Wedding Venues
Wedding Suppliers
Wedding Websites
Planning Tools
Advice
Affordable
Barn
Castle
Country House
Hotel
Intimate
Luxury
Outdoor
Pub / Restaurant
View All Wedding Venues
Photographers
Florists
Music
Videographers
Catering
Entertainment
Cakes
Wedding Dresses
Menswear
Wedding Rings
Planners & Celebrants
Beauty, Hair & Makeup
Stationery
Transport
Decoration & Hire
Marquee Hire
View All Wedding Suppliers
Checklist
Budget
Guest List
View All Planning Tools
General Advice
Expert Advice
Wedding Budget
Guests
Ceremony
Post-Wedding
Real Wedding
View All Advice
Price: £3,499 – £6,729
Guests: 150
Description
Description
Discover Smeetham Hall Barn: A Charming Wedding Venue on the Essex-Suffolk Border
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that blends rustic charm with timeless elegance, Smeetham Hall Barn is the perfect choice. Nestled in the peaceful countryside near Sudbury, this beautifully restored 16th-century barn offers a stunning setting for your special day. Owned by the Hyde Parker family since 1906, the venue combines warm, personal service with a rich history to create an unforgettable experience.
A Historic Venue Filled with Natural Beauty
Imagine exchanging vows beneath original timber beams and a soaring vaulted ceiling, surrounded by an airy, romantic atmosphere. Licensed for civil ceremonies, Smeetham Hall Barn lets you celebrate your entire wedding day in one seamless location. The venue sits on a 400-acre working farm, featuring wildflower meadows, peaceful woodland paths, and a tranquil lakeside—perfect for capturing breathtaking wedding photos. With exclusive use of the barn and grounds, you and your guests can enjoy complete privacy throughout your celebration.
Flexible Spaces Tailored to Your Wedding Vision
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a lively party, Smeetham Hall Barn adapts to your needs. The main barn comfortably seats up to 150 guests for your ceremony and dinner, and can accommodate up to 250 guests for your evening reception. A permanent marquee attached to the barn offers a cozy indoor space for your drinks reception, with lovely views of the courtyard—rain or shine. Plus, for Saturday weddings, you’ll have access to the venue from 9 am the day before, giving you plenty of time to set up and perfect every detail.
Key Features and Capacities
- Ceremony Capacity: Up to 150 guests
- Seated Dining Capacity: 50 to 150 guests
- Standing Reception Capacity: Up to 250 guests
- Exclusive Use: The entire venue is yours for the day, ensuring privacy and intimacy
- No Corkage Fee: Bring your own drinks for the reception and meal without extra charges
- Catering: Choose from a curated list of excellent, pre-approved caterers to suit your taste
- Setting: A historic barn surrounded by countryside, lakeside views, and woodland
- Accessibility: Fully equipped with disabled facilities for your guests’ comfort
Message from the team
Name of Wedding Contact: Bridget
Our couples are very important to us and we look after them from the minute they book until the end of their wedding day - they are welcome to come and see the Barn as many times as they like, or, they can call and chat to ask as many questions as they like! We never mind. We want them to have a wonderful experience in planning their wedding.
Experience
Year Business Was Established
2000
No. of Weddings Hosted
More than 50
Public Liability Insurance
Yes
No. of People In Team
4
Overview of Smeetham Hall Barn
Wedding Venue Type
Barn / Farm
Wedding Venue Capacity
Dining Capacity
150
Reception Capacity
250
Pricing for Smeetham Hall Barn
Pricing for Smeetham Hall Barn
What's Included?
Furniture included
Exclusive use
Day before set up available
Wedding coordinator available on the day
Non consumables (e.g. linen, lights etc.)
Choice of preferred caterers
Our venue-only hire includes tables and chairs. You choose from our list of five caterers and pay them directly.
Hide detailsReviews (184)
- DDan & Abi02/06/2025Unforgettable Experience from Start to FinishUnforgettable Experience from Start to FinishWe honestly couldn’t have asked for a better venue than Smeetham Hall Barn for our wedding. From our very first visit, we knew it was special - not just because of the beautiful barn and stunning countryside setting, but because of the people behind it. Sophie and Victoria were absolutely incredible throughout the whole process. They were calm, kind, responsive, and reassuring at every stage, from our first enquiry all the way to the big day itself. Nothing ever felt too much trouble, and their organisation behind the scenes gave us real peace of mind, meaning we could just relax and enjoy it all. On the day, everything ran so smoothly and a huge part of that was down to their brilliant coordination and quiet confidence. The venue itself is just gorgeous. The barn was the perfect mix of rustic charm and elegant character, and we were so lucky with the weather which meant we could really make the most of the surrounding gardens and countryside. We’ve had so many comments from guests about how beautiful the setting was and it created the perfect atmosphere and felt so personal to us. A special mention also goes to Splinters, the caterers recommended by the venue. The food was absolutely amazing; delicious, beautifully presented, and served with such professionalism. We’ve had endless compliments from guests about the canapés and wedding breakfast, and the team made everything feel so effortless. Smeetham Hall Barn is not just a beautiful venue, it’s run by people who truly care. We felt so supported and looked after throughout, and we’re incredibly grateful for the role the whole team played in making our wedding day so unforgettable. We’ll definitely be back for one of your open events to say hello and to relive just a little bit of the magic. Thank you again for everything.We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better venue than Smeetham Hall Barn for our wedding. From our very first visit, we knew it was special, not just because of the beautiful barn and stunning countryside setting, but because of the people behind it. Sophie and Victoria were absolutely incredible throughout the whole process. They were calm, kind, responsive, and reassuring at every stage - from our first enquiry all the way to the big day itself. Nothing ever felt too much trouble, and their organisation behind the scenes gave us real peace of mind, meaning we could just relax and enjoy it all. On the day, everything ran so smoothly and a huge part of that was down to their brilliant coordination and quiet confidence. The venue itself is just gorgeous. The barn was the perfect mix of rustic charm and elegant character, and we were so lucky with the weather which meant we could really make the most of the surrounding gardens and countryside. We’ve had so many comments from guests about how beautiful the setting was, it created the perfect atmosphere and felt so personal to us. A special mention also goes to all the team at the caterers, Splinters. The food was absolutely amazing - delicious, beautifully presented, and served with such professionalism. We’ve had endless compliments from guests about the wedding breakfast, and the team made everything feel so effortless. Smeetham Hall Barn is not just a beautiful venue; it’s run by people who truly care. We felt so supported and looked after throughout, and we’re incredibly grateful for the role the whole team played in making our wedding day so unforgettable. We’ll definitely be back for one of your open events to say hello and to relive just a little bit of the magic. Thank you again for everything.We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better venue than Smeetham Hall Barn for our wedding. From our very first visit, we knew it was special - not just because of the beautiful barn and stunning countryside setting, but because of the people behind it. Sophie and Victoria were absolutely incredible throughout the whole process. They were calm, kind, responsive, and reassuring at every stage, from our first enquiry all the way to the big day itself. Nothing ever felt too much trouble, and their organisation behind the scenes gave us real peace of mind, meaning we could just relax and enjoy it all. On the day, everything ran so smoothly and a huge part of that was down to their brilliant coordination and quiet confidence. The venue itself is just gorgeous. The barn was the perfect mix of rustic charm and elegant character, and we were so lucky with the weather which meant we could really make the most of the surrounding gardens and countryside. We’ve had so many comments from guests about how beautiful the setting was and it created the perfect atmosphere and felt so personal to us. A special mention also goes to Splinters, the caterers recommended by the venue. The food was absolutely amazing; delicious, beautifully presented, and served with such professionalism. We’ve had endless compliments from guests about the canapés and wedding breakfast, and the team made everything feel so effortless. Smeetham Hall Barn is not just a beautiful venue, it’s run by people who truly care. We felt so supported and looked after throughout, and we’re incredibly grateful for the role the whole team played in making our wedding day so unforgettable. We’ll definitely be back for one of your open events to say hello and to relive just a little bit of the magic. Thank you again for everything.We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better venue than Smeetham Hall Barn for our wedding. From our very first visit, we knew it was special, not just because of the beautiful barn and stunning countryside setting, but because of the people behind it. Sophie and Victoria were absolutely incredible throughout the whole process. They were calm, kind, responsive, and reassuring at every stage - from our first enquiry all the way to the big day itself. Nothing ever felt too much trouble, and their organisation behind the scenes gave us real peace of mind, meaning we could just relax and enjoy it all. On the day, everything ran so smoothly and a huge part of that was down to their brilliant coordination and quiet confidence. The venue itself is just gorgeous. The barn was the perfect mix of rustic charm and elegant character, and we were so lucky with the weather which meant we could really make the most of the surrounding gardens and countryside. We’ve had so many comments from guests about how beautiful the setting was, it created the perfect atmosphere and felt so personal to us. A special mention also goes to all the team at the caterers, Splinters. The food was absolutely amazing - delicious, beautifully presented, and served with such professionalism. We’ve had endless compliments from guests about the wedding breakfast, and the team made everything feel so effortless. Smeetham Hall Barn is not just a beautiful venue; it’s run by people who truly care. We felt so supported and looked after throughout, and we’re incredibly grateful for the role the whole team played in making our wedding day so unforgettable. We’ll definitely be back for one of your open events to say hello and to relive just a little bit of the magic. Thank you again for everything.
- LLucy & Rob23/04/2025Best day ever ❤️Best day ever ❤️If you are looking for a romantic barn setting Smeetham hall barn is the one…we can not thank Sophie and the team at Smeetham hall for being nothing but incredible through the whole process of planning our wedding and to the most amazing day we could have ever wished for…what we would give to relive the day all over again Thank you once again for being so amazing Mr & Mrs Field (Lucy & Rob) 05.04.25 ❤️If you are looking for a romantic barn setting Smeetham hall barn is the one…we can not thank Sophie and the team at Smeetham hall for being nothing but incredible through the whole process of planning our wedding and to the most amazing day we could have ever wished for…what we would give to relive the day all over again Thank you once again for being so amazing Mr & Mrs Field (Lucy & Rob) 05.04.25 ❤️
- SSarah and Joe01/04/2025Our Perfect Wedding DayOur Perfect Wedding DayWe first found came across Smeetham Hall Barn 7 years ago. After looking at other venues we kept being drawn back here. The venue and grounds are absoutely stunning. Sophie has been amazing from the very beginning, nothing was too much trouble even arranging for my nan to come along in her wheelchair which meant so much to us. Our day could not have gone any smoother. Our wedding breakfast was fantastic, a lot of guests complimented the food and the service from Splinters Caterers. We could not have asked for a more perfect wedding day!We first found came across Smeetham Hall Barn 7 years ago. After looking at other venues we kept being drawn back here. The venue and grounds are absoutely stunning. Sophie has been amazing from the very beginning, nothing was too much trouble even arranging for my nan to come along in her wheelchair which meant so much to us. Our day could not have gone any smoother. Our wedding breakfast was fantastic, a lot of guests complimented the food and the service from Splinters Caterers. We could not have asked for a more perfect wedding day!
- LLaura & Tom07/03/2025A Dream Wedding at Smeetham Hall Barn A Dream Wedding at Smeetham Hall BarnWe fell in love with Smeetham Hall Barn from the moment we pulled up in the car. The venue is absolutely beautiful. Sophie was fantastic, from the very first email to arrange a viewing, right up to the big day. She took the stress out of planning our wedding and allowed us to simply enjoy the process. Nothing was ever too much trouble, and emails were replied to within the day. Our wedding day was the best day, and this is thanks to Sophie and the team at the beautiful Smeetham Hall Barn. The only downside was that the wedding flew by so quickly; we wish we could relive it all over again. We fell in love with Smeetham Hall Barn from the moment we pulled up in the car. The venue is absolutely beautiful. Sophie was fantastic, from the very first email to arrange a viewing, right up to the big day. She took the stress out of planning our wedding and allowed us to simply enjoy the process. Nothing was ever too much trouble, and emails were replied to within the day. Our wedding day was the best day, and this is thanks to Sophie and the team at the beautiful Smeetham Hall Barn. The only downside was that the wedding flew by so quickly; we wish we could relive it all over again.
- CCharlotte and Calum02/03/2025Our wonderful wedding Our wonderful weddingSmeetham Hall Barn was the perfect venue for us. It was the only venue we viewed and an easy decision - it had everything we were looking for. It certainly lived up to our hopes and dreams. The barn and setting are naturally beautiful, without requiring loads of additional decoration. Their twinkly fairy lights set the scene perfectly. Having so many scenic spots for a variety of photograph opportunities is ideal. Our experience from booking to our big day was seamless. We were always kept informed and knew we’d hear back quickly if we had any queries. Sophie helped so much behind the scenes to ensure everything went to plan, she consistently eased any neves and went above and beyond for us. Splinters the caterers who are included within our wedding package were brilliant. The wedding breakfast was delicious and all our guests were very complimentary. Thank you to all at Smeetham Hall Barn and Splinters for being part of our perfect day. We loved every second and will forever hold the fondest memories 🤍Smeetham Hall Barn was the perfect venue for us. It was the only venue we viewed and an easy decision - it had everything we were looking for. It certainly lived up to our hopes and dreams. The barn and setting are naturally beautiful, without requiring loads of additional decoration. Their twinkly fairy lights set the scene perfectly. Having so many scenic spots for a variety of photograph opportunities is ideal. Our experience from booking to our big day was seamless. We were always kept informed and knew we’d hear back quickly if we had any queries. Sophie helped so much behind the scenes to ensure everything went to plan, she consistently eased any neves and went above and beyond for us. Splinters the caterers who are included within our wedding package were brilliant. The wedding breakfast was delicious and all our guests were very complimentary. Thank you to all at Smeetham Hall Barn and Splinters for being part of our perfect day. We loved every second and will forever hold the fondest memories 🤍
- MMairéad Gage29/11/2024Amazing venue!!Amazing venue!!Sophie and Victoria were absolutely brilliant in the lead up to our wedding, they were always ready to answer my many many questions 😂 They were so organised and made the day run perfectly. Tom behind the bar was brilliant too. We’ve had so many compliments on how beautiful the venue was and how amazing the day was. We are both so grateful to the whole team at Smeetham Hall for everything they did for our perfect day. Would highly recommend!!Sophie and Victoria were absolutely brilliant in the lead up to our wedding, they were always ready to answer my many many questions 😂 They were so organised and made the day run perfectly. Tom behind the bar was brilliant too. We’ve had so many compliments on how beautiful the venue was and how amazing the day was. We are both so grateful to the whole team at Smeetham Hall for everything they did for our perfect day. Would highly recommend!!
- JJames and Laressa21/10/2024Made to feel like centre stageMade to feel like centre stagePicking a venue is just….woah. It’s a LOT. Except when it’s not, because you’re made to feel like centre stage from the outset. We’d viewed a few venues which were starting to blur into one and a feeling a bit overwhelmed with it all. So if it’s the people that make a wedding, you can definitely include the Smeetham Hall team with that. From the open evening, to booking and run through to the event (and MANY emails in between) they were only too happy to help. And encourage some out of the box fun with it. SO many positive vibes from our guests about the venue itself from the ceremony on the lawn, the outdoor drinks reception and the barn itself for the wedding breakfast. Each element creating it’s own little piece of the day. Great vendor partners on hand too to make sorting details like the food, DJ, lighting etc a breeze. Thank you Sophie and Victoria. James and Laressa Human Picking a venue is just….woah. It’s a LOT. Except when it’s not, because you’re made to feel like centre stage from the outset. We’d viewed a few venues which were starting to blur into one and a feeling a bit overwhelmed with it all. So if it’s the people that make a wedding, you can definitely include the Smeetham Hall team with that. From the open evening, to booking and run through to the event (and MANY emails in between) they were only too happy to help. And encourage some out of the box fun with it. SO many positive vibes from our guests about the venue itself from the ceremony on the lawn, the outdoor drinks reception and the barn itself for the wedding breakfast. Each element creating it’s own little piece of the day. Great vendor partners on hand too to make sorting details like the food, DJ, lighting etc a breeze. Thank you Sophie and Victoria. James and Laressa Human
- MMaddie & Charlie20/09/2024Absolutely perfectAbsolutely perfectWe couldn’t recommend Smeetham Hall Barns enough if we tried. This was the one and only venue we viewed, and we knew it was perfect for us. From the very start, the team were brilliant. Sophie in particular was an absolute gem and you could tell she really cared about us & making our day perfect. The organisation of the planning of our day by the team was second to none. They were thorough, so efficient with answering queries and so helpful. Setting up the day the team were on a mission. The bar team and caterers were outstanding - everybody was just so lovely. It was honestly the best day of our lives and this place will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Thank you team Smeetham! We couldn’t recommend Smeetham Hall Barns enough if we tried. This was the one and only venue we viewed, and we knew it was perfect for us. From the very start, the team were brilliant. Sophie in particular was an absolute gem and you could tell she really cared about us & making our day perfect. The organisation of the planning of our day by the team was second to none. They were thorough, so efficient with answering queries and so helpful. Setting up the day the team were on a mission. The bar team and caterers were outstanding - everybody was just so lovely. It was honestly the best day of our lives and this place will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Thank you team Smeetham!
- EEmily15/09/2024Absolutely perfect venueAbsolutely perfect venueOur wedding at Smeetham Hall Barn on 10th June 2024 was absolutely perfect! The venue’s elegant charm and stunning grounds provided a beautiful backdrop for our special day. The staff were exceptional, handling every detail with professionalism and care, allowing us to truly enjoy our celebration. Smeetham Hall Barn offered the perfect mix of beauty, excellent service, and a warm ambiance. We couldn’t have asked for a better place to celebrate our wedding and highly recommend it to any couple looking for an unforgettable venue.Our wedding at Smeetham Hall Barn on 10th June 2024 was absolutely perfect! The venue’s elegant charm and stunning grounds provided a beautiful backdrop for our special day. The staff were exceptional, handling every detail with professionalism and care, allowing us to truly enjoy our celebration. Smeetham Hall Barn offered the perfect mix of beauty, excellent service, and a warm ambiance. We couldn’t have asked for a better place to celebrate our wedding and highly recommend it to any couple looking for an unforgettable venue.
- BBethany & David Swain05/09/2024So glad we chose this venue! 10/10 - amazing!So glad we chose this venue! 10/10 - amazing!Wow. What a day we had! It was the most perfect day we could have ever dreamt of. Sophie & the team are amazing from the minute you enquire to the big day. We knew the minute we walked into the venue for a show around, it was going to be THE venue. Sophie helped us the whole journey to ensure we had everything perfect for our big day - and perfect it was! Great value for money, beautiful venue & grounds and Sophie is just amazing!!! Thank you so so so much for ensuring our day was so perfect & just as we imagined. We wish we could do it all again!! Highly recommend! Wow. What a day we had! It was the most perfect day we could have ever dreamt of. Sophie & the team are amazing from the minute you enquire to the big day. We knew the minute we walked into the venue for a show around, it was going to be THE venue. Sophie helped us the whole journey to ensure we had everything perfect for our big day - and perfect it was! Great value for money, beautiful venue & grounds and Sophie is just amazing!!! Thank you so so so much for ensuring our day was so perfect & just as we imagined. We wish we could do it all again!! Highly recommend!
Location & Contact Details for Smeetham Hall Barn
Location & Contact Details for Smeetham Hall Barn
Gallery
Explore more photos and videos for this venue
FAQs
Find out a bit more from our FAQs
What is the location of Smeetham Hall Barn wedding venue?
Smeetham Hall Barn is situated on the Essex-Suffolk border near Sudbury, with the postal code CO10 7EU, in the county of Essex, England, GB.
What is the historical significance of Smeetham Hall Barn?
The venue is a beautifully restored 16th-century barn, owned by the Hyde Parker family since 1906, blending rustic charm with rich family heritage, providing a unique and timeless atmosphere for your wedding day.
What types of weddings can Smeetham Hall Barn accommodate?
Smeetham Hall Barn is perfect for both intimate gatherings and larger lively parties, offering flexible spaces that can host up to 150 guests for ceremonies and seated dining, and up to 250 guests for standing evening receptions.
Is Smeetham Hall Barn licensed for civil ceremonies?
Yes, the venue is fully licensed for civil ceremonies, allowing you to celebrate your wedding ceremony and reception all in one beautiful and private location.
What are the guest capacities for ceremonies, dining, and receptions at Smeetham Hall Barn?
The capacities at Smeetham Hall Barn are:
- Ceremony: up to 150 guests
- Seated Dining: 50 to 150 guests
- Standing Reception: up to 250 guests
What outdoor features and surroundings does Smeetham Hall Barn offer for wedding photos?
The venue is set on a 400-acre working farm featuring wildflower meadows, peaceful woodland paths, and a tranquil lakeside, providing stunning natural backdrops ideal for breathtaking wedding photographs.
Is exclusive use of the venue available when booking Smeetham Hall Barn?
Yes, when you book Smeetham Hall Barn, you gain exclusive use of the entire barn and grounds for your wedding day, ensuring privacy and intimacy for you and your guests.
Are there any corkage fees for bringing your own drinks to Smeetham Hall Barn?
No, the venue allows you to bring your own drinks for both the reception and meal without any corkage fees, offering flexibility and potential savings on your beverage choices.
What catering options are available at Smeetham Hall Barn?
The venue provides a curated list of excellent, pre-approved caterers to suit a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring a delicious dining experience tailored for your wedding day.
What accessibility and facilities does Smeetham Hall Barn provide for guests?
Smeetham Hall Barn is fully equipped with disabled facilities to ensure comfort and accessibility for all your guests throughout your wedding celebration.
Press & Awards
All our awards & press mentions
Bridebook Benefits
Bridebook GiftYes
Bridebook Special OfferYes
