It doesn't get more dream princess wedding than a moated wedding venue, and with only a select few venues with moats in the UK, it's pretty exclusive, too. We've come up with our top five reasons to get married in a moated wedding venue (not that you probably needed any more convincing...).
Brinsop Court, Herefordshire. Photo: Marta May Photography
1. Get that historic, luxury feel
Moated wedding venues really conjure up those feelings of historic luxury that we dream of for a wedding. You can't help but let your mind wander to the lords and ladies that once frequented the venue, and those that crossed the moat centuries before you. You'll be feeling like a princess from start to finish.
We love historic Brinsop Court in Herefordshire, who also happen to be the proud winners of a Guides for Brides Customer Service Award! This five star moated manor house nestled in the rolling hills of Herefordshire is an exclusive use, self-catering venue dating back to the 13th Century, and boasts many visits from important historical figures, such as the renowned poet William Wandsworth. The pièce de résistance is, of course, that fabulous moat, giving the venue a classic luxury feel.
2. Make a grand entrance
Do entrances get more grand than crossing a moat? We don't think so. If you're all about making an unforgettable entrance on your special day, a moated wedding venue is the perfect choice - your guests will be telling their friends about it for weeks after the wedding day.
3. Stunning photo opportunities
Moated wedding venues offer fabulous photo opportunities. Majestic photos on the moat will make it onto the mantlepieces of all your family members, and you'll be able to look back at your beautiful moated wedding venue for years to come.
Castle wedding venues with moats, such as Hever Castle, offers stunning photo opportunities. We love the wedding portraits standing on the beautiful bridge to the entrance, with the castle in the background.
4. Exclusive-use
Most moated wedding venues offer exclusive use for your wedding day, meaning you'll really feel like the King and Queen of the property. Having the whole venue to yourself really adds to the old world luxury feel and creates a beautiful intimate wedding day atmosphere.
Birtsmorton Court is a stunning exclusive-use venue, set in acres of breathtaking gardens and closely surrounded by its moat, it gives a totally exclusive feel.
5. Quintessentially British
It doesn't get much more British than a moated castle wedding venue. The beautiful setting and historic charm will have your guests reminiscing about your day for years to come. If you're planning a quintessentially British themed day, we can't think of a better way to get that wow-factor than choosing a moated wedding venue.
Nunsmere Hall is the perfect quintessentially British venue, offering the warmth and romance of times gone by.