Our pick of the Cotswolds wedding venues you should consider for your wedding
It’s no secret that the Cotswolds is blessed with so many wonderful wedding venues. From historic manor houses and castles, through to chic tipis and rustic barns. The Cotswolds is rich in history, with quintessentially English villages dotted along its many rolling hills. And there is beautiful, sprawling countryside wherever you look. An ideal combination for those seeking an idyllic destination wedding location in the UK.
Image from Stratton House Hotel
Our team works exclusively with wedding suppliers and venues across the Cotswolds, to help couples put together their dream celebration. In the process, we get to experience so many breathtaking places to tie the knot. And today, we’d like to share our top 10! The best wedding venues in the Cotswolds (in our opinion!), that, we believe, have to be on your visit list.
The Top 10 Cotswolds Wedding Venues
Your dream wedding venue in the Cotswolds could be on this list! Keep scrolling to find out.
The Bower House
We’re beginning our jaunt through the beautiful wedding venues of the Cotswolds, not in the countryside, but in the historic Warwickshire market town of Shipston on Stour. The Bower house is the ideal celebration space for those seeking somewhere intimate, and chic for their big day. With a capacity of up to 60 for sit – down receptions, this venue caters for couples who prioritise moments, over grand spectacle.
Image from Bower House
The overall decor of The Bower House is luxurious, and romantic. With plenty of corners to snuggle into for late-night chats, alongside a chequered tiled dance floor for when you’re in the mood to party. And in-between dances you can clink your delicious, thoughtfully prepared cocktails by the roaring fire.
On-site, there are five stylishly appointed bedrooms, alongside a special bridal suite for the marrying couple.
The Stanton Manor Hotel
Our next Cotswolds wedding venue is ideal for history lovers, and those keen to embrace the countryside on their big day. Stanton Manor has a long and storied past, dating all the way to its inclusion in the Domesday Book. Previously owned by lords and high nobility, the manor now exists as a spectacular event space.
Image from Stanton Manor Hotel
There are various places to tie the knot at Stanton Manor Hotel, such as the Woodland Suite, a charming room that doubles up as a great place to celebrate later in the evening. With direct access to the well-stocked bar and beautiful outdoor terrace. There’s also the option to exchange vows outside within the venues’ gorgeous cherry orchard. A picturesque spot for Spring/Summer.
Stanton Manor benefits from having a fully heated marquee on their grounds, which is ideal for receptions. Allowing guests to appreciate the manicured lawns and picturesque scenery, whatever the weather. There are also 23 bedrooms available at the manor.
Grittleton House
As soon as you arrive at Grittleton House, after snaking along their tree-lined drive, you’ll understand why this wedding venue is considered one of the best in the Cotswolds. It is a magnificent, privately owned estate renowned for throwing the grandest of celebrations. Within a setting full of original features and exquisite details. Like the gallery rooms with their sweeping high ceilings, statement fireplaces and sparkling chandeliers. Spaces that are ideal for both elegant ceremonies and receptions of all sizes.
Image from Grittleton House
Outside you’ll find a modern terrace, the Italian sunken gardens, and their other event space, The Orangery: A chic and grand venue with space to accommodate up to 200 guests for dining.
Eastington Park
Set within 8 spectacular acres of gardens, and featuring a charming Grade II listed Georgian Manor, Eastington Park is a must-visit Cotswolds wedding venue. Especially if you want your big day to have more than just a hint of luxury.
Image from Eastington House
Your guests will be amazed at how picture-perfect Eastington Park is, and will adore the opportunity to roam its grounds, drink in hand. Before stepping inside the exclusive-use venue, and exploring its many rooms, such as the spacious ballroom. A splendid setting for wedding breakfast, surrounded by 130 of your excited guests. The space is also equally ideal for evening celebrations for up to 250. If you prefer a religious ceremony, there is a church not far from the venue. While the aforementioned ballroom, and gardens at Eastington Park are also available for civil ceremonies.
Elmore Court
Blending a contemporary vibe with an old-world setting, Elmore Court provides something truly unique among wedding venues in the Cotswolds. A chance to revel within an historic building, but without the stuffiness that often precludes it.
Elmore Court may be nearly 800 years old, but it feels like it was conceived only moments ago. A real party pad that honours the houses’ history by embracing all of its original features, and architectural magnificence. But with a modern spin. The Gillyflower is the perfect example. The ideal spot for a swinging reception, or elegant sit down dinner for up to 200. The space offers a beautiful backdrop for whatever type of celebration is thrown out, and is fitted with the very best in audio and lighting equipment.
Image from Elmore Court
There are 4 other stunning reception and ceremony rooms available, each with their own style and suitability for certain groups. Alongside 16 wonderfully appointed bedrooms.
Lapstone Barn
Beautiful barn wedding venues in the Cotswolds are in high-demand, and Lapstone Barn is one of the most popular. A traditional 18th century building coloured in the dreamiest honey hue, surrounded by manicured lawns and featuring a refined English courtyard.
Image from Lapstone Barn
The main indoor ceremony space is ideal for up to 200 guests, and can also be used as a reception venue with the same capacity. But if you’d rather embrace the great outdoors during your vows, Lapstone Barn can also accommodate ceremonies on the lawn. Whichever space you choose, you’ll have the entirety of the venue to yourself, and a dedicated wedding team available to tend to your every need.
Clearwell Castle
No list of Cotswolds wedding venues would be complete without a castle, and Clearwell Castle is one of the best! A fairytale, mid-15th century building that’s endlessly enchanting.
Blending modern touches with ancient architecture. Clearwell Castle provides just the place for those couples who want an historic backdrop, without feeling like they’re celebrating in the past. The castle itself is set within the Forest of Dean, which only serves to add to the enchanting nature of this venue, while also providing magical views for outdoor gatherings on the cocktail terrace. Complete with castle backdrop!
Image of Clearwell Castle by Dan Morris Photography
Inside you’ll find a church-like ceremony space with an iconic 75-foot-long aisle and leaded windows. Perfect for those dying to re-enact their princess fantasies. Celebrations can be held within the Cellar Bar, a modern event space with a large dancefloor and disco lighting.
Stratton House Hotel
A traditional wedding venue on the outskirts of Cirencester, that has a modern feel and every amenity a couple could need on their big day. The building itself is a charming 17th century hotel surrounded by tranquil Cotswolds countryside. There are 43 comfortable bedrooms available on-site, making it an ideal weekend wedding location.
Image from Stratton House Hotel
Stratton House is licenced to hold civil ceremonies for up to 100 guests, and also boasts a fine choice of event spaces for receptions. Each decorated in a neutral fashion to allow couples to express their big day creativity.
Cotswolds Under Canvas
We love a festival style wedding, and Cotswolds Under Canvas provides the perfect boho style venue for that type of casual celebration. Surrounded by beautiful sprawling meadows, this large tipi structure offers couples a place to party and chill over a wedding weekend. With a setup that works equally well as a haven for evening cocktails, as it does a Sunday BBQ. You can even invite guests over on Friday night if you want to get the party started early.
Image from Cotswolds Under Canvas
The luxurious tipi will provide everything you could need for a dreamy outdoor celebration, while also encouraging couples to be creative with the finer details. Meaning you’re free to decorate, and caterer your big day as you wish. While also having the support, and recommended suppliers available from Cotswolds Under Canvas.
Barns & Yard
Providing a canvas, rather than dictating a theme, Barns & Yard is a place to curate your dream big day in a historic setting. Set within the stunning Malvern Hills, this luxurious Tudor barn wedding venue has been artfully restored to offer the perfect blend of history, and modern convenience.
Image from Barns & Yard
The overall space has been designed to host exclusive weekend weddings. With three cottages available on-site for short-term stays. During the day, guests will adore the many event spaces available. Such as the stunning courtyard, ideal for twilight cocktails and outdoor ceremonies. Alongside three separate barn rooms. The largest of which capable of hosting ceremonies and receptions for up to 70. While The Gallery, offers a more intimate setting, with a guest capacity of around 40. Whichever space you choose, you should expect a rustic, welcoming vibe. And the ideal backdrop for a contemporary celebration in the country.
