Outdoor space Wedding Venues in West Sussex

West Sussex offers an idyllic setting for an outdoor wedding, defined by its quintessentially English countryside. The county is home to the South Downs National Park, offering breathtaking backdrops of rolling hills and ancient woodlands.

• Diverse Landscapes: Choose from venues with coastal views, vineyard settings, or secluded country estates.
• Venue Styles: Options range from grand manor houses with pristine gardens to rustic farms and charming barns perfect for a relaxed, festival-vibe wedding.

Legal Considerations

In the UK, the legal part of a civil ceremony must happen under a licensed, permanent structure. Many West Sussex garden venues feature licensed gazebos, follies, or orangeries for this purpose.

Celebrant-Led Ceremonies

For ultimate flexibility, many couples opt for a simple legal registration, followed by a personal, celebrant-led ceremony anywhere on the venue's grounds – be it in a meadow, by a lake, or under a favourite tree.

The cost of hiring a garden wedding venue in West Sussex reflects its desirability and proximity to London.

• Venue Hire Fees: Expect costs to range from £6,000 to over £25,000. This fee often includes exclusive use of the grounds and a designated space for a marquee.
• Wedding Packages: Some venues offer all-inclusive packages, which can simplify planning. These typically cover catering, drinks, and staffing per head.
• Dry Hire: This 'venue-only' option gives you a blank canvas but requires you to source all suppliers, from caterers to marquee providers.

Budgeting for the Outdoors

Remember to factor in costs specific to outdoor events:

• Marquee or Tipi Hire: A significant expense, with costs varying by size and style.
• Facilities: You may need to hire luxury toilets, a generator for power, and catering tents.
• Comfort: Consider heaters for cooler evenings or fans for hot days.
• Contingency: Always have a portion of your budget set aside for wet-weather plans.

Peak Season (June - August)

Summer offers the best chance of warm, sunny weather and long, light evenings – perfect for outdoor receptions. Gardens are in full bloom, providing a stunning natural decor. Demand is highest during this time, so book well in advance.

Shoulder Seasons (May & September)

May boasts beautiful spring flowers and often stable weather. September can provide a gorgeous 'golden hour' light and autumnal colours. These months can sometimes offer more availability and slightly lower prices.

Your Wet Weather Plan

Embracing the unpredictability of British weather is key. A solid Plan B is non-negotiable for an outdoor wedding.

• Indoor Spaces: Does the venue have an equally beautiful indoor room for your ceremony and reception?
• Stylish Cover: Consider elegant marquees, tipis, or stretch tents. They can be decorated beautifully and provide reliable shelter.
• Guest Comfort: Think about umbrellas for showers, blankets for chilly evenings, and well-lit pathways for when it gets dark.

Getting There

West Sussex is well-connected, making it accessible for guests.

• By Car: Major roads like the A23, M23, A27, and A24 provide easy access from London and the rest of the South East.
• By Air: London Gatwick Airport is located within the county, offering excellent international and domestic links.
• By Train: Mainline train services run from London Victoria to key towns like Chichester, Arundel, and Horsham.

For rural venues, consider arranging a coach service to transport guests from a central point.

Staying Over

The county offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all your guests' needs.

• Luxury Hotels: You'll find spa hotels and boutique townhouses in larger towns like Chichester and Midhurst.
• Country Pubs & B&Bs: The countryside is dotted with charming inns and bed & breakfasts offering a classic English experience.
• Self-Catering: For families or groups, holiday cottages and barn conversions are a popular choice.

Advise your guests to book early, especially if your wedding is in the summer peak season.