Wedding Venues with the Wow Factor
There was a time when your wedding venue choice was a church or a Register Office. That was it. These days, however, we’re spoilt for choice, as since the introduction of Marriage Act 1994, it’s now possible for stately homes, parks, halls, beaches and even tree houses to apply for a wedding licence, or grant of approval.
And we’ve clearly embraced this change: figures from the Office for National Statistics show that the number of marriages taking place in these approved premises increased from 1% in 1995 to 58% of all marriages by 2011.
To help you narrow down your choice, we’ve selected five of the best ‘quintessentially’ English venues.
Hampton Court Palace, London
What could be grander than this famous Tudor palace, which sits aside the River Thames? If it’s impact you’re after, they don’t come much better than this. You can chose from one of four locations within the palace and grounds, depending on the size of wedding you’re planning.
Sopley Mill, Dorset
Equally beautiful but much more intimate, this Georgian mill house is available for exclusive hire, so you won’t be sharing your day with anyone except your guests. You can chose to supply your own caterers, florists or photographers, or you can choose a Sopley Mill wedding photographer such as nickrutterphotography.co.uk. There are also DJs and entertainers on the mill’s extensive list of suppliers.
Greyfriars House, Surrey
This is a historic Arts and Crafts house on the Hogs Back, near Guildford, with beautiful views over the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is available for exclusive hire only, which many brides and grooms prefer, as you won’t be bumping in to any other wedding parties on your day.
Ettington Park, Warwickshire
This Gothic mansion, now a hotel, near Stratford upon Avon is fairy-tale beautiful, complete with turrets and towers. Choose from one of six locations, including the library, the Norman chapel or even outside the Orangery during the spring and summer.
Doxford Barns, Northumberland
If you prefer a less palatial venue, then Doxford Barns in Northumberland might be for you. This secluded venue uses converted farm buildings to create a unique rustic yet glamorous environment. Get married in the Great Barn, the Threshing Shed or even in the middle of Doxford Lake. There are also seven self-catering cottages for your guests.
