Immerse yourself in the romance and beauty of England’s smallest county – Rutland – on your wedding day.
If you’re looking for the ideal venue, the perfect engagement ring and a stylish wedding reception, look no further; Rutland has a huge variety of wedding venues and services on offer.
The county is an ideal Midlands wedding location if your guests are travelling from different ends of the country, with easy access from the A1, A47, and train services from Birmingham, Leicester and Peterborough stopping at Oakham Train Station.
The county boasts dreamy wedding venues, with everything from historic country houses, castles and waterside churches to grand golf clubs and beautiful gardens.
For your wedding breakfast, you can choose from a variety of in-house options at your chosen venue or perhaps enjoy something a little more alfresco, like a marquee near Rutland Water with a locally sourced buffet, hog roast or barbecue.
If you make Rutland your wedding destination you will have the opportunity to shop locally for wedding rings, gifts, the mother-of-the-bride outfit, wedding dresses, stationery and much more from the wealth of local boutiques, shops and creative talents that flourish in our picturesque county. Award-winning photographers are available and Rutland offers its natural beauty as a backdrop to provide a memorable wedding album. You can make good use of our talented hair stylists and make-up artists; they’ll come to visit you wherever you’re staying and ensure that you and your wedding party are picture-perfect.
For your hen or stag weekend there’s a range of action-packed or relaxing opportunities available. Take your pick from spa weekends and pampering to horse riding or the thrill of mountain bike riding through wonderful countryside.
To help you start your planning, here’s a checklist of local venues.
Oakham Castle is one of the finest examples of late 12th-century architecture in Europe and is licensed for Civil Partnerships and Marriage ceremonies. The Great Hall accommodates up to 125 people and has a fascinating history. It’s home to a large collection of lucky horseshoes that have been given by Peers of the Realm over the centuries (including members of our current Royal Family), making a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony.
Normanton Church is Rutland’s most famous landmark, which was saved from the depths of the reservoir when it was created. It now offers a unique wedding venue on Rutland Water, accommodating up to 102 guests. The history of this building, along with its location and elegant architecture, make it a wonderful venue for your special day.
Rutland Water Golf Course also offers numerous opportunities for a wedding with views of Rutland Water. A new marquee-lined barn and courtyard are available for up to 180 guests. Or you can take advantage of their bespoke wedding package with an alternative Tipi as well as full catering services.
Rockingham Castle was built by William the Conqueror as a royal fortress and looks out across five counties, making it an ideal location for a civil wedding ceremony or as a wedding reception venue. The Great Hall and Panel Room can accommodate 100 guests (seated) and if you’re considering a church blessing, Rockingham parish church, St Leonard’s, stands in the castle grounds, just a short walk away. While you’re having your photographs taken, your guests can be entertained at a drinks reception in Walker’s House, which is part of the Castle. If the weather is suitable, drinks can be served on the terraced lawn with the backdrop of the Castle and views over the Welland Valley.
Barnsdale Gardens New for 2021, Barnsdale Gardens now offers ceremonies in a beautiful bespoke oak arbour. Group photos can be arranged on manicured lawns or less formal photos can be captured in the woodland gardens. Barnsdale Gardens have even been known to arrange a quirky ‘wheelbarrow and wellies’ shot on the Allotment!
Barnsdale Lodge offers a choice of private function rooms, enabling it to accommodate a wedding from 20 to 180 guests. Their personal events organiser can offer advice and experience to create your perfect day. A team of chefs is available to provide the food, ranging from an informal finger buffet to a five-course dinner.
The Blue Ball at Braunston is a historic wedding reception and party venue in the rural Rutland village of Braunston, two miles from Oakham. You can discuss with them a range of flexible food, drink and entertainment arrangements from a sit-down silver service meal for 60, to a more informal buffet/party layout for up to 120 guests.
The Rutland Suite at the Victoria Hall in the centre of Oakham is a Victorian Grade II listed building with a rich history. The hall offers a location for weddings and parties within easy walking distance of several faith churches and Oakham Castle.
The Falcon Hotel is a 16th-century hotel sitting in Uppingham’s, Market Place offering a dedicated wedding team. Wedding rooms include The Oakroom, Clubroom and Garden Terrace, each with their own personality, hosting up to 130 guests.
Licensed for civil ceremonies Barnsdale Hall Hotel and Country Club is set in conservation parkland, overlooking Rutland Water, providing the perfect backdrop for photographs. Barnsdale Spa is also on hand to offer a pre-wedding package and assistance on your special day.
Dating back to 1881, Hambleton Hall is one of Britain’s finest country house hotels and enjoys membership of Relais and Chateaux and the Pride of Britain luxury hotel collection. Guests will be wowed by the dining experience as the Hall has the longest retained Michelin Star in the UK; an incredible 35 years. The Hall’s gardens and grounds cover 17-acres and are surrounded by Rutland Water.
Greetham Valley Hotel, Golf and Country Club features a contemporary style designed to accommodate both intimate receptions or celebrations with up to 200 guests. The large balcony enjoys picturesque views of the golf courses, and you will be well looked after by the wedding coordinator, who can offer a bespoke wedding service to create your ideal wedding.
Daniel Maclean Photography
