Intimate spaces include the Sir George Room (Banquet capacity 16, Reception 50) steeped in heritage and ideal for exclusive ceremonies. Just outside is the Grand Marble Staircase, a striking place to have your photographs taken. The Living Room (banquet capacity 36, reception 50) provides an elegant and relaxed setting located on the ground floor and features a gorgeous lounge area and large windows that let in the natural light. For ultimate privacy, why not takeover one of the unbelievably glamorous suites; the six-bedroom Manor House exceeds all expectations, with its beyond luxurious interiors, own lift and postcode. Tailored menus, gin masterclasses, the Matthew Curtis hair salon and Sense Spa all add to the magic of a wedding here. www.rosewoodhotels.com

The Goring Hotel, Belgravia

The Goring has plenty of claims to fame; from having the largest hotel garden in London to its Royal Warrant – you may recall the Duchess of Cambridge checking in the night before the royal wedding. The heritage hotel is unique when it comes to weddings too as it has 5 licenses, so you are spoilt for choice if you want to officially tie the knot here. For receptions, the recently refurbed Drawing Room (seating 12) has a grand ambience or The Silver Room (seating 8) features a striking embroidered wallpaper, by Fromental with hand-painted Chinoiserie design in red. The Veranda (seating 30) is a beautiful pavilion space overlooking the garden and finally The Garden Room is the largest space (seating 44). It has its own conservatory area with a sliding wall of glass, leading out to the glorious gardens making it ideal for an al fresco celebration. The Michelin-starred chef will create a show-stopping seasonal menu and there’s plenty of luxurious accommodation for all your guests. www.thegoring.com

The Kensington, South Kensington

Located amongst the leafy avenues of Regency South Kensington, The Kensington hotel stands as an iconic city landmark and pristine setting for an unforgettable wedding day. Every wedding is unique and it is perfectly suited to the more intimate-style weddings. The Study (seating 18 or 30 for a standing drinks reception) is the ideal spot for a smaller gathering. It features classic period interiors and characteristic lofty ceiling alongside sleek, contemporary furniture. The in-house team will work with you to design a bespoke menu curated from the finest, freshest and locally sourced ingredients – paired with wines selected by the Head Sommelier, Philip Dunne. Every detail, from the florals and room decor to place cards will be managed by the passionate team, ensuring nothing short of perfection. www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-kensington-hotel

Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury

Set in the heart of the historic Bloomsbury, London’s literary epicentre, Dalloway Terrace is an elegant and vibrant restaurant and perfect destination to host a wedding reception for a small party of 22 guests. To elevate celebrations further, the restaurant’s in-house Champagne is Perrier-Jouët meaning you and your guests can toast with an extra special glass of Maison Belle Époque. The indoor and heated outdoor space is known for its regular transformations, enticing guests and locals to visit regularly to enjoy impressive floral installations which evolve with the seasons. The enchanting oasis also hosts a weekend brunch as well as daily Afternoon Tea menu served between noon and 4pm. Its beautiful and elegant surroundings make for a romantic and intimate setting for any special occasion. dallowayterrace.com/

Related article: The Best Wedding Venues In The UK For 2023

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Wasing Park is a centuries-old farming hamlet that has been carefully converted into an incomparable storybook wedding venue. There is magic in every corner of the verdant 4,000-acre Wasing Estate, one of the most diverse rural estates in England, and Wasing Park is its stunning crowning jewel.

Wasing can be exclusively enjoyed by the wedding party, who will find a unique space to celebrate and connect, from an unforgettable welcome evening—think acoustic musicians serenading guests in the moonlight—to the final ‘Estate to Plate’ wedding breakfast. And with a peerless offering of activities—from forest bathing to Haka classes—Wasing is best experienced over an action-packed two-or three-day wedding.

There are hundreds of years of character and stories built into the fabric of the buildings, from saying your vows in the postcard-pretty 15th-century Parish Church of St. Nicholas to resting your head at the end of the day in the enchanting old Granary. Wasing uniquely fuses continuity (and a commitment to sustainability) with luxury; and modern polish brings the space bang-up to date. Wasing’s elevated rustic feel makes it an ideal sanctuary to take over with loved ones and celebrate in style. 

Venue Style

For the couple who wants to be immersed in nature throughout their celebrations while not compromising on luxury, Wasing Park is wrapped up in the bucolic vibrancy of the Berkshire countryside while being but an hour from London. It is guaranteed to be all-the-more picturesque in the spring, where blossom rules and emerald dragonflies zip through the magical gardens.

Synthesising a relaxed, farmhouse vibe with clever and stylish renovations, Wasing provides that much-sought-after home-from-home feel. Expect classic countryside comforts and mooing cows, but also luxuries (like a freestanding claw tub in your room) and second-to-none service, making every request an easy reality. 

Wasing is an ideal choice for a couple who prioritise their peace of mind on the big day. From the very start of the planning process, careful attention is paid to every detail. Wasing’s unique commitment to excellence is evident at every step, executed by an expert team with a distinct ability to put people at ease. The discrete and cheerful staff remain ten steps ahead, ensuring celebrations are stress-free with maximum space and time for fun, while keeping an eye on the clock to make sure everyone is in the right place at the right time. 

Set The Scene

Wasing Park can be found ensconced in Berkshire’s green pastures at the end of an epic winding drive. There is an immediate feel of privacy and seclusion—one that encourages you to exhale and relax. Although self-evidently embodying a long and dignified history, Wasing is, without stuffy pretension, a place that can be exclusively yours to have fun with loved ones. 

And there is plenty to do. For the ultimate decompression before the big day, head down to the lake to make use of Wasing’s unique Scandi-style Sauna and ice bath for the ever-invigorating hot-cold-hot trifecta. If you need some encouragement before taking a dip, know there will be a dedicated Wellbeing Host on hand to guide you through and offer a soothing herbal tea as a reward. Surrounded by panoramic views of picturesque woodland, here you can relax and unwind in a singularly peaceful setting. 

To make full use of all of the fun to be had, extend your stay to a third day and host garden games and activities: perhaps a morning yoga class, a Pimm’s picnic in the woodlands for lunch, followed by an afternoon of activity. Get stuck into all manner of games—there is axe throwing, simulated clay shooting, or target archery instruction on the lawn. Then the day could be topped off with a cricket match at Wasing’s Cricket Pavilion, a post-match barbeque, and toasted marshmallows at Twilight by the fire pit. 

Event Spaces

For an utterly charming white-turreted church ceremony of 100 people, look to the Parish Church of St. Nicholas that sits at the heart of Wasing Park. The church has features that date to AD 1200, and a 14th-century cast iron bell that will ring you into the future with the utmost jubilation. On a sunny day, it is singularly idyllic, with streams of light filtering through the stained glass windows.

Or— for a proclamation of love not dissimilar from Pride and Prejudice’s very own— look to the Outdoor Victorian Summerhouse. Surrounded by blossom trees, the Summerhouse features a breathtaking hand-painted mural of wildlife, flora, and fauna that reflects the natural abundance of the estate. It is a thoroughly romantic option that can accommodate up to 160 guests.

With the same guest capacity but a light, breezy, and modern feel, choose The Garden Room. It is a blank canvas to be decorated in your image, wrapped up with views of the surrounding greenery. There are also handy bi-fold glass doors that provide all-important flexibility to enjoy the best of the weather. 

The festivities can continue at the Grade II-listed Castle Barn, which can accommodate up to 250 partygoers. To ensure the momentum of the evening is maintained, the dining room will be transformed into a dance floor in under 30 minutes. On the terrace, there is a weatherproof al fresco space, with the protection of an expansive floating stretch tent. Here is a perfect spot for a casual bite to eat, with the theatrical addition of Wasing Chef’s firing up pizzas for hungry guests in the wood oven. The very embodiment of cosy magic at all times of year, lookers-on can wrap up with sheepskins and sit under twinkling fairy lights, soaking up the best of the atmosphere.

Food & Drink

All prospective bridal parties will be invited to a tasting event, where they will sample a set menu (with paired wines) that spotlights the flavour and flair of Wasing’s rich produce. This extra step gives the bride and groom unique insight into the guest experience of the wedding, ensuring everything goes beautifully on the big day. 

Continuing an estate-wide commitment to sustainability, Wasing’s food vision is ‘Nose to Tail’. By prioritising the quality of the meat, the resulting menu authentically maximises deliciousness with succulent local lamb and beef from native red Sussex cattle. And in keeping with their ‘Estate to Plate Ethos’, you can expect to taste Wasing’s seasonal organic produce, from orchard grown fruit down to hedge-row herbs.

Outside of the estate, there are a plethora of local artisan suppliers who offer delights, from award-winning Barkham Blue cheese to chalk stream smoked trout from the River Test. And as for your tipple, there are real ales and lagers from local breweries, Rebellion and Renegade, or Wasing’s own gin, infused with a mixture of lemons, rosemary, thyme, and blackcurrant leaves from the garden, sweetened with wildflower honey from Wasing hedgerows. You can also choose local Langham sparkling wines for your toast, who were recently named Sparkling Wine Producer of the Year.

Accommodation

There are 26 bespoke-designed bedrooms at Wasing Park, sleeping 64 people in total. Much of the accommodation brings the historical integrity of the estate to the fore. A lucky duo will stay at The Dovecote, the former home of hundreds of doves that has been renovated into a magical two-floor mezzanine with a custom-made triangular bed at the top of a spiral staircase. There is also the Smithy, a secluded suite away from the main house, formerly the site of the blacksmiths forge. The space boasts the original fireplace, but has been updated with a clean modern finish and a luxurious emperor bed to get lost in. Or opt for The Granary, originally built to store grain but now a cosy two-floor wood-panelled suite, complete with two bedrooms on split floors, ideal for families. 

But for the bride and groom, there is a dedicated Honeymoon Suite. Home to the biggest bed in Berkshire, the spacious and light-filled former Hayloft boasts charming original features and every indulgence, from a roll-top bath to a private breakfast area and sun terrace overlooking the estate. 

For larger parties, there are additional properties in other areas of the estate, though this is subject to availability. At Kitts Cottage (that sleeps seven) and Home Farmhouse (that sleeps 12 and has self-catering options), guests can enjoy flexibility with space to unwind.

A final top tip: if The Old Estate Rooms are booked, the bridal party will be given private access to Kitt’s cottage for pre-wedding pampering the evening before and then will move to the main venue on the big day. And on the morning of the wedding, there is dedicated space for the grooms to get suited and booted, with use of The Grooms Room from 10:30am. 

The Story

Wasing has a 500-year history that can be traced back to 1535, when The Knights Hospitallers settled at Wasing’s Shalford Farm. Beyond this, when John Mount purchased the Estate in 1759, the Estate was brought into the tradition of wayfaring due to its new owner’s successful map and sea chart publishing company— Mount and Page— that produced an array of publications including the English Pilot, which helped Captain Cook’s Endeavour navigate to Australia. This wayfaring DNA is essential to Wasing, and is the spirit upon which new adventures and journeys can be embarked upon and discovered throughout your wedding.

Eco-Friendly

Sustainability and longevity are at the forefront of Wasing’s operations. In 2018, Wasing Farm went organic in order to prioritise the proper regeneration of local soil and ecosystems into the future. Alongside this, there is deliberate attention paid to conservation matters, enhancing biodiversity across the estate and improving water quality. Over 200 acres are dedicated to chosen flower and seed crops that specifically sustain pollinators throughout the year and red-list birds from skylarks to linnets. You will also notice that throughout Wasing’s 26 bedrooms, there is a sustainable heating system with a biomass boiler that uses wood from the land. 

The Need-To-Know

Budget: Prices start at £3,150.

Capacity: Maximum of 160 for ceremony & up to 250 for evening celebrations; sleeps 64.

Location: Wasing Park, Wasing Lane, RG7 4NG

Website: www.wasing.co.uk/weddings

Contact Details: wasingpark@wedding-venues.co.uk; 0118 907 0199

Instagram: @wasingweddings

Facebook: Wasing Weddings

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The Penn is a neo-Gothic estate so epic, it inspired one of the great literary love stories: Thomas Hardy’s The Well Beloved. Set against the rugged UNESCO-heritage Dorset coast, The Penn estate sits dramatically on the cliffs atop crashing waves. The romance of Pennsylvania Castle is of the old world—light, airy, and effortlessly elegant. The Penn has recently expanded to include newly developed luxury modern residences, The Clifftops, that increase the accommodation offering to 40 guests. 

Although the estate is steeped in great history, The Penn’s events team makes sure that the personalities of the couple in question remain front and centre of all operations. There is charm, thoughtful accommodation, and champagne top-ups at every step, ensuring the most seamless and joyous of wedding weekends. 

Venue Style

There is something to wow everyone at The Penn, from the effortlessly awe-inspiring dignity of the castle— which has hosted royalty— to the more relaxed feel of The Clifftops residences. The entirety of the estate will be yours to play with, leaving you and your loved ones to enjoy the secluded tranquillity of the bucolic surroundings without interruption.

And with an events team committed to excellence by your side, a wedding at The Penn is sure to be a flawlessly executed affair. Here, you have a team at your disposal that can do a lavish spectacle for 100 just as easily as they can do a low-key, intimate gathering for 10. There is a guarantee of end-to-end communication between you and the team, who will look after you with thoughtful consideration right up until your departure. Guests are also uniquely taken into account; they are given a bespoke micro-site with all of the event details in one place, from updates on the weather to travel arrangements. This system ensures that any 11th-hour timetable changes can be communicated to guests with ease and celebrations go off without a hitch. 

Set The Scene

From first glance, there is the presence and drama that only a grand estate of yesteryear can offer: from the sweeping driveway to the helipad on the north lawn, accommodating arrivals by air, should you so desire. 

The Penn boasts a picture-perfect fusion of a sublime coastal setting and a cinematic, fairytale location. The mesmerizing, panoramic sea views are truly unparalleled— and if you’re lucky, you may even get to see dolphins splashing around in the summer. That said, there is truly no more magical time to visit The Penn than Christmas, when you can absorb the majesty of stormy seas from the comfort and cosiness of The Drawing Room beneath a twinkling tree, hot chocolate in hand.

There are corners of the castle for every moment of the day, from a toast with Dorset sparkling wine on the terrace of the Clifftops, to jolly afternoon garden games on the manicured lawn. If you are looking to occupy your guests outside of the estate (and steal away some alone time), send them off to do any number of activities on the Isle of Portland, from fishing, windsurfing, scuba diving, and sailing, to climbing, walking, and off-road cycling.

Event Spaces

For a spectacular first-night impression, make full use of the Clifftops entertaining space, which— while only mere steps from the castle— feel a world away. The Clifftops have an entirely independent, pared-back atmosphere, ideal for giving guests the space to relax into the festivities, aside from the spectacle and high-octane theatre of the castle on the big day. Guests can wander out onto the patio of Lodge Ope with a welcome drink in hand and take in the easy romance of the coastal scene, or step down to the photo op-ready roof garden deck to enjoy the sea breeze and riviera feel. And for those with a flair for the dramatic, both areas are equipped with their very own secret entrance to ensure any surprises are executed with maximum shock value. 

For the ceremony, The Penn offers a range of different indoor and outdoor locations, showcasing the best of what each season has to offer. In the summer, The Orangery transforms from a tranquil space for swimming into an unrecognisable but wholly resplendent location for 100 guests. Perhaps most special, though, are the near-panoramic views of the sea, which peek out through large French windows. 

Otherwise, choose from one of several evergreen gardens, such as the secluded Italian Garden, which conjures quiet magnificence and an intimate atmosphere. There is also a verdant tropical option, boasting exotic plants, palm trees, and waterfalls for a true escapist fantasy. Then there is the newly-launched Olive Garden, which offers a more pared-back feel, combining the sensory pleasures of an overlooking olive tree with expansive views over the bay. Or for a quintessentially English summer ceremony, opt for The Pagoda on the lawn, which can be filled with flowers, or kept minimal in your image. And, in the event of any weather-related hiccups, Hannah and the team will be ready at your side with 100 brollies. But, in the event of a truly biblical rainstorm, they will be sure to formulate an inside backup plan. 

If you are getting married on a crisp winter’s day, you can enjoy the castle at its most magical: cloaked in snow. For an intimate affair, say your “I dos” basked in the fireside ambience of the Library. Here, you can achieve relaxed romance, particularly if you make full use of the Library’s baby grand piano. You can expect scents of pepper and thyme to waft through the celebrations, as a flickering Autumn candle from the Penn Creative Collection will be the finishing touch to the ultimate hygge set-up.

Whichever space you choose, all floristry and styling requests can be taken care of in-house by The Penn Creative Collection, removing any unnecessary logistical stress from the equation. Styling & Events Manager Tessa is the brains behind the collection, combining dependable ease with expertise to look after all floral arrangements, from large-scale installations to more intimate tablescapes. With a wealth of knowledge working on the estate, Tessa and the team uniquely understand how to fuse your unique vision with the character and styling needs of the estate. Be it abundant green in The Orangery or bold brights in the English Rose Garden, the team will hand-select blooms to create a truly immersive experience for all. Couples will enjoy creative freedom at every corner, as the venue will be exclusively used for the festivities.

Food & Drink

For your wedding feast, look to local supplier Ginger Catering Company. Armed with a team of food obsessives, they artfully create memorable dining experiences on a bedrock of simple, elegant, locally-sourced ingredients. The team endeavours to provoke joy in all they do, creating entirely bespoke experiences that will delight, entertain, and satisfy all. Ginger Catering are also known for their exacting standards, checking each plate for the holy trifecta of taste, flavour, and presentation before it goes out to hungry guests.

For all snacks, coffees, and cakes in between, make sure to call on The Penn’s on-site Hayloft Coffee Shop & Bar. All produce is delicious and healthy, supplied by local producers such as Brace of Butchers (part of HRH King Charles III’s idealised vision for an English town), the family-run Peppina Bakery, which brings savoury Sicilian fare to Dorset, and Rolly’s Brownies, where free-range eggs and organic flour are used for the heartiest, gooiest brownies. 

The wedding party will be well-oiled with the curated delights of The Penn Estate Cellar. The Penn work closely to design wine lists with Jonathan Charles at The Dorset Wine Company, and can source vintage bottlings for bespoke storytelling. Look out in particular for special mentions from the Southern Hemisphere (a nod to the owner’s Australian roots) or excellent wines closer to home; of particular note is the late great Steven Spurrier’s 2019 Chardonnay and 2018 Pinot Noir from the Bride Valley. 

Drinks can be independently supplied if you would prefer, or a fully licensed bar will be at your disposal. And if any bottles capture your imagination, pop to the Hayloft Coffee Shop and Bar to buy a memento bottle (or two) to take home. 

Accommodation

Half the party will stay in one of the nine airy en-suite rooms inside the castle— with the Orpheus bedroom, sitting in an actual turret— as a wise choice for a wedding suite. Featuring an epic emperor bed, an opulent chandelier overhead, and a freestanding claw bathtub, this is a lavish choice, befitting the happy couple.

Guests will enjoy rooms with expansive views over the estate. From Raffles, which boasts a gorgeous marble bathroom and showcases the upper gardens, to Botanical, an ideal option for a family as it sleeps four and has views over the Italian Garden. Wherever your guests end up, they can expect a bottle of locally brewed Fordington Gin as a welcome treat on arrival. 

Twenty lucky guests will be housed at five residences at the Clifftops (each with two bedrooms): Blue, Stone, Copper, Silva, and Ope, a more recent addition to The Penn. Designed by Morrow + Lorraine Architects to fuse modernity and continuity (and built in the island’s famed Portland stone), The Clifftops have been respectfully integrated into the wider estate. The purpose-built luxury lodges are nestled just above the sea and just below the castle, showcasing a show-stopping view without interrupting the view from the castle’s perch.

While building the history of the estate into the walls (literally, with fossils embedded into the stone), these stylish modern residences have been kitted out with Samsung Smart TVs and a Bose sound system. Luxurious cosiness is also ever-present, with bespoke fires and underfloor heating throughout. The Clifftops would make the perfect location for a bride to seclude herself, and make an all-the-more magnificent first impression as she enters the castle grounds on the big day.

The Story

The Penn estate has an illustrious history; Pennsylvania Castle was first commissioned in 1797 by John Penn, the then-governor of the Isle of Portland and grandson of the founder of the US state of Pennsylvania. Penn instructed famed neo-Gothic architect John Wyatt to design the castle, using the island’s famed limestone to build it. The castle was opened in 1800 by the then-Princess Elizabeth, whose father, King George III, celebrated many happy wedding anniversaries as an esteemed guest.

Rumour has it that Churchill, Charles de Gaulle, and General Eisenhower even plotted the D-Day invasion inside the walls of the castle. 

Such rich history is respected with intention by the team, who work with the local museum and Dorset Garden Trust on all matters of historical protection and preservation.

Eco-Friendly

The Penn estate is deliberate and conscious about maintaining an environmental strategy throughout its operations. There is a sustainable through-line from the cellar, which has carbon-neutral and organic wines in its selection, to The Event’s Team’s paper and plastic-free communication, and The Creative Collection’s commitment to repurpose materials where possible. No detail is too small, down to the herbs used in the collection’s ‘sage’ styling palette, which can be gifted, planted, or re-used.

Moreover, the estate consults with Dorset County Council to develop a bespoke ecology strategy that protects trees and flora wherever possible. The recent Clifftops development saw this strategy in action, with clifftop flora recreated above the five cliffside residences to attract local butterflies.

The Need-To-Know

Budget: From £18,000 (including two nights accommodation)

Capacity: Capacity for 150 guests and accommodation available for 40.

Location: Pennsylvania Castle Estate, Pennsylvania Road, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1HZ

Website: www.thepennestate.co.uk 

Contact info: +44 (0)1305 820918; office@thepennestate.co.uk 

Instagram: thepennestate

Facebook: Pennsylvania Castle Estate

READ NEXT: The Questions Every Couple Should Ask On Wedding Venue Visits

The post Venue Review: Pennsylvania Castle, Dorset appeared first on The Wedding Edition.

Amidst all the excitement, it’s important to ensure you get all the facts before falling head over heels for a dreamy spot to say “I do.” Venue visits are enormously helpful in getting a sense of a place’s atmosphere and accommodations, but only if you come prepared and remember to ask the right questions.

We consulted with the experts at some of our favourite wedding reception venues in the U.K, and gathered their top tips on the questions to ask before signing the dotted line.

Ask about the location options available

The benefit of hosting your wedding in a larger venue over the course of a few days is the ability to create a sense of novelty for guests as you move through different locations for each of the wedding festivities. 

At Cornwell Manor, for example, a welcome dinner for immediate family is often celebrated in the ballroom, the civil ceremony in the garden, and dinner and dancing in a marquee overlooking the lakes. Couples are also spoilt for choice at Dewsall Court, which offers 11 different ceremony spaces to choose from.

Meanwhile, at the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, beautiful backdrops abound: whether it’s the stately façade of Goodwood House to take pictures in front of, or the Ballroom Lawn fit for marquees for larger parties, the 11,000 acre sporting estate offers plenty of options for celebrations of all kinds.

Sophie Brooke, General Manager at Deer Park, highlights the importance of understanding the potential indoor flow of the day in case of unpredictable British weather. “Lots of couples want a summer wedding and use that to inform how the day will go, but we just can’t trust the forecast, she says. “It’s important that they are just as happy with the indoor spaces on offer if they can’t be outside on the day.”

Despite its name, The Walled Garden at Cowdray features two spacious reception rooms so couples have beautiful spaces to celebrate in, even if there’s rain.

Get clear on arrival and departure times

While scheduling may seem like a finer detail to be arranged closer to the time, it’s important to understand what your venue can—and can’t—accommodate in terms of access for vendors to set up, and check-out times for on-site guests. Many venues, including Deer Park in Devon which offers a 24-hour day hire from 11am to 11am, will only have on-site accommodation ready for check-in later in the afternoon, to allow housekeeping to turn the rooms around. 

If you’d prefer more time to debrief with loved ones after a late night affair, consider extending your venue hire to another day if budgets permit (Deer Park offers consecutive 24-hour hires for two- or three-day affairs), or search for venues that can accommodate a more relaxed day-after schedule. 

Weddings at Cornwell Manor, for instance, allow couples to check in on a Thursday at midday, giving them plenty of time to settle in ahead of any festivities. Departure from Cornwell isn’t until 5pm on a Sunday, making it easy to enjoy a lie-in or host a farewell pool party. Similarly, most weddings at Dewsall Court are two- to three-night stays, which offer more buffer time for welcome and departure events. 

“Our beautiful Dressing Room always gets a great reaction from visitors, and it’s filled with lots of natural light for getting ready,” says Hannah Fullagar, Wedding Coordinator at The Walled Garden in Cowdray. “It’s also accessible from 8:30am onwards so preparations can get underway nice and early, and has plenty of space for a good crowd of bridesmaids or groomsmen.”

Understand exactly what’s included in each venue’s hire fee

If you are comparing prices of venues, make sure you are comparing apples-to-apples and you know exactly what each quote includes. For example, do the price quotes both include any set-up and take-down fees? Are there additional charges for external vendors to set up marquees and food trucks? 

“Some venues may seem more expensive at first, but consider carefully the support you get and what’s included in your stay when booking,” says Samantha Vaughan, Marketing Director at Dewsall Court. Sometimes a more affordable quote turns out to have fewer inclusions, and added costs for essentials like furniture rental end up dwarfing the savings you hoped to make by choosing the cheaper option. 

While venues such as Dewsall Court in Herefordshire include smaller but vital elements such as cutlery, crockery, glassware, and robes and towels for guests in their fees, charges for food, drink, and staffing are variable depending on the requirements of the couple. 

“All weddings are bespoke, so we cannot charge the same for a wedding with 30 guests who want a seven-course tasting menu, and a wedding for 130 guests who want feasting platters: we don’t think it’s fair to blanket charge people when their needs are quite different,” Samantha adds.

Find out if the venue has any non-negotiables

Venues can usually be flexible on most elements of your special day, but there are a few things that they might not be able to budge on. It’s worth asking about these ahead of time, particularly if you have a specific vision for an element of your wedding that might be a deal-breaker for an otherwise perfect venue. 

For example, Goodwood, Deer Park and Dewsall Court all ask its couples to work with their kitchen teams to craft a bespoke menu and require all catering to be delivered in-house, while Cornwell Manor and The Walled Garden at Cowdray ask couples to choose from a little black book of vetted catering suppliers.

“We try to be as flexible as possible, and offer introductions to the vendors we’ve worked with over the last ten years who all know the place inside and out,” says Charlotte Boston, Events Director at Cornwell Manor.

Hannah from The Walled Garden at Cowdray adds that things “run a lot smoother when you’re in the hands of a catering team who really know the venue,” which reduces the risk of any on-the-day glitches.

Beyond catering, venues may have other stipulations to ensure logistics are managed so you are free to enjoy your special day. For example, Cornwell Manor requests that all couples marrying at the house hire a wedding planner or coordinator to oversee the nuptial festivities (they don’t have in-house coordinators), and Deer Park requires any fireworks displays to be arranged using an approved supplier. 

Leave room for the “unquantifiables”

The beauty of visiting venues in person is the chance to experience the unexpected, and encounter elements of a place that no website or photograph can capture. It might be that you fall in love with the spectacular sunset light that falls over Dewsall Court, the treasures from historic travels that fill every room at Cornwell Manor, or the gorgeous secret garden tucked away in Deer Park.

Pay attention to the elements of a venue that you can’t get out of your head for weeks afterwards — they are memorable for a reason.

“Couples that marry at Goodwood always fondly recall their memories with our Head Butler, David Edney,” General Manager Tara Bottomley tells us. “He’s been here for more than 25 years and looks after our couples, from meeting them at their first visit to calming pre-wedding nerves. He’s even lent his shoes to the father of a bride when a sole fell off before he was due to walk his daughter down the aisle!”

READ NEXT: The Wedding Venues To Have On Your Radar For 2025

The post The Questions Every Couple Should Ask On Wedding Venue Visits appeared first on The Wedding Edition.

Senior General Manager Kevin Lansdown has been working with Caprice Holdings at different restaurants on and off since 1981, when he was just 21 years old. Scott’s has become a part of who he is, and over the past 40 years, he has met colleagues and customers who have become lifelong friends.

Head Chef Tom Fraser started with the company at Scott’s Mayfair in 2008, where he first fell in love with cooking fish and shellfish. After a short break, he returned in 2015 as senior sous chef. When the opportunity came up to open Scott’s Richmond, he jumped at the chance.

How would you describe Scott’s Richmond?

Kevin: I think what sets Scott’s apart locally is the scale and the opulence of the environment. It’s very unusual to find a restaurant of this size outside of central London, but what you see as you go further into the environment is Scott’s Richmond’s relationship to the river and the architectural surroundings. It’s a beautiful place to be— to work, to visit as a diner, or to celebrate a special occasion.

The view of the river is second-to-none, and from the upstairs terrace, the view across the river and into the distance as the sun sets is truly breathtaking. When you pair the setting with the quality of food delivered by Tom Fraser and his team from the kitchen, it really does make for a an unforgettable place to work and dine.

Tell us something most people don’t know about the restaurant.

Kevin: What most people don’t know about Scott’s Richmond is that the restaurant was only built in 1984. It’s quite amusing, people come along and see this magnificent Palladian villa-style building and its high-ceiling dining room, and think it must have been here for a long time. But the entire development all the way to Richmond Bridge (with the single exception of the old Town Hall) was built in the ’80s. It doesn’t make it any less beautiful, though.

What’s the chef’s favourite dish?

Tom: Currently my favourite dish on the menu is a new addition. I love octopus, and here at Scott’s, we have placed pieces of slow-cooked octopus on a skewer with olives and guindilla peppers as kind of play on a Gilda. We grill the skewers over our charcoal grill, and serve on a bed of hummus, smoked yogurt, and dressed with chilli oil. 

Where’s the best table?

Tom: Currently on the terrace, we have the Secret Garden installation with lots of foliage. Table 55 on the end is a beautiful table that overlooking the river and quite secluded behind  the plants and climbers. 

However on a date night, it would have to be any table on the first floor on a Wednesday night. With live jazz, amazing cocktails and oysters, it’s a perfect night.

What’s your go-to drink to order at the bar?

Tom: For an aperitif I always love a Negroni. My wife says I’m predictable and boring but I absolutely love them, and the guys at Scott’s Richmond make an incredible one.

What kind of people dine here?

Kevin: We have a real mixture of people who dine at Scott’s in Richmond. Locals, tourists, and people coming out from the centre of town or Twickenham Film Studios after sporting occasions. Although very opulent, it’s very much a high-end seafood brasserie that delivers fresh produce well cooked in a beautiful environment, and that’s something that is appreciated by a very broad selection of people— both young and old alike.

Who’s thrown parties here? Any standout stories?

Kevin: That would be telling and those are private times and celebrations, but what I can say is that all of them have gone on to become regular customers of the restaurant, and some of those who had their weddings in our first few months here have even returned with their children.

What kinds of couples hold their wedding receptions here?

Kevin: Scott’s Richmond hosts couples of all ages – it really is a beautiful and suitable venue. We have seen small scale celebrations post-registry office, and a few larger occasions when people hired out the whole of the first floor and terrace, and filled them with throngs of people and some of the most spectacular floral arrangements I’ve ever seen.  

And finally, what’s next for Scott’s Richmond?

Kevin: I would say that we would love to be more engaged in the local environment and its needs. Richmond is such a beautiful place to be, but the outer areas of London have been in flux for the last couple of years , so there are many changes, joys and challenges to operating outside of central London. I really want us to meet those challenges head on, and develop our relationship to the locale in the long-term to benefit us all and to Richmond.

READ NEXT: Inside: An Exuberant Riverside Luncheon, Celebrating The World In Colour With Estée Lauder

The post Behind The Scenes At Scott’s Richmond appeared first on The Wedding Edition.

Dewsall Court is the ideal setting for a deliciously down-to-earth celebration, stretching over two-to-three days. The design-led team will ensure it’s a show-stopping wedding with endless charm from the moment you arrive. The venue is an elevated (and Grade II listed) home-from-home, filled with cosy nooks, log fires, and 17th-century quirks. It is an archetypal country house that sits against the backdrop of the Black Mountains, with 12 acres of gardens and grounds surrounded by the Duchy of Cornwall’s pocket of Herefordshire countryside and views as far as the eye can see. But there is no austere pretension here. Dewsall Court has long been a buzzing family home and is now run by a mother-and-daughter duo who have, for 14 years, taken care of every detail to create standout weddings with some of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful setups we’ve seen. 

Venue Style

Dewsall boasts a charming mix of modern eclecticism and effortless old-world grandeur. It is a prudent choice for a couple who wield their welly boots as much as they enjoy a luxurious escape. It is gorgeously unfussy and authentically down-to-earth, giving you and your loved ones a relaxed atmosphere equally suitable for kicking off your shoes and relaxing or twirling around in a ball gown. 

Take over the house with 28 of your nearest-and-dearest and indulge in Dewsall’s nonchalant charm for a two night stay over the weekend. And there is the option to lengthen your celebration and indulge your guests in a third night of fun.

Set The Scene

While self-evidently grand with layer-upon-layer of one-of-a-kind antiques, the house will welcome you as soon as you arrive with a warm figurative hug. It is filled with sprawling rugs with squishy sofas and cosy nooks to curl up in. Hygge galore!

At Dewsall, you are encouraged to slow down and indulge in the experience. Queue walks through 12-acres of crunchy autumn leaves, or if you are even more of an active type, there is billiards, croquet, or clay pigeon shooting, all arranged by your dedicated House Host. They will make your stay seamless, meeting every need, from a last-minute mad dash to find scissors to a cup of tea (with a homemade biscuit, obviously). 

If at any point you are looking to sneak off from a rowdy crowd, Dewsall has the ideal secluded spot. Tucked in the arms of an ancient oak tree, you will find a 2-story treehouse (known as The Nest) with a perfectly positioned bar to grab a Herefordshire Wild Knapp Distillery Gin and Tonic, if you so desire.

Event Spaces

Choose from eleven different locations that bring Dewsall’s country feel to the fore. Such choice may feel overwhelming, but never fear: you will have a dedicated Events Manager and Catering Manager to support every step of the way. 

Enjoy the bucolic, sunny romance of the rolling Herefordshire hills at The West Lawn or the mirrored tranquillity of The Lake Field, nestled under a weeping willow tree. Be sure to note the particular abundance of these generous swathes of Herefordshire countryside. Dewsall has conducted an extensive rewilding project that has created new homes for all kinds of wildlife. 

If you are after traditional charm, walk to the end of the garden, slip through a wooden gate, and head down a winding path lined with daffodils. You will reach a country church steeped in history, so old it was mentioned in the Doomsday book. 

Inside, enjoy the sun-dappled Conservatory or the Chinoiserie, a particularly stylish offering with hand-painted silk walls sprinkled with natural motifs. Or you could opt for The Wainhouse Barn, a purpose-built conversion with a paired-back rustic feel—the perfect canvas for you to execute your particular point of view. The space seamlessly blends the best of the outdoor-indoor experience, whatever the weather, with retractable glass doors. While some stay inside, chained to the dance floor, others can happily look on, toasting marshmallows by the firepit.

And the best part, when the clock strikes midnight, you and your guests can sneak down to The Den to keep the fun going until dawn. Hidden in the cellar, this party den is equipped with the necessary components for a boogie: a bar, disco lights, and almighty sound system.

Food & Drink

Take a quick peek at Dewsall Court’s Google reviews, and you will be met with gushing praise, nearly all of which mentions the food. All menus prioritise seasonal produce and local suppliers, with cheese from nearby Neal’s Yard Creamery and organic wine from Nothing But the Grape. Expect a breakfast spread that similarly puts local produce front and centre, with bread by local artisan baker Peter Cook slathered with in-house fermented butter and honey from the four beehives at Dewsall Gardens.

But their secret weapon is their Fusion Wedding Menus. In collaboration with chef Ruchita Green, who specialises in Indian cuisine, cooking vibrant home-style food with a contemporary twist. These menus aim to showcase the diversity of food and cultures across the Indian subcontinent. When conjuring up a Wedding Menu, Green carefully fuses “the cultural background of the two families that are coming together” and works with you to communicate this story on the plate. 

Whichever menu you go for, collaboration will be part of the process. Prior to the wedding, couples will delight in a 12-course tasting menu, where they will have quality time with the in-house cheffing team to talk through all things food and drink. And there will be much to plan, from relaxed welcome dinners to a joyful gossip-heavy departure brunch – anything is possible. 

Accommodation

Dewsall Court can accommodate 28 of your nearest and dearest. All of the rooms carry the nonchalant character of its 400-year history. Expect ornately embroidered soft furnishings and deep roll top bathtubs. There is, of course, a spectacular suite for the wedding couple – The Dewsall Suite – that spans a third of the first floor of the house, filling the windows with near-panoramic views of the Duchy.

There’s no such thing as a bad room at Dewsall; some, such as The Damask Room, infuse light airiness with chic simplicity, while others bring the ancient history of the house to the fore with the plush old-world comfort of four-poster beds. And if you would prefer to recuperate away from the crowd, you can find quiet respite at The Cottage Barn, a cosy alternative to the hustle-and-bustle of the main house.

Wherever you end up, your room will be design-led, emphasising the individual (and often original) features that bring forth the character of the room. 

The Story

Dewsall Court was first built in 1644 by Richard Pearle but fell into disrepair after the bankruptcy of the party-loving patron of the arts, the 1st Duke of Chandos. This close connection to the art world continued through to the Second World War, when The National Gallery kept paintings at Deswall for safekeeping. Those were dramatic decades for Dewsall — it was even used by the SAS to prepare for the Iranian embassy siege in the 1960s. 

But in 1989, the house became a home for the Robinsons—Joe, Jane, Samantha and Joseph — the first owners to live in the house since the 18th century. They spent the next decade restoring it to its former glory, making it the joy filled house and highly-regarded wedding venues it is today. 

Eco-Friendly

Sustainability and ethical business practices are at the heart of what the team at Dewsall Court do.Where sustainability is concerned, no detail is too small, who abide by The Sustainable Wedding Alliance’s strict code of conduct. Every piece of food waste is collected and converted into biogas for generating “electricity, heat, and vehicle fuel,” and the byproducts are used as organic compost fertiliser. And any leftover fruit is carefully dehydrated and stored to garnish your next tipple. This commitment continues down to the minutiae, from cooking oil that is collected, cleaned, and repurposed as biodiesel to the water that is distilled in-house as part of Dewsall’s support for the Whole World Water project. And, true to the ethically-minded commitments, all guests will find recycled, biodegradable, or sustainable bamboo paper products in their bathrooms.

The need-to-know: 

Budget: From £15,850 (including two nights accommodation)

Capacity: Wainhouse Barn has capacity for 170 guests. Accommodation available for 28 guests.

Location: Dewsall Court, Hereford, HR2 8DA

Website: https://dewsall.com/ 

Contact info: 01432355058; hello@dewsall.com

Instagram: @dewsall.court 

Facebook: Dewsall Court

Pinterest: Dewsall_Court

READ NEXT: The Wedding Venues To Have On Your Radar For 2025

The post Venue Review: Dewsall Court appeared first on The Wedding Edition.

Deer Park Country House

By Isabella Foulger, Co-Founder & Editor

Built with a retreat ethos at its core, Deer Park in Devon has a mantra of eat, sleep, party repeat. It’s all about giving couples the freedom to use their imaginations and choreograph something truly magical and memorable for their guests. The key thing to remember here is that there really are no limits – Deer Park becomes your house for the duration of your stay with guaranteed privacy. A dedicated Wedding Coordinator will be on hand throughout the wedding journey to bring couples’ visions to life and help curate each element.  

Food lovers will relish the estate-to-plate ethos, with fiercely seasonal and imaginative plates and canapés. What’s more, there’s also a huge emphasis on the outdoors with many options for al fresco events or country pursuits, and a heavenly treehouse. Each wedding here is bespoke, a one off party and sensory experience without the limits and restrictions of venues near residential areas. Deer Park ultimately turns weddings into a piece of art with endless possibilities, little touches and surprises throughout. 

Discover more here.

Cornwell Manor

By Rosalyn Wikeley, Travel Editor

Deep in the bucolic thickets of North Oxfordshire, Cornwell Manor casts its wisteria-smothered Georgian symmetry over acres of landscaped gardens and its very own hamlet, including a Norman church. As the Cotswolds switch on the sunshine and the Laurel-carved gardens glow an ethereal green, there is a sense that you have found the prettiest patch of England: undulating countryside, woodland and lakes serving as a soft, watercolour backdrop for the couple’s vision and all the photographs. Inside lies a series of grand sweeping rooms, all dressed in silks, botanical wallpaper and antiques.

A wood panelled dining room nods to the house’s Jacobean history, while opulent fireplaces and pretty Georgian windows lend it its photogenic edge. Guests can’t help but sigh wistfully at the pleasing symmetry of the gardens and main, magnificent manor house – both the perfect expression of rural English romance. One of Cornwell’s winning cards for weekend weddings is its heated pool, surrounded by manicured topiary (and typically a smattering of wide-eyed friends and family ready to cool off in the twinkling water having debriefed on the wedding highlights from the previous day). There’s no rush either – check out generously stretches on until 5pm on the Sunday, so there’s ample time for a game of croquet.

Discover more here.

Dewsall Court

By Isabella Foulger, Co-Founder & Editor

Dewsall Court is the ideal setting for a deliciously down-to-earth celebration, stretching over two-to-three days. The design-led team will ensure it’s a show-stopping wedding with endless charm from the moment you arrive. The venue is an elevated (and Grade II listed) home-from-home, filled with cosy nooks, log fires, and 17th-century quirks. It is an archetypal country house that sits against the backdrop of the Black Mountains, with 12 acres of gardens and grounds surrounded by the Duchy of Cornwall’s pocket of Herefordshire countryside and views as far as the eye can see. But there is no austere pretension here. Dewsall Court has long been a buzzing family home and is now run by a mother-and-daughter duo who have, for 14 years, taken care of every detail to create standout weddings with some of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful setups we’ve seen. 

Discover more here.

The Walled Garden at Cowdray

By Isabella Foulger, Co-Founder & Editor

For an enchanting walled garden wedding in the heart of the South Downs National Park, where citrusy, herby notes waft under guests’ noses. The Walled Garden at Cowdray is a historic setting that provides a stately backdrop for celebrating your nuptials, along with opulent rooms and a scatter of cottages to house the bridal party and more.  

Standing adjacent to the dramatic Cowdray Ruins, The Walled Garden possesses a whimsical, England of yore quality – perfect for those quintessentially English nuptials. A true Alice In Wonderland spectacle, as you enter this Tudor Walled Garden via the original, heavy oak door. Inside, the working walled garden is bursting with life and the scent of citrus, mint and rosemary hangs in the air.  Located within the sprawling Cowdray Estate – a fine example of West Sussex heritage with its flint buildings and estate yellow doors – a wedding in The Walled Garden will always impress.

Discover more here.

Wilderness Reserve

By Isabella Foulger, Co-Founder & Editor

To host the ultimate pile-them-all-in wedding (the sort you presumed you could only achieve with a sprawling Tuscan estate) in one of the UK’s most exclusive wedding venues. Here, in this bucolic stretch of Suffolk, you can keep all your nearest and dearest (and the rest) on site, hunkering down in the chicest accommodation spread across a manor house, barn conversions, Suffolk pink farmhouses, cottages and lodges. 

Wilderness Reserve may sound like an African safari park, and it’s quite frankly not far from it, with 8000 wild acres spread across two estates (and a hotly anticipated third one opening in 2025). The entire wedding party can stay for a number of nights an exclusive-hire basis and guests can be treated to Michelin-starred menus, country pursuits galore and, if they so wish, a helicopter charter to whisk them in and out of the knock-out nuptials. 

Discover more here.

The Goodwood Estate

By Rosalyn Wikeley, Travel Editor

For a quintessentially English wedding in a grand, genteel setting, and with the fairy dust that only somewhere as versed in events as Goodwood can sprinkle. The wedding planning team here is as professional as they come, with a butler and chef at the couples’ disposal and no notion or vision too fantastical to contemplate, particularly with Goodwood’s Festival of Speed, Qatar Goodwood Festival and Goodwood Revival under their smart leather belts.

Aside from this refined event muscle and the sheer stately splendour of it all, the joy of a wedding here is in the multiple reception or ceremony location choices, along with the chance to keep the wedding party and close guests on-site (11,000 acres of it) across a long weekend. Combine the evocative countryside, different styles of wedding venues and Goodwood’s ‘nothing’s impossible’ approach to bringing events to life, and it’s easy to see why this majestic corner of West Sussex appeals to discerning couples. Whatever they opt for, they’re in safe hands, and in one of England’s most ravishing country piles.

Discover more here.

Four Seasons Hampshire

By Kendra Leaver-Rylah, Co-Founder & Editor

Set in 500 acres of beautiful countryside, the Four Seasons Hampshire is the grand English country stay couples dream of. Set against a show-stopping backdrop of enchanting gardens and rolling hills, the Georgian beauty is a stone’s throw from London with charming staff, a top-notch spa and an endless list of country pursuits to enjoy. Four Seasons Hampshire is the perfect home-from-home haute-luxe estate that’s family-friendly, dog-friendly and country chic for honeymooners, wedding planners or, and quite spectacularly, weddings. 

A mere one hour drive from Central London, Four Seasons Hampshire is a sprawling country estate ramped up with Four Seasons panache. Inside, glamour meets traditional country house, with mirrored walls, chandeliers and comforting country wallpaper. Outside, guests are greeted by life-size sculptures of boxing hares, wild boar and an incredibly friendly Labrador. Couples will adore this wedding venue’s little romantic extras, such as a rehearsal dinner for two under the stars.

Discover more here.

Pennsylvania Castle, Dorset

By Georgina Elliott, Contributing Editor

The Penn is a neo-Gothic estate so epic, it inspired one of the great literary love stories: Thomas Hardy’s The Well Beloved. Set against the rugged UNESCO-heritage Dorset coast, The Penn estate sits dramatically on the cliffs atop crashing waves. The romance of Pennsylvania Castle is of the old world—light, airy, and effortlessly elegant. The Penn has recently expanded to include newly developed luxury modern residences, The Clifftops, that increase the accommodation offering to 40 guests. 

Although the estate is steeped in great history, The Penn’s events team makes sure that the personalities of the couple in question remain front and centre of all operations. There is charm, thoughtful accommodation, and champagne top-ups at every step, ensuring the most seamless and joyous of wedding weekends. 

Discover more here.

Wasing Park, Berkshire

By Georgina Elliott, Contributing Editor

Wasing Park is a centuries-old farming hamlet that has been carefully converted into an incomparable storybook wedding venue. There is magic in every corner of the verdant 4,000-acre Wasing Estate, one of the most diverse rural estates in England, and Wasing Park is its stunning crowning jewel.

Wasing can be exclusively enjoyed by the wedding party, who will find a unique space to celebrate and connect, from an unforgettable welcome evening—think acoustic musicians serenading guests in the moonlight—to the final ‘Estate to Plate’ wedding breakfast. And with a peerless offering of activities—from forest bathing to Haka classes—Wasing is best experienced over an action-packed two-or three-day wedding.

There are hundreds of years of character and stories built into the fabric of the buildings, from saying your vows in the postcard-pretty 15th-century Parish Church of St. Nicholas to resting your head at the end of the day in the enchanting old Granary. Wasing uniquely fuses continuity (and a commitment to sustainability) with luxury; and modern polish brings the space bang-up to date. Wasing’s elevated rustic feel makes it an ideal sanctuary to take over with loved ones and celebrate in style. 

Discover more here.

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For a quintessentially English wedding in a grand, genteel setting, and with the fairy dust that only somewhere as versed in events as Goodwood can sprinkle. The wedding planning team here is as professional as they come, with a butler and chef at the couples’ disposal and no notion or vision too fantastical to contemplate, particularly with Goodwood’s Festival of Speed, Qatar Goodwood Festival and Goodwood Revival under their smart leather belts. Aside from this refined event muscle and the sheer stately splendour of it all, the joy of a wedding here is in the multiple reception or ceremony location choices, along with the chance to keep the wedding party and close guests on-site (11,000 acres of it) across a long weekend. Combine the evocative countryside, different styles of venues and Goodwood’s ‘nothing’s impossible’ approach to bringing events to life, and it’s easy to see why this majestic corner of West Sussex appeals to discerning couples. Whatever they opt for, they’re in safe hands, and in one of England’s most ravishing country piles. 

Venue style: 

Goodwood’s pedigree needs little introduction. Passed like a shiny baton between the Dukes of Richmond down the centuries, the estate’s history is unsurprisingly illustrious. As is its events resumé, with the current Duke mobilising (in trailblazing fashion) the estate for what would become the world’s leading motoring festival. These historic houses were, after all, designed and built with entertaining guests in mind, and the 11th Duke was prophetic in his efforts to put this grandiose setting on the international map, keeping The National Trust at bay. As such, the venue spaces have been tried and tested over the years, and cater to different styles of weddings, whether it’s an intimate affair in the Goodwood Hotel’s cosy country interiors, a classical celebration in The Kennels or a high-octane weekender in the imposing Goodwood House. Then there’s the family element – Goodwood is one of the few English country piles in this lofty league to remain in the same blue-blooded family. As such, despite its hard-to-fathom size, an authentically warm, homely feel pervades – the antithesis to the corporate invasion of an old historic house. There’s a sense, from the planning till the big day, that couples are embraced by the Goodwood family as opposed to simply working with a venue.

Set the scene: 

All the trappings of a bygone, aristocratic era live on here: the butlers, the eye-watering art collection, the silk drapes, the ludicrously large family portraits and the gravel drive that cars crunch into, slowly as passengers gape at the Georgian oomph. The house lords over an 11,000-acre stretch of bucolic West Sussex countryside that skirts the edge of the South Downs. Manicured gardens and springy lawns fold into the parkland and woodland beyond that the current Duke’s ancestors once hunted in. It’s a Brideshead Revisited scene, where pillars soar, sheep-dotted fields stretch as far as the eyes can muster, and chandeliers, mirrors, mouldings and more chandeliers receive a good dollop of gilt. Whether guests are greeted by the Butler and the George Stubbs paintings in the Front Hall, or by a cool glass of Champagne in the Regency-style Kennels, couples will need little in the way of decorations, safe in the knowledge that their guests will be blown away at every turn. 

Event spaces: 

Three main event spaces offer couples multiple locations and combinations for tying the knot and/or celebrating their nuptials. And while Goodwood House, The Kennels and The Goodwood Hotel accommodate different flavours of weddings, the common thread here is inconceivably high standards, luxurious interiors, and sharp attention to detail. 

Goodwood House speaks to those looking to marry in opulent, high-society style. It’s an exclusive use set-up, so couples can truly live out their Dukely dreams, welcoming guests into their stately abode. The Front Hall is popular for drinks and canapé receptions, with its traditional warm-hued rugs, resplendent decor and pillars lining up to greet guests. The jewel-box Egyptian Dining Room lends itself well to more intimate dinners, notably rehearsal dinners with families and close friends before the big day. This intriguing, intimate room is a paean to the 18th century’s fascination with ancient Egypt, expressed decoratively with gilded sphinxes, crocodiles and cartouches. Ceremonies are at their most ornate here in the Yellow Drawing Room, where the canary-yellow wallpaper seems to glow even brighter with the natural light, and all the decadent touches seem to trace that beloved Georgian symmetry. Seating up to 180, the Ballroom is unapologetically opulent, with portraits of Kings, Queens, Dukes and Duchesses hanging from merlot-hued walls, velvet drapes warming marble pillars and guests faces caught in the glow of the chandeliers. All those extra parts are sewn up – the charming, Bridgerton-esque Card Room for signing the register and the striking Tapestry Drawing Room is typically pinned for the wedding photographs – well away from the hubbub of guests yet in the most exquisite, light-flooded room where tradition and heritage hold sway. There’s even a room dedicated to ‘downtime’ – the Music Room, where couples and family members can peel off to recollect themselves on elegant sofas or simply enjoy a quiet chat while gazing out towards the colonnade. 

With its classic architecture, topiary-framed entrance and richly-painted rooms, The Kennels’ still embrace a traditional country house aesthetic, just with less embellished, antique-heavy spaces for couples to add their mark to. The exclusive use option gives the full run of the property, with drinks and canapés taking place in the elegant Music Room or Library, and tables spread out across the Terrace Dining Room for dinners or lunches – making full use of the sweeping ceilings and soaring arches from building’s previous life as a substantial abode for the 2nd Duke’s beloved hounds. The building’s old, mottled brick walls not only make a sensational backdrop for wedding photos but serve as the ultimate subdued canvas for flower arrangements. On sunny days, the wedding party can spill onto the terrace, where a verdant lawn stretches out as far as The Kennel Walls (a boon for those inviting small children). While there are various grades of packages, the exclusive use offer ensures a handful of guests can stay in allocated rooms at The Goodwood Hotel, with a suite reserved for the newlyweds.

For a more affordable option, with the rolling West Sussex countryside still delivering on the idyllic backdrop, The Goodwood Hotel is utterly charming. Rooms feel more intimate here, with interiors seizing on a fresh riff on the traditional farmhouse. Smooth woodwork and modern lighting ease this ‘gateway to Goodwood’ into the 21st century, and light spills in through large Georgian windows to illuminate guests and the festivities before the evening’s moody glow comes to the fore. Couples are offered exclusive use of the ceremony room – a bright, contemporary space ready to be decorated however couples see fit – whether it’s statement floral arrangements or a more pared-down look, leaving the bucolic surrounds to do the talking. 

Food and drink: 

For all estate venues, (excluding the sole room hire package for The Goodwood Hotel), couples can motor over to Goodwood for a memorable tasting. Menus are radically seasonal and local, with most vegetables and herbs sourced within a 25 mile radius of Goodwood and beef, pork and lamb all estate-reared on Europe’s largest lowland organic farm. This estate-to-plate ethos is a real pull for foodies, with guests known to wax lyrical for years to come on just how delicious the wedding reception dinners here are, across all venues. Couples can look forward to sampling the likes of beetroot-cured smoked salmon with buckwheat crumpets, sirloin steak with glazed beef ox cheek, parsnip and smoked potato purée. Consider the food here elevated classic English fare – the sort you’d hope for in a gastro-pub, which really allows the bounty of the English countryside to sing. Couples can finely tune each dish to their preferred wines, and ensure every canapé at the wedding reception is a tasty morsel to draw out the various characteristics of the Champagne or English sparkling wine. The menu choice is extensive, the ingredients top-notch and the chef’s prowess refined over years of running world-class events. 

Accommodation:

One of the real perks of a Goodwood wedding is the opportunity to keep close family and friends on-site, with ample rooms for them to stay in dotted around the estate. The 10-bedroom Hound Lodge is perhaps the most classically luxurious with a firelit drawing room, chaise longues and a rich, Regency colour palette. Brides, grooms and their contingent will relish waking up in these refined, Jane Austin-esque rooms, fresh from a good night’s sleep in eiderdown quilt-covered beds. Not only does the estate provide a vintage bus or Land Rover defenders to transport guests staying here around the estate, they’ll be welcomed by the Lodge’s own butler, who is on hand to fix anyone a drink, a hot water bottle or suggest a good walk around the estate. 

The Goodwood Hotel is a cosy, comfortable spot for guests to hang their hats, with scrumptious breakfasts to wake up to, leveraging ingredients grown on the estate, and curtains swinging open to pastoral views. Impressively, the homely hotel is biomass-powered, adding to the estate’s eco-credentials and honouring the beautiful natural landscape that envelopes Goodwood’s various properties. Rooms are spruced up to luxury hotel levels, with thick, printed curtains, divinely comfortable beds and countryside accents (see the tartan pillows and fresh bathroom flowers). 

A cluster of tastefully dressed cottages guarantees bridal parties the utmost privacy during the preparations, doubling up also as romantic boltholes for newlyweds.

A real advantage of a Goodwood wedding is that guests can entertain themselves with reams of outdoorsy activities, courtesy of the estate’s privileged location at the foot of the South Downs. Having loaded up on scrumptious breakfasts, groups can meander through wildflower meadows amid a cacophony of birdsong, or traipse along the edges of grassy hills with heart-thumping views of the Trundle. Goodwood offers its own curated wiggle of walks through the estate’s parkland and ancient woodland – the ultimate tonic for an evening of excess – while keen cyclists take to the routes, gawping at the scenic countryside racing past. 

The story: 

Crowned by a dashing Georgian house, The Goodwood Estate is one of England’s most alluring, particularly for its soft, romantic countryside. Its heritage is as magnificent as the architecture itself – home to the Dukes of Richmond for over three hundred years with a treasure trove of stories featuring royals, aristocrats and even movie stars. The first Duke (illegitimate son of Charles II by his French mistress, Louise de Kérouaille) originally rented Goodwood for its foxhunting credentials – a curious fact to learn if you’re considering The Kennels for your wedding day. Fast forward to the late 20th century and the 11th Duke of Richmond saw an opportunity to put Goodwood firmly on the international sports map by founding the Festival of Speed (1993) and the Goodwood Revival (1998). Before taking on the estate, the Duke was a successful advertising photographer in London and he now lives with his wife, The Duchess, and children at Goodwood. 

Goodwood has become a household name, recognised for its yesteryear glamour, as a magnet for avid motorists and as one of the most remarkable estates in the country, wrapped by an evocative pastoral landscape.

The need-to-know: 

Budget: Minimum facility fee at Goodwood House for £7,200 (rates vary depending on the estate venue chosen, for format and the ‘package’ couples opt for.

Capacity: From 120 at The Goodwood Hotel / From 32 at The Kennels to 180 in the House.

Location: Goodwood House, Kennel Hill, Chichester, P0180PX

Website: www.goodwood.com

Instagram: @goodwood

Related article: The Best Exclusive-Use Wedding Venues 

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For a quintessential English wedding in one of the Cotswolds’ most handsome private houses. There is no hotel circus at Cornwell Manor to contend with, no external variables to manage and every inch of the grounds and interiors are almost too good looking to decorate. There’s also the exclusive use aspect, with a degree of privacy and creative freedom you’d have from owning the manor yourself, but (and best of all) the option for a three-day celebration, putting up 24 nearest and dearest in the main house (a boon for international couples after the classic English country wedding… without the extra hotel headache).

Venue style:

Sleeping 24 guests, the entire estate 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. In fact, couples and their entourage can arrive on the Thursday from midday, overseeing the marquee and production unfold like origami as they settle in, then keep guests busy on Friday with activities (between duties) before the rehearsal dinner or welcome drinks begin. Keeping everything ‘on site’ ensures a smoother few days of celebrations, avoiding transfer chaos, moving outfits and any unnecessary stress for the bride and groom. What’s more, there’s plenty in the local area for wedding guests wanting to make a weekend of it, with nearby chocolate box villages, classic Cotswold pubs and the more chichi Daylesford estate and Soho Farmhouse. The 90-minute direct train from London to Kingham will not only be a hit with the Londoners, but a relief for those flying in from abroad.

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.

Set the scene: 

Deep in the bucolic thickets of North Oxfordshire, Cornwell Manor casts its wisteria-smothered Georgian symmetry over acres of landscaped gardens and its very own hamlet, including a Norman church. As the Cotswolds switch on the sunshine and the Laurel-carved gardens glow an ethereal green, there is a sense that you have found the prettiest patch of England: undulating countryside, woodland and lakes serving as a soft, watercolour backdrop for the couple’s vision and all the photographs. Inside lies a series of grand sweeping rooms, all dressed in silks, botanical wallpaper and antiques. A wood panelled dining room nods to the house’s Jacobean history, while opulent fireplaces and pretty Georgian windows lend it its photogenic edge. Guests can’t help but sigh wistfully at the pleasing symmetry of the gardens and main, magnificent manor house – both the perfect expression of rural English romance. One of Cornwell’s winning cards for weekend weddings is its heated pool, surrounded by manicured topiary (and typically a smattering of wide-eyed friends and family ready to cool off in the twinkling water having debriefed on the wedding highlights from the previous day). There’s no rush either – check out generously stretches on until 5pm on the Sunday, there’s ample time for a game of croquet…

Event spaces: 

Couples planning on a religious service have the quaint Norman Church of St Peter (seating up to 80 people and a mere 200 metres from the manor house). Should they wish to tie the knot before a larger crowd, the nearby postcard-pretty villages of Kingham, Churchill and Chipping Norton are anchored by similarly lovely churches. Those taking the non-religious route can opt for a garden ceremony, whether it’s with chairs lining the garden’s pond and trickling fountain, with the Manor house posing as a beguiling backdrop, or in the Ballroom (licensed for ceremonies seating up to 100), with its vast elegant windows flooding the jewel-box space with natural light, enormous tapestries and verre elgomise mirror. Covering the walled garden with a marquee opens creates a natural flow from the Ballroom (seating up to 150 people), where couples can add their own vision to a blank canvas – perhaps a bespoke flower arch weaving its way around one of the trees.

Drinks receptions and speeches can take place along the Brideshead Revisited flavour terrace, overlooking the lakes and velvety gardens above which the entire party is elevated. For larger weddings, Cornwell Manor suggests dropping the pegs of the cavernous marquee or tepee on the sloping parkland, overlooking the house and the lakes, Capability Brown style. Though the most spectacular ‘wedding breakfast’ spot (decoded from Debrett’s speak as the canapés, cake, lunch or full evening dinner after the altar) is in the Italianate water garden, where guests float down the stone steps, through the symmetrical topiary and past the fountain, quenching their thirst with a cool glass of Champagne. 

While all weddings at Cornwell Manor require a marquee, couples are spoilt for choice on striking locations, and wherever they choose to place it tends to open up a whole host of other options for the ceremony or blessing, as well as the down-time lunches and parties that surround the big day. The sheer scale of the place and its unique yet consistently beautiful pockets are a thrill to couples to work with while curating their celebrations, and ultimately, (and rather comfortingly), all tried and tested, so whatever they they opt for, it’s going to look sensational.

Food and drink: 

Cornwell Manor works closely with a handful of trusted suppliers and caterers, who are tried-and-tested (meeting the Estate’s exacting standards) and essentially know the drill. Cue a sigh of relief from the bride and groom, saving hours or trawling through wedding caterers and marquee and furniture hire companies, or sieving through endless reviews. It removes all risks of the food or service not being up to scratch, while still giving wedding planners plenty to sort and seek couples’ decisions on. These trusted caterers include Ross and Ross Events whose seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients are artfully cooked up for either three course plated wedding breakfasts or more relaxed sharing platters (bringing couples’ foodie visions to life with aesthetic panache); Quince and Clover also bangs the seasonal drum, serving up bespoke menus ranging from intricate delicate plates to rustic-yet-refined feasts (and providing all the tableware, linen and glassware); then there’s The Kingham Plough, a local pub that is able to switch gears to elegant events, serving up wood-fired steaks from local farms and spanking fresh shellfish from the Cornish coast. The Cotswolds excels at farm-to-fork or kitchen garden-focused menus, so brides and grooms can make the most of its countryside treasure for their big day. Couples wishing to enjoy a tasting in London are wise to use Lettice Events, an incredibly innovative and experienced London-based caterers.

Accommodation: 

Included in the three day wedding weekend are 12 double bedrooms (sleeping up to 24), all of which embody the classic country house style. Brides can wake up on their wedding morning to views of the rolling countryside framed by four poster bed drapes, then step into a traditional bath with 100 Acre organic potions before a catered breakfast with her nearest and dearest. No one will feel short changed in this splendid house on rooms, with their rich hues, magnificent views and a home-from-home feel that permeates every corner of the property, despite the antiques and classical style. A delicious breakfast is served each morning for all guests staying in the main house (which is inaccessible to wedding guests not staying here throughout the weekend), and a daily morning housekeeping service is also included. The owners stress that this is not a hotel stay with constant service, but rather something more special – the exclusive use of a property with that unbeatable home-from-home comfort, allowing brides, grooms, their family and closest friends to relax and lean into the weekend. Extra glamping tents for up to 26 guests (totally 50 guests staying on site) can be organised by the bride and groom (at a ground rent fee of £5000) though there are plenty of local pubs-with-rooms, hotels and Airbnbs for wedding guests to bolt to after the festivities have ended. And with its proximity to London (a mere 90 minutes), there are no spicy train fees or gruelling motorway journeys to contend with.

The story: 

Ensconced in 2000 verdant acres of soft English countryside on the Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire border, Cornwell Manor is pure bucolic reverie. Its surrounding fields, woodlands and streams are home to badgers, otters and Roe deer while at its centre lies a small hamlet chiselled from the same buttermilk stone. Here the Manor house lords over its Italianate gardens, designed by Clough Williams-Ellis, who was also responsible for easing the house out of its Jacobean past and into a less austere Georgian coat (see the symmetrical Georgian windows). These changes were made under the auspices of American heiress Mrs Anthony Gillson who bought the estate on the eve of World War II. In 1959, the estate was taken on by the Ward family, and remains the beloved home of Alexander Ward and his family to this day. 

The need-to-know: 

Budget: Weddings in excess of £100,000 for a 3-day weekend (from Thursday at noon to Sunday at 5pm)

Capacity: Marquees (not included in the price) for up to 200 people. Church service up to 80 seated, up to 100 for ceremonies in the Ballroom and up to 200 in the gardens. There is an additional charge of £3,250 + VAT for events with over 200 guests (capped at 300 guests).

Extras: To protect the Estate’s wildlife and its patient neighbours, Cornwell Manor does not allow fireworks. Music can play in the Ballroom or Marquee until 1am, with set volume levels. Bringing in a wedding planner is a necessary requirement here.

Location: Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire

Website: cornwellmanor.com

Contact: By email charlotte@cornwellmanor.com or by telephone 01608 698673

Related Article: Our Editors Guide To The Best Outdoor Wedding Venues

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