Our pick of stunning and historic English Heritage wedding venues, each one rich in romance and with their own special story to tell.
English Heritage as a charity cares for over 400 historic sites across the country, from world-famous prehistoric places to a Cold War bunker in the suburbs of a city. We are privileged to be able to offer couples the chance to celebrate their weddings in venues steeped in the romance of the past. And with sweeping drives, picturesque ruins, decadent interiors and stunning gardens, each sets the scene for a sparkling future.
English Heritage’s experienced, passionate and dedicated wedding coordinators are on-hand from the moment you book until the last guest leaves at the end of the night. The coordinators, alongside accredited local suppliers assure the highest of standards and excellent service for every wedding.
With so many gorgeous and historic venues to choose from we’ve hand-picked four of our favourite English Heritage wedding venues, each one rich in romance and with their own special story to tell.
4 English Heritage Wedding Venues
Pendennis Castle
Pendennis Castle is a historic wedding venue like no other. Built on the orders of Henry VIII to protect England’s southern shores, this picture-perfect castle stands proudly on its grass-capped headland. With spectacular panoramic views along the coast and out to where the sky meets the sea on the horizon.
Once the castle rang with the sounds of soldiers and ships, but today it is secluded and serene – just waiting for couples to write their own chapter into its history. With a variety of spaces it’s suitable for every wedding from intimate ceremonies to grand marquee celebrations. The atmospheric star-shaped Lower Gun Room of the Tudor keep is ideal for romantic ceremonies, with thick stone walls, traditional wooden benches and a timber-framed roof. In the grounds, the grassy lawns within the ramparts are perfect for spectacular photography and beautiful marquees, while the refurbished Edwardian Royal Artillery Barracks offer contemporary surroundings and views out to sea.
Osborne
Osborne, once the cherished island home of Queen Victoria and her beloved Prince Albert, is a golden-hued dream of a seaside venue. Stately rooms sparkle with chandeliers, stained glass window, and treasures from the Royal Collections. Outside, terraces are awash with floral colour, and the well-tended walled garden bursts with fruits and vegetables. Across the estate, woods and lush green lawns roll down to the private beach with views across the Solent. With its versatility, storied past and stunning architecture, Osborne is a truly unique venue for weddings that will echo through the ages.
You can hold their ceremonies in one of the house’s elegant rooms, toast your future on flower-filled terraces or exchange your vows on an unspoilt private beach. You can dine in the intricately decorated Durbar Room, drink champagne in the grand walled garden or host your guests in a marquee on the lawns beside the house, just as Queen Victoria once did.
Wrest Park
Wrest Park is a charming honey-coloured chateau set in 90 acres of stunning grounds and gardens. It has been the setting for balls, dinners and gatherings for centuries, and today it still plays host to celebrations both large and small.
Inside, the mansion house is a world of opulence complete with elegant chandeliers, painted ceilings and sumptuous wallpaper. Outside, colourful floral parterres give way to grand waterways, tree-lined avenues, classical statues and eye-catching garden architecture.
On the ground floor of the house the grand formal rooms can be hired separately or as an interconnected suite, allowing guests to move freely from your ceremony to your drinks reception through to the dinner and dance. The terrace, with its spectacular views over the gardens, is ideal for drinks receptions.
A short walk away from the main house is the Orangery, a sun drenched building with a stunning glass roof, perfect for bringing the outdoors in for your ceremony or reception. Or, if couples prefer to celebrate with friends and family under canvas, they can enjoy a marquee wedding on the lush green lawns of the Evergreen Garden.
Kenwood
Set amid the rolling hills of Hampstead Heath, Kenwood is a London venue that feels like it’s in the heart of the countryside. Green lawns and lush landscaped gardens stretch out below the elegant house with its breath taking interiors and world renowned art collection perfect for hosting your intimate wedding celebrations.
The Orangery, with its floor to ceiling windows, offers wonderful views over the parkland and down towards the tranquil lakes. The Music Room offers an intimate atmosphere, with fine portraiture, delicate chandeliers and views of the gardens. Couples can continue their celebrations with dinner in the Old Kitchen, which retains charming historic details like painted wooden dressers and a cast-iron open range. You can host your wedding blessing in the exquisite Kitchen Garden and then wander through the trees, with city views of London to the Flower Garden for your reception and celebrate late into the night.
No matter which venue you choose, your wedding day is the start in the next chapter in your story. Contact the English Heritage team at [email protected], for further information on how they can help your dreams become a reality.
Read More:
Want more wedding information and inspiration? Just hit ‘Like’ on our Wedding Ideas Facebook page, and ‘Follow’ on our @wimagazine Twitter account. To join in the conversation, share your stories here.