Finding the perfect place to say ‘I do’ is rather central to planning the big day. Little wonder that every month around 13,000 people across the UK trawl Google in search of the best wedding venues.
‘Picking the right venue is one of the biggest – and most exciting – parts of planning a wedding,’ says Zoe Burke, leading wedding expert and editor of hitched.co.uk. ‘There are so many options out there.’
The choice, of course, is entirely personal. ‘People want a wedding that reflects their personality, and they often choose places that already hold special memories for them,’ says Tracy Archer, owner-director at StayCotswold.
So whether you’re after a fairytale castle complete with a moat and turrets, the simplicity of a rustic bolthole or a leafy treehouse, we’ve spoken to the UK’s leading wedding planners, celebrants, florists and magazine editors to bring you the ultimate list of Britain’s best venues to get married at.
1. Cliveden House, Berkshire
The sprawling and grand Cliveden House Hotel and Gardens in Berkshire
This five-star hotel has a starry past thanks to connections to the British Royal Family and infamous Profumo affair, where John Profumo, secretary of state for war in the early Sixties had an extramarital affair with 19-year-old model Christine Keeler. The Beatles even filmed part of the movie Help! here.
But Cliveden House also delivers top-notch elegance if you want a dream theme wedding, says Kunal Madan, wedding expert and chief executive of dresspreservation.com.
The outdoor swimming pool at Cliveden House, near Maidenhead, which delivers top-notch elegance
‘Its manicured gardens, historic architecture and views over the Thames make it a favourite among couples looking for luxury with a strong heritage feel. The atmosphere here is straight out of a royal romance.’
Average cost of a wedding: Between £50,000 and £150,000.
2. The Treehouse, Northumberland
Alnwick Treehouse, in Northumberland, is known as the biggest in the world and features two rope bridges threading through the surrounding woodland
Badged the largest treehouse in the world, this venue rises through lime trees on the outskirts of woodland in Alnwick, Northumberland.
There are three function rooms, a large expanse of decking under the canopy of trees and two wobbly rope bridges threading through the surrounding trees of the woodland.
‘The entire structure is built from sustainably sourced larch, redwood, cedar and pine, which gives it that warm, resin-rich scent the moment you step on to the wobbling bridge,’ says LP Maurice, a travel expert and chief executive of busbud.com.
One of the individual turrets at Alnwick Treehouse, full of ambiance and gorgeous resin-rich smells
The quirky rustic interior of twisting branches, fairy lights and a roaring log fire all add to the ambience too. Options for the ceremony include inside the Treehouse itself, or the sun-soaked decking surrounded by the woodland.
Average cost of a wedding: Between £8,000 and £14,000.
3. Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth
The Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth, overlooking the Gunwharf Quays with panoramic views
For those who want to get married quite literally in the clouds, this Portsmouth venue can provide weddings 360 feet above ground, with 23-mile views across Portsmouth Harbour to the Isle of Wight and (hopefully) a shimmering Solent in between.
‘Whether it’s a golden sunset ceremony or the brilliance of a sky-blue backdrop framing the vows, every wedding here feels cinematic,’ says Bryony Gordon, wedding and events co-ordinator at Spinnaker Tower.
Get married in the clouds at Spinnaker Tower, 360 feet above ground level
‘The modern architecture, glass skywalk, and unique location offer something bold and different, but it’s really the view that captures hearts and makes Spinnaker Tower such a memorable venue in the heart of historic Portsmouth.’
Average cost of a wedding: Between £3,700 and £11,000.
4. Glenapp Castle, Ayrshire
The grand and picturesque Glenapp Castle in Ayrshire, Scotland
For destination seekers, Glenapp is a classic fairytale castle. Named one of the most spectacular wedding venues across the globe by Tatler magazine, the appeal of this Ayrshire-based stately home lies partly in its secluded location – deep in 110 acres of woodland – as well as the grandeur of its 19th century architecture.
Depending on the size of the wedding, the ceremony and celebrations can take place in a range of places around the estate, be it gazebo, drawing room or a grand marquee. For weddings from 20 to 70 guests, the whole castle is available for use.
The vibrant Azalea Pond, with Glenapp Castle peeking through in the distance
Average cost of a wedding: From £14,950 for exclusive hire of the castle and estate.
5. Monkey Island Estate, Berkshire
Glamourous Monkey Island Estate in Berkshire, a secluded yet accessible location
A luxury property steeped in history and timeless glamour, this was once the go-to party pad and wedding venue for British aristocrats and royalty going back to King George III.
Located on a private island on the Thames, it can also be booked for an exclusive takeover and the options to entertain your guests are endless, from sunset cruises down the Thames on the new self-driving river boat to a cosy evening star-gazing in the island’s very own Shepherd’s Hut.
Monkey Island is well-suited to hosting extravagant and beautiful affairs
It’s also an easy-to-reach countryside escape for Londoners, thanks to the Elizabeth Line and express trains from Paddington. As Kevin Ramm, hotel manager of Monkey Island Estate says: ‘Effortlessly combining tranquility and accessibility, this secluded haven is just a short journey from London, yet feels a world away.’
Average cost of a wedding: From £25,000 for exclusive hire of island.
6. Wynyard Hall, County Durham
The stunning, ornate Wynyard Hall, in County Durham
An 18th-century, Grade II-listed country house, this is one of the few venues in the country that can offer both religious and civil ceremonies on site. There’s a 19th-century chapel adorned with Italian marble and stained-glass windows, and the state rooms are replete with gilded ceilings and Florentine fireplaces
Award-winning wedding florist Vicky Laffrey raves about this spot. ‘Wynyard Hall is full of well-kept gardens, steeped in history and numerous areas to marry in.’ It also has one of the largest rose gardens in the UK – perfect for those wedding photos.
The grand, elegant Wellington Restaurant in Wynyard Hall
Average cost of a wedding: Between £7,000 and £35,000 for a reception of 80 guests.
7. Asylum Chapel, London
Semi-ruined chapel, Asylum Chapel, dates back to 1826 and is in Peckham, south-east London
Quirky and breathtaking, this semi-ruined chapel – think crumbling paintwork and stained-glass – dates back to 1826. Located in Peckham, its tall ceilings and large windows give the space a sense of moody grandeur – doubtless popular with modern, creative couples.
‘It’s perfect for those who want a unique blend of vintage character and raw, dramatic beauty,’ says Kunal Madan.
Exterior of the Grade II-listed site which is used as an event space
Average cost of a wedding: between £1,400 and £1,850 for venue hire.
8. Fairyhill, Gower
Lying in the heart of the Gower Peninsula near Swansea, Fairyhill is a sprawling, Grade II-listed Georgian mansion set within 24 acres of gardens and ancient woodland.
Sprawling Grade II-listed Georgian country house Fairyhill, on the Gower Peninsula near Swansea
While the main house exudes classic country charm, it’s the strikingly modern glass extension, known as The K Room, that makes this venue a stand out option. It has amazing floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows framing the surrounding gardens – perfect for a dramatic entrance.
‘You can hear the brook flowing behind and birds singing in the trees – sometimes even a woodpecker makes an appearance,’ says Emma Robins, owner of Two Tails Weddings, a luxury pet chaperone for weddings in Wales.
‘I love this mix of country cottage style and bold decor, paired with the dramatic glass-walled ceremony room. And when the Welsh weather plays along, the outdoor space is absolutely magical.’
Average cost of a wedding: Between £2,500 and £13,200.
9. Crondon Park, Essex
The beautiful barn house at Crondon Park in Essex, with an outdoor ceremony in front of a fountain
A four-time award winner with wedding website hitched.co.uk, this secluded property is the ideal space for a peaceful country wedding.
The main function room, Baronial Hall, in the heart of Crondon Park, dates back to 1606, and was built from original ship timbers. Its light oak beams and unique rosewood parquet floors (rescued from Westminster Bridge’s old County Hall) create an atmospheric, grand reception space while keeping things simple.
The light oak beams, built from ship timbers, and rosewood floors in the Baronial Hall in Crondon Parl
There are also myriad Instagram-friendly places thanks to sweeping views, private gardens, and a fountain-backed terrace. The newly-refurbished Baronial Gardens include tiered seating for alfresco ceremonies.
Average cost of a wedding: Between £6,695 and £14,000.
10. Notley Abbey, Buckinghamshire
This riverside hideaway, once home to Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh, was originally an Augustinian monastery and has hosted iconic visitors, from Henry VIII to Marilyn Monroe.
Nestled amongst lavender fields is this beautiful wedding property, Notley Abbey in Buckinghamshire
Located amongst lavender gardens along the banks of the River Thames, its honey-hued facade forms the backdrop for those who want both the serene and the spectacular.
‘Notley Abbey casts its spell from the moment you drive down its long, tree lined driveway,’ says Elliyah Sully, a planner with Harper Weddings.
‘With your choice of ceremony space, from the intimate beam-lined Abbot’s Hall, chandelier-lit Monks’ Refectory or an outdoor ceremony in the walled garden abbey ruins, there is plenty of space for personalisation. Plus, if you like turrets and cloisters for your photo backdrops, Notley Abbey delivers on that front too.
Average cost of a wedding: £4,890-£12,600 for venue hire.
11. Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Yorkshire
A sculpture by the lower lake standing in front of Bretton Hall in the Yorkshire Sculpture Park
Not many venues can boast having Moore, Hepworth, Hirst and Arsham sculptures as the backdrop for photos, but that’s what you get if you choose to tie the knot here.
Set in 500 acres of parkland, lakes and woodland, Yorkshire Sculpture Park is also a charity, so all proceeds go to maintaining this lovely outdoor space. For a casual wedding breakfast, opt for the first floor visitor centre restaurant in the heart of the park, with views across the valley to the lakes.
Floating hay bales known as ‘Summer Fields’ sculptures seen at YSP
Lisa Haskin, catering and hospitality manager at the park adds: ‘Couples who hold their wedding here enjoy a unique experience, whether it’s a small party or larger gathering. And we have new exhibitions opening at YSP all year round so, like the seasons, the Park is constantly evolving to offer an ever-changing landscape and backdrop.’
Average cost of a wedding: Exclusive venue hire from £4,000.
12. Cain Manor, Hampshire
Perched on the top of a Hampshire hill and enveloped by lush woodlands, this romantic Tudor barn offers a secluded countryside escape for those who opt for intimate gatherings and personalised celebrations (not one for the Bezoses). You’ll find weathered flagstones and even original oak beams, repurposed from ancient ships,
Cain Manor, in Hampshire, is an elegant and historical wedding venue offering exclusivity
‘What makes Cain Manor such a truly unique wedding venue is that it blends rustic, Tudor-era charm with exclusive intimacy.’ says Kelly Flampoutoglou, a planner for Harper Weddings.
‘You arrive down a winding, woodland drive to your own Elizabethan barn house complete with original ship-timber oak beams, a cathedral-like Music Room, lush landscaped gardens and even a private pergola for alfresco vows.’
There’s a suite and nine bedrooms for the newlyweds and their guests to stay overnight, and doggy guests are also well-catered for with their own dog-friendly menus and treats.
Average cost of a wedding: Venue hire between £12,000 and £13,995.
13. Crear Weddings, Argyll
This stylish coastal estate in Tarbert, Argyll, has been listed in Conde Nast Brides’s ‘Hot 100 Exclusive Use Venues’ in the UK.
Crear Beach in Tarbet, Scotland, allows for incredible natural views as you say ‘I do’
With a sandy beach looking out to the Inner Hebrides and the Irish coast, there’s a historic barn available for use as well as a studio space the size of a tennis court.
‘The main studio has a continuous glass wall that provides panoramic views of the Paps of Jura. And don’t worry about the cold. The studio’s underfloor heating takes care of that’ says Zoe Burke, wedding expert and editor of Hitched.co.uk.
Average cost of a wedding: £12,950 for a 30-guest package.
14. Pembroke Lodge, Surrey
A London location with ample privacy, Pembroke Lodge is perfectly picturesque
Located at the highest point of Richmond Park, this Grade II-listed Georgian mansion is surrounded by 11 acres of landscaped grounds and offers distinct reception venues; The Belvedere and the Russell Suite. It’s also the only wedding venue situated within a London Royal Park, which is home to over 600 deer.
‘The front portico is adorned with classic wisteria which blooms beautifully in late spring. The high Georgian ceilings and tranquil location offer a calm romantic vibe perfect for your wedding day,’ says Zoe Burke.
The house sits atop Richmond Park and overlooks ample gardens and deer
The view from King Henry’s mound within the gardens is the only view in London that is protected by an Act of Parliament.
Average cost of a wedding: Venue hire starts from £1,200.
15. Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Buckinghamshire
This funky but beautiful museum, the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, is a venue for the ages
A glass-roofed working steam museum and heritage railway based on the outskirts of the small Buckinghamshire village of Quainton, this is a beautiful, quirky venue says celebrant and toastmaster Sonal Dave.
So quirky, in fact, that guests can even enjoy a steam train ride as part of the celebrations.
The unique and gorgeous venue has trains either side of the ceremony area
Dave adds: ‘Suitable for intimate and medium sized weddings, there are trains either side of the wedding ceremony area as well as suitcases which makes it feel a little bit like a scene out of Harry Potter. I really enjoyed creating and delivering a ceremony at this venue. And don’t worry – the 25-acre site will be closed to the public for your wedding, so there’s no scope for unexpected guests.’
Average cost of a wedding: £4,000-£6,000 for a package for 80 guests.
16. Swinton Estate,Yorkshire
Swinton Estate in Ripon, North Yorkshire, was an estate and is now a 200-acre castle hotel
Tucked away in the hills of North Yorkshire, this private estate has been owned by the Cunliffe-Lister family since the 1880s. There’s a Grade II-listed castle hotel set on 200 acres of Capability Brown-styled parkland, complete with lakes, deer park and historic follies.
Surprisingly, this versatile venue works for weddings that are both lavish or laid back. The Deer House out in the grounds offers a wedding under wide-open skies, with breathtaking views across the estate. For more bohemian, alternative events, there’s a Bivouac woodland venue in the woods with bunting-lit clearings and woodland canopy settings.
The impressive grounds allow for a variety of experiences and settings depending on needs
‘Swinton Estate is one of Britain’s most enchanting wedding destinations, offering couples a breathtaking choice of settings – from the grandeur of Swinton Park Hotel to the rustic charm of the Deer House or the woodland magic of the Bivouac,’ says Paul Hunter, general manager at Swinton Estate.
Average cost of a wedding: From £19,995 for 50 guests.
17. Lindeth Fell Country House, Cumbria
The idyllic and wuaint Lindeth Fell Country House in the Lake District
A classic Lake District country house, this five-star B&B recently won Guesthouse of the Year at the Cumbria Tourism Awards. It’s certainly one for those who want an intimate wedding that feels like it’s taking place in a secret garden.
The venue looks out over Windermere, England’s largest lake, as well as the Coniston mountains. There are two outdoor spaces for intimate wedding ceremonies – one by the lily-covered tarn and one on the lawns in front of the house.
The country house is finished to perfection while still feeling rural and secluded
‘It is only minutes from Bowness, but feels a million miles from anywhere,’ says events manager Julia Wood. ‘The beautiful terraced gardens that wrap around it create an intimate setting for your dream day.’
Average cost of a wedding: From £5,750.
18. High Force Hotel and Waterfall, County Durham
High Force Hotel in County Durham is gorgeous while providing natural ceremonies and incredible scenes
Located in the North Pennines, the hotel has as its backdrop the High Force Waterfall, which plunges 70 feet down into the River Tees.
The hotel itself is a traditional country inn, and couples can choose to exchange vows in the elegant Garden Room, which accommodates up to 60 guests, or opt for a more intimate riverside blessing near the waterfall. The venue also features a cosy bar and snug area, perfect for pre-ceremony drinks or post-celebration relaxation. For larger gatherings, there’s always scope for a marquee in the grounds.
High Force waterfall. A wedding here could get you exclusive access to this natural wonder
Average cost of a wedding: The venue don’t publish costs, but they do mention extras like exclusive waterfall access starting at £95.
19. Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland
Bamburgh Castle, a beachside manor atop a hill with endless sea views
This venue brings together a rugged coastal location, endless sea views and, of course, a castle fit for a princess.
There are a range of places within the castle to get married, including The King’s Hall, with its soaring teak and mullioned windows, or the Battery Terrace which sits 150 feet above the shoreline.
The King’s Hall at Bamburgh Castle, where the ceremony can take place
‘Bamburgh Castle is a venue that stands in a league of its own,’ enthuses Donna Hartley-Redfearn, North East Wedding Planner.
‘Iconic, cinematic, and steeped in centuries of history. The castle’s unique ability to blend historic magnificence with modern, timeless elegance makes it the perfect backdrop for today’s discerning couples seeking a wedding that is both unique and gracefully refined.’
Average cost of a wedding: Between £10,000 and £20,000.
