Choosing West Sussex for an intimate wedding means embracing charm and scenery. The county is famed for its diverse landscapes, offering romantic backdrops from the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park to the beautiful coastline. A smaller wedding allows you to fully utilise the unique features of a venue, perhaps an ancient woodland for your ceremony or a walled garden for your reception.
You'll find a variety of venues specialising in smaller guest numbers:
The cost of an intimate wedding venue in West Sussex can vary significantly. On average, you might expect venue hire for a small wedding to range from £2,500 to £8,000, depending on the day of the week, season, and exclusivity.
Many smaller venues offer 'dry hire' options, giving you flexibility with suppliers, while others provide all-inclusive packages tailored to micro-weddings, which can simplify your budgeting.
Key factors influencing cost include:
Spring & Summer
West Sussex shines in the warmer months. Imagine an outdoor ceremony in a blooming country garden or reception drinks on a coastal terrace. Long summer evenings are perfect for relaxed, intimate celebrations that can continue outdoors. Popular spots like West Wittering beach or the gardens at Petworth House provide stunning photo opportunities.
Autumn & Winter
A cosy winter wedding in West Sussex has a unique magic. Picture a historic manor house with roaring log fires, candlelit dinners, and the beautiful, stark landscapes of the South Downs as your backdrop. This season is ideal for creating a warm, inviting, and deeply personal atmosphere for you and your guests. It's also a great way to secure a popular venue at a lower price.
West Sussex is very accessible for guests. It's well-connected to London by rail, with major stations in Chichester, Horsham, and Three Bridges (for Crawley). London Gatwick Airport is located within the county, making it simple for international guests to attend.
Major roads like the M23, A23, and A27 make travelling by car straightforward from across the South East.
Accommodation for your guests is plentiful. For an intimate wedding, you could even book out an entire boutique hotel or a collection of luxury cottages for your wedding party.
Options include:
