Once the sawmill for Worstead Estate and now lovingly restored, the barns retain their original features, with spectacular oak beams and traditional Norfolk brick. The combination of rustic charm, character and modern luxuries, together tucked into a peaceful and private lakeside setting, creates the truly unique venue.
The interior design is a reflection of the surrounding history, with these buildings once alive with the hustle and bustle of Worstead Estate. Each room tells its own tale, from the Thatched Barn with its striking detailed brickwork, vaulted ceiling and stunning chandeliers, to the natural light and airy space of the Mulberry Room.
Outside, the landscaped grounds provide a wonderfully romantic setting for drinks receptions, afternoon entertainment and photographs. Doors open onto the east facing courtyard, whilst the Thatched Barn opens onto the sun-kissed West Terrace; the perfect spot for an alfresco cocktail hour. The sweeping west lawn and romantic tree-lined paths guide you along a short walk to the private lake, with a beautifully restored boat house and bridged island.
The Woodyard is available for weekend hire. 50-120 guests can be comfortably seated for dinner in the room of your choosing. Each space can be decorated as you like, providing couples with the opportunity to create a unique indoor setting for their perfect day. For and outdoor ceremony, couples can opt for Lake Island, a breath-taking backdrop of leafy woodland and calm waters, seating up to 120.
Across from The Woodyard is Estate Cottage, our splendid Georgian cottage. Classic elegance and modern amenity combine to provide luxury accommodation throughout, with three double bedrooms, a private hot tub and games room, all set neatly within its own walled garden. Couples are offered priority booking on accommodation on the estate, providing an opportunity to enjoy an extended luxury weekend with up to 45 of their closest friends and family.
Personal Message from the Manager
Name of Wedding Contact: Marie Moore
Welcome to Worstead Estate, a family run working estate where we take great care in everything we do. Worstead Estate invites you and your loved ones to join us and become part of the estate's rich history. Our team will be on hand to make you and your guests feel at home on the estate just as we have done for so many years.
Please enquire for pricing for The Woodyard on Worstead Estate.
Exclusive weekend hire of The Woodyard, our stunning thatched barn and beautiful range of Norfolk brick buildings;
Exclusive use of the grounds surrounding the wedding venue, including the sun-soaked west lawn and picturesque lake island;
Our fully stocked and staffed bar;
Round tables and Chiavari chairs for up to 120 seated guests;
Priority booking of our self-catering cottages on and around Worstead Park, with private hot tubs, games rooms and outdoor dining, sleeping up to 31 of your bridal party and guests with an additional 2 cottages off site, only a short drive away and able to accommodate another 12 guests.
Our dedicated and experienced venue management team with on the day co-ordination
Describe the best wedding that happened at Worstead Estate ?
The best weddings are always the most relaxed weddings. Harriet, William and their guests enjoyed the beautiful weather and setting in such warm and relaxed company. Everyone one was there to enjoy themselves, and that's what counts.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Enjoy the process. It will all come together in the end so enjoy the planning process, and try not to stress or compare your ideas with others. Your wedding is meant to be about the two of you, and what the two of you love and enjoy, rather than worrying about the most recent trend or craze.
What’s your favourite personal touch you’ve seen at a wedding?
A firm favourite has to be the time a bride snuck off for dhol drum lessons every Sunday for 6 months. They had booked dhol drummers to announce the two of them into the room for the evening party - a nod to his Indian heritage, and once they were on the dance floor, she surprised him (and all the guests) with a solo dhol drum performance.
Describe Worstead Estate in 5 adjectives
Historic, natural, spacious, characterful and charming.
Where’s the best photo spot at Worstead Estate ?
The Lake Island during the golden hour before sunset is a favourite for couples. Dragonflies dance around the glass surface and a family of swans is often seen there as they nest on the island.
Have you had any celebrity guest or wedding at Worstead Estate ?
We are not in a position to mention our clients or guests by name.
What’s your favourite canapé?
Sukiyaki Wagyu beef canapé - they really do melt in you mouth.
What’s your favourite midnight treat?
Has to be a hog roast - there are many fantastic street food vans you can book for your wedding.
What is Worstead Estate most unique feature?
The setting of the venue is Worstead Park - a Humphry Repton landscape untouched for 100 years until now. It plays host to all kinds of wildlife including deer, otter, water birds and dragonfly. You really are isolated in nature with only your loved ones and wildlife for company.
What part of your business are you most proud of?
We are most proud of the care taken by all our staff in hosting guests on the estate.