Historic Wedding Reception Venues in Dorset
To truly have a majestic day, take a look at these castle and historic reception only wedding venues in Dorset. From ruins overlooking the coast, to authentic medieval structures, these spaces will provide the perfect dramatic ambience for your nuptials. Scroll down below to view our selection and click on a listing that appeals to you to find out more.
Southampton
The Mansion at Coldeast is situated in 9 acres of landscaped grounds and woodlands, perfectly located between Fareham & Southampton. This exquisitely renovated Victorian mansion indulges guests in a premium yet relaxed experience. Host your entire day in luxury, including an overnight stay in their sumptuous accommodation. The seamless combination of classic charm and modern sophistication creates an impeccable backdrop for your special day…
Dorchester
Came House is a luxury wedding venue, nestled in the picturesque countryside of Dorset and just a brief drive from the Jurassic Coast. This location offers the perfect blend of coastal and rural charm. If you’re looking for an exclusive venue that offers luxury, but in a relaxed way, then you must consider Came House for your ceremony, reception and after-party…
Puddletown
Certainly one of the more unusual wedding venues Dorset has to showcase, the encapsulating Athelhampton House and Gardens in Puddletown offers a fascinating Grade I-listed Tudor manor. It regularly opens its historic doors to couples looking to hold their wedding celebrations within an elegant ambience, accommodate six of your guests in the river cottage...
Abbotsbury
At Gorwell Barn, they offer a spacious stone barn dating back to the 17th century, available to hire for your wedding. Coupled with cosy onsite cottages, it provides a secluded and private location to celebrate your love. Nestled in a picturesque valley, the barn accommodates up to 130 guests and features a designated area for dancing…
Evershot
This family-owned hotel can be found just a short drive away from the stunning Jurassic Coast, and offers the perfect mix of contemporary and classic style for a versatile wedding venue. Its ability to cater to up to 405 guests makes it the ideal place to host a lavish ceremony or evening soiree. The building hosts beautiful Dorset weddings all year round...
Evershot
In the peaceful village of Evershot, this serene and undeniably charming country house hotel can cater for up to 76 guests for formal receptions, is licensed to host civil ceremonies, and offers 24 bedrooms and suites for wedding guests. The 18th century Georgian manor boasts endless views, certainly a wedding venue Dorset should be proud of…
Hinton St Mary
In Blackmore Vale, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a wedding venue that fits right in. The pride of the Pitt-Rivers family is an estate with a tithe barn, beautiful manicured gardens, a series of small cottages, and a stone folly. What better place to celebrated your first foray into married life than here, under either the stars or a glorious timbered ceiling…
Wimborne
This premier wedding venue combines rustic charm with contemporary features and an overall intimate elegance. Set within three acres of walled gardens, this exclusive use venue offers privacy and luxury at an affordable price. The Orangery is a hidden treasure, located not far from Bournemouth. This venue provides the perfect setting for a magical country wedding...
Lyme Regis
Imagine celebrating your marriage with a wedding reception overlooking the glorious prehistoric Jurassic coastline and the rolling waves of the English Channel. At Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis, your dream reception celebration can be made a reality, with the freedom to personalise the unique and characterful spaces with your own bespoke touches for your big day…
Wimborne
Canford aims to make your wedding day truly special by providing exclusive use of the manor house and grounds on a limited number of dates each year. The Grade I listed building in Dorset offers a picturesque setting for civil ceremonies with 60 to 130 guests in the Old Library or Long Gallery. The reception can be held in the stunning Great Hall, with a maximum of 180 guests…
North Cadbury
North Cadbury Court is an exclusive-use wedding venue in North Cadbury, Somerset near Bath and Bristol. This spectacular wedding venue has it all from a civil ceremony licence to a yacht club, The estate can sleep up to 84 of your guests and there is no limit on your evening basement disco. There is even St Michael’s Church right next door. It’s a truly exclusive and all-encompassing wedding venue…
Axminster
River Cottage is a picturesque working farmhouse situated near Axminster, close to the Dorset border and is an exclusive space for countryside weddings. Couples can take full advantage of award-winning cuisine and a range of fresh local seasonal produce. There are indoor and outdoor areas for ceremonies and gorgeous grounds to enjoy…
Bournemouth
This all-inclusive hotel wedding venue overlooks Bournemouth beach and pier whilst neighbouring Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre. The Royal Bath Hotel Bournemouth is licenced for civil ceremonies in a range of suites and caters up to 200 guests for the reception celebrations. Offering a blank canvas, spaces can be tailored to your bespoke wedding day…
Bournemouth
Located in the centre of Boscombe, this stunning Grade II-listed Victorian boutique hotel proves that sustainability and luxury can go hand-in-hand for your big day. Enjoy reception drinks with your loved ones as you peruse the grounds, take beautiful photos in the garden and wake up after the celebrations to a complimentary champagne breakfast...
Parley Green
With access to gardens and water-features, Parley Manor is one of the more historic wedding venues in Bournemouth. The Georgian manor is nestled within four acres of beautiful parkland, making it feel delightfully secluded even though it is easily accessible. A luxury pavilion in the gardens makes a fantastic and romantic spot for your dream wedding day...
Tucked away in the Somerset countryside and Somerset Levels, Midelney Manor is located in Langport near Taunton and Yeovil with great transport links to Bristol and London. This 16th century house has space for every couple on their wedding day, inside and out, and even offers magical woodland blessings. With handpicked caterers and a friendly and flexible approach, everything is truly up to your imagination…
Ringwood
Located in Hampshire, Somerley offers a unique blend of luxury, opulence, and warmth, making it an ideal venue for a wedding. This stunning Country House exudes elegance and charm, creating a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a cherished family home. The timeless elegance of the venue serves as a beautiful canvas for your wedding, allowing you to infuse your unique style. Enjoy a delightful country-house celebration tailored to your preferences…
Downton
Located on the picturesque Barford Park Farm in South Wiltshire, Barford Park Barn is an exceptional venue for weddings and events. Set on a 300-acre grassland farm, the barn offers a comfortable seating capacity of 150 people, which can be extended to 250 by adding a marquee. The barn provides breathtaking views of the Avon Valley and the adjacent water meadows that line the river Avon…
Taunton
This historic estate is quaintly situated next to Gotton and Taunton. A Grade-I listed building with rustic and romantic features such as formal landscaped gardens, a delightful Orangery and Bampfylde Hall, this is the perfect quintessential english grounds to wed. An idyllic venue for those who adore art, beauty and nature...
Honiton
Located east of Exeter, this manor house offers lavish function suites for wedding celebrations of all sizes. With exclusive use of the mansion and gardens, couples can welcome friends and family into your very own Grade I-listed regency world for your nuptials. The house sits in 100-acres and has been wonderfully restored, providing luxury accommodation for guests…
Cothelstone
Cothelstone Manor, a stunning Grade II* listed Elizabethan manor house, is located at the base of the Quantock Hills in Somerset. Surrounded by nature and steeped in history, this estate offers the perfect countryside retreat, only a two-hour drive from London. From the house itself, to the walled garden or lakeside venue, Cothelstone is the perfect place for all occasions…
Crowcombe
Tucked away in the picturesque Quantock Hills, Somerset, Crowcombe Court offers an ideal setting for your dream wedding day. With three ceremony spaces, stunning gardens, and two getting-ready areas, they are fully equipped to make your special day unforgettable. Additionally, they have 12 bedrooms and 5 apartments for you and your guests to stay in comfort. This Grade I-listed building boasts an undeniable charm…