The lush rolling landscape of Essex is richly dotted with Medieval castles and many centuries-old Manors.
The natural beauty of the English countryside provides a stunning backdrop for the fairytale architecture of these historic buildings. And, holding a wedding ceremony or reception in one of these grand estates will lend a priceless sense living history to the event.
Planning your wedding in Essex? Looking for an incredible places to spend your big day? No matter what budget you have you can find amazing venues to match your interests.
Check out our featured amazing Essex wedding venues to help get you started. Three are historic destinations, full of natural, ancient charm. The other three just tick all the boxes for Romance.
1. Hedingham Castle
Hedingham Castle holds the historical distinction of having entertained both Elizabeth I and Henry VIII on the grounds.
A true castle, Hedingham includes a 110 foot Castle Keep dating back to 1140 and a Georgian house built in 1720. Civil ceremonies take place in the candlelit hall of the Castle Keep and wedding reception banquets commence in the grand Georgian house overlooking the grounds.
Limited overnight accommodation is available in the Hedingham Castle’s Cottage, Lodge, and Barn.
2. Vaulty Manor
Vaulty Manor is located in Goldhanger, near Maldon and boasts a 16th Century manor house with a fully renovated 17th century barn for civil ceremonies, and a brand new Baronial hall for receptions and banquets.
Set on twelve stunning acres, Vaulty Manor provides a lovely wedding atmosphere and is the only Essex venue to offer full bed and breakfast accommodation for up to 80 wedding guests.
3. Gosfield Hall
Gosfield Hall, a former royal residence, proudly offers Queen Charlotte’s own 120 foot Oak paneled gallery for civil wedding ceremonies.
Receptions take place in the Marquis of Buckingham’s former ballroom, and up to 21 refurbished bedrooms are available to accomodate guests overnight.
Top 3 Romantic Essex Barn Wedding Destinations
The rolling English countryside sets the the perfect scene for a barn wedding.
From simple civil ceremonies to elaborate events, the pastoral greenery of Essex provides a peaceful and unforgettable backdrop.
Barns can be used for ceremonies, receptions, or both. And, daytime or nightime events can be planned in barns.
1. Maiden’s Barn
Maiden’s Barn is a lovingly restored old barn in the Essex countryside that features a garden area, reception hall, outdoor marquee, raised gallery, and bar.
Ceremonies and reception can be held indoors or outdoors and use of the grounds is granted for the entire wedding day. Maiden’s Barn does not provide catering, but supplies a list of nearby caterers.
There is no corkage charged for wine brought in for the ceremony or reception.
Smeetham Hall Barn
Smeetham Hall Barn, a 16th century barn set in the rolling countryside near a lake lined with willow, offers civil ceremonies and receptions.
The barn features contemporary decor with a large dance floor that can be heated in the winter.
Smeetham Hall Barn does not provide catering for the reception, but offers a list of nearby caterers and does not charge a corkage on wine brought in for the reception.
The Essex Barn at the White Hart
The Essex Barn at the White Hart features a contemporary space with modern mezzanine floors for wedding ceremonies and a more traditional barn atmosphere for receptions.
The Essex barn offers thoughtful amenities throughout the event such as a wedding breakfast prepared by in-house chefs, private bridal preparation suites and a private bathroom in the barn for the bride.
Eleven bedroom suites are available to accommodate guests overnight.
Plan Your Dream Wedding in Essex
If you are currently wedding venue hunting in the Essex area hopefully our list has given you some ideas for where to get married.
These locations are all unique and special in their own way, just be sure to book well in-advance as dates fill up quick.
Or if you are still considering your location and open to warmer climates you might like to view our tips for planning a Caribbean wedding.
