Unique Wedding Venues in the UK
Finding a unique wedding venue can be a challenge, but the UK offers many memorable options for couples looking to tie the knot. From historic castles and stately homes to barns, vineyards, and outdoor spaces, venues across the country provide beautiful backdrops for weddings. Many also offer onsite accommodation, allowing you and your guests to make your celebration into a weekend-long affair.
When considering venues, think about what will complement your wedding vision. Do you imagine exchanging vows in a grand ballroom or a cozy library? Would you prefer hosting the reception in a sleek loft space or sprawling gardens? Narrow down location and style preferences before touring venues in person. Pay attention to capacity, layout, ambiance, and any restrictions too.
To help in your search, here is an overview of some of the most unique wedding venues across the UK that also offer overnight guest rooms:
Historic Castles and Stately Manors
For fairy tale weddings, historic castles and stately manors set the scene beautifully. These venues let you follow in the footsteps of royalty from years past amidst spectacular architecture. Many also offer self-contained cottages, suites, and rooms on extensive grounds for guests to stay.
Leeds Castle
Dating back to the 12th century, Leeds Castle is one of England’s most iconic castles. Couples can exchange vows in the banquet hall, Maiden’s Tower, or on the lawn overlooking the lake and aviary. There are also spaces for receptions and ceremonies inside luxury tents on the grounds. Accommodations include a 17th century house and cottages scattered around the 500-acre estate.
Hatfield House
A Jacobean country house in Hertfordshire, Hatfield House balances regal architecture with warmth and intimacy. The Marble Hall, Long Gallery, and gardens allow for both grand and more modest weddings. Nearby cottages as well as guest, state, and bedroom suites are available onsite.
Highclere Castle
Recognisable as Downton Abbey’s filming location, Highclere Castle is set on 1,000 acres of parkland in Hampshire. Exchange vows in the saloon or library before mingling with guests under the shadow of the historic stone towers. The castle has a limited number of bedrooms, while cottages and the London Lodge provide additional accommodations.
Barns and Farms
For more relaxed weddings immersed in the British countryside, barns and farms make charming venues. Many are exclusive use, allowing you to completely take over the space. Self-catering cottages mean guests never have to leave the party.
Pennyhill Park
This luxury country house hotel in Surrey has an elegant barn and pavilion for weddings, along with 123 rooms and suites onsite. The 19th century Main House also provides stunning spaces for ceremonies and receptions. Outdoor options include the croquet lawn and terrace.
Crab Manor Farm
In West Sussex, Crab Manor Farm delivers rustic charm. Host ceremonies inside the 18th century tithe barn before mingling in the walled garden or around fire pits and a pizza oven. Accommodate up to 34 guests across five self-catering cottages, or recommend nearby inns.
Pashley Manor
Surrounded by the High Weald countryside, Pashley Manor offers quintessential English weddings. The Tudor Barn features exposed beams and an open gallery, while the Garden Room provides airy views. Brides often get ready in the 17th century Dovecote Cottage, which can sleep 14 guests across seven bedrooms over a wedding weekend.
Vineyards, Breweries & Factories
For wine and beer lovers, vineyards and breweries let you celebrate surrounded by the drinks you enjoy. These venues put a refined twist on barn weddings, with onsite cottages and suites keeping guests closeby.
Ridgeview Wine Estate
Specialising in English sparkling wines, Ridgeview Wine Estate in Sussex provides a unique vineyard wedding venue. Ceremonies take place in the 18th century barn, with receptions in the winery or marquee. Couples can also host intimate dinners inside luxury treehouse suites overlooking the vines.
Lingholm Estate
In the Lake District, Lingholm Estate’s Victorian walled garden, boathouse, and lakeside views create drama. The estate has 14 cottages and rooms for overnight guests. Additional accommodations are available at the onsite Lingholm Kitchen restaurant and rooms.
St Peter’s Brewery
This family-run brewery set on an old farm in Suffolk offers relaxed weddings with an eclectic vibe. Ceremonies take place in the 18th century barn beside copper brewing tanks, with receptions spilling into the courtyard. Accommodate guests in cottages and country rooms dotted around the grounds.
The Biscuit Factory Newcastle
The Biscuit Factory is a unique wedding venue in Newcastle. Combining historic Victorian architecture with contemporary art, and design-led celebration spaces we provide a stunning backdrop with a relaxed atmosphere for your wedding day. New for 2024 is The Garden Room, a tropical-plant filled space inspired by Victorian Winter Gardens but with a contemporary design finish.
Outdoor Wedding Venues
For those who dream of exchanging vows immersed in nature, outdoor venues provide beautiful backdrops. Some feature permanent structures like pavilions, while allowing you to customize décor to complement the surroundings.
Searles Leisure Resort
This spacious resort on the Kent coast has multiple ceremony and reception sites, from a glass pavilion to lakeside lawns. The 18th century Manor House offers historic character, with many rooms and suites onsite for overnight guests. Glamping options are also available.
Oakden Hall
Nestled in Northumberland’s countryside, Oakden Hall Estate provides panoramic views from its hilltop wedding pavilion. The clear-span marquee allows couples to take in the scenery through open sides. Guests can stay in cottages and the Old Vicarage across the 300-acre grounds.
Sopley Mill
Surrounded by meadows and streams, this converted water mill in Dorset provides a romantic waterside setting. Couples can exchange vows under the oak tree by the mill pond or inside the historic buildings. Accommodate up to 34 guests across cottages onsite.
Unique London Wedding Venues
From museums and galleries to boats and trains, London offers one-of-a-kind venues that capture the dynamic energy of the city. Many provide onsite event apartments for wedding parties.
National Maritime Museum
Say “I do” under the towering glass roof of the Neptune Court at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, surrounded by historic vessels and artifacts. The Queen’s House next door offers another unique ceremony site and reception spaces. Recommend nearby hotels or rent out the museum’s four apartments.
HMS Belfast
Permanently moored on the River Thames, the HMS Belfast warship provides a uniquely nautical wedding venue. The ship’s deck makes a dramatic ceremony site, with the Admiral’s Quarters available for dinners. Couples can also host receptions inside the interactive museum. Guests can book a stay in one of the ship’s nine cabins.
The View from The Shard
Soaring high above London on levels 68-72 of The Shard skyscraper, The View provides jaw-dropping city panoramas. The open-air observation deck stage hosts ceremonies for up to 200, while private event spaces work for receptions. Recommend nearby hotels or rent out one of the venue’s modern apartments.
Finding the Perfect Fit
From historic to modern and grand to intimate, venues across the UK offer unique backdrops for weddings paired with onsite lodging. Consider your wedding vision and guest list size before exploring options. Reach out to venues about availability and tour spaces in person whenever possible.
Plan ahead, as popular venues book up fast, especially in peak seasons. Be ready to put down a deposit to secure your date. Most venues also have preferred caterers, florists, and other vendors they require couples to use. By selecting a venue that captures your style and provides accommodations, you can create a personalized and unforgettable wedding experience for you and your guests.