Outdoor weddings are not only romantic, but also offer huge scope to be creative, whether you are dreaming of formal parterre or rustic woodland backdrop. These superb spots, chosen for our 100 Best Wedding Venues 2020, have true star quality and bags of style
Words Isabella Eckett
Outdoor weddings are always a romantic choice and, right now, many more couples are looking for space to spread out in a place with plenty of fresh air. Our pick of perfect spaces for outdoor weddings, chosen for our 100 Best Wedding Venues 2020 list, have all the style credentials you could wish for, whether your dream is for a rustic retreat or a glorious formal garden scented with lavender and roses.
Penshurst Place & Gardens, Kent
This is a must-see for couples craving an alfresco celebration thanks to its Italian Garden and enormous walled garden (divided into eleven distinct sections, all manicured to perfection). The Inner Courtyard is an enchanting place for an outdoor ceremony, the ancient walls blooming with roses. Inside, Baron’s Hall has all the medieval features you could wish for – ladies can hang their hats on the magnificent suits of armour and dance the night away. penshurstplace.com
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath
Everything at this five-star hotel is exceptional – friendly staff, a tranquil spa and, of course, the unique location. In the historic heart of Regency Bath, the golden-glowing Crescent provides a wondrous backdrop for your big day. The beautiful private gardens can be transformed into an elegant wedding setting. Guests can join you on the Crescent Lawn for a Champagne reception. Check into one of the uber-luxurious bridal suites. The hotel is also available for exclusive hire. royalcrescent.co.uk
Crockwell Farm, Northamptonshire
A true home away from home, this family-run farm has been hosting weddings for over 15 years. The venue has views over the South Northamptonshire countryside and space to roam. Exclusively yours for three nights, guests can stay in the 18th-century farmhouse and cosy cottages. The super cute Dryden cottage is great for the bride and groom and comes complete with copper rolltop bath. Marry in the stone vaulted barn, starlit marquee or outside in the romantic Orchard Pavilion. crockwellfarm.co.uk
Wasing Estate, Berkshire
Only an hour from London, this vast estate with multiple event spaces has it all. There’s an exclusive-hire main venue with 26 boutique bedrooms, church and Victorian Summer House. The Secret Walled Garden is just perfect for marquee weddings. Finally, Wasing Woodlands, is a magical venue for a modern-boho couple looking to host an eco-friendly, festival-style day. There’s even a stage for you to perform your vows. wasing.co.uk
The Walled Garden at Cowdray, Sussex
An exciting new addition for the Cowdray Events Team for outdoor weddings, this Tudor Walled Garden sits adjacent to the dramatic Cowdray Ruins (a spectacular feature for wedding pics). Think Alice in Wonderland – you’re even given the rusty key to unlock the original heavy oak door. You and your guests can celebrate in this colourful and historic setting, enjoying the delicious scents filling the air from the garden’s plentiful herbs and fruit trees. walledgardencowdray.com
Larchfield Estate, County Down
In the heart of the rolling County Down countryside, this private walled estate offers a rural haven brimming with character. The 19th-century stone barn, walled garden with orangery, lake and cobbled courtyards are all yours for the day. Guests can check into cottages just moments from the action. We love the luxury glamping truck, Myrtle, for the newlyweds. larchfieldestate.co.uk
Coworth Park, Berkshire
Home to one of the most breathtakingly beautiful wildflower meadows we’ve seen, Coworth Park is the ultimate place for a quintessentially English wedding. The Rose Garden and Lime Grove create endless great photo ops and each wedding here is totally bespoke. The Garden Room is designed so that guests can spill outside – a dance floor can be set up under the stars. For an intimate party, choose the Tudor-style Dower House overlooking the lake with resident swans. dorchestercollection.com
Lucknam Park, Wiltshire
The mile-long tree-lined driveway leading to this Palladian mansion is certain to wow your guests. Enjoy the ultimate five-star luxury experience from the moment you check in (dogs welcome too). Set in 500 acres of stunning parkland, the hotel boasts Michelin-Star dining, a state-of-the-art spa, equestrian centre, cookery school, family play facility and two cottages. It’s the perfect spot for intimate weddings, opulent celebrations or romantic escapes. lucknampark.co.uk
Notley Abbey, Buckinghamshire
Built in the 12th century and lovingly restored, Notley Abbey is a medieval masterpiece complete with fairytale turret. Once the grand home of Laurence Olivier, now yours for the weekend and with nine stylish bedrooms. Exchange vows under The Nook in the ivy-clad walled garden, then follow this with a grand wedding banquet in the Monks Refectory. bijouweddingvenues.co.uk
Port Lympne Reserve, Kent
One for animal lovers, a wedding at Kent’s largest safari park means you’ll have exotic animals on the guest list. There are many wedding options within the reserve, including the eccentric hotel with Moroccan courtyard and colourful mural-decorated reception rooms. Smaller parties can opt for Giraffe Cottage, with private ranger for tours, or go for luxury glamping at Bear Lodge. aspinallfoundation.org/port lympne
Elmore Court, Gloucestershire
Eco-friendly Elmore Court has an impressive new building, The Gillyflower. Sustainably built, the futuristic space with stunning countryside views is totally soundproof with meadow roof so you can dance to your heart’s content. The grounds and woodlands here are spectacular, with views over the rolling Cotswolds countryside. Multiple ceremony spaces, inside and out, include the stunning Hall. Food is a forte, sourced locally and from the estate’s own gardens. elmorecourt.com
Finnebrogue Woods, County Down
Lovers of the great outdoors? Opt for this magical woodland hideaway in Northern Ireland. Wind through the mature forest and reach the giant Nordic tipis situated in a glade next to the idyllic lake. A woodland ceremony, quirky bridal retreat and outdoor campfire area add to the boho vibe. The passionate team here will help to plan every detail, offering a full bespoke decor service. finnebroguewoods.com
Leez Priory, Essex
This exclusive-hire Tudor Manor is fit for a princess. You’ll be swept off your feet after saying ‘I do’ up (or outside) the Grand Tower, which has church-like charm. Your drinks reception can be held on the lawn overlooking the picturesque lake, while your guests play a spot of croquet. Create your dream wedding menu with fresh vegetables from the garden and host your feast in the magnificent Great Hall or the more rustic Coach House. leez-priory.co.uk
Hatch House, Wiltshire
This cherished family home has an old-school air of romance. The 17th century two-tier Dutch walled garden provides incredible views over the stunning Vale of Wardour and beyond. There are three licensed outdoor areas for ceremonies – the Lime Avenue is a very special way to make an entrance on your big day. hatch-house.co.uk
Brinsop Court, Herefordshire
This moated manor house has everything you could wish for for outdoor weddings. Formal ceremonies can be conducted in the candlelit Banqueting Hall or Elizabethan Library with its ornate sculpted ceiling. For an alfresco setting, choose the historic courtyard under the vine gazebo or head into the woodlands. Fun receptions are encouraged – think live music and food stations. brinsopcourt.com
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