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Picking the Perfect Type of Wedding Venue


Hey lovely newlyweds-to-be! The venue search is on, and we totally get it – finding that dreamy venue can feel like embarking on a mountain quest. But don’t worry, because we’re here to guide you through the enchanting world of wedding venues, helping you discover the perfect match for your big day.

So, settle down with your partner and let’s dive into the wonderful array of dream venue styles that’ll make your heart flutter!

1. Barn Venues:

Picture this: a charming rustic barn adorned with twinkling fairy lights and oozing countryside vibes. Barn venues are all about that cosy, intimate atmosphere. Think wooden beams, hay bales for seating, and an overall warm, relaxed ambiance. The perfect canvas for your DIY Pinterest-inspired décor dreams!

FBFW’s top pick:

barn venue type

The Barn at Upcote, Gloucestershire

Set in the heart of the Cotswold countryside, The Barn at Upcote is a number of recently renovated stone barns around a beautiful lawn courtyard down a long private drive. For your wedding day, you will have use of all the barns as well in this stunning and tranquil space. This exclusive hire venue contains areas for your ceremony, wedding breakfast, a bar, space for dancing to a band or DJ, a bridal suite and outdoor seating.

See more rustic and romantic Barn Wedding Venues here.

2. Hotel Venues:

For those of you who dream of a touch of luxury without the fuss, hotel venues are your go-to. From grand ballrooms to intimate lounges, hotels offer diverse spaces to suit any wedding size. Elegant chandeliers, plush carpets, and exquisite flower arrangements – you’ll be dancing the night away in style.

FBFW’s top pick:

hotel venue type

Oakley Hall Hotel, Hampshire

Oakley Hall Hotel is an elegant 18th century Georgian manor set in 315 acres of the beautiful Hampshire countryside. The Woodland Pavilion is one of Hampshire’s finest and most beautiful options for a licensed outdoor ceremony. Complimented by the stunning surroundings and large arching oak beams that will frame the scene for the most special day of your life and for up to 160 lucky guests.

See more home from home, Hotel Wedding Venues here.

3. Country House Venues:

If Jane Austen novels and vintage charm are your jam, a country house venue is calling your name. These venues boast stunning gardens and elegant interiors that transport you to a bygone era. Exchange vows in lush gardens, with a backdrop of rolling hills and that quintessential English countryside feel.

FBFW’s top pick:

country house venue type

Woodhall Manor, Suffolk

Your perfect wedding venue: Woodhall Manor. There can be no more romantic setting in the East of England, close to the Suffolk Heritage Coast. A privately owned Elizabethan manor house set in stunning landscaped grounds, Woodhall Manor has been lovingly restored to an exclusive use venue.

Steeped in history and full of character, you’ll be hard-pushed to find a more enchanting setting for your special day. Whether you’re planning an intimate affair for close family friends or a lavish celebration for up to 200 guests, Woodhall Manor can provide the perfect backdrop to your big day. If you need help wedding planning, you can entrust in their expert weddings team to assist you every step of the way.

See more escape to the country, Manor House Venues here.

4. Castle Venues:

Ever dreamt of a fairytale wedding? Castles are your magical ticket to creating a storybook-worthy celebration. Towering turrets, sweeping staircases, and historic charm combine to make your day an absolute masterpiece. Don your finest attire and let your inner royalty shine through!

FBFW’s top pick:

castle venue type

Craig-y-Nos Castle, Swansea

Located between Brecon and Swansea, the stunning Craig-y-Nos Castle is nestled in the breathtaking Brecon Beacons and offers exclusive use for you on your special day. Situated in the Welsh mountains, Craig-Y-Nos holds some of the most impressive views in Wales which can be seen whilst you enjoy your wedding breakfast in our glass-walled conservatory, alongside our grade 1 listed theatre in which to have your ceremony along with numerous functions rooms for your guests to enjoy throughout the day. Guests have the opportunity to stay overnight following your celebrations.

See more fairytale wedding, Castle Venues here.

5. Unusual Venues:

For the bold and adventurous souls, unusual venues are a creative playground. From botanical gardens and art galleries to industrial warehouses, these spaces offer a unique backdrop to showcase your personalities. Get ready to infuse your wedding with heaps of character and unexpected flair.

FBFW’s top pick:

unusual venue type

Cornish Tipi’s, West Country

Cornish Tipi Weddings are the closest you can get to that quirky outside wedding in the UK. If you’re dreaming of a woodland wedding by the lakeside surrounded by nature or perhaps a camping / festival style wedding then they are the perfect venue for you. Their wood, willow and canvas Pavilion is by a clear brook & under a canopy of oak and ash. They will work to make one of the most important days of your life natural, funky, eco-chic, or country. Or all of the above.

See more quirky and Unusual Wedding Venues here.

6. Destination Venues:

If you’re wanderlusters at heart, why not tie the knot in a far-flung paradise? Beaches, vineyards, and ancient ruins await your celebration. Destination weddings offer the chance to combine your love for each other with your love for adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

FBFW’s top pick:

destination wedding venue type

Casa Monte Cristo, Portugal

Situated in the heart of the picturesque Western Algarve coast, their villas are nestled between the charming towns of Praia da Luz and Lagos. The Algarve is known for its stunning beaches, sandy coves, mountains, historic churches, and fishing villages. You certainly won’t be short of things to see and do on your honeymoon! This unforgettable location means there are endless photo opportunities for you to capture memories on your special day.

The exclusive-use villas combine modern and contemporary features with historic Portuguese charm, so you get the best of both worlds. The most idyllic settling for your summer wedding.

See 40 Stunning Destination Wedding Venues here.

7. Asian Inspired Venues:

For those celebrating rich cultural traditions, finding a wedding venue that can cater to your culture, traditions and grand celebrations is super important.

You need to choose a wedding venue that complement your ornate details, vibrant colours, and intricate patterns that all come together to create a mesmerising visual feast for your wedding day. Whether it’s a traditional tea ceremony or a grand Baraat and Milni, there are so many venues in the UK that can honour heritage in grand style.

FBFW’s top pick:

asian wedding venue type

Matara Centre, Tetbury

Matara is a venue that hosts tailored wedding celebrations that reflect the personal meaning of union for the couple. Set in the Cotswolds, on 28 acres, the venue boasts an Asian inspired Cloistered Courtyard, a banquet and dance hall, with a glass dome at its centre, alongside 5 ante rooms, and extensive gardens. With 6 licensed ceremony areas, 3 outdoor locations and 3 indoors, couples are offered an unparalleled opportunity to make their day truly unique. A strict one wedding per day policy assures a feeling of exclusivity and gives everyone an opportunity to truly relax and enjoy the day.

See more love destined to be, Asian Wedding Venues here.

Finding 'The One' – How to Decide?

As you’re pondering the array of wedding venue styles, keep these things in mind:

  • Personal Connection: Choose a venue that resonates with your love story and personalities.
  • Guest Comfort: Consider your guest list and how many guests you have – ensure the venue accommodates your loved ones comfortably.
  • Seasonal Match: Think about the time of year. A beach wedding in December might be a chilly affair!
  • Budget Bliss: Remember that each venue style comes with its own price range. Stick to your wedding budget while making magic happen.
  • Décor Dreams: Consider how much decoration you’ll need. Some venues are already so stunning, they need minimal dressing up.
  • The Date: Make sure your wedding venue have your wedding date you have set your heart on available.

Remember, your wedding venue is the canvas where your beautiful journey together begins. So, explore, dream, and envision the day you’ve always wished for. And when you find the right wedding venue, you’ll know – your hearts will skip a beat, just like they did when you said “Yes!”

Start your wedding venue search here

Picking the Perfect Type of Wedding Venue fbfw cta map icon v2 1

Looking for a Wedding Venue? We can arrange for brochures to be sent directly to you based on what you are looking for.

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