Intimate Wedding Venues in Cotswolds

The Cotswolds offers a uniquely romantic setting for a smaller wedding. Its charm lies in the feeling of stepping back in time, surrounded by unspoilt countryside and picturesque villages built from honey-coloured limestone.

An intimate wedding here feels less like an event and more like a personal, relaxed escape with your loved ones. The focus shifts to quality time and shared experiences against a backdrop of undeniable English beauty.

Perfect Venues for a Smaller Guest List:

• Country House Hotels: Offer luxury, beautiful gardens, and impeccable service for a refined feel.
• Converted Barns: Provide a rustic-chic setting with exposed beams and countryside views.
• Boutique Manors: Exclusive-use properties that feel like your own private home for the weekend.
• Cosy Pubs & Inns: For a laid-back, quintessentially British celebration with gourmet food.

While the Cotswolds is a premium location, an intimate wedding can be more budget-friendly. With a smaller guest list, your budget can go further, allowing for a higher spend-per-head on exceptional food, drink, and personal touches.

Average Venue Hire:

• Midweek/Off-Season: Expect to pay from £2,500 - £5,000 for exclusive hire of a smaller venue.
• Peak Weekend: Prices can range from £6,000 - £12,000+.
• Micro-Wedding Packages: Many venues offer all-inclusive packages for under 30 guests, which can be very cost-effective.

Budgeting Tips:

• Consider a Weekday: Venues and suppliers often offer significant discounts for Monday-Thursday weddings.
• Go Off-Peak: The 'shoulder' months of April, May, and October offer beautiful scenery with lower price tags than summer.
• All-In-One Venues: Choosing a venue with in-house catering and accommodation can simplify planning and reduce supplier costs.
• Prioritise your Spending: A smaller wedding allows you to splurge on what's most important to you, be it photography, food, or entertainment.

Spring & Summer (April - August)

These are the most popular months, for good reason. The Cotswolds bursts into life with vibrant gardens, wildflower meadows, and long, light-filled evenings.

• Pros: Best chance of warm, sunny weather for outdoor ceremonies and garden receptions. All venues and attractions are open.
• Cons: Peak season means higher prices and less availability, so book well in advance.

Autumn & Winter (September - February)

Hugely atmospheric and romantic, these seasons offer a different kind of magic.

• Pros: Autumn brings stunning golden foliage, while winter offers the chance of a crisp, frosty day and a cosy celebration with roaring log fires. You'll also find better availability and lower costs.
• Cons: The weather is less predictable. Your day will need to be planned around shorter daylight hours.

Getting Here

The Cotswolds is accessible but requires some planning, especially for rural venues.

• By Car: Easily reached via the M4, M5, and M40 motorways. A car is the best way to explore the area.
• By Train: Mainline services from London Paddington run to stations like Kemble, Moreton-in-Marsh, and Kingham.
• Taxis: Local taxis should be booked in advance, as they can be scarce in rural spots, especially late at night.

Where to Stay

For an intimate wedding, guests can find charming accommodation nearby.

• Boutique Hotels: Towns like Cirencester, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Broadway have beautiful hotels.
• Luxury B&Bs: Offer a personal touch and a fantastic Cotswolds breakfast.
• Self-Catering Cottages: Ideal for families or groups of friends wanting to make a weekend of it. Platforms like Airbnb and local letting agents have extensive listings.