Dreaming of a wedding with sweeping lawns, grand houses, and a touch of classic English heritage? A country estate might be just what you’re looking for. These venues bring together centuries of history, exclusive-use, and beautifully-manicured gardens in one place. And the best part? Many of the finest country estates are less than an hour from London.
Below are - in no particular order - ten of the best private estate wedding venues near London as chosen by our team of luxury wedding planners. Each has its own style and unique charm, giving you plenty of inspiration for your perfect day.
Hedsor House, Buckinghamshire
Hedsor House is a Georgian mansion set high above the Thames Valley. The grand staircase and light-filled Centre Hall make striking settings for vows, while its blend of classic architecture and modern versatility works for all styles of celebration.
Why it’s Unique: Hedsor has featured in films and TV shows including The Golden Compass and The Crown. Couples often love the idea of marrying in a venue with its own Hollywood credentials.
“Hedsor House” by Steve Way, CC BY 2.0
Cliveden House, Berkshire
Hedsor House is a Georgian mansion set high above the Thames Valley. It feels impressive as soon as you arrive. Inside, the grand staircase and light-filled Centre Hall make beautiful ceremony settings. Couples love the mix of historic details with spaces that work for both classic and modern weddings.
Why it’s Unique: Meghan Markle stayed at Cliveden the night before her wedding to Prince Harry - giving the estate a modern royal connection to add to its long history.
“Cliveden House” by Roderick Eime, CC BY-ND 2.0
Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire
This 18th-century manor is now a luxury hotel surrounded by 500 acres of rolling parkland. It balances the calm of the countryside with the high-end service of the Four Seasons brand, making it ideal for weekend weddings and extended celebrations.
Why it’s Unique: Outdoor ceremonies in the pretty gazebo, surrounded by gardens and open views, are simply unforgettable.
Euridge Manor, Wiltshire
Euridge Manor is one of the most enchanting country estates in England. Known as The Lost Orangery, it offers Italianate-style gardens, sparkling lakes, sweeping staircases, and even a boathouse. It feels like stepping into a secret world, mixing English romance with Mediterranean elegance.
Why it’s Unique: The estate has its own private castle ruins within the grounds, creating a wedding backdrop unlike anything else in the UK.
Ashridge House, Hertfordshire
Once a royal residence, Ashridge House offers some of the most impressive architecture near London. Its vaulted ceilings, sweeping staircases, and marble details give ceremonies a dramatic feel. The grounds are equally special, perfect for exploring with a photographer.
Why it’s Unique: The gardens were designed by Capability Brown, one of England’s greatest landscape designers.
“GOC Berkhamsted & Frithsden 047: Ashridge House, Little Gaddesden” by Peter O'Connor aka anemoneprojectors, CC BY-SA 2.0
Micklefield Hall, Hertfordshire
Micklefield is an intimate country estate with a 16th-century tithe barn at its heart. The barn’s oak beams and atmospheric design make it a wonderful space for feasting and dancing.
Why it’s Unique: The estate has its own historic water meadow and Roman temple, both listed monuments, offering couples a truly unusual backdrop for wedding photographs.
Wotton House, Surrey
Wotton House is full of character and quirks. Inside, you’ll find vaulted ceilings and stylish event spaces. Step outside and there are Italian-style gardens, complete with fountains, temples, and 17th-century grottoes. It’s a venue that feels creative and a little different.
Why it’s Unique: The estate was once the family home of famous writer John Evelyn, whose publishings on gardens shaped English landscaping. It’s no wonder the grounds here are so inspiring.
“Wotton House - Surrey” by Mark, CC BY 2.0
Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace is one of the most grand and recognisable country estates in the UK. With 2,000 acres of landscaped parkland and exquisitely ornate interiors, it offers a breathtaking backdrop for a wedding on a truly epic scale.
Why it’s Unique: Birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill and home to the Dukes of Marlborough, Blenheim combines history and splendour like nowhere else. Few venues can match its scale and prestige.
“Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire” by Visit Oxfordshire, CC BY-SA 2.0
Cornwell Manor, Oxfordshire
Cornwell Manor is a romantic Georgian house set within the Cotswolds, complete with rose gardens, a lakeside setting, and one of the most beautiful private pools in England. It’s a favourite for couples looking for understated luxury and a quintessentially English countryside feel.
Why it’s Unique: Cornwell Manor has often been used as a film set for period dramas, thanks to its picture-perfect gardens and interiors that seem frozen in time.
Heckfield Place, Hampshire
Heckfield Place is a Georgian manor turned luxury hotel, blending heritage with a modern, eco-conscious ethos. It’s set in 400 acres of Hampshire parkland, with orchards, lakes, and wildflower meadows. The interiors are stylish and contemporary while still feeling warm and personal.
Why it’s Unique: Known for its sustainability, Heckfield grows much of its produce on its own estate farm and has become a leader in “green luxury.” A wedding here combines beauty with a thoughtful ethos.
What wedding planner should you choose for a luxury country estate wedding in the UK?
At Matthew Oliver Weddings, we are private estate wedding planners that have organised weddings at many of these venues. We understand the features and unique quirks of these spaces to enable us to plan amazing events.
We also boast a unique network of trusted local suppliers that help add all the touches that can elevate your wedding from special to truly unforgettable! We also often work with couples from other countries who need a local UK wedding planner for a destination wedding.
If you’re considering a luxury country mansion near London, please get in touch with Matthew Oliver Weddings today. Our friendly team would love to hear more about the plans for your big day!
