If you’ve always dreamt of a romantic country house wedding, where history and elegance collide with breathtaking landscapes, you’re in the right place. I've shot over 250 weddings and events, and in that time I’ve explored some of the most enchanting and historical venues across the UK. Here I've collated my favourites, which I'm hoping you'll love just as much as I do! Each of these venues is a stunner with lots of unique features that will leave your guests talking about your wedding for years, and make you feel like you're living your princess (or prince!) dreams out on your big day. Bonus? They're also all fabulous for wedding photos!
Crowcombe Court, Somerset
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Quantocks in Somerset, Crowcombe Court is a stunning example of Georgian grandeur. The Grade One listed mansion boasts elegant features that will have your guests feeling like they've stepped into a period drama - serious Bridgerton vibes all over this place. From intricate plasterwork ceilings to the sweeping oak staircase that begs for a dramatic bridal entrance, this venue exudes timeless charm. As an added bonus, Crowcombe Court is located just 20 minutes from the M5, making it an easily accessible gem for guests traveling from Bristol, the Midlands, London, and beyond.
Couples have the flexibility to choose from a variety of ceremony and reception spaces. The magnificent Great Hall, with its intricate plasterwork, glistening chandeliers, and a grand fireplace, offers a romantic atmosphere for up to 100 guests - and you can even make the grandest of entrances down the staircase at the rear! For a smaller, more intimate setting, the Library provides a cosy option. Receptions in the opulent Ballroom offer stunning views out to the gardens through large sash windows, and let plenty of fresh air in during the sultry summer months. When you want to party the hight away, you have your own historical nightclub in the vaulted brick Undercroft underneath the house.
Outside, the beautiful gardens provide opportunities for outdoor ceremonies if you want to tie the knot al fresco. There are also boundless photo opportunities, with a lake, swing, gazebo, steps...and pretty much every other feature you could want to kiss your new spouse in/on. There are also multiple photo ops inside the house, especially around the grand staircase and window.
For photography, Crowcombe Court is a treasure trove of picture-perfect spots. The dramatic oak staircase is ideal for classic portraits, while the gardens, reflective pond, and charming village church offer a variety of romantic backdrops for capturing unforgettable moments.
Loving Crowcombe Court? Check out their website here!
Elmhay Park, Somerset
Hot in at number two, we arrive at the enchanting Elmhay Park. Part of the larger Orchardleigh Estate, Elmhay Park transports you into a fairytale with its Italianate walled garden, light-filled Orangery, and serene surroundings. This exclusive-use venue blends grandeur with intimacy, perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape. The venue’s location near Frome provides excellent accessibility from Bath and Bristol, with ample parking and accommodations available within the wider estate.
Ceremonies at Elmhay Park can either take place in outdoors at a number of spots in the large walled garden, or for a more all-weather option you can get hitched in the covered Italian Garden. For your reception, the beautiful Orangery can seat up to 100 guests. If you are planning a larger celebration, the gardens can accommodate expansive marquees, comfortably hosting up to 200 guests for dining and dancing beneath the stars.
As a bonus, Elmhay Park is a photographer's dream! The pathways lined with roses, stone fountains, red brick garden walls, foliage and fairy lights make it a truly magical setting. And if you want to widen the scope, there is the wider estate right on your doorstep.
Is Elmhay Park your dream country house wedding venue? Check it out here.
Hedsor House, Buckinghamshire
Steeped in royal history and exuding timeless elegance, Hedsor House is one of Buckinghamshire’s most luxurious wedding venues. With its grand facade, opulent interiors, and expansive grounds, this 18th-century stately home offers a regal setting that will leave a lasting impression on your guests, and yourselves with some stunning wedding photos. Located just 26 miles from London and easily accessible from the M4, Hedsor is very easily accessible despite its countryside surroundings.
Ceremonies at Hedsor House are typically held in the magnificent Centre Hall, a showstopping space with a 30-foot domed ceiling, intricate mouldings, and room for up to 140 guests. Alternatively, you can have an outdoor ceremony on the South Lawn, with sweeping views of the estate. For receptions, the Grand Ballroom, with its elegant decor and direct garden access, comfortably accommodates up to 150 guests for dining.
Hedsor House's lavish interiors, including the marble staircase and richly adorned drawing rooms, provide endless photographic opportunities. The manicured gardens and iconic front steps are perfect for stunning outdoor portraits, while the romantic tree-lined driveway makes for a memorable entrance or exit.
Head over heels for Hedsor? I don't blame you! Learn more about it here.
Grittleton House, Wiltshire
A true masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture, Grittleton House in Wiltshire is an awe-inspiring venue where history, beauty, and drama converge. With its turreted facade, grand stonework, and rich interiors, this stately home is a spectacular backdrop for a storybook wedding. Grittleton House is located between Bath, Bristol and Swindon, providing easy access by rail and road.
The venue offers multiple ceremony spaces to suit different tastes. The stunning Orangery, with its high ceilings and abundant natural light, seats up to 150 guests and provides an airy, romantic setting. For something with a cosier vibe, you can tie the knot in the Yellow Gallery or Red Gallery within the main house. There are a number of spaces available for your reception, whatever the size of your party, as well as numerous smaller rooms where people can break out for drinks, chats, or just to chill out.
Grittleton House's sprawling grounds include a tree-lined drive, ornate gardens, and hidden nooks that are perfect for wedding portraits. Inside, there are countless spots, so if you're getting married in the winter, or if it's pouring with rain, you're still spoilt for choice. You can take photos on the grand staircase, the numerous balconies, or beneath the towering arches that frame the house’s entrance.
Is Grittleton fulfilling all your fairytale wedding dreams? Discover more here on their website.
Sparkford Hall, Somerset
Throwing out some local love with this fab venue, as I grew up ten minutes from here, and drove past on the way to school every day! Sparkford Hall in Somerset is the perfect venue for couples who want their wedding to feel like an unforgettable house party. This Georgian manor in Somerset offers exclusive use and a relaxed, anything-goes atmosphere where creativity takes center stage. Located just off the convenient A303 (a road I feel I spend half my life on!!), it's easily accessible from London and the wider south west, making it a convenient choice for out-of-town guests.
With multiple spaces for ceremonies, in and out of the house, you can really make Sparkford Hall your own. You can tie the knot in the Drawing Room, outside on the front lawn, or inside the large rustic barn, which has space for up to 150 guests. There is also ample room for marquees, if you want loads of room and to make the most of the beautiful grounds. So whether you're wanting the stately home vibe, or something a bit more rustic and/or casual, there are loads of options to love here. Another amazing feature of the venue is The Club in the basement - meaning you can party the night away in your very own nightclub!
The venue’s artistic interiors, quirky decor, and picturesque countryside setting offer a plethora of unique photo opportunities. From hidden garden spots to rolling hills, every corner of Sparkford Hall invites playful, candid, and creative shots. The main hall's vibrant grape-coloured walls and beautiful staircase lend itself to some fab inside shots.
Sparkling for Sparkford Hall? Visit their website here.
Nunsmere Hall, Cheshire
Let's shoot directly up England's western side to Cheshire, where you can find Nunsmere Hall, a luxurious Edwardian country house. Tucked away in the countryside and enveloped by a 60-acre lake, Nunsmere feels like a hidden world of enchantment. This exclusive-use venue provides both grandeur and intimacy, making it a standout choice for an elegant wedding, whatever the time of the year. Located just 12 miles from Chester, Nunsmere Hall is easily accessible from Manchester and Liverpool, as well as the wider north west and midlands.
Nunsmere Hall offers several ceremony spaces. The oak-paneled Hall of Nunsmere exudes vintage charm, accommodating up to 100 guests for a romantic indoor ceremony. Alternatively, outdoor ceremonies can be held in the picturesque Italian Gardens, where perfectly manicured lawns, classical statues, and ornamental flowerbeds create a stunning backdrop for exchanging vows - and as you can see from the photos, it's beautiful even as we're heading into winter!
For receptions, the marquee by the lakeside provides a flexible space with a dance floor and dining area for up to 200 guests. The marquee’s glass walls allow panoramic views of the serene water, creating a magical, light-filled setting for your celebrations. And when it gets dark, the marquee becomes magical in a different way, with a light-studded ceiling that looks like stars.
Nunsmere's tranquil gardens, romantic woodland paths, and expansive lake offer a wealth of breathtaking scenery for your wedding photographs, whatever the time of year.
Is this north western gem floating your boat? Find out more about Nunsmere on their website.
Holbrook Manor, Somerset
Back to my childhood stomping grounds and the peaceful Somerset countryside, as we visit Holbrook Manor! I know this place pretty well; I came to the health club here many times as a youth (I grew up 20 minutes away), and one of my childhood friends also got married here in 2019. Holbrook is conveniently located near the small town of Wincanton and the ever-useful A303, which stretches down to Devon in one direction and up to the M3 towards London in the other.
Holbrook is a hidden gem that balances homely charm with refined elegance. This 18th-century manor house offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed yet sophisticated wedding. Couples can choose from several ceremony options. The bright and spacious Garden Room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, accommodates up to 120 guests, while the front lawn provides a stunning outdoor setting for al fresco vows. Receptions flow seamlessly into the Drawing Room and terrace, where up to 140 guests can dine and dance.
There are so many lovely spots for photos arounds venue’s beautiful gardens, with mature trees, and and ornamental pond as just some of the backdrops you can make the most of. And Holbrook has other benefits, with loads of room for your guests to stay over, and the spa and health club for you to enjoy for some pre/post wedding relaxation.
Has Holbrook captured your heart? Visit them on their website here.
The Pear Tree, Purton, Wiltshire
Nestled a stone's throw from the beautiful Cotswolds, The Pear Tree offers a delightful blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance. Unique among wedding venues, it features its own vineyard, providing a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your celebration. Purton is a short distance from the large town of Swindon, providing easy access by rail, and if you're more of a car person, the M4 is close by too.
Ceremonies can be held in Blossom, a bright and airy room with space for up to 150, or outdoors beneath the Garden Pavillion for a summer garden vibe. Receptions can move to the light-filled Orangery, which provides the perfect, and very roomy, space for dining, socialising, and cutting your wedding cake. When it comes time to let your hair down, you can move next door to the long bar area, with its cosy enclosed dancing space.
The vineyard, romantic courtyard, and rolling countryside views offer an abundance of scenic spots for wedding photography. Imagine sun-drenched portraits among the vines or whimsical shots by the charming stone pathways. The large stairs leading down into the garden are great for photos, and I personally love doing a dramatic night shot in the gazebo!
Think you might like to pick The Pear Tree? Here's the link you need!
Colehayes Park, Devon
To another part of the south west now, as we're heading to Devon. For couples seeking a true DIY experience, Colehayes Park is a dream come true. This historic manor house offers exclusive hire and the freedom to craft a wedding that’s uniquely yours. You can find the venue on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, about 40 minutes from Exeter, but not too far from the A38, which provides quick access north and south.
Ceremonies can be held indoors in the charming Music Room or outdoors beside the lake and its large, beautiful bridge. The venue’s versatility allows for receptions ranging from rustic barn-style celebrations to elegant marquee dinners on the lawn.
Colehayes Park is surrounded by natural beauty. The tranquil lake, stone bridges, and lush gardens create an idyllic setting for photography, offering both rustic charm and fairy-tale romance. And if you wanted to venture offsite, you could pop up the road to Dartmoor and its many stunning and dramatic backdrops.
Does the thought of the freedom to truly do your own thing appeal? Learn more about the venue here.
Pennard House, Somerset
Back up to nextdoor Somerset now, and another place I grew up a stone's throw from (Somerset really is blessed with some amazing wedding venues!). Pennard House is a family-run venue bursting with charm and personal touches, and while it is surrounded by beautiful countryside, it is well located for many towns and cities. Bristol and Bath are around 25 miles to the north, with the tiny city of Wells (well worth a visit; it's stunning) only 20 minutes down the road. Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury, Castle Cary, and Bruton are also local, and you're close to (here it comes again!) the A303 for travelling up to London or down deeper into the south west.
Ceremonies can take place inside the beautiful house, or outdoors by the Victorian garden gazebo. Receptions unfold in the Coach House, a characterful space with exposed beams and a built-in dance floor. Upstairs seats up to 120 people for dinner, and downstairs you can party the night away in the former stables, or spill out into the adjoining courtyard for some fresh air.
Pennard House's cider orchards, ivy-covered walls, and flower-filled gardens offer a romantic, countryside backdrop for stunning photographs, whichever way you turn. Whether you want to take some more rustically-backed photos around the Coach House, or use the main house as your focus, there's something for every taste.
Ready to spend your pennies at Pennard (and I mean literal pennies, not the slang for going to the loo...)? Check them out here!
Redworth Hall Hotel, Durham
With a big jump all the way across England diagonally, from Somerset to County Durham, we come to Redworth Hall Hotel! A stunning 17th-century Jacobean manor nestled in beautiful countryside, Redworth combines historic grandeur with modern luxury. Its impressive facade and sweeping driveway create a memorable first impression for guests. Conveniently located near Darlington and Durham, the venue provides easy access for guests travelling from across the north east, and if you're coming from the south, the A1 (M) will bring you all the way from London.
The Great Hall, adorned with wood-panelled walls and a grand fireplace, is a dramatic space for ceremonies of up to 120 guests. The Prince Bishop Suite offers a contemporary setting for larger receptions, accommodating up to 200 guests. Couples can also choose to exchange vows in the beautifully landscaped gardens for an outdoor ceremony. And as another bonus for this lovely venue, there are ample rooms for all your guests to stay, as well as a spa for them to enjoy!
The manicured lawns, ancient woodland, and striking stone architecture make for stunning wedding photography, capturing the venue’s timeless elegance. I particularly loved the little stone grotto halfway down the drive; such a unique feature, and the five minute wander to it gives you lots of other photo ops amongst the greenery.
Is Redworth Hall Hotel calling your heart? Learn more about them at this link.
Kilworth House Hotel, Leicestershire
Shunting back down the A1 now to Leicestershire, and Kilworth House Hotel. This midlands-based venue is perfect for a wedding that feels like a scene from a romantic novel. The Grade II listed country house is surrounded by acres of parkland, providing a luxurious escape into tranquility, despite the fact that you're only half an hour from the bustling city of Leicester.
Larger ceremonies can take place in the ornate Orangery, with its glass roof, decorative columns, and space for up to 130 guests. If you're going for something slightly smaller, you can opt to get hitched in the richly-decorated Wordsworth or Shakespeare roos. Receptions can be held in the Orangery, one of the smaller rooms in the main house, or you can even head down the short way to the on-site wooden cabin for something rustic and cosy!
Kilworth House's sprawling grounds, woodland paths, and magnificent facade provide an array of picturesque backdrops for timeless wedding photography. Inside, taking a photo on the grand staircase with its gorgeous stained glass window is essential.
Are you ready to be whisked off to Leicestershire? Visit Kilworth House Hotel's website here.
Crow’s Hall, Suffolk
Hi East Anglia, we haven't forgotten you! Heading now to a venue miles from where I'm from, but very close to where my lovely wife grew up, and one of the most stunning places I've ever had the pleasure of shooting at. Crow's Hall is a moated Tudor manor that feels like a journey back in time. This exclusive-use venue blends rustic charm with stately elegance, perfect for an unforgettable countryside wedding. Crow’s Hall is situated near the village of Debenham, and within a close reach of towns such as Bury St Edmunds, and you can get to the bustling city of Norwich in under an hour.
Ceremonies at Crow's Hall can take place in the 16th-century barn, a characterful space with vaulted ceilings and timber beams that can host up to 160 guests. The lawn overlooking the moat is a dreamy spot for outdoor vows. Receptions continue in the barn or under a marquee in the gardens.
The ancient architecture, romantic moat, and rolling fields provide a magical setting for wedding photography. Imagine sunset portraits reflecting in the water or intimate moments beneath ivy-covered archways. An absolute MUST is a shot in one of the venue's boats, rowing your new spouse around the moat. And even if you can't row, pop yourselves in the boat, push off from the side and fake it for the 'Gram. I'm sure someone will be able to reel you back in when you're done.
Has this historical gem stolen your heart as it did mine? Visit the venue's website to see if you'll be rowing off into the sunset on your wedding day.
Limpley Stoke Hotel, Somerset
Back to Somerset we go, to this elegant Georgian venue located just minutes from Bath. Limpley Stoke Hotel is perched on the edge of the Avon Valley and offers amazing scenic countryside views from its elevated position. Limpley Stoke is easily accessible from Bath, Bristol, and the M4, so well connected despite its beautiful rural location.
The Georgian Room, with its high ceilings and grand windows, is a stunning space for ceremonies and receptions of up to 120 guests, and you can also tie the knot in the roomy Viaduct Room. The Avon Room and the wood-panelled Tudor Room provide a more intimate setting, ideal for smaller gatherings. Outdoor ceremonies can also be arranged in the picturesque gardens. Your reception can take place in any of the aforementioned rooms, so there's something for every guest count and taste.
Limpley Stoke's terraced gardens, woodland backdrop, and panoramic valley views make for breathtaking wedding photography options, capturing the romance and charm of this idyllic location.
Gone limp in the knees for this beautiful venue? Visit their website here.
Pennyhill Park, Surrey
Let's give some love to the Home Counties now, and venture to Surrey. For those seeking a country house experience with an indulgent twist, Pennyhill Park delivers a day of splendour and sophistication. This five-star manor house, surrounded by 123 acres of lush woodland, perfectly balances opulence with intimacy, making it a premier choice for unforgettable weddings. Located just off the M3, Pennyhill Park is easily accessible from London and its major transport hubs.
Pennyhill Park offers a range of exquisite ceremony spaces. The Library provides an intimate setting with rich wood panelling and classic decor, while the stunning wrought iron Pavilion is ideal for larger celebrations outdoors, accommodating up to 200 guests views of landscaped gardens. The large Terrace Wing is now dedicated solely to weddings, giving you lots of space and choice, whatever your wedding size. The luxurious spa also makes this venue unique, offering pre-wedding pampering and post-wedding relaxation for you and your guests.
Photography-wise, there's a ridiculous amount to love. From the beautiful main house, to the sprawling gardens, pavilion, ponds, and more, there is a huge variety of backdrops, whether you're after timeless portraits or a more relaxed vibe.
(I've already prematurely used up my 'penny' pun in this blog, so let's say...) if you want to splash out on some five star luxury near the capital, with all the relaxing spa benefits, Pennyhill Park may be the wedding venue for you. Find their website here.
Honorary mentions: London wedding venues with country house vibes
As someone who has now lived (most of the time), in London for 15 years this year (bit mind-blowing to think about!), I had to include this section. You might initially be thinking 'WTF', as London is, after all, a huge city, but there are a plethora of options if you're drawn to the charm of a countryside manor but don’t want to venture beyond the M25. Across London you can find venues that offer all the grandeur of a country house with the perks of being in the city. From serene riverside settings to historic landmarks, these venues combine timeless beauty with unparalleled accessibility.
Winchester House, Putney
First to Putney, which is pretty local to me (I'm on the other side of the river). You can find Winchester House sat literally on the edge of the Thames, and despite its fairly central location, it feels like a secret, peaceful retreat from the bustle of the capital. This elegant Georgian townhouse, dating back to the 17th century, offers a tranquil atmosphere and classic interiors perfect for an intimate yet stylish wedding.
Ceremonies can be held in the light-filled upstairs Ballroom, accommodating up to 100 guests, with its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Thames. Receptions flow seamlessly into the Garden Room and picturesque private riverside garden. (As a sidebar, if you get really hungry, you can get food delivered to the small street that runs between the venue and the river, and ask them to chuck it over the wall. They'll be confused, but it will mean you can enjoy your Wagamama curry in the most stunning surroundings.)
Winchester House is a photographer’s dream, with scenic views of the Thames, charming garden nooks, and the historic façade providing a variety of backdrops. You can even walk right down to the water on a nearby slipway, so it looks like you're standing in the middle of the water. Nearby Putney Bridge is also a stunning backdrop, especially when lit up at night.
Going potty for Putney? Good choice! Check their website out here.
Queen’s House, Greenwich
Staying close to the River Thames but heading east, you can find an absolute masterpiece of classical architecture designed by Inigo Jones. Queen’s House in Greenwich is a venue of regal splendor and breathtaking beauty. It boasts panoramic views of Greenwich Park and the London skyline, giving you a country house feel with iconic city vistas. Queen’s House is easily accessible from central London, with excellent transport links via train, riverboat, or the DLR.
Wedding ceremonies take place in the Great Hall, a dramatic, cube-shaped space with a black-and-white geometric marble floor that makes an unforgettable statement. An internal balcony running around all four walls mean you can get a real variety of shots of your ceremony, especially with more than one photographer. Alternatively, the Orangery and South Parlours offer intimate settings with stunning park views. Receptions can be held under the colonnades or within the Great Hall, hosting up to 120 guests.
For photography, you can't go wrong. With the striking interiors, long colonnades, and Greenwich Park straight on your doorstep, you'll probably actually have too many choices! You can also venture down to the Thames or to the nearby Old Royal Naval College, which is a stunner in itself.
Is Queen's House giving you the royal flush? Check out their website here!
Fulham Palace, Fulham
A hidden treasure along the Thames, and just ten minutes up the road from where I live, Fulham Palace blends Tudor charm with Georgian grandeur. Its rich history, dating back over 1,300 years, offers a setting filled with stories, character, and romance. Despite it's peaceful spot, Fulham Palace is easily accessible from central London, and is a short walk from Putney Bridge Station on the District Line, which takes you straight into the heart of the city eastbound, and to Wimbledon westbound.
Ceremonies can be held in the atmospheric Great Hall, seating up to 110 guests beneath wooden beams and gothic windows, or outdoors in the Walled Garden for an al fresco celebration. The Palace’s versatile spaces, including the Bishop’s Drawing Room and large light-filled marquee, can accommodate receptions of varying sizes.
The ancient chapel ruins, vine-covered walkways, and riverside views make Fulham Palace a haven for breathtaking photography. The palace's grounds are extensive, and you can also venture to adjoining Bishop's Park, down to Putney Bridge, or inland to the peaceful streets of Fulham for some more urban shots.
Is Fulham Palace your dream wedding venue? Check out their website here!
Pembroke Lodge, Richmond-upon-Thames
Set within 13 acres of landscaped grounds in Richmond Park, Pembroke Lodge offers spectacular panoramic views of the Thames Valley. This Grade Two listed Georgian mansion provides a countryside retreat without leaving London’s borders. It's less than a ten minute drive to the centre of Richmond-upon-Thames, so if you don't drive, grabbing a cab up to the venue is quick and affordable.
Ceremonies can be held upstairs in the elegant Russell Suite, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and capacity for 70 guests, or in the Belvedere, a charming private wing for larger celebrations of up to 140. Receptions can spill out onto the terrace and gardens, perfect for summer soirées, and with amazing views out over the valley.
There's not a bad spot in the place from a photography perspective. From the expansive park (complete with deer!), romantic rose garden paths, and views for miles, there's something for everyone.
Fancy getting hitched at the only wedding venue in a Royal Park? Hit Pembroke Lodge up on their website.
So...which one of these country house wedding venues is calling your name? Whether you’re after grandeur, more rustic vibes, or the option for DIY creativity, there should be something for every taste on this blog. I hope it's helped you find your dream wedding venue, and if you think the photos are just as dreamy (thanks!), why not drop me a line and see if I'm free on your date?
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