There are many things to consider when planning for your big day, from organising the dress and the bridesmaids to the perfect venue and, of course, a first-class wedding magician! Luckily, if you are planning to hold your wedding in Essex, you will be spoiled for choice. To help you locate the most magical place to spend your special day, here are Christopher Whitelocks’ top 10 wedding venues in Essex (in no particular order).
Down Hall Hotel and Spa will offer you a magical backdrop to your fairytale wedding. Located in Bishop’s Stortford near Harlow in the Hertfordshire and Essex countryside, Down Hall is surrounded by 110 acres of woodland, parkland and landscaped gardens and is the perfect location for photography or an outdoor marquee in summer.
Gaynes Park is a stylish and contemporary wedding venue in Essex, set in the grounds of a historic country estate which has been in the Chisenhale-Marsh family for generations. It is available for Civil Ceremonies and Wedding Receptions and is easily accessible from London, and only minutes from the junction between the M25 and M11 at Epping.
Le Talbooth is set beside the natural beauty of the River Stour in Colchester, Essex. It will provide a magical setting for any wedding – whether you’re dining in the riverside restaurant or dancing in the Marquee on the upper terrace, the setting is picture-perfect. The venue also has a civil ceremony licence for up to 130 people in the River Room.
Orsett Hall is beautifully set against the backdrop of 12 acres of landscaped gardens in the Essex countryside, offering a truly romantic occasion. With a beautiful chapel and several spacious function venues, as well as an on-site hair salon, a full-service spa, luxurious cars for hire and a florist, this hotel provides a bespoke approach catering for all wedding styles.
A unique option That Amazing Place is an exclusive use venue, giving total privacy for your big day. This beautiful country manor house, wedding cottage and 13 guest bedrooms (sleeping 29 guests), is exclusively yours for the day and night. Dating back to the 15th century, this historic grade II listed manor house has been beautifully renovated with stylish, contemporary interiors and elegant furnishings.
Prested Hall is famed for its relaxed welcoming atmosphere, delicious food and wonderful staff who go that extra mile for every special couple. Their motto is “Your Wedding Your Way“, and their dedicated events team will work with you to create the wedding of your dreams. From assisting you in designing a delicious menu, to selecting decor and entertainment, their team will help you realise your dream day and create memories to cherish forever.
Newland Hall is a Grade 11 listed Tudor manor house set in more than 100 acres of countryside. It offers a choice of wedding options in addition to the traditional ‘all day’ event, such as twilight weddings or afternoon teas. Offering exclusive access, it’s not surprising that it’s one of Essex’s most popular wedding venues.
The Lawn, Rochford allows you to step into the atmosphere of a historic country home that exudes taste, warmth and comfort. From a small, intimate gathering to a wedding with up to 160 guests (130 seated for the wedding breakfast), enjoy exceptional quality of service from the friendly, dedicated team. Easily accessible by road, rail or air and they offer ample free parking (including overnight).
Braxted Park is the perfect backdrop for your wedding whatever the season; the perfect place for a summer garden party transforms into a winter wonderland that will take your breath away. It caters for church weddings and civil ceremonies and even offers an outdoor wedding venue option.
Wivenhoe House, with its sweeping staircases, elegant rooms and surrounded by beautiful Essex parkland, is nothing far from spectacular. Licensed for civil ceremonies, it also has a very special outdoor Gazebo, overlooking the breathtaking grounds, so you can have your ceremony surrounded by nature and tranquility.
For more information on our Top 10 wedding venues in Essex and to receive your FREE wedding guide please contact Chris here