A Bride’s Guide to Wedding Venues in the Cotswolds: Locations, Tips & Trends

Planning your big day can be one of the most exciting yet overwhelming experiences of your life. One of the first and most important decisions is choosing the perfect location. With its rolling hills, charming stone cottages, and romantic countryside views, the Cotswolds is an idyllic destination for tying the knot. It’s no surprise that wedding venues in the Cotswolds are among the most sought-after in the UK. From stately homes to rustic barns, the options are as beautiful as they are varied.

Why Choose the Cotswolds?

The Cotswolds is famous for its picturesque villages, historical landmarks, and unspoiled natural beauty. Its central location makes it easily accessible from London, Birmingham, and Bristol, yet it feels like a world away. This region offers a variety of wedding venues to suit different tastes, themes, and budgets—whether you're dreaming of a grand celebration or a more intimate affair.

The area’s unique charm, combined with its wide range of venues and high-quality services, makes it a top choice for brides and grooms looking to create a truly memorable day.

Popular Types of Wedding Venues in the Cotswolds

1. Stately Homes and Manors

Nothing says elegance quite like a classic manor house. Venues like Manor By The Lake combine historical grandeur with modern luxury. With manicured gardens, luxurious suites, and stunning architecture, these venues are ideal for a traditional and timeless wedding.

2. Rustic Barns

For couples looking for a laid-back, boho vibe, converted barns are a popular choice. Surrounded by scenic farmland and often featuring exposed beams and stone walls, barns bring a warm, intimate atmosphere to your wedding day.

3. Boutique Hotels and Country Inns

Offering full-service convenience with a touch of local charm, boutique hotels provide both ceremony and accommodation options under one roof. These are perfect for smaller weddings or weekend-long celebrations with friends and family.

4. Outdoor Gardens and Estates

If you’re planning a spring or summer wedding, outdoor venues with floral backdrops and natural scenery create the perfect romantic setting. From walled gardens to lakeside views, the Cotswolds provides endless photo-worthy landscapes.

Wedding Trends in the Cotswolds

1. Weekend-Long Celebrations

More couples are choosing to extend their wedding celebrations over a weekend. This allows guests to relax and explore the beauty of the Cotswolds, turning a single day into a full experience.

2. Sustainable Weddings

Eco-conscious couples are leaning towards sustainable wedding choices—from local catering and flower sourcing to eco-friendly decor and zero-waste policies.

3. Personalised Themes

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all weddings. From vintage garden parties to modern elegance, couples are customizing every aspect of their celebration to reflect their personal style and story.

4. Outdoor Ceremonies

With the Cotswolds’ natural beauty, more couples are opting for outdoor ceremonies. Many venues now offer licensed outdoor spaces, including gazebos, garden terraces, and lakeside spots.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Venue

1. Know Your Guest List

Have a rough idea of your guest count before you start venue hunting. Some venues have strict capacity limits, while others can be adapted for both small and large gatherings.

2. Visit in Person

Photos can only show so much. A visit to your shortlisted venues allows you to get a feel for the space, meet the team, and visualize your day.

3. Check for Exclusive Use

If you want privacy, look for venues that offer exclusive use. This ensures that your wedding day is entirely yours, without interruptions from other events or guests.

4. Consider Accommodation

Make sure there’s plenty of accommodation nearby for guests, especially if many are traveling. Venues like Manor By The Lake offer on-site rooms and nearby options.

5. Think About the Weather

While summer weddings are popular, the UK weather is unpredictable. Choose a venue with a beautiful indoor backup space just in case.

Final Thoughts

Choosing from the many wedding venues in the Cotswolds can be a magical part of your wedding journey. With its charm, variety, and romantic atmosphere, the Cotswolds is the perfect canvas to paint your love story. Whether you're envisioning a grand affair or a cozy countryside ceremony, there's a venue to suit every dream.