Known for its thriving art scene, fabulous festivals, maritime history, and pop culture cult following (remember Skins? Iconic!), Bristol is a vibrant and eclectic city. With a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty that you won’t find anywhere else, it’s perfect for couples looking for a wedding that’s a little bit different.
Nestled in the South West of England, Bristol's close proximity to other major cities and great transport links make it ideal for those looking to celebrate with guests from all over the UK. Basically every train going into the South West comes through Bristol Temple Meads, and with great links to major hubs like London and Manchester, it’s super easy for your guests to get around.
With this in mind, is it any surprise that 67% of couples from Bristol and the wider South West region choose to get married in this beautiful area? What’s more, 33% of couples from other regions make the pilgrimage to Bristol for their big day, drawn in by its unique charm, diverse venues, and unbeatable vibe.
But, this unique flavour, beauty, and quick connection won’t always come cheap. Weddings in the South West are some of the priciest in the country. In fact, the average wedding in the South West comes in at £21,921, which is £1,099 more than the UK average wedding cost of £20,822. This c.5 increase can be attributed to the generally higher cost of living in the South West, as well as the sheer demand for such a trendy, sought-after location.
Whatever your style, you’re sure to find something that fits the bill in this eclectic, colourful city.
Quirky weddings are all the rage in Bristol, so don’t be afraid to show your true colours. Whether it’s via an unusual venue, an atypical theme like your favourite Disney movie, or a wedding breakfast that’s more street food than silver service, Bristol is the place to break the mould.
Of the same token, vintage-themed weddings are popular in Bristol. Think classic cars, 1920s glamour, flapper bridesmaid dresses, and vintage-inspired florals. The beauty of this theme is that you can be as overt or subtle as you’d like. So, whether you’re a lover of old-school glamour or just want to add a touch of nostalgia, you can tailor it to suit your style.
Sustainability is pretty big too. Recycled centrepieces, eco-friendly wedding favours, and locally sourced flowers are all trending in Bristol. Many couples are opting for greener choices, like using potted plants instead of cut flowers or choosing venues that are committed to sustainability. If you want to go all out, consider buying a pre-loved wedding dress. Although it isn’t the done thing, second-hand clothing apps like Vinted, Depop, and Vestiaire Collective have a beautiful selection of second-hand wedding dresses at a fraction of the cost of a new gown.
From stately homes to art galleries and everything in between, there’s something for everyone in Bristol.
If you’re dreaming of your happily ever after, Walton Castle in Clevedon is a fairytale-worthy venue that ticks all the boxes. Perched on a hilltop with stunning views, this 17th-century castle offers total exclusivity, meaning you and your guests can celebrate like royalty. But, with prices starting from £5,000 for exclusive use, you needn’t have the budget of royalty. Walton Castle are proud to be upfront about their wedding costs, ensuring no hidden commissions or charges. What you see is what you pay, meaning you can plan your big day with confidence.
If money is no object, a super-luxury venue could be just up your street. Consider the ultra-glamorous Kin House in Chippenham, which is only a stone’s throw from Bristol. This Georgian manor is the epitome of luxury, offering exclusive use, jaw-dropping interiors, and enough grandeur to make you feel like a VIP. With 12 beautifully designed bedrooms, an on-site spa, and stunning gardens, Kin House is the definition of next-level elegance.
If you’re looking for something unusual, try Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. This beautiful gallery offers high ceilings, long dramatic corridors, and priceless artworks as your wedding backdrops. It’s an undeniably magical setting, perfect for couples who want a wedding with a true sense of history and grandeur. Prices start at £2,700 for venue hire plus in-house catering for £50 per head, making it surprisingly accessible for such an iconic venue.
Not quirky enough for you? Did you know you can get married on Brunel’s SS Great Britain, an iconic UK landmark and a key part of Bristol's military history. Launched in 1843, this beautifully restored ship now resides in Bristol's harbourside, offering a unique, historical venue with maritime charm. It’s beautiful, romantic, and undeniably unusual.
The average couple in the South West spends £6,755 on their venue, which is £810 more expensive than the average UK wedding venue cost of £5,945. But, that doesn’t mean you have to spend that much. We found one couple in the South West who spent just £200 total on their big day. On the other hand, the most expensive wedding came in at £100,000. Whatever your vibe and budget, there’s a venue out there that can make your wedding dreams come true.
Planning a wedding in Bristol means you can afford a lead time of around 12 months to plan your dream wedding. This is slightly shorter than the average lead time of 12-18 months. But, given Bristol’s close proximity to other major cities, its abundance of venues, and its knack for the creative, you can afford to go a little shorter.
That being said, if you have your heart set on a popular venue in Bristol, and a particular date in mind, it’s best to book as early as possible. This prevents disappointment and means you can relax a little more during the wedding planning process.
But, don’t worry if you’re working with a shorter timeline. Many venues in Bristol will still have availability within six to nine months, particularly if you're open to a weekday wedding or an off-peak season. Winter weddings, in particular, can be booked with less notice and often come with discounted rates or added seasonal perks.
Bristol’s close proximity to the coast means that you can expect mild, sunny summers, and cold wet winters. But, nothing is set in stone, and the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to prepare for all eventualities, especially if you're planning an outdoor wedding.
Spring (March-May) in Bristol offers temperatures of between 8°C and 13°C. You can expect mild weather, blue skies, and a burst of fresh blooms in the city’s gardens and parks. But, be careful of those April showers! A backup plan is always a good idea in Blighty, and a venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces should be top of your list for a spring wedding. So, you can plan for an outdoor wedding, but then swiftly move indoors if the rain comes down. Venues like Clevedon Hall, for example, offer beautiful indoor spaces with the option to host a marquee in the gardens if the weather holds up.
Summer (June-August) brings temperatures of between 16°C and 18°C, meaning it’s warm, but not tropical. Bristol’s close proximity to the ocean means you can expect some chilly sea air and occasional breezes, but overall, it’s a lovely time for an outdoor wedding. You’ll be able to enjoy long, sunny days and mild evenings—perfect for a relaxed, alfresco reception. Consider venues like Cadbury House Hotel, where you can take full advantage of the beautiful weather in the rolling green gardens.
Autumn (September-November) is slightly cooler. With lows of 8°C and highs of 15°C, autumn in Bristol is crisp, refreshing, and romantic. The trees are changing colour, the evenings are long and golden, and with festivities like Halloween and Guy Fawkes around the corner, there’s a magical, almost nostalgic atmosphere in the air. It’s the perfect time of year for a cosy, intimate celebration.
Winter (December-February) is by far the chilliest season in Bristol. The nearby sea brings wet weather, and temperatures can drop to as low as 2°C, with highs rarely exceeding 7°C. Frosty mornings and misty afternoons create a moody, romantic atmosphere, but wet and windy weather is a real possibility. If you’re dreaming of a winter wedding, choosing a venue with plenty of indoor charm is essential. Consider a spot like Hotel du Vin Avon Gorge or The Lord Mayors Mansion House for a cosy, beautiful celebration.
Bristol is one of the easiest cities to reach in the UK. Whether guests are flying, driving, or relying on public transport, there are a ton of options to get them from A to B.
For those travelling from afar, Bristol International Airport (BRS) is just a short 20-minute drive from the city centre, making it a convenient option for guests flying in from across the UK and beyond. The airport is well-connected, with direct flights to major cities across Europe, and a regular airport bus service (the A1 Flyer) that runs straight into the heart of Bristol.
If your guests are arriving by train, Bristol Temple Meads is the main railway station, offering direct links to London, Cardiff, Birmingham, and other major UK cities. From the station, taxis and buses are readily available to whisk guests to their accommodation or venue in no time.
Those driving will have quick access to Bristol via the M4 and M5 motorways, making it an easy trip from London, the Midlands, and the South West. However, Bristol’s city centre can be tricky to navigate by car, and parking can be expensive or limited in some areas. If your venue doesn’t offer on-site parking, consider recommending Park & Ride services or central car parks like Cabot Circus or Trenchard Street.
Guests travelling from far away may also need accommodation. Hotels like Aztec Hotel & Spa, Bristol Harbour Hotel, and The Avon Gorge Hotel are lovely hotels that double as wedding venues. If you have a number of guests travelling to attend your special day, you might consider holding your wedding in one of these beautiful and convenient venues.
There may be additional costs for having live music at wedding venues in Bristol, depending on your chosen venue. Some venues may include the cost of live music in their packages, while others may charge extra fees for it. Additional costs for live music may include: -fees for the musicians or performers -fees for the use of sound equipment -fees for additional staff such as a sound engineer
It's common for wedding venues to offer discounts for booking on certain days of the week or during off-peak months in Bristol. Fridays and Sundays tend to be less popular days for weddings, and venues may offer discounts for those days to fill open spots on their calendar. Similarly, the off-peak months of January, February and December may offer a lower cost as well. It's always best to check with the specific venue you're interested in to see if they have any discounts or special offers available.
It is possible to have drone photography at a wedding in Bristol. However, it is important to note that there are certain regulations that must be followed when using drones for commercial purposes, such as photography and videography. In the UK, drones must be flown in accordance with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations, which include flying the drone within the pilot's line of sight, not flying higher than 400 feet, and obtaining permission from the CAA if flying within certain restricted airspace. It's also recommended to hire a professional drone operator who is CAA approved, insured and and check with your wedding venue before booking.
Bristol is packed full of exciting wedding venues including: -The Bristol ZooThis unique venue offers a range of spaces for ceremonies and receptions, including a tropical greenhouse and a terrace with views of the zoo's animals. -The Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin This venue offers stunning views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge, and can accommodate ceremonies and receptions for up to 120 guests. -The Lido This historic venue offers a range of spaces for ceremonies and receptions, including a heated outdoor pool and a ballroom with a capacity for up to 150 guests. Whatever type of venue you are looking for you will be able to find the perfect venue to suit your needs in Bristol.
