Wedding venue inspiration - Historic venues

Elfordleigh, Plymouth, Devon

Nestled within 120 acres of park and woodland on the edge of Dartmoor is this privately-owned country house hotel - and stunning wedding venue - and golf club complete with luxurious bedrooms and elegant suites, an 18-hole golf course and outstanding leisure facilities including the Elfordleigh Spa. Ceremonies take place in a choice of three stunning rooms and there are two impressive function rooms with private bars to suit every size of wedding breakfast and evening reception.

Pentillie Castle & Estate Cornwall, Saltash

This historic castle situated on a private family estate is nestled on the Cornish bank of the River Tamar. It's available for exclusive-use weddings and holidays, making it the ideal retreat for couples to enjoy quality time with loved ones. Steeped in more than 300 years of history, the grounds look as breathtaking in winter as they do in summer, especially when caught on camera dusted with snow. Ceremonies take place in a variety of places indoors and out. The Bathing Hut, a charming structure perched on the banks of the river, is a year-round option. The team at the castle offer couples the opportunity to use it for their ceremony only, moving to another reception venue of their choice if required. It can seat up to 60 guests but also suits intimate gatherings with social distancing guidelines in place. The castle itself provides another impressive backdrop for winter ceremonies and the elegant dining room is the ideal choice for a stylish intimate reception.

The Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth

This magnificent hotel is positioned on the fringe of the city, adjacent to Millbay Park which offers a fantastic green space as well as period steps and pillars perfect for big-day photographs. A short stroll from the hotel is another wonderful photographic opportunity at Plymouth Hoe, which offers sensational ocean views across Plymouth Sound. The hotel is a Gothic Grade 11 listed building with feature windows, towers and turrets. It boasts a canopy entrance, ornate architectural features and revolving entrance doors. The interior offers a wealth of historic features, with grand rooms and hallways, glittering chandeliers, period columns and a stunning Grade II listed sweeping staircase.

Crowne Plaza Plymouth, Devon

This sophisticated hotel is located in a stunning setting on Plymouth Hoe with beautiful sea-facing views. Leisure facilities include a swimming pool, gym, steam room, sauna and beauty salon. The venue is perfect for a modern wedding in a fantastic contemporary setting and a wide selection of wedding packages are offered. Home to the largest ballroom in Plymouth, the Mariner Suite is licensed for civil ceremonies and also works well for the wedding breakfast and reception furnished with a licensed bar, dancefloor and stage. Ceremonies also take place in the Commonwealth Suite, a versatile option that boasts stunning vistas across Plymouth Hoe, the Astor Suite, and the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill. This is located on the penthouse floor of the hotel revealing panoramic views over the Plymouth Sound, Dartmoor and across to Cornwall.

The Alverton Hotel, Truro, Cornwall

This four silver star hotel wedding venue is a Grade 11 listed building, surrounded by rolling lawns and manicured gardens with an outdoor terrace providing a picturesque spot for arrival drinks and canapés. The grounds provide a breathtaking backdrop for wedding photographs, or for newlyweds to steal a private moment together. Steeped in history, the exterior boasts many original features including stained-glass windows, grand archways, ivy-clad exposed brick walls and a stunning bell tower. The interior is bursting with character and Cornish charm, featuring a stately wooden staircase, mullion windows and candlelit corridors. Ceremonies take place in The Great Hall, an enchanting space with a gothic-revival design offering a church-like setting that's transformed for the wedding breakfast and evening reception.

Bitton House, South Devon

This Grade II listed period property set in the beautiful Bitton Park showcases impressive bay windows, manicured flower beds and an outdoor veranda. It offers a choice of function rooms all located on the ground floor for easy access, and there is ample parking available. Located in the grounds of Bitton Park is a historic orangery managed by the Friends of Teignmouth Orangery. For a donation, the volunteers will open it, providing a wonderful setting for big-day photographs. Another photo opportunity is by the two cannons positioned at the front of the house. Ceremonies take place in a variety of areas. The Pellew Suite is two adjoining rooms that can be used separately or together located next to the veranda overlooking the orangery holding up to 70 guests. A more intimate gathering of up to 36 loved ones can take place in the Mayor's Parlour located at the front of the house and the orangery, filled with exotic plants, can hold up to eight people.

Ludbrook Manor, Modbury, Devon

This country retreat located in South Hams is a regal manor house in the style of a traditional English castle nestled in eight acres of picturesque grounds and an orchard. It boasts panoramic views across the rolling hills of Dartmoor and the coast at Salcombe. The venue marries historic features such as ornate cornices and stained-glass windows with many luxuries, including a bubbling hot tub, sumptuous bathrooms complete with Whirlpool baths and underfloor heating. As we revealed on page nine, the new function room specially designed for weddings is The Orchard Room, holding up to 250 guests for the ceremony, wedding breakfast and reception.

Rockbeare Manor, Exeter, Devon

Originally built around 1760, this magnificent Grade I listed manor house has been lovingly restored, transformed from a family home into a wonderful contemporary wedding venue whilst still retaining the beauty of its past. Beautiful modern chandeliers, a stylish colour palette and luxurious furnishings complement the period features of this Regency country house, creating an outstanding setting for a wedding. Statement white pillars mark the entrance to the long, tree-lined driveway that reveals panoramic views across acres of parkland showcasing a picturesque lake and the rolling hills of Dartmoor beyond. The striking façade of the historic house is framed by stately columns and a balcony spanning across the front. There's a grand entrance hall and large windows that flood the venue with natural light.

Tredudwell Manor, Fowey

This spectacular house seamlessly marries history with contemporary features. The sweeping driveway reveals the Queen Anne manor house dating back to 1705 having been lovingly renovated using Cornish stone and slate. The south-facing views are towards the sea and the property is surrounded by the stunning Cornish countryside. There's four rooms ideal for intimate ceremonies of up to 25 guests and for larger functions, the Tredudwell Pavilion offers the flexibility of a modern building with bi-fold walls that modulate the size of the rooms according to the number of guests. It can set up to 150 loved ones and boasts traditional design elements including wooden beams, a draped canvas ceiling and glittering chandeliers. The outdoor temple, with its amphitheatre, seats up to 220 guests.

Polhawn Fort, near Torpoint, Cornwall

This historic Napoleonic fort located on a Cornish clifftop overlooking the sweeping Whitsand Bay offers exclusive use for extended weddings. It boasts pretty gardens, ideal for outdoor games, and its own private beach. A sweeping stone walled garden reveals indigenous plants as well as bright flower displays throughout the year including spring bulbs and vibrant poppies. The Mediterranean garden situated on the roof terrace; the New Zealand garden located behind the fort and the living wildflower wall on the lower lawn are also great spots for photo opportunities.

Gaia Spa at Boringdon Hall, Plymouth, Devon

This award-winning, five-star spa wedding venue is located in the picturesque grounds of Boringdon Hall Hotel, an elegant manor house with fire-lit lounges, two restaurants and 42 sumptuous bedrooms. With an emphasis on wellbeing in a natural environment, the facilities are set against a backdrop of countryside views and include an indoor pool, a hydrotherapy pool with an outdoor swim-through, experience showers, heat experiences including a Finnish sauna and a crystal salt steam room, a herbal sauna and outdoor hot tubs. The deep relaxation room overlooks the wildflower meadow and offers a wide variety of treatments, and there's a Spatisserie in which to relax and enjoy the indulgent menu. Ceremonies take place in a variety of places in the hotel, from the beautiful Rose Room for up to 30 guests, or in the Ward room or the Grenville Room.

Grand Hotel Torquay, Devon

This elegant Victorian property, Torquay's landmark hotel (and the sister one to the Abbey Sands Hotel (above); The Royal Beacon in Exmouth and The Falmouth Hotel), sits pride of place on the seafront. Steeped in history, it has retained many of its period features across its 132 individually styled bedrooms and is home to an AA rosette fine dining restaurant, 1881, and The Spa at the Grand. This tranquil spot uses organic and ethical Caudalie products, with manicures and pedicures using Jessica nail polishes and HiBrow and Lashbase treatments available. Spa packages include Total Time Out for Men, ideal for small stag groups, and the Hen Day Spa package. The Sheer Indulgence package for two includes a full afternoon tea, a Caudalie facial and a relaxing and nourishing body wrap.

The Berry Head Hotel, Brixham, Devon

This family-run hotel nestled on the water's edge in six acres of grounds enjoys seaside views across the Torbay coastline. It's positioned in six acres of picturesque gardens offering plenty of photo opportunities. Facilities include comfortable bedrooms, an à la carte restaurant for fine dining, and a more relaxed menu available in the brasserie. Leisure facilities include an indoor pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. The hotel caters for between two and 200 wedding guests, with menu choices that can be tailored to suit each different celebration. Ceremonies take place both indoors and out, and the wedding breakfast and reception can be enjoyed in a choice of two rooms.

Holne Park House, Ashburton, Devon

This exclusive-use manor house is located on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park in 90 acres of woodland and gardens. It offers a selection of accommodation options, including an opulent wedding suite for newlyweds, and camping close by for wedding guests in their four-star, AA-approved River Dart Country Park camping and touring park. Ceremonies take place in a choice of indoor and outdoor locations. The Garden Pavilion is situated in a stunning countryside setting, while The Ballroom with its high ceilings and large windows offers an elegant indoor option for up to 120 guests. There's also The Dawson Room hosting up to 90 loved ones, The Inkwell with its glass lantern roof and marble fireplace holding up to 80 loved ones, and The Music Room and The Ashburton Room best suited to more intimate gatherings of between 33 to 40 guests. The wedding breakfast can be hosted in a variety of these areas with a selection of menus on offer using freshly prepared, locally sourced produce.

Deer's Leap Retreat, South Molton, Devon

This idyllic country venue, set in its own secluded valley, offers far-reaching views across pastoral fields and hills. The converted barn, nestled in the garden next to the all-season tennis court framed by pretty flower borders that doubles as a platform for marquees and outdoor parties, features bare stone walls inside and out, and oozes rustic charm. It also has its own patio complete with fire heaters, outdoor festoon lighting, tables ideal for seating groups of guests and comfortable seating. The homely farmhouse is more than 900-years old and combines a timeless ambience with comfort and modern luxuries, like the twin hot tubs and sauna.

Scorrier House, Redruth, Cornwall

This family-owned ancient country house is situated in four hundred acres of private parkland and historic gardens deep in the heart of Cornwall, providing a mystical setting for exclusive-use weddings, ensuring privacy. A magnificent sweeping driveway and double staircase, that looks fantastic dressed with flowers under a string of fairylights, provide great photo opportunities. Ceremonies take place in The Grand Hall, home to this staircase, for up to 120 guests, or, if the weather allows, in the outdoor gazebo located in the pool garden opposite the botanic conservatory. Two other ceremony alternatives are the light-filled conservatory and elegant Drawing Room. The wedding breakfast takes place in The Grand Hall for up to 120 loved ones seated, and the reception can also take place here, or in a marquee that can be added with direct access to the house. The Drawing Room is ideal for dancing, and the Blue Library is home to a wood burner and provides the perfect spot for guests to recline in.

The Castle Bude, Bude

This historic castle is a Grade II listed wedding venue nestled in dunes next to Summerleaze Beach and runs alongside the Bude Canal. It offers a relaxed and friendly venue with unrivalled views, stunning grounds, and a sweeping driveway, all ideal for big-day photos. Ceremonies take place in a choice of three areas. The Willoughby Gallery is the largest room overlooking the castle grounds seating up to 60 guests. The Blanchminster Gallery can seat up to 16 loved ones and also boasts beautiful views, and there's also the Conservatory Room with views stretching across the Atlantic Ocean that also accommodates up to 16 guests. Buffet-style receptions are held in the Willoughby Gallery for up to 40 seated guests or up to 80 standing. There's a second, smaller room available best suited to a more intimate 20 seated guests or 30 standing.

Caerhays Estate, St Austell

Tucked in a hidden Cornish cove on the unspoilt Porthluney Beach and hugged by woodland spring gardens sits this stunning coastal wedding venue. Ceremonies take place in The Coastguards Lookout, a small, historic building hosting up to 20 nearest and dearest. Situated on the rural headland overlooking the coast, it offers stunning views over Veryan Bay and beyond, and the backdrop presents the perfect spot for photographs. There's also the opportunity for pictures to be taken down on the beach after the ceremony at no extra cost. Alternatively, The Vean is a beautifully restored Georgian manor house nestled in the Porthluney valley that's licensed for ceremonies and can be hired exclusively. Couples can choose to host a private dinner the night before the wedding, and a marquee can be erected on the lawn just outside seating up to 150 guests for the wedding breakfast and reception. There's also the option of using the terrace marquee attached to the side of the Vean to seat up to 70 loved ones. The house offers luxury accommodation with up to 16 guests staying in eight stylish bedrooms.

Knightor Winery, Trethurgy, Cornwall

Knightor is a beautiful courtyard of historic and traditionally restored granite barns with an adjoining farmhouse used for on-site accommodation. The winery is set in four acres of vineyards, pasture and orchard in a secluded area of countryside nestled just above St Austell Bay. The grounds include a sunny courtyard perfect for drinks and dining al fresco, pretty cottage gardens that surround the farmhouse and lead to the arbour, and a wildlife pond which is a stunning outdoor blessing location. The main Threshing Barn comprises an oak-topped barrel bar, comfy sofas and a dancefloor on the ground floor, with doors leading out to the sunny courtyard. On the second floor, the large room filled with natural daylight has vaulted ceilings, oak beams and stone walls offering a traditional Cornish barn feel.

Trevenna, Liskeard, Cornwall

Located in a secluded setting within 142 acres of the Cornish countryside, Trevenna is a cluster of elegant barns and a cosy farmhouse that accommodates up to 40 wedding guests. The views provide a beautiful backdrop for photographs, and the grounds provide plenty of opportunities for guests to explore, with meadow walks and games on the lawn. Ceremonies take place in a choice of areas. Outside, the beautiful Arbour constructed from solid oak and natural slate using traditional carpentry skills can be styled with drapes to create a soft and romantic look, or the posts and beams can be adorned with ivy, flowers or bunting. It's surrounded by open countryside views and holds up to 120 guests.