Based in the East Midlands, Leicester is known for its beautiful tapestries, historic buildings, and rich cultural diversity. Did you know it hosts the largest Diwali Festival outside of India? As a result, there’s a stunning South Asian wedding scene with vibrant celebrations, breathtaking outfits, and incredible cuisine.
Whether you're dreaming of a traditional mandap setup, a glamorous ballroom affair, or an intimate countryside retreat, Leicester has it all. Plus, with so many expert wedding suppliers—from talented mehndi artists to top-tier caterers—you’ll be spoilt for choice when bringing your big day to life.
What’s more, Leicester is well connected. With quick links to nearby Birmingham, Coventry, and Nottingham, getting around is quick and simple. Public transport is reliable and easy to navigate, and if you have guests flying in, East Midlands Airport is just a short drive away. You really can’t beat its central location, or its low cost of living!
The East Midlands is the cheapest place to get married in the whole of the UK. The average cost of a wedding comes in at £16,788, some £4,034 less than the UK average of £20,822. That’s a pretty big saving, freeing up money that could go towards your dream dress, a luxury honeymoon, or even a house deposit to start married life together.
With prices like that, it’s easy to understand why 7% of all couples get married in the East Midlands. What’s more, according to our 2025 Wedding Report, 83% of couples who get married in this region are actually from the area! So, if you're a local, you’re in good company. But, if you’re from further afield, just know you’ll be joining a region that knows how to throw an unforgettable wedding.
Opulence and glamour are key themes for Leicester weddings. Jaw-dropping venues, bottomless champagne, and elegant, sparkling decor are all part of the package. South Asian weddings in this region, in particular, are known for their grandeur and attention to detail, with vibrant colours, intricate mehndi designs, and extravagant multi-day celebrations that incorporate a variety of traditional rituals. From opulent mandaps to unforgettable bridal entrances, there's no skimping on drama. Lean into this vibe and go all out!
Rustic-chic weddings are also on the rise in Leicester, with venues like barns and farmhouses becoming increasingly popular for couples who prefer a more relaxed, yet still stylish, vibe. These weddings often feature relaxed outdoor ceremonies, fairy lights, wooden tables, and plenty of greenery. It’s fresh, understated, and beautiful.
Whatever your style, you’re sure to find something that suits in the North East.
Known for its strong connection to South Asian culture, venues like Colwick Hall Hotel in Nottingham are a dream for those dreaming of a luxury wedding. With prices starting at £3,000 for venue hire, it’s a stunning option for those looking to throw a large, opulent, and traditional wedding. Specialists in South Asian wedding traditions, this ancestral home of Lord Byron offers breathtaking ballrooms, intricate chandeliers, and beautifully landscaped 60-acre gardens.
Did you know: You can filter by cultural speciality using Bridebook’s handy venue filtering tools! Whether you’re looking for Asian, Jewish, Muslim, or other denomination wedding specialists, you can easily find a venue that understands your traditions.
The Ladywood Estate is another South Asian wedding specialist. Surrounded by lush countryside, this super luxury venue is perfect for couples who want a wedding that's as grand as it is personal. With prices starting at £12,000, this grandeur doesn’t come cheap. But, it’s oh-so-worth it for the stunning blend of elegance and tradition, with gorgeous gardens and a magnificent house that will make your day feel like a fairytale.
If you’re looking for something more affordable, there are a ton of options in Leicester. Consider Home Farm Events, an all-inclusive, family-run marquee wedding venue just waiting for your unique stamp. With prices starting around £5,450 for venue hire and set-up, it’s a fantastic option for couples who want a relaxed, rustic vibe with plenty of room to personalise every detail.
Of course, these prices are just indicative, and the cost of your venue will depend largely on the size, features, and season of your wedding. If you're planning for peak season (think summer or late spring), prices might be a bit higher, especially for the more popular spots. But if you're open to an off-peak wedding, you might just snag a bargain.
The average cost of a venue in the East Midlands is £4,319, which is£1,626 cheaper than the UK average of £5,945. This extra bang for your buck means you can allocate extra spending towards other aspects of the wedding. Custom cocktail, anyone?
Leicester’s connection to the South Asian community means lead times tend to be a little longer than other parts of the UK. This is due to the demand for and length of these amazing weddings, with most celebrations spanning several days, often including multiple events like the mehndi, sangeet, and traditional ceremonies. With this in mind, venues in Leicester, especially those that cater to South Asian weddings, can experience longer booking lead times, sometimes up to 18–24 months in advance.
If you're planning a big, multi-day celebration, it's a good idea to secure your dream venue as soon as possible, especially for those popular months like late spring and summer. Many venues offer packages that can cater to the full range of wedding events, which also means that they tend to book up quickly.
For couples opting for a more traditional, single-day wedding, booking 12–18 months in advance is a safe bet to ensure availability.
Sitting comfortably in the centre of the UK, Leicester’s known to have a mild and temperate climate. While you’re unlikely to get extreme weather, it’s always worth keeping in mind that Leicester’s weather can be a little unpredictable, especially during the winter months. If you’re planning a winter wedding, you might want to opt for an indoor venue or a venue with sheltered outdoor space, just in case the weather turns.
Spring (March-May) in Leicester brings temperatures of between 10°C and 15°C, making it a lovely time for a wedding. The weather is usually crisp but not too cold, and the city’s gardens start to come alive with vibrant blooms. It’s the perfect backdrop for a fresh, floral-themed wedding with outdoor elements. If you’re planning for an outdoor ceremony, make sure to have a backup plan just in case a spring shower decides to pop up. Hey, a little Great British weather never hurt anyone, right?
Summer (June-August) brings long evenings, a gentle breeze, and toastier temperatures. Starting at 18°C and rising to 22°C, it’s the perfect time for an al fresco celebration. The warmer weather means you can host an outdoor ceremony, garden party, or even a marquee wedding. The sun sets late, giving you more daylight hours to enjoy your big day. Just keep an eye on the forecast, as summer can occasionally surprise you with a warm spell, so stay cool with plenty of refreshing drinks and shaded areas for guests.
Autumn (September-November) has all the benefits of summer without the raging temperatures. Think long evenings, extended golden hour, but at a much milder temperature of 10°C to 15°C. Make the most of it with an outdoor venue like Barnsdale Gardens. With 38 beautiful gardens, it’s an ideal spot for a picturesque autumn wedding. Take your pick for the backdrop of your photos—any snapshot will be stunning!
Winter (December-February) is a beautiful but underrated time to throw your wedding in Leicester. With temperatures between 5°C and 7°C, we can see why couples may have their reservations. But, there’s something so magical about a winter wedding. Pick a venue with plenty of places to cosy up, like a stately home with roaring fires or a charming barn with twinkling fairy lights. If you’re struggling for inspiration, Bourton Hall Wedding Venue, Beaumanor Hall, or Ashton Lodge Country House are all worth a look.
Making your way to Leicester is easier than you may think. Its central position means you’ve got great transport links no matter where you’re coming from.
If you’re driving, Leicester is just a short trip from major cities like Birmingham, Coventry, Nottingham, and London, with easy access via the M1 and M69 motorways. Plus, there’s plenty of parking available at most venues, so you won’t have to stress about finding a space for your guests.
Trains are equally as straightforward, with direct routes from cities like London, Birmingham, and Nottingham all making their way to Leicester. Trains run regularly and are fairly reliable (this is the UK, after all!).
Birmingham International Airport (BHX) is the main hub for those flying in. However, guests can also access East Midlands Airport (EMA) or London Stansted Airport (STN) if that’s more convenient. Both are just a short drive away, with East Midlands Airport being roughly 30 minutes from the city centre.
Those flying in for your wedding are likely to need a spot to rest their head. Reliable chain hotels like Village Hotel in Nottingham or Holiday Inn Leicester Wigston are always a safe bet for a comfortable stay. These hotels offer great amenities and convenient locations, so your guests can relax and refresh before or after the big day. Did we mention they’re also great options for affordable wedding venues?
