The Ultimate Guide to 8 Cotswolds Wedding Venues You’ll Actually Want to Book

So you’re planning a Cotswolds wedding? Smart choice. I’ve been helping couples navigate this gorgeous (but let’s be honest, sometimes overwhelming) region for years, and I’ve learned a thing or two about what actually matters when you’re choosing a venue.

The Cotswolds are seriously popular for weddings – we’re talking thousands of couples every year who fall for those honey-stone buildings and rolling hills. When I first checked out venues here, I thought I’d stumbled into some kind of movie set. But here’s the thing those Instagram photos don’t show you: whether your gran can actually walk on those cobblestones, or if the “rustic” bathroom situation will have your city friends plotting their escape.

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Sure, falling in love with pretty photos is easy. Actually planning a wedding that works for real people? That takes a bit more thought. You need to know about capacity limits, what exclusive use actually means, and those sneaky extra costs that can turn your dream venue into a budget nightmare.

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Quick Venue Rundown

Look, I know comparison tables are boring, but trust me on this one – it’ll save you from some awkward phone calls later. Here’s the quick version of what these places offer before we dive into the details.

• Elmore Court – 750-year-old manor with that cool eco party space (up to 200 guests)
• Owlpen Manor – Three-day celebrations with a swimming lake (up to 120 guests)
• Cornwell Manor – Ridiculously photogenic house, summer-only bookings (medium to large weddings)
• The Pig in the Cotswolds – Farm-to-table everything in a restored country house (intimate to medium)
• Blenheim Palace – Yes, an actual palace with all the grandeur you’d expect (10-1,000 guests)
• Cripps Barn – Rustic but polished, great food from £2,000 (50-200 guests)
• Stone Barn – Recently done up barn with modern touches (50-250 guests)
• Caswell House – 15th-century vibes with 16 rooms for your crew (medium celebrations)

Comparison Table

Venue	Capacity	Starting Price	What’s Special	Exclusivity	Best For
Elmore Court	Up to 200	£8,000-£15,000	Sustainable party space	Full weekend	Eco-conscious couples
Owlpen Manor	Up to 120	£6,000-£12,000	3-day celebrations + lake	3-day exclusive	Intimate vibes
Cornwell Manor	Medium-Large	£12,000+	Instagram gold	Summer exclusive	Photo perfectionists
The Pig in the Cotswolds	Intimate-Medium	£5,000-£10,000	Kitchen garden magic	Full property	Foodies
Blenheim Palace	10-1,000	£9,500+	UNESCO World Heritage	Multiple spaces	Grand gestures
Cripps Barn	50-200	£2,000+	Rustic sophistication	Barn complex	Budget-conscious but stylish
Stone Barn	50-250	£2,000+	Modern barn makeover	Barn complex	Contemporary rustic
Caswell House	Medium	£4,000-£8,000	Proper old-school charm	Full property + rooms	History buffs

How I Rate These Places

When I’m checking out venues with couples, I look at five things that actually matter on your wedding day. Capacity isn’t just about numbers – some places handle 200 guests beautifully while others feel cramped with 100. Location covers the obvious stuff like how pretty it is, but also whether your Uncle Bob can find it without getting lost on country roads.

Exclusivity is huge. There’s a massive difference between having the whole place to yourselves versus sharing with other events or random hotel guests wandering around during your cocktail hour.

Value isn’t just about being cheap – it’s about getting what you pay for. Sometimes that expensive venue includes stuff that would cost extra elsewhere. Facilities covers everything from whether there’s decent phone signal (trust me, this matters) to backup plans when British weather does its thing.

Elmore Court

What Makes This Place Special

Elmore Court is doing something different, and I mean that in the best way. This 750-year-old manor has gone full eco-warrior with their party space called The Gillyflower. It’s built using some kind of rammed-earth technique that I nodded along to during the tour and googled later.

The house sits in proper Gloucestershire countryside with views that go on forever. What’s cool is how they’ve managed to blend centuries-old charm with genuinely sustainable practices. You’re not just getting a beautiful wedding – you’re supporting something that actually matters.

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The whole place is yours for the weekend, which means no awkward encounters with other people’s wedding parties or random hotel guests. Your crew can basically treat it like a really posh house party.

The Good Stuff

Having the entire estate means you can do whatever you want, whenever you want. Want to have breakfast in the garden at 11am? Go for it. Fancy a midnight kitchen raid? Nobody’s stopping you. The main house sleeps 16, with space for 2 more in the coach house, so your wedding party can actually stay together.

The Gillyflower is genuinely impressive – completely soundproof, so your evening party can go as late as you want without bothering anyone. Plus the whole sustainable angle is perfect if you’re trying to have a wedding that doesn’t trash the planet.

The food gets serious praise from couples I’ve worked with. Their catering team knows what they’re doing, and the ingredients are mostly local and seasonal.

Heads Up Though

This isn’t a budget option. The exclusivity and eco-credentials come with a price tag that might make your eyes water. Peak season books up fast – we’re talking 18+ months ahead sometimes.

The location is stunning but remote. Make sure you sort out transport for guests, especially anyone who’s not comfortable driving on narrow country roads after a few drinks.

Some couples find the sustainable focus limits certain traditional wedding elements. If you’re set on specific decorations or setups that don’t align with their eco approach, this might not be your place.

How It Stacks Up

Capacity: 5/5 – Handles up to 200 guests with room to breathe
Location: 5/5 – Proper countryside views without being impossible to reach
Exclusivity: 5/5 – The whole estate is yours for the weekend
Value: 4/5 – Expensive but you get a lot for your money
Facilities: 5/5 – Historic manor plus that cool Gillyflower space

What People Actually Say

Couples love the weekend house party vibe and the fact that they can relax knowing their wedding isn’t harming the environment. Most wedding photographers I work with get genuinely excited about shooting here – the variety of spaces and natural light is pretty special.

The sustainable angle really resonates with couples who want their wedding to reflect their values, not just look good on social media.

Based on what I hear from other planners and couples who’ve actually done this

What You’re Looking At Cost-Wise

Venue hire runs £8,000-£15,000, then you add catering, accommodation, and all the extras. The exclusive weekend format often works out better value than you’d think once you factor in what’s included.

Want to check this place out? Visit Elmore Court’s official website to see what’s available.

Owlpen Manor

Three Days of Wedding Bliss

Owlpen Manor is tucked away in this hidden valley that feels completely separate from the real world. The whole point here is taking your time – instead of cramming everything into one stressful day, you get three days to actually enjoy being married.

This place has been around for over 1000 years, and honestly, you can feel the history in every room. The 215 acres mean you and your guests can properly explore and find quiet corners for photos or conversations.

The three-day thing works like this: welcome drinks Friday, wedding Saturday, recovery brunch Sunday. Your guests actually get to know each other instead of just saying hello and goodbye.

What’s Cool Here

The swimming lake is definitely a talking point. I’ve seen wedding parties brave enough for a dip before getting ready, and it makes for some pretty memorable photos. There’s boutique accommodation for 40 guests plus glamping options for people who want something different.

The historic gardens give you loads of ceremony options, each with its own feel. You’re not stuck with one look – you can move around the estate throughout your celebration.

Three days means you can actually wear multiple outfits, have different activities, and not feel like you’re rushing through the most important weekend of your life.

The Reality Check

Limited to 120 guests max, so if you’ve got a huge family or friend group, someone’s not making the list. The remote location is romantic but requires serious logistics planning – make sure guests have clear directions and transport sorted.

Weather can mess with outdoor activities and ceremony plans. The lake is lovely in summer, less appealing when it’s pouring rain. You need backup plans for pretty much everything.

Three-day celebrations sound amazing until you realize you need three different outfits and your makeup artist for multiple days. The costs add up.

How It Stacks Up

Capacity: 4/5 – Perfect for intimate celebrations, limiting for big families
Location: 5/5 – Hidden valley setting that feels like another world
Exclusivity: 5/5 – Three days of complete privacy
Value: 4/5 – Good value for an extended celebration
Facilities: 5/5 – Historic manor plus unique amenities like the lake

What People Actually Say

Couples consistently describe their Owlpen wedding as “the best weekend of our lives” rather than just “the best day.” The extended format gets rid of that rushed feeling that ruins a lot of weddings.

Photographers love the variety of locations and the fact that they can shoot at different times of day across the estate.

Based on what I hear from other planners and couples who’ve actually done this

What You’re Looking At Cost-Wise

Three-day exclusive use typically runs £6,000-£12,000, with accommodation and catering on top. The extended celebration often works out better value per guest than cramming everything into one day.

Check out your own romantic retreat at Owlpen Manor’s website and start planning your three-day celebration.

Cornwell Manor

Instagram Gold

When people call Cornwell Manor “one of the prettiest houses in England,” they’re not exaggerating. This place is ridiculously photogenic – like, every angle looks like it should be on a postcard.

The catch? It’s only available for weddings between mid-June and September, and you need to book for a minimum of three days. But honestly, when you see it in peak season with the gardens in full bloom, you’ll understand why they’re so picky about timing.

The honey-colored stone looks incredible in any light, and the private gardens and lakes give you endless options for photos and ceremony locations.

Why It’s Special

The beauty here is natural – you don’t need loads of decorations because the place speaks for itself. The formal gardens, tranquil lakes, and that stunning architecture create backdrops that make every photo look professional.

Multiple ceremony locations mean you can choose based on your style and guest count. Want formal and grand? The main lawns.

Prefer intimate and romantic? Try the lakeside spots.

Three-day minimum means you get to properly appreciate the place instead of rushing through one day and wishing you’d had more time to explore.

The Reality Check

Summer-only availability is limiting if you had your heart set on a spring or autumn wedding. The seasonal restriction also means higher demand and prices during those months.

Premium pricing reflects the venue’s reputation and exclusivity. This isn’t a budget option, and the costs can escalate quickly once you add everything else.

You usually need to book through recommended wedding planners rather than dealing directly with the venue, which adds another layer to the planning process.

How It Stacks Up

Capacity: 4/5 – Works well for medium to large celebrations
Location: 5/5 – Genuinely one of the most beautiful settings in the Cotswolds
Exclusivity: 5/5 – Exclusive hire during peak season
Value: 3/5 – You pay for the prestige and beauty
Facilities: 5/5 – Historic manor with stunning grounds and lakes

What People Actually Say

Wedding planners consistently put this on their top recommendations list for couples who prioritize beauty above all else. The seasonal availability creates serious FOMO, with couples booking 2+ years ahead.

Every photographer I know gets excited about shooting here because of the endless gorgeous backdrops and that golden hour light that makes everything look magical.

Based on what I hear from other planners and couples who’ve actually done this

What You’re Looking At Cost-Wise

Venue hire starts at £12,000+ and goes up from there depending on what you add. Factor in catering, flowers, and coordination services, and you’re looking at a significant investment.

Explore this architectural masterpiece through recommended wedding planners who can help with bookings.

The Pig in the Cotswolds

Farm-to-Table Heaven

The Pig has completely changed the game for country house dining. Their kitchen garden isn’t just for show – it’s actually where your wedding menu comes from. Every dish tells the story of the land around you, which is pretty cool when you think about it.

This used to be Barnsley House Hotel, and they’ve kept all the elegant country house vibes while adding this relaxed, natural approach to luxury. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy.

The whole philosophy is about seasonal, local ingredients that change based on what’s actually growing. Your wedding menu becomes part of the Cotswolds story, not just generic hotel food.

What Makes It Work

The kitchen garden is genuinely beautiful and functional. Guests can wander through the herb beds and vegetable plots, which creates this connection between what they’re eating and where it came from.

The interiors manage to be both luxurious and comfortable. It’s the kind of place where you can have a formal dinner that doesn’t feel uptight.

On-site accommodation means your wedding party can stay together, creating that house party atmosphere that makes weddings more fun and less stressful.

The gardens extend way beyond the kitchen plots, giving you loads of options for ceremony locations and photos.

The Practical Stuff

Limited capacity means guest list decisions if you’ve got a big family. The country house setting works better for intimate to medium celebrations than huge parties.

Seasonal menu limitations mean you need to be flexible about specific dishes. While this ensures everything’s fresh and local, it might not work if you have your heart set on particular foods.

Accommodation costs can add up quickly, especially for multi-night stays. Factor this into your budget early.

How It Stacks Up

Capacity: 4/5 – Perfect for intimate to medium celebrations
Location: 5/5 – Prime Gloucestershire countryside setting
Exclusivity: 5/5 – Full property exclusive use available
Value: 4/5 – Good value for luxury country house experience
Facilities: 5/5 – Restored interiors with working kitchen garden

What People Actually Say

Food enthusiasts consistently rave about The Pig’s culinary approach. I’ve had couples tell me the exceptional dining experience was their main reason for choosing this venue. The seasonal menu concept gets particular love from guests who appreciate knowing where their food comes from.

Event planners recommend The Pig for couples who prioritize amazing food and intimate atmosphere over big flashy celebrations.

Based on what I hear from other planners and couples who’ve actually done this

What You’re Looking At Cost-Wise

Venue hire typically runs £5,000-£10,000, with accommodation and catering costs varying based on guest count and menu selections. The farm-to-table dining experience often justifies the premium pricing for food-focused couples.

Check out this culinary wedding destination at The Pig hotel group’s official website.

Blenheim Palace

Going Full Royal

Nothing in the Cotswolds comes close to Blenheim Palace’s sheer scale and grandeur. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Winston Churchill was born. Your wedding becomes part of actual history, which is pretty intense when you think about it.

The baroque architecture and crystal chandeliers create an atmosphere that’s honestly overwhelming the first time you see it. Your guests will spend half the cocktail hour just taking photos of the ceilings.

The flexibility here is mad – they can handle anything from 10 guests to 1,000, with six different rooms that each have their own vibe. From intimate library settings to grand ballroom celebrations, there’s space for whatever you’re imagining.

Why It’s Incredible

The Orangery gives you floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Italian Gardens, so even your ceremony feels like you’re in a movie. Natural light floods the space while maintaining that formal palace elegance.

The Great Hall is where you really feel the history – painted ceilings, historic tapestries, the works. Your dinner becomes a proper royal banquet.

For smaller celebrations, the Long Library offers intimacy surrounded by thousands of books and historic artifacts. Your guests will find conversation starters everywhere they look.

The 2,000 acres of parkland designed by Capability Brown give you endless photo opportunities and space for guests to explore during breaks.

The Reality Check

This is expensive. Really expensive. Starting at £9,500 and going up fast once you add services, catering, and room selections. Total wedding costs often hit £40,000+ before you know it.

The grandeur can make intimate celebrations feel lost. If you’ve got 50 guests rattling around in spaces designed for 500, it might feel a bit awkward.

You’re not getting exclusive use – other tours and events might be happening, which can reduce that private wedding feeling you might want.

Strict regulations govern pretty much everything – decorations, timing, vendor choices. Your personalization options are limited.

How It Stacks Up

Capacity: 5/5 – Literally any guest count from 10-1,000
Location: 5/5 – UNESCO World Heritage Site with serious historical weight
Exclusivity: 4/5 – Multiple spaces but shared venue
Value: 2/5 – You pay for the prestige, and you pay a lot
Facilities: 5/5 – Six unique rooms with 2,000 acres of grounds

What People Actually Say

Luxury wedding planners consistently recommend Blenheim for couples who want maximum impact and aren’t worried about budget. The venue gets praise for professional staff and flawless execution of large celebrations.

International couples particularly love the global recognition – everyone’s heard of this place, which adds serious bragging rights to your wedding story.

Based on what I hear from other planners and couples who’ve actually done this

What You’re Looking At Cost-Wise

Venue hire starts at £9,500 and escalates quickly based on room selection and guest count. Total wedding investments commonly reach £40,000+ when you include catering, flowers, and entertainment that matches the palace’s grandeur.

Experience royal treatment at Blenheim Palace’s wedding section to explore packages and availability.

Cripps Barn

Rustic Done Right

Cripps Barn nails that balance between rustic charm and sophisticated service. The 18th-century stone barn has these soaring beams and flagstone floors that create atmosphere without trying too hard.

The roaring open fire is the focal point – perfect for gathering during cocktails, romantic for photos, and cozy for those inevitable quiet moments when you need to catch your breath during your wedding.

What sets this apart from other barn venues is the attention to detail. The stone walls and wooden beams provide character, but the lighting and furnishings elevate it beyond typical barn conversions.

What Makes It Work

The oak pavilion gives you covered outdoor space that connects to the main barn, so you’re not completely screwed if the weather turns. It allows natural flow between indoor and outdoor elements.

The woodland ceremony space is genuinely magical – dappled light through trees creates romantic atmosphere that photographs beautifully in any season.

Cripps & Co catering has a serious reputation for innovative menus using local ingredients. The food quality matches the venue’s sophisticated rustic vibe.

The layout is flexible enough for different celebration styles, from intimate gatherings to larger receptions. The barn’s design lets you be creative with arrangements.

The Good Stuff

The rustic setting provides natural charm that doesn’t need loads of decoration. The barn’s character creates atmosphere without expensive styling or massive floral arrangements.

The catering reputation is genuinely deserved – couples consistently rave about the food quality. It’s not your typical venue catering.

Starting at £2,000 makes sophisticated barn elegance accessible without compromising on quality or service standards.

The team knows what they’re doing with barn weddings, so logistics run smoothly without you having to worry about coordination details.

Heads Up Though

Popular venues mean limited availability, especially May through September. You need to book well ahead to secure your preferred date.

Weather affects the outdoor ceremony and pavilion use. British weather being what it is, make sure they have a decent backup plan.

The rustic setting has a strong personality that might not work if you’re after formal elegance or modern minimalism. The barn’s character will influence your whole celebration aesthetic.

How It Stacks Up

Capacity: 4/5 – Comfortable for 50-200 guests with flexible arrangements
Location: 5/5 – Heart of the Cotswolds with proper countryside charm
Exclusivity: 4/5 – Exclusive use of barn complex during your celebration
Value: 4/5 – Excellent value starting at £2,000 for quality venue
Facilities: 5/5 – Stone barn with oak pavilion and woodland ceremony space

What People Actually Say

Couples consistently praise the perfect balance of rustic charm and professional service. The venue gets particular acclaim for accommodating different celebration styles while maintaining its distinctive character.

Most wedding photographers I work with appreciate the natural lighting and variety of backdrops, from intimate interior shots to dramatic woodland ceremony images.

Based on what I hear from other planners and couples who’ve actually done this

What You’re Looking At Cost-Wise

Venue hire starts at £2,000 with additional costs for catering, bar service, and extras. The combination of reasonable pricing and exceptional quality makes this attractive for budget-conscious couples who won’t compromise on style.

Check out the rustic elegance at Cripps Barn’s official website and explore their wedding packages.

Stone Barn

The Modern Makeover

Stone Barn represents what happens when you take a historic barn and give it a thoughtful modern update. The main barn keeps its original flagstone floors and massive open fireplace, but the adjoining Dutch barns add contemporary functionality without ruining the character.

Located between Burford and Northleach, it sits in one of the most scenic spots in the Cotswolds. The hill location gives you panoramic views while maintaining that intimate barn wedding feeling.

The transformation project balanced preservation with innovation perfectly. Original elements stay untouched while new additions integrate seamlessly to provide better functionality.

What’s Cool About It

The main barn showcases all the traditional elements – wooden beams, flagstone floors, and that magnificent open fireplace that becomes a natural gathering point throughout your celebration.

The Dutch barns extend your space with contemporary amenities while keeping visual connection to the main barn. More room without losing the intimate atmosphere that makes barn weddings special.

The gallery bar creates a sophisticated focal point for evening celebrations. The elevated position provides interesting sightlines while offering dedicated space for cocktails and conversation.

Open terrace with fire pits extends your celebration outdoors, providing cozy gathering spots that encourage mingling. These work particularly well for evening receptions and late-night celebrations.

The Good Stuff

Flexible spaces accommodate different celebration phases seamlessly. Ceremony in the main barn, cocktails on the terrace, dinner in the Dutch barns, dancing throughout – the layout supports natural flow.

Modern amenities enhance comfort without compromising character. Updated facilities ensure guest comfort while maintaining the authentic barn atmosphere.

The hill location and varied spaces offer diverse backdrops for photography throughout different times of day.

Cripps & Co’s service standards ensure flawless execution. Their experience with barn weddings translates into smooth coordination and attention to detail.

Reality Check

High demand creates booking challenges, especially for peak season dates. The venue’s popularity requires advance planning and flexibility with dates.

Weather affects outdoor spaces and terrace use. While the barn provides excellent indoor options, outdoor elements need backup planning.

The 250-guest maximum works for most celebrations but restricts very large weddings. If you’ve got a massive family, this might not accommodate everyone.

How It Stacks Up

Capacity: 5/5 – Accommodates 50-250 guests with flexible arrangements
Location: 5/5 – Scenic hill position between charming Cotswolds towns
Exclusivity: 4/5 – Exclusive use of entire barn complex
Value: 4/5 – Strong value from £2,000 with exceptional facilities
Facilities: 5/5 – Transformed main barn plus Dutch barns with modern amenities

What People Actually Say

The recent transformation gets widespread praise from couples who appreciate the blend of historic character and modern functionality. Consistently high ratings for both atmosphere and practical considerations.

Event professionals recommend Stone Barn for couples seeking barn charm with contemporary conveniences. The Cripps & Co team’s reputation adds confidence for couples prioritizing seamless execution.

Based on what I hear from other planners and couples who’ve actually done this

What You’re Looking At Cost-Wise

Venue hire starts at £2,000 with additional costs for catering, bar service, and extras. The competitive pricing combined with recent improvements makes this attractive for couples seeking maximum value.

Check out the transformed barn experience at Stone Barn’s website and discover their wedding offerings.

Caswell House

Proper Historic Charm

Caswell House takes you back to the 15th century while still providing modern comfort for today’s celebrations. This authentic historic house preserves centuries of stories within its Cotswold stone walls.

The secret garden with ancient orchard creates an enchanting backdrop that feels like it’s straight out of a period novel. Those gnarled apple trees and heritage plantings provide natural beauty that changes dramatically with the seasons.

What makes this place special is how it maintains period authenticity while accommodating modern wedding needs. The restored stone barns provide celebration spaces that honor the property’s agricultural heritage while offering contemporary functionality.

What’s Special Here

Multiple large spaces accommodate different celebration phases while maintaining the intimate feeling that historic properties provide. Each room tells part of the house’s story while serving practical functions.

Sixteen ensuite bedrooms let your closest family and friends stay on-site, creating a house party atmosphere that extends your celebration beyond reception hours. No need for external hotel arrangements.

The restored stone barns blend seamlessly with the main house while providing dedicated celebration spaces. Careful restoration honors original construction while incorporating necessary modern amenities.

The grounds extend beyond the secret garden to include various outdoor spaces suitable for ceremonies, cocktails, and photography. The property’s layout offers privacy and multiple backdrops.

The Good Stuff

Historic character provides authentic atmosphere that can’t be replicated in modern constructions. Every stone and beam carries stories that add depth to your celebration.

On-site accommodation eliminates transport logistics for your wedding party and close family. The 16 ensuite bedrooms create a relaxed environment where your celebration naturally extends into the following morning.

Exclusive use provides complete privacy and control over your wedding weekend. You won’t share the property with other events, ensuring your celebration unfolds exactly as planned.

The package pricing combining venue, accommodation, and exclusive use often provides better value than booking separate arrangements.

Heads Up Though

Limited modern amenities reflect the property’s historic nature. While charming, some guests might find the period features less convenient than contemporary hotel standards.

Weather affects outdoor spaces and requires backup planning for ceremonies and cocktail receptions. The historic buildings provide shelter, but outdoor elements need contingency arrangements.

Historic properties occasionally have maintenance challenges that can affect availability or require last-minute adjustments to celebration plans.

How It Stacks Up

Capacity: 4/5 – Ideal for medium celebrations with intimate atmosphere
Location: 5/5 – Authentic 15th-century Cotswold stone house setting
Exclusivity: 5/5 – Complete property exclusive use with accommodation
Value: 4/5 – Strong value combining venue, accommodation, and exclusivity
Facilities: 5/5 – Historic house with restored barns and beautiful grounds

What People Actually Say

History enthusiasts consistently praise Caswell House for its authentic period atmosphere and how it makes guests feel transported to another era. The secret garden gets particular acclaim for its romantic setting and photo opportunities.

Heritage wedding specialists recommend this for couples who prioritize authentic historic character over modern luxury amenities.

Based on what I hear from other planners and couples who’ve actually done this

What You’re Looking At Cost-Wise

Exclusive use packages typically range from £4,000-£8,000 including accommodation, with additional costs for catering and services. The historic nature and included accommodation often provide better value than comparable venue and hotel combinations.

Step into history at Caswell House through Coco Wedding Venues to explore availability and packages.

Other Places Worth Checking Out

These additional Cotswolds venues offer unique characteristics for specific celebration styles, from castle grandeur to intimate luxury, modern barn elegance, and lakeside romance.

Sudeley Castle

Called “the most romantic castle in England,” Sudeley Castle provides dramatic ancient ruins and stunning gardens for couples seeking medieval grandeur. The banqueting hall and chapel offer multiple ceremony options within a setting steeped in royal history.

Check out Sudeley Castle’s wedding offerings for a truly regal celebration.

Foxhill Manor

This five-star boutique hotel excels at intimate weddings up to 70 guests, offering exclusive use and panoramic countryside views on the Farncombe Estate. The luxury accommodation and personalized service create an upscale house party atmosphere.

Discover Foxhill Manor’s intimate luxury for sophisticated small celebrations.

Hyde House

Combining traditional Cotswolds architecture with modern interiors, Hyde House features The Grange barn and 12 bedrooms for complete weekend celebrations. The blend of old and new appeals to couples wanting historic charm with contemporary comfort.

Visit Hyde House to explore their modern take on Cotswolds elegance.

Manor By The Lake

Set within seven acres of magnificent gardens including a romantic lake, this ivy-clad property offers classic beauty with both indoor and outdoor ceremony options. The lakeside setting provides unique photography opportunities and serene atmosphere.

Experience Manor By The Lake for waterside romance in the Cotswolds.

Questions Everyone Asks

Common questions about Cotswolds wedding planning cover seasonal timing, budget expectations, guest accommodation, exclusive use benefits, and booking timelines.

When’s the best time to get married in the Cotswolds?

May through September gives you the most reliable weather and those famous gardens in full bloom. But honestly, autumn weddings provide stunning foliage and cozy fireplace settings, while winter celebrations offer intimate atmosphere and potential cost savings. Think about your priorities – outdoor ceremonies favor warmer months, while couples prioritizing lower costs and availability might prefer off-season dates.

Okay, let’s talk money – what’s this actually going to cost?

About those starting prices – they’re starting prices for a reason. Expect venue costs between £2,000-£15,000 depending on exclusivity, capacity, and prestige level. By the time you add catering (£50-£150 per person), accommodation, flowers, and photography, multiply by 1.5. At least.

Total wedding budgets commonly range from £15,000-£50,000 depending on guest count and how fancy you want to go. Cripps Barn says £2,000, but that’s just to rent the space. You still need to feed people, and their catering isn’t exactly McDonald’s pricing.

What about putting everyone up for the night?

Many venues offer on-site accommodation ranging from 12-40 guests, perfect for wedding parties and close family. For additional guests, nearby villages typically offer charming B&Bs, country pubs with rooms, and boutique hotels.

Book accommodation early, especially during peak season. I always tell couples to give guests a list of recommended options at various price points. Side note: bring comfortable shoes for venue tours – you’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.

Why go for exclusive use venues?

Exclusive use provides complete privacy, flexibility with timing and decorations, and the ability to create multi-day celebrations. You won’t compete with other events for staff attention or worry about noise restrictions.

Many couples find exclusive use creates a more relaxed atmosphere where guests feel like they’re attending a sophisticated house party rather than a formal hotel event. No awkward encounters with other people’s wedding parties or random hotel guests wandering through your cocktail hour.

How far ahead should I book?

Yesterday. Seriously though, popular venues book up fast. I had one couple who waited until 8 months out and ended up with their fourth-choice venue. Don’t be those people.

Most venues require 12-24 months advance booking, especially for peak season dates (May-September). Exclusive use venues and those with limited availability may need even longer lead times. Start your venue search 18+ months before your desired wedding date to ensure adequate selection.

Stay on schedule with their Wedding Timeline Planner tool

Final Thoughts

Here’s the thing about Cotswolds weddings – they’re gorgeous, but they’re also a bit of a production. Between coordinating vendors, managing family logistics, and making sure Uncle Bob doesn’t get lost on those winding country roads, there’s a lot to think about.

Each venue on this list offers something different:

• Historic manor houses provide authentic period charm with modern amenities
• Barn venues offer rustic elegance with professional service
• Grand estates deliver unmatched luxury and prestige
• Country houses focus on exceptional dining and intimate atmosphere
• Exclusive properties provide ultimate privacy and personalized experiences

The key is matching venue characteristics with your celebration vision, guest count, and budget realities. Think about practical stuff like accessibility for elderly relatives, accommodation needs for out-of-town guests, and weather backup plans for outdoor ceremonies.

Look, I know comparison tables are boring, but trust me – it’ll save you from some awkward phone calls later. Consider whether your gran can actually walk on those cobblestones, or if the “rustic” bathroom situation will have your city friends plotting their escape.

Planning a Cotswolds wedding involves coordinating multiple vendors, managing complex logistics, and ensuring every detail aligns with your vision. Many venues offer exclusive use for 2-3 days, creating more opportunities for memorable moments – and more details requiring coordination.

That’s honestly why I started doing this work. Too many couples get caught up in the Pinterest-perfect vision and forget about the practical stuff. Like, yes, your venue photos will be incredible, but someone still needs to make sure the elderly relatives have somewhere comfortable to sit and the vegetarian options don’t suck.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed (and most couples do at some point), that’s completely normal. Planning a wedding while trying to maintain your sanity and your relationship is no joke. Having someone who actually knows these places and can help you avoid the rookie mistakes makes a huge difference.

Whether you need help choosing your bridal party or want to understand the difference between wedding planners and professional bridesmaids, professional guidance ensures nothing gets overlooked.

Explore the „Professional Bridesmaid“ service at Bridesmaid for Hire for extra support

Additionally, understanding expert bridesmaid tips can help ensure your special day runs smoothly from start to finish.

No pressure though – some couples love doing all the planning themselves. Just know that help is available if you want it. Contact Bridesmaid for Hire if you need someone who genuinely cares about making your Cotswolds wedding everything you’ve dreamed of.

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