Romantic Wedding Venues in West Sussex

West Sussex offers an enchanting backdrop for a romantic wedding. Imagine exchanging vows amidst the rolling South Downs, within a grand historic manor, or beside the picturesque coastline. This county is brimming with stunning wedding venues that capture the essence of romance, from intimate barns to elegant country houses. Each location provides a unique and beautiful setting for your special day, making your search for the perfect place an exciting one.

❤️ Romantic

Norfolk Arms Hotel

Arundel, West Sussex

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The Norfolk Arms Hotel, an unspoilt Georgian Coaching Inn – set under the battlements of Arundel Castle, in the heart of Arundel, offers the perfect location for your special day.

80
37 Bedrooms
£300 – £600

Everything you need to know about weddings in West Sussex

All About Romantic Weddings in West Sussex Average Wedding Venue Costs in West Sussex Best Seasons for a West Sussex Wedding Guest Guide: Transport & Accommodation

West Sussex is a quintessentially English county, offering a wealth of romantic settings.

The South Downs: Provides breathtaking, panoramic views perfect for marquee weddings and rustic celebrations.
Historic Estates: Grand manor houses like Goodwood or Petworth House offer timeless elegance and opulent surroundings.
Coastal Charm: Venues near Chichester Harbour or the beaches of the Witterings provide a serene, coastal romance.
Enchanting Woodlands: Secluded woodland venues offer a fairytale, bohemian vibe for intimate ceremonies.

Local Suppliers: The county boasts a vibrant community of top-tier wedding suppliers.

Florists: Many specialise in rustic, country-garden arrangements using local blooms.
Caterers: Acclaimed chefs often focus on farm-to-table menus, utilising Sussex's renowned local produce.
Photographers: Experienced photographers are adept at capturing the unique light and landscapes of the South Downs and coast.

Venue hire fees in West Sussex can vary significantly based on style and exclusivity.

Barn Venues: Expect to pay between £5,000 - £12,000 for exclusive hire, often on a dry-hire basis.
Manor Houses & Hotels: Prices typically range from £8,000 - £20,000+, often including catering and accommodation packages.
Marquee/Outdoor Venues: Land hire might be lower (£3,000 - £7,000), but remember to budget for marquee hire and all infrastructure.

These are estimates; always check what's included in the package.

Budgeting Tips:

Off-Peak Savings: Consider a weekday or a wedding between October and April for potentially lower venue hire fees.
Package Deals: All-inclusive packages can offer better value and simplify planning, but check the details carefully.
Hidden Costs: Ask about corkage fees, service charges, VAT, and costs for supplier access or clean-up.

Spring (March-May):

Witness the county's gardens and countryside burst into life. Ideal for floral-heavy themes in venues like Parham House or West Dean Gardens. The weather can be unpredictable, so have a wet-weather plan.

Summer (June-August):

The most popular season offers long, light evenings and the best chance of sunshine for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Venues with beautiful grounds and coastal settings shine during these months.

Autumn (September-November):

Enjoy the stunning golden hues of the Sussex landscape. This season is perfect for cosy, romantic celebrations in barns or country pubs with open fires. It's often more budget-friendly than summer.

Winter (December-February):

Imagine a magical winter wedding in a grand manor house, adorned with festive decorations and candlelight. This is the ideal time for intimate, black-tie events with a focus on opulent interiors.

Getting Here:

West Sussex is exceptionally well-connected.

By Air: London Gatwick Airport is located within the county, offering easy international access.
By Train: Direct train lines run from London Victoria and London Bridge to major towns like Chichester, Arundel, and Horsham.
By Car: The M23 and A23 connect directly to the M25, while the A27 runs along the coast, making travel straightforward.

Staying Over:

Your guests will have a wide choice of places to stay.

Luxury Hotels: Historic towns like Arundel, Midhurst, and Chichester offer boutique and spa hotels.
Charming B&Bs: The countryside is dotted with welcoming bed and breakfasts and traditional pubs with rooms.
Self-Catering: For groups or families, consider renting holiday cottages, especially near the coast or in the South Downs National Park.

Popular towns in West Sussex ⭐️️

Wedding Venues Chichester

Wedding Venues Arundel

Wedding Venues Crawley

Wedding Venues Haywards Heath

Wedding Venues Horsham

Wedding Venues Pulborough

Wedding Venues Worthing

Wedding Venues East Grinstead

FAQ's

Do I need a special license for an outdoor wedding ceremony in West Sussex?

For a legally binding ceremony in England, it must take place under a licensed permanent structure. Many West Sussex venues have licensed gazebos or garden follies for this purpose. For a ceremony in an unlicensed open space, like a field or woodland, you would need to complete the legal formalities at a register office separately.

What are the best types of romantic venues for a smaller, more intimate wedding in West Sussex?

West Sussex is perfect for intimate weddings. Consider a historic country pub with a private dining room, a boutique hotel in a town like Chichester, or a beautifully restored barn with dedicated smaller spaces. Many larger estates also offer exclusive use of specific wings or gardens for more intimate celebrations.

Are there any iconic West Sussex locations for romantic wedding photos?

Absolutely. The lavender fields at Lordington Lavender (in season), the dramatic views from the South Downs Way, the historic streets of Arundel with its castle backdrop, and the sandy dunes at West Wittering beach are all incredibly popular and stunning locations for unforgettable wedding photos.

Many romantic West Sussex venues have beautiful gardens. What are the typical wet-weather options?

Most experienced West Sussex venues have excellent contingency plans. This usually involves a beautiful indoor space, such as an orangery, drawing room, or converted chapel, that is prepared for your ceremony. Always ask your shortlisted venues to show you their 'Plan B' option so you can be confident it's just as special.

How can we incorporate a 'Taste of Sussex' into our romantic wedding?

West Sussex has fantastic local produce. You can serve award-winning sparkling wine from local vineyards like Nyetimber or Ridgeview, incorporate Sussex cheeses into your canapés or wedding cake, and work with your caterer to create a menu featuring local, seasonal ingredients from the land and sea.

How far in advance should we book a popular romantic wedding venue in West Sussex?

For sought-after romantic venues, especially historic manors and exclusive-use barns, it's advisable to book 12 to 18 months in advance, particularly for a peak season Saturday. If you have more flexibility with your date, such as a weekday or an off-season month, you may find availability with less notice.