Why choose an estate for your wedding?
An estate gives you room to spread out. Beyond the main house there are lawns, gardens, paddocks and often outbuildings, so the ceremony, the drinks reception, the dinner and the dancing can each have their own setting without anyone having to go far. Because you hire the whole estate exclusively, every one of those spaces is yours for the stay.
We have five estates for weddings, including Pulborough Estate in Pulborough, Toft Estate in Leek and Greenwood Estate in Hailsham. Each is booked by one couple at a time, so you can plan the weekend exactly as you want it.
Space for a marquee or an outdoor ceremony
Many couples choose an estate because the grounds can take a marquee or tipi, which means the guest list is not limited by the size of the dining room. An outdoor ceremony under the trees or by the water is often possible too, with an indoor plan ready in case of rain. Ask our team which estates allow marquees, where they can go, and whether there is power and access for suppliers.
What exclusive use includes
Exclusive use means the house, the bedrooms and the grounds are booked only for your wedding party. That usually covers the reception rooms, the kitchen, the gardens and terraces, and facilities such as hot tubs, pools or games rooms where the estate has them. You choose your own suppliers within the venue’s rules, and our team can help with local recommendations.
How many guests can stay?
Our estates sleep between 16 and 53 people, and five of them sleep 30 or more. That is usually enough for the wedding party and close family, with other guests in hotels, inns or cottages nearby. Extra day and evening guests can often join the celebration itself, so check the limit for each estate with our team. Use the Sleeps filter above to see only the estates big enough for your group.
Choosing the right estate
Start with the guest list: how many need a bed, and how many will join for the day. Then think about the setting you want – parkland and long views, a lake or river, woodland for photos, or a walled garden for drinks. Consider travel too: an estate within easy reach of a station or main road makes the weekend simpler for older guests. Our team knows each estate and can help you shortlist two or three to visit.
Planning your wedding weekend
Most couples book an estate from Friday to Sunday. Friday is for arriving, unpacking and a relaxed welcome dinner or barbecue with the people staying. Saturday is the wedding itself, with time in the morning for hair and make-up without anyone having to travel. Sunday brings a slow breakfast or brunch, a walk, perhaps a dip in the hot tub, and the chance to relive the day together before everyone heads home.
Having everyone under one roof also makes the practical side simpler: suppliers know where to come, the wedding party is never far away, and there is no rush to leave at the end of the night. Our team can help you plan the timings and point you to suppliers who know the venue.
Costs and when to book
Prices depend on the estate, the season, the day of the week and the number of nights. Summer Saturdays are the busiest, while spring, autumn and midweek dates cost less and are easier to find. Because one price covers the venue and its bedrooms, an estate wedding can compare well with a hotel. Most couples book 12 to 24 months ahead – enter your dates above to see which estates are free.