Not Another Barn Wedding: The Wedding Venue Alternatives

Now don't get me wrong, I am a huge fan of a barn wedding - they're a great blank canvas, can be exclusively yours for the day, have beautiful grounds and are steeped in history. But the problem is, the rest of the country are pretty big fans too.

Now don't get me wrong, I am a huge fan of a barn wedding - they're a great blank canvas, can be exclusively yours for the day, have beautiful grounds and are steeped in history. But the problem is, the rest of the country are pretty big fans too. As one of the most popular, if not currently the most popular wedding venue choice for a large number of today's couples, the internet is covered in real weddings where barns up and down the country take centre stage. Because of this I thought it was high time I shared a bit of love for some of the other amazing alternatives out there.

Castle Wedding Venues

Who doesn't love the idea of getting married in a venue that could have held a regal wedding once upon a time? Absolutely busting at the seams with history, getting married in a castle can offer just as great a blank canvas as barns can, with exposed brick walls and striking architecture setting the tone. Plus, with castles often being surrounded by copious amounts of their own land, many of them offer a late license too so you can party well into the night. Scattered around the country, there are plenty to choose from but if you're after something a little more pocket friendly then I'd highly recommend some of the castles available in Scotland as the perfect wedding retreat.

Country House Wedding Venues

Usually family owned and run, country house wedding venues offer a sophisticated setting where the house and its surroundings have been lovingly restored by the owners. Varying from those bedecked with rich, opulent colours and antique furniture to those with a beautiful and bright French inspired interior to them, no venue is the same - making the venue hunting all the more fun! With many often featuring manicured grounds, walled gardens and outdoor ceremony spaces, it serves as the perfect backdrop for all those wedding photos. Finally, with most offering in-house accommodation, this is a great option if you fancy one big party where everyone can stay on site with ease. My all time favourites are those venues you can take over for the entire weekend, so you can really squeeze in the celebrations with all your nearest and dearest.

Pub Wedding Venues

Often when you think 'pub' it can call to mind a place you didn't quite envision getting married. But I'm here to tell you that it's time to ditch any of those preconceptions, as we have seen some amazing weddings that have taken place in pubs. With most gastropubs now offering modern and cool settings and their own expansive gardens and reception rooms - the pub scene is really upping its game. With pub venues typically a nice small size, you're able to work closely with the team at the venue and really curate the wedding you're after for a very reasonable price. This is ideal too if you're arranging a more intimate affair as it makes for the perfect, snug and cosy setting. Finally, if you were hoping to have a wedding in the city but ditched the idea because you thought it would be costly, you can think again. Cities including London actually offer some wonderful central and varied venues for you to choose from, with them often really having their finger on the pulse when it comes to the catering.

I'd love to hear where you might be hoping to host your wedding and the reasons for you choosing your venue! Tweet me at @robin_weil.

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