How to Book Your Wedding Venue

How to book your wedding venue

Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds offer some of the most picturesque wedding settings in Britain, from historic manor houses and barns to contemporary spaces nestled in rolling countryside. When thinking about how to book your wedding venue, the region’s honey-coloured stone buildings, idyllic gardens, and stunning landscapes create a magical backdrop for your special day. Here’s your guide to securing the perfect venue in this sought-after area. If you aren’t sure where to start with venues, we’ve got you covered on that too!

How to book your wedding venue: Start your search early

Gloucestershire’s most desirable venues often book 18-24 months in advance, particularly for summer weekend dates. Venues like Elmore Court near Gloucester and Manor by the Lake in Cheltenham are especially popular and require early booking.

If you’re planning a wedding with less lead time, consider:

• Weekday ceremonies, which often come with significant discounts
• Winter weddings at venues like The Matara Centre near Tetbury, which offers magical indoor spaces
• Last-minute availability due to cancellations (ask to join waiting lists at your favorite venues)

How to book your wedding venue: Understand Gloucestershire’s venue types

The region offers distinct venue categories, each with different booking processes:

Historic Country Houses and Estates Venues like Sudeley Castle near Winchcombe and Cowley Manor offer exclusive use options but often have strict supplier lists and specific regulations due to their historic status. Viewings are typically by appointment only and may be limited to specific days of the week.

Cotswold Barn Conversions Cripps Barn near Bibury and Hyde House in Stow-on-the-Wold represent the quintessential Cotswold barn experience. These venues typically offer comprehensive packages and have dedicated wedding coordinators to guide you through the process.

Hotels and Restaurants Establishments like The Greenway Hotel & Spa near Cheltenham operate differently from exclusive-use venues. They often run multiple weddings per weekend and have in-house catering teams, making them excellent one-stop options with more flexibility for last-minute bookings.

How to book your wedding venue: The booking process

1. Initial Enquiry: Contact venues via their websites or by phone to check availability for your preferred dates and request a brochure. Take note of things like how prompt the reply is and whether they get your names right!
2. Venue Viewing: Arrange to visit your shortlisted venues. The Cotswolds can be difficult to navigate, so allow plenty of time between appointments. Many venues like Eastwood Park hold regular open days as well as private viewings.
3. Hold the Date: Popular venues such as Kingscote Barn often offer to hold your date for 1-2 weeks while you make your decision. Some may require a small refundable deposit at this stage.
4. Secure with Deposit: Booking usually requires a non-refundable deposit, typically between £500-£2,000 depending on the venue and package. For example, The Great Tythe Barn in Tetbury requires a £1,000 deposit to secure your date.
5. Payment Schedule: Gloucestershire venues generally work on a structured payment plan, with percentages due at specific milestones. Often it’s half payment 6 months before then final invoice 1-2 weeks before your wedding day. Set up reminders in your calendar to help you.

How to book your wedding venue: Local considerations

Civil Ceremonies: If planning a civil ceremony, you’ll need to contact the Gloucestershire Registration Service separately from your venue booking. Details about time limits are on their website.

Accommodation: The Cotswolds attracts millions of tourists annually, so nearby accommodation books up quickly. Some venues have limited accommodation and may be in an area where other venues are so get in early and secure those beds!

Seasonal Factors: Consider the region’s microclimate when booking. Gloucestershire’s higher areas like Cleeve Hill can experience different weather from lower-lying locations such as Tewkesbury. Spring and autumn offer stunning scenery and are becoming increasingly popular alternatives to peak summer dates.

Access Considerations: Many Cotswold venues are in remote locations with narrow access roads. Venues like Wyck Hill House near Stow-on-the-Wold provide detailed directions for suppliers and guests, which you should include in your invitations.

Final tips

• Request a detailed breakdown of what’s included in your package. Some Gloucestershire venues include items such as cake stands and easels that others charge extra for.
• Check the venue’s entertainment license hours, they vary significantly across the county, with some requiring music to end by 11pm while others like Stone Barn permit celebrations until midnight.
• Consider hiring a local wedding planner who specialises in Cotswold venues if you’re planning from a distance. They’ll have invaluable insights into the local suppliers and venue quirks that could save you time and stress.

With its timeless beauty and variety of stunning venues, Gloucestershire provides an idyllic setting for weddings throughout the year. Book with confidence by understanding the local landscape and securing your dream venue well in advance. We hope you’ve enjoyed this article on how to book your wedding venue.