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Wedding ceremony set up at High House Weddings

Top Essex Wedding Venues


headshot of Katie Stout
Katie Updated:
17th of August 2023

Looking for your ideal Essex wedding venue? From historic houses to countryside barn venues, there are so many options for your dream wedding in this incredible county. You can find some of our favourite venues here.

High House Weddings

Exterior of High House in Essex

Nestled in acres of picturesque gardens & rolling meadows, High House Weddings is situated in Chelmsford, Essex. This beautiful wedding venue is a restored Grade II listed Essex Barn dating back to 1750. Retaining this barns character with rustic oak beams and exposed red brick brings a beautiful charm to your day, paired with modern full height windows to bring in the day light, this venue provides the perfect scenery for you to say 'I do'.

High House Weddings can accommodate up to 150 guests, so whether you want a cosy intimate ceremony or a large lavish reception, you can have it all at this barn wedding venue. Offering exclusive use and options for you to have a marquee wedding day in the English country gardens, you can truly plan your wedding day with ease with High House Weddings.

Is this the venue for you?

 

Valentines Mansion & Gardens

Wedding ceremony set up at Valentines Mansion & Gardens Wedding Venue

Nestled within picturesque, historic gardens and surrounded by 130 acres of lush parkland, Valentines Mansion is a gorgeous Grade II* listed country house. Steeped in rich history, the romantic, yet intimate mansion boasts elegant period rooms, a grand staircase, a striking 18th-century Venetian stained glass window and ornate fireplaces. Coupled with contemporary features, this gives you the perfect blend of old and new. With the ability to host weddings between 70 and 120 guests, the stunning rooms can be hired individually or exclusively.

The beautiful Holcombe Room extends to a terrace that overlooks charming gardens and features an 18th-century fireplace. The art gallery seamlessly combines classic elements with a contemporary flair. Enjoy breathtaking views from the Morning Room, which boasts a magnificent fireplace and a gilded mirror. The Drawing Room, spacious and luminous, is adorned with intricate details, fireplaces, and a romantic balcony that offers a view of the South Lawn. With the assistance of the skilled Events Team, Valentines Mansion is an ideal choice for your Essex wedding.

Love the sound of Valentines Mansion?

 

Crondon Park

Wedding breakfast set up in barn at Crondon Park

Set in a beautiful valley, Crondon Park has been hosting gorgeous weddings for over 25 years. This stunning wedding offers the perfect combination of character, charm, romance, and style.

The Baronial Hall, established in 1600, serves as the primary event space. Crafted from light oak, it stands as a remarkable model of a delightful Tudor/Jacobean Barn. The medieval ambiance is heightened through soft lighting, a rosewood floor, and elegant chandeliers. The proficient team, equipped with expertise, are dedicated to ensuring your special day unfolds seamlessly in this unique and grand setting. Prepare for an exceptional Essex wedding experience at Crondon Park.

Adore Crondon Park?

 

Vaulty Manor

Wedding breakfast at Vaulty Manor Essex Wedding Venue

Surrounded by picturesque countryside and woodland, Vaulty Manor seamlessly blends a historic country house with a charming, rustic barn. The stunning oak Essex barn dates back to the 17th-century, with stunning beams creating a romantic atmosphere. You can also host a wedding breakfast in the beautiful, historic Baronial Hall. Whether you want a small and intimate gathering or a grand and lavish celebration, Vaulty Manor has the perfect space for every wedding celebration.

The beautiful surroundings featuring a charming gazebo create the ideal backdrop for a picturesque outdoor wedding. At Vaulty Manor, the skilled in-house catering team presents a variety of delectable menu choices, ranging from elegant sit-down meals to rustic country barbecues. Whatever your vision for a dream wedding in Essex, Vaulty Manor can turn it into a reality.

Is Vaulty Manor perfect for your wedding?

 

Colchester Weddings

Room with glass ceiling windows at Colchester Weddings

Say 'I Do' in the Colchester Castle Chapel – a favorite place for couples to get married. The chapel's beautiful white ceilings create a romantic and calm atmosphere, while colourful light streams in through stained glass windows. With its genuine chapel-like feel, this is a special choice for weddings.

Whether you're planning an intimate ceremony or a bigger celebration, the space can comfortably accommodate up to 80 guests for both the vows and the meal. And don't forget the magical opportunity to exchange vows on the castle rooftop for that added 'wow' factor. It's the ideal setting to embark on your journey together.

Is this your dream venue?

 

Parklands Quendon Hall

Wedding ceremony set up at Parklands Quendon Hall

The stunning Parklands Quendon Hall is a 17th-century mansion, set in over 100 acres of picturesque deer park. This wonderful stately home can cater for relaxed, intimate weddings and grand, impressive occasions.

Ceremony spaces include the beautiful silk-lined Pavilion with elegantly lit chandeliers and a starlight ceiling, available for magnificent affairs of up to 500 guests. There is also the more intimate Tabor Room, which backs onto an enchanting fountain and terrace area. Parklands has seen over 3,000 weddings take place within its beautiful House and grounds, so you know your dream Essex wedding is in safe hands!

Interested in marrying at Parklands Quendon Hall?

 

That Amazing Place

Wedding ceremony set up at That Amazing Place Essex

Surrounded by beautiful grounds, That Amazing Place offers a romantic setting for your wedding day. Dating back to the 15th-century, this historical Grade II listed manor house has been beautifully renovated with a stylish, contemporary interior. You can say your vows in your choice of elegant reception rooms or under an outdoor gazebo by the lake.

Exclusive use of That Amazing Place means as well as the manor house, you have the option of the Wedding Cottage and 13 deluxe bedrooms. This total exclusivity gives you the flexibility to plan your dream wedding day to perfection. That Amazing Place offers a wonderful location for the perfect Essex wedding.

Is That Amazing Place perfect for your wedding?

 

Newland Hall

Newland Hall

Nestled in the Essex countryside, lies Newland Hall. This ancient Tudor manor, built in the 15th century, is surrounded by over 100 acres of meadows, woods, and lakes. Its stunning gardens, moat, and historical significance as a Grade II listed wedding venue make it truly special for your wedding day.

Newland Hall harmoniously blends old-fashioned romance with modern living. Choose from charming venues like the Henry VIII room, the English country rose gazebo, or the rustic woodland pagoda for your ceremony. A contemporary marquee stands ready for post wedding celebrations. Accommodating 10 to 200 guests, Newland Hall's 25 years of experience, you can be confident your wedding day will be perfect. Set against picturesque woods and countryside, it's an ideal spot for an Essex wedding.

Adore Newland Hall?

 

Down Hall Hotel

Wedding breakfast set up at Down Hall Hotel Wedding Venue
Courtesy of Down Hall Hotel

Dating back to 1540, Down Hall Hotel is a historic country house nestled in the beautiful countryside. You can have an intimate ceremony in the stunning Prior Suite, a lavish wedding breakfast in the stylish Bridgeman Suite and take perfect pictures in the extensive gardens. The different wedding reception rooms can cater for parties from 32 to 200 guests, with large windows providing panoramic views of the landscaped gardens.

The catering team is also dedicated to creating delicious menus using local ingredients, some from Down Hall’s own garden! Passionate wedding coordinators will be with you every step of the way to plan a fairytale wedding.

Intrigued by this wedding venue?

 

Colville Hall

Exterior and grounds at Colville Hall Wedding Barn

Oozing history and romance, Colville Hall features listed thatched barns nestled around a central manor house. A working organic farm, Colville Hall is still beautifully peaceful. 10 acres of formal gardens include ponds, gazebos, ancient monuments, and a listed Grade 1 archway, perfect for unforgettable wedding photographs!

You can choose from the Orchard Barn or Mill Pond Barn as your enchanting ceremony and reception spaces overlooking these tranquil surroundings. There is also a fully licensed thatched duck pond gazebo, perfect for a charming and unique outdoor wedding. So, you have several fantastic options to host a glorious Essex wedding at Colville Hall.

Interested in marrying at Colville Hall?

 

Blake Hall Weddings

Wedding breakfast set up at Blake Hall

Set amongst stunning private gardens, Blake Hall offers two beautifully restored 17th-century barns. The Hay Barn has been sympathetically restored, with a beam-lined aisle and magnificent picture window. You can also marry outside under the romantic canopy of the Saddlery.

You can savor welcome drinks outdoors on the charming terraces and lawns nestled between the barns. Afterward, proceed to the Essex Barn for the main meal and nighttime festivities. The gardens present numerous delightful photo backdrops. Finally, the Old Coach House and Stable Cottage provide exquisite accommodations to beautifully conclude your special day.

Looking to find out more?

 

The Lawn

Exterior of The Lawn wedding venue

Set in over 100 acres of rolling park and woodland, The Lawn has several unique spaces. With a sweeping staircase giving you a breathtaking entrance, the Grand Hall is the perfect setting for an unforgettable occasion. The gorgeous Orangery is a light-flooded space with garden views, seamlessly blended with the Georgian main house. Overlooking the beautiful gardens and fountain, the terrace is a perfect backdrop for reception and evening drinks.

For an outdoor ceremony, the wedding gazebo is nestled away in the gardens and boasts unspoiled views across the romantic Rose Garden. So, for a wedding of up to 150 guests, The Lawn and their dedicated team are perfect for a romantic English country wedding.

Love the look of this venue?

 

The Rose Barn

Wedding breakfast set up at The Rose Barn essex

Set within the breathtaking grounds of The Warren Estate, The Rose Barn is considered one of the finest barn wedding venues in Essex. The main wedding barn offers a lovely ambience for your wedding breakfast, with a vaulted ceiling and glorious French doors enhancing the wonderful sense of light and space. The grand oak staircase, with a galleried landing and elegant lighting, is perfect for your entrance on your special day!

For summer weddings, The Oak Pavilion is surrounded by manicured lawns with stunning borders. A lovely limestone path forms the aisle between rustic oak benches, where your guests will be awaiting your arrival. The team also offers a wealth of experience. Your very own wedding manager will take care of every detail for you, so you can relax and enjoy your day. So, The Rose Barn is a unique country retreat, perfect for a rustic Essex wedding.

Is The Rose Barn perfect for your wedding?

 

Channels

Channels Wedding Venue Essex

Situated alongside a 4*, 26 bedroom hotel, Channels has a gorgeous, thatched barn wedding venue as well as a unique ceremony garden. The sympathetically restored, 17th-century Essex Barn is a picturesque ceremony location, full of charm and historic character. Outside, in the stunning ceremony garden overlooking the glorious Essex countryside, you can tie the knot under the stunning pavilion while your loved ones look on from the antique wooden pews.

A beautiful extension to The Essex Barn is the outside wedding garden, a fantastic space to serve canapés and reception drinks. Secluded and surrounded by stunning countryside views, the wedding garden is a great space for live music, children’s games and photo opportunities. Wedding photographs can also be taken in Channels’ tranquil surroundings, with its extensive grounds, fountain, lily pond and avenue of mature trees. With 45 years of experience, the team at Channels will provide you with the very best cuisine and service, adding the wow factor to your Essex wedding.

Interested in getting married at Channels?

 

Hatfield Place

Hatfield Place Weddings

Set in fifteen acres of undulated rural parkland adjoining the River Ter, Hatfield Place is an exquisite Georgian country house wedding venue. Each room has been beautifully furnished and will complement all styles of wedding. From the moment you arrive, Hatfield Place will become your home for the day allowing you and your guests to enjoy those very special moments in the most tranquil and picturesque setting.

Hatfield Place is a licensed venue for civil ceremonies, boasting beautiful indoor and outdoor locations including the elegant Ballroom furnished in modern grey tones and rich silk draping. The landscaped Walled Garden spans three tiers, blending English country garden aesthetics with a modern touch. The Ceremony Hall and Orangery offer contemporary, light-filled spaces with picturesque views of the garden. For an indulgent Essex wedding experience, the luxury Bridal Coach House and twelve guest rooms await.

Adore Hatfield Place?

 

The Fennes Estate

Outdoor wedding ceremony at the Fennes Estate Essex

Situated in 100 acres of tranquil Essex countryside, Fennes is an enchanting and romantic Georgian manor. Traditional, richly styled reception rooms and exquisite, beautifully lit silk-lined pavilions make for beautiful ceremony and reception spaces. There is also a gorgeous gazebo for outside ceremonies which overlooks the picturesque English country gardens.

Fennes also offers endless flexibility for your wedding, whether you want small and intimate or large and lavish. This prestigious venue has 20 years of experience in creating magical weddings, with a dedicated team available to make your wedding dreams come true!

Love the sound of The Fennes Estate?

 

Hedingham Castle

Wedding couple photo outside Hedingham Castle Essex

At the centre of a private estate surrounded by beautiful countryside Hedingham Castle is a romantic fairytale venue. The 900-year-old castle has several enchanting spaces fit for royalty. The magnificent Banqueting Hall makes an atmospheric setting for your ceremony, with candle lighting and steeped in history. You can also tie the knot in the stunning landscaped gardens or at the grand medieval church at the bottom of the drive.

Receptions can be held in a permanent Marquee on the Tulip Lawn or in the newly restored Tapestry Room which is filled with medieval splendour. This romantic venue has the perfect, timeless atmosphere of the English Country House.

Is this your dream venue?

 

Hylands House

Wedding breakfast in grand room at Hylands House Essex

Hylands House is an award-winning Grade II* listed mansion house with a contemporary Grand Pavilion. Set in 574 acres of landscaped parkland, the house boasts lavish, lovingly restored ceremony and reception rooms. Begin the next chapter of your life in the ornate gilded Banqueting Room for up to 100 guests or the romantic Drawing Room for up to 80 guests, overlooking the East Terrace Gardens.

The Grand Pavilion offers a contemporary open-plan space for your wedding meal and evening reception for up to 300 guests. This space provides the perfect blank canvas for your contractors to bring your vision to life. For more intimate receptions, enjoy the opulent rooms within Hylands House. With beautiful views of the Essex countryside, Hylands House offers the perfect location for a wedding that is traditional and intimate, or lavish and grand.

Love the sound of Hylands House?

 

Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa

Marquee for weddings at Stoke by Nayland Essex

Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa is surrounded by 300 acres of stunning rolling countryside, blossoming apple orchards, and picturesque lakes, the hotel provides the perfect backdrop for your special day. With three traditional banqueting suites, an intimate function room and a luxurious giant Tipi set within the grounds, this venue can certainly create your dream wedding.

There are also 80 contemporary bedrooms and 10 luxurious countryside lodges. Or, a luxurious bridal glamping suite and 9 additional glamping pods for a romantic night under the stars!

Want to find out more about this venue?

 

headshot of Katie Stout

About the author


Katie

With a rich background in customer service as a cabin crew member for five years, Katie decided to embark on a new career path in marketing. She is the Marketing Executive at Guides for Brides, and enjoys working within our marketing team to help connect wedding businesses with their ideal audience. With a good level of social media knowledge already an asset, she is adding more strings to her bow through a formal digital marketing qualification. Her dedication and passion make her a valuable asset to the team at Guides for Brides.

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