© Greg Coltman Photography
We are spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful places to get hitched – here are some top picks in the local area
The Granary Estates
For those of you after a relaxed and intimate wedding day, The Granary Estates’ exclusive countryside venue could be the perfect choice. “Offering space and flexibility, The Granary Barns provide the perfect setting for a wedding,” says marketing and creative manager Lynne Datson. “Boasting original flint walls and timber beams throughout, a stunning private courtyard and a dedicated events team, the venue is located just outside Newmarket and operates all year round.” thegranaryestates.co.uk
Minstrel Court
Whatever the weather, you can be sure that your big day is in safe hands at Minstrel Court.
The venue is situated in five acres of beautiful gardens and specialises in outdoor ceremonies all year round. Representative Dave Simpson said: “With two listed barns, modern sky bar, marquee, meadow chapel and a pavilion overlooking our lake, Minstrel Court is one of the most flexible wedding venues anywhere.” minstrelcourt.uk
South Farm
Looking for a stunning wedding venue that shares your green values? South Farm’s marketing and event manager, Jane Price, says: “South Farm has its own smallholding growing fruit, vegetables and herbs. Our menus feature home-grown and locally sourced produce. The beautifully preserved Grade II listed country farmhouse and Tudor barn join an array of indoor and outdoor spaces all exclusively reserved for your wedding day. Stunning gardens, wild flower meadows and orchards create a beautiful wedding backdrop.” south-farm.co.uk
Larkhall Farm
A gorgeous, intimate spot in the rural Fens, Larkhall Farm is a pop-up venue ideal for festival-style, bohemian weddings. It’s co-produced by Catherine Watling, director of Neon Moon, who says: “We are an inclusive venue. We welcome same-sex couples, all ages, ethnicities and belief systems with open arms! If you want something quirky, if you want your best friend to read your vows – we can make it happen!” facebook.com/larkhallfarm
Bassmead Manor Barns
If you’re looking for a unique and romantic barn wedding venue in Cambridgeshire, look no further than Bassmead Manor Barns. Venue manager Verity Chivers said: “Nestled within the medieval moat of an ancient manor, Bassmead Manor Barns is a charming, elegant family-owned barn venue, exclusively yours on your wedding day. History embraces you as you say your vows in the 300-year-old traditional beamed barn, while contemporary spaces are set to impress, from the sophisticated bar to the contemporary, light-filled Bridge Barn. Designed entirely with weddings in mind, Bassmead Manor Barns is a venue for all seasons and for all styles of celebration. From the moment you arrive down the tree-lined avenue, wander over the footbridge and into the Bridal Garden, you will feel enveloped in romance.” bassmeadmanorbarns-weddings.co.uk
Cambridge Quy Mill
Capturing beautiful memories of your day is almost guaranteed at Cambridge Quy Mill. Head of sales and marketing, Michelle Pegg, had this to say about the venue: “Quy is unique for a few reasons – first, we offer an exclusive use option, giving brides and grooms a taste of being lord and lady of their very own country estate for 24 hours, including all bedrooms and access to the spa and health club. Second, we have the best of both worlds in terms of location, approximately ten minutes from the centre of Cambridge, yet set privately in acres of stunning countryside. Finally, our staff are completely focused on making sure every bride and groom has a wonderful experience from first enquiry to their complimentary first-anniversary stay.” cambridgequymill.co.uk
Murray Edwards College
At Murray Edwards College, there’s the space and flexibility to create the day you want. Chris Pope, general manager of conferences, catering and residences at Murray Edwards College, said: “We hope that our unique venue brings a breath of fresh air for those planning a wedding – with the flexibility and freedom to create an experience as individual as the couple themselves. Our gardens are very popular for drinks receptions and photographs, as well as for guests to wander around and relax in one of the informal seating areas – or even on picnic blankets, which we can provide. And our friendly team is on hand to provide ideas, discuss options and take some of the stress out of planning the big day.” With the facilities to cater for up to 270 in The Dome or, for more intimate gatherings, up to 70 in the Fellows’ Dining Room, which has its own private garden, Murray Edwards also offers on-site car parking and is just a five-minute walk from Shire Hall Registry Office. murrayedwardsevents.co.uk
Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa
If you’re looking for the best in modern comfort and luxury, with the charm and character of a country house, the beautiful white stucco building of Bedford Lodge could be for you. Marketing manager Stephanie Jones says: “Named Best Town/City Wedding Venue in the east of England for two years running at The Wedding Industry Awards, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa is host to three self-contained banqueting suites that can hold a variety of weddings – from intimate ceremonies for ten to extravagant celebrations with 150 day guests. The hotel is fully licensed for civil ceremonies and, with 80 luxury rooms and hotel spa, is the perfect all-inclusive venue. Wedding packages include a complimentary suite for the wedding couple, a spa day for two with a one-course lunch and glass of champagne and a manicure and pedicure for two!” bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk
