Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds are filled with so many gorgeous wedding venues of all styles and sizes.
There are some instant go to’s for newly engaged couples but similarly with buying a house, you’ll know which wedding venue is right for you when you walk through the door! You’ll get a feeling and imagine yourself saying ‘I do’ in that very spot.
Of course there are a number of additional contributing factors to consider... the number of guests you’re planning to invite, the venue’s proximity to local accommodation if it doesn’t have enough of its own, the overall look you’re wanting to go for…the list goes on…
I’ve narrowed down a few of my favourites that cover a variety of aesthetics and budgets.
Elmore Court
This 13th century Grade II listed family home turned wedding venue is tucked away in the rural village of Elmore. With its columned entrance, stained glass bay fronted drawing room and walled vegetable garden, the main house has been beautifully restored to retain many of its original features.
For the sustainability conscious of you out there, tucked behind the manor lies The Gillyflower. A fully soundproof self proclaimed party pad for up to 200 guests made from rammed earth and materials taken from the land. Of which the family are currently rewilding!
Elmore Court is licensed to hold your ceremony however, if a religious service is what you're looking for, the beautiful 13th century Elmore Church is just a moments drive down the lane.
For more information, click here
Eastington Park
An exclusive use wedding venue with space for up to 250 guests. Eastington Park is approached by a long, tree lined drive way. Surrounded by 8 acres of manicured gardens, ancient trees, and even a flowing river, the stunning feature spiral staircase is a must for photos and depending on your styling, its the perfect spot for some serious Bridgeton vibes!
Their 24 hour bar license means that your party won't have to end at midnight if you don't want it to.
This Grade II listed Manor House is licensed for civil ceremonies in the Morning Room or outside under the Pergola and St Michaels and All Angels church is a 10 minute walking away.
For more information, click here
Milton End Barns
Situated on a working dairy farm, the rustic barn has been reinstated to offer a relaxed setting surrounded by ducks, goats and donkeys. The traditional exposed brick work and timber cladding leave plenty of scope to personalise your special day.
Milton End Weddings have a minimum of 2 nights included in all of their packages so, unlike many venues, the estate really is yours for the duration of your stay. There is accommodation for up to 23 guests and space dedicated specifically to those wanting to get their glamp on.
With capacity for up to 200 guests, licensed for ceremonies and surrounded by plenty of village churches, it really is the perfect location for a rural country wedding.
For more information, click here
Barnsley House
Romantic gardens and idyllic Cotswold countryside make Barnsley House the fairytale wedding venue. Intimate luxury is the only way to describe the country house retreat. Tucked away behind the Beatrix Potter style vegetable patch is space to accommodate up to 140 guests in a marquee.
The village church is a stones throw away but if the Temple is where you've set your heart on saying 'I do', Barnsley House holds its own license.
Hidden away in the tiny picture-perfect village of Barnsley, the 17th century Manor House, with its 18 individually designed bedrooms feels like a secret waiting to be discovered.
For more information, click here
Hyde House
Located in the heart of the Cotswolds, the Victorian House and barns have ceremony, reception and accommodation options to suit everyone. The main building and coach house provide 20 bedrooms between them and feels like your own private country home.
Ceremonies for up to 150 guests can be held in The Grange, with its bay windows and rustic beams or outside under The Arbour overlooking acres of green fields and woodland. The venue has a suite set aside specifically for your wedding preparations, complete with a Juliet balcony.
The perfect combination of traditional architecture and modern design makes for plenty of amazing photo opportunities. Especially if you catch the right sun set...
For more information, click here
Lakeside Weddings at Maisemore
For a completely blank canvas, this is the one for you. Part of a traditional countryside farm and right next door to St Giles Maisemore Church, you've got the choice of two stunning locations. Maisemore Court and The Hidden Lake.
Packages include a 4 day hire, giving you and your suppliers plenty of time to make your vision a reality. With seating for up to 200 guests, and space for everyone to pitch up a bell tent, that wild wedding dream will be an epic party reality in no time!
Whilst this is a relatively new venue, word is spreading and this hidden gem is quickly becoming a firm favourite.
For more information, click here
The Barn at Upcote
A set of beautifully restored Cotswold barns on the outskirts of Cheltenham offer versatile spaces to make your wedding your own. The Threshing Barn is licensed to hold civil ceremonies but if the good old great British weather is on your side, the courtyard is a picturesque alternative.
Tucked away at the end of a long winding drive, surrounded by rolling Cotswold hills, The Barn at Upcote has capacity for 100 of your nearest and dearest during the day and up to 150 in the evening.
This is an incredibly popular venue, at the top of many couples list to check out after getting engaged!
For more information, click here