How convenient would it be to have your ceremony and reception at the same venue? No need for separate bookings or organising transport for your guests. Why should you have to give up your dream of a church wedding just to make everything a bit easier? So, here's our guide to choosing a wedding venue that has a church or chapel on-site with a selection of our top choices. Spoiler alert, they are gorgeous!
What are the benefits of having a church or chapel at my venue?
Imagine yourself, hand-in-hand with your partner at the gorgeous alter of a quaint chapel on the grounds of an incredible, historic venue. What a moment to remember! Aside from the romance of a wonderful, historic chapel as a place to say 'I Do', one of the main benefits to having your wedding at a venue which has an on-site church or chapel is the convenience of being able to book your reception and your religious ceremony in one place. This not only saves you the time and added cost of finding and booking two different locations, but also removes the potential headache of making sure that everyone can get between the two venues on time.
You might also find that it's easier to book an on-site chapel or church than it is to book one which is independent of your venue, particularly if the location which you have chosen for your reception offers exclusive hire. Plus, these buildings tend to be absolutely gorgeous!
Can I get married at a different church or chapel to my Parish?
If you are considering the possibility of getting married in an on-site church or chapel, but are a regular member of the congregation of another church, then you may need to make arrangements and tick certain boxes in order to make this happen. Remember, the religious wedding ceremonies in the UK which are legally-binding are Church of England, Church in Wales, Roman Catholic, Jewish or Quaker. If you are of another faith or denomination, you will need to have a civil ceremony for your marriage to be legally-binding.
If you wish to get married at a church that is not your own, you need to give a good reason as to why this is the case and prove a connection. For example, your parents might have been married at this church, you may have been christened there or you may have attended this church regularly in the past. You will need to provide the religious leader of the church or chapel you wish to be married in with this reason. Similarly, if you wish to have your religious leader from your regular church perform the ceremony, you will need to provide a reason for this too.
Finally, you may need to meet the requirement of habitual attendance at the church or chapel you wish to get married in. This does not have to be every single Sunday, but you will need to attend regularly for at least six months prior to your wedding date.
Even if you meet these requirements, the final decision rests with the leader of the chapel or church you wish to get married in. It is down to their discretion, so you may not get your wish. The best thing to do is to speak to them, as well as your own religious leader, and find out what their requirements are and whether they would be happy to accept your request.
Can I get married in my venue's on-site church or chapel even if I'm not religious?
The vast majority of people looking to marry in a church are those who have an affiliation with the Christian faith, whether because they were christened as a child or regularly attend a church currently. However, we understand that some couples may be concerned about this if, for example, their partner is not religious or they don't currently belong to a congregation.
Ultimately, this will depend on whether the church or chapel present at the venue is still used for religious purposes. If this is the case and neither of you belongs to the Christian faith, it is unlikely that you will be allowed to get married in a church or chapel. Again, it comes down to the discretion of the venue you wish to get married in, so you will need to speak to them. Ultimately though, it is important to remember that if this is a religious space, they are unlikely to allow a non-religious ceremony.
It will be a different situation if the venue's church or chapel has transitioned from being a place of worship and is now used for other purposes. In this circumstance, you may find that the chapel is simply another room available for ceremonies. The chapel must be licensed for civil ceremonies if you want the wedding to be legally-binding. However, if it is not licensed, you may be able to have a symbolic ceremony led by a celebrant in the space, and complete the marriage elsewhere, such as in a registry office.
How much does it cost to get married at a venue with a church or chapel on-site?
The cost of having your wedding at a venue with an on-site church or chapel will vary depending on a number of factors. Things such as the wedding date, the availability of the venue and the size of the venue will all have an effect on the cost, as will the wedding package you agree with the venue.
The best thing to do is to speak to the venue directly, look at the different prices and options on offer, and find an option that works for you.
Venues with Churches or Chapels On-Site
Here are our top recommendations for wedding venues that have a church or chapel on-site.
Ashridge House, Hertfordshire
Nestled in 190 acres of beautiful gardens, Ashridge House is a spectacular, award-winning wedding venue in leafy Hertfordshire. With grand, turreted façades and steeped in history, Ashridge House is a unique backdrop for an unforgettable wedding. Anglican blessings are available in the beautiful, Gothic Revival Chapel dating back to the 1800s. Also, Ashridge House can host a reception for up to 400 guests, perfect for a lavish celebration.
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Ashridge House Weddings
Plan your dream wedding at the enchanting Ashridge House, nestled amidst Hertfordshire's picturesque landscapes.De Vere Horsley Estate, Surrey
Set amidst acres of Surrey parkland, De Vere Horsley Estate has history and heritage at every turn. This exclusive use wedding venue, nestled in picturesque grounds, has been recently refurbished to provide a beautiful setting. A secret chapel set within beautifully tiled cloisters creates a truly magical atmosphere for your wedding day. Horsley Estate offers flexibility for you to create the wedding of your dreams. You have full use of three function rooms and the Towers Bar giving lots of flexibility for choosing which room for your wedding breakfast and then evening reception. So, Horsley Estate can be your castle for the day.
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De Vere Horsley Estate Wedding Venue
An exclusive use fairy tale castle, awaits you!Copdock Hall, Suffolk
Copdock Hall is situated in the Suffolk Countryside, the beautiful Tudor Barn is surrounded by rolling fields and a picturesque vineyard, opposite the local Parish Church of St Peter's. So if you are looking to have a religious ceremony, St. Peter's church is steps away, providing a seamless transition to your celebration through the churchyard gate and across the vineyard. As an exclusive use venue, Copdock offers you the experience of having the entire venue all to yourselves. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the barn can accommodate from 20 up to 200 seated guests.
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Copdock Hall
Discover Copdock Hall, the grandest Elizabethan barn wedding venue in Suffolk, with an evening courtyard, landscaped grounds and it's own vineyard.Abney Park Chapel, North London
For those wanting a church feel for their wedding, but a civil ceremony or celebrant led service, then Abney Park Chapel is a great choice. This venue has recently opened after undergoing major refurbishment. The space is available for wedding ceremonies and receptions for up to 70 people. Plus, the venue is surrounded by tranquil, historic and biodiverse green space which has been listed as a Grade II park on Historic England's register of parks and gardens. This makes it a perfect location for your wedding photos too.
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Abney Park Chapel, Stoke Newington
A stunning and unique North London wedding venue. Beautifully restored Grade II listed chapel.The Priests House, North Yorkshire
In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales is The Priests House, a magnificent, exclusive use wedding venue. The Priests House was originally a 16th-century chapel serving the Tower and the local area and consists of the House itself together with the newly renovated "Old Chapel". The Old Chapel has been sympathetically restored to its former glory. It can host ceremonies up to 90 guests and is ideal to also use for your wedding breakfast and evening reception venue too. With the breathtaking backdrop of the Grade 1 listed Barden Tower and the Upper Wharfedale valley, this venue boasts a fantastic historical setting with fabulous views.
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The Priests House
Unveil the beauty of "The Priests House," a historic wedding venue in North Yorkshire, where centuries-old charm and modern elegance intertwine.Hengrave Hall, Suffolk
Situated within a stunning 350-acre estate, Hengrave Hall is a beautiful, Grade 1* listed Tudor mansion which exudes historic charm. The historic church of St John Lateran is within a short stroll of the main house, dating back to the 13th century. This magnificent venue is available for Roman Catholic, Baptist, Methodist or United Reform Weddings, Church of England Blessings or any other denominational services. Blessings are then usually followed by a Civil Ceremony in the gorgeous Hall.
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Hengrave Hall Luxury Exclusive Use Wedding Venue
Exclusive use Grade 1* listed Tudor mansion in SuffolkBrympton House, Somerset
Described by Country Life as the most beautiful house in the UK, Brympton House is a gorgeous, Grade I listed mansion nestled in the Somerset countryside. Offering exclusive use, this luxurious wedding venue is an ideal mixture of old and new. For a religious ceremony, the beautiful 13th Century St Andrews Church is nestled in Brympton House's grounds. Described as one of the most 'stunning' churches in the UK, St. Andrews is an elegant and enchanting place for a wedding, lit entirely by candlelight.
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Brympton House Wedding Venue
Discover Brympton House, a stunning country mansion house wedding venue in Somerset, exclusively yours for your wedding dayMercure Warwickshire Walton Hall Hotel, Warwickshire
The 4-star Mercure Walton Hall Hotel is 16th century Grade II listed building with a wealth of character. The hotel is tucked away within 65 acres of private grounds. With only one wedding a day, it guarantees the perfect atmosphere and attentive service. The beautiful Church of England chapel is a Grade II Listed building, only a few steps from Walton Hall. The picturesque surroundings offer the most stunning photo opportunities, with a lake backdrop and countryside views.
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Mercure Walton Hall Hotel Wedding Venue
Celebrate your special day at the elegant Walton Hall Hotel & Spa, an enchanting wedding venue nestled in the heart of Warwickshire.Thicket Priory, North Yorkshire
Thicket Priory is a romantic and ethereal country house only 15 minutes from York. This secret gem was designed by the architect of Buckingham Palace and is set in 18 acres of idyllic gardens. One of Thicket Priory's most unique features is undoubtedly the glorious on-site chapel situated in the main building and able to seat up to 120 guests. Can there be a more romantic and intimate place in which to say “I Do” than this light-flooded space, with its original stained-glass windows and magnificent vaulted ceiling?
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Thicket Priory
Escape to Thicket Priory, a magical Yorkshire wedding venue. Unforgettable moments await in stunning grounds and stately interiors.St. Augustine's, Kent
At St Augustine's, every wedding is different as St Augustine's is one of the most unique wedding venues in Kent. The magnificent French-style Chapel at St Augustine's was built in the early 1900's and contains 350-year-old carvings from Paris, ensuring an unforgettable occasion. This deconsecrated chapel is available for religious, civil ceremonies, wedding breakfasts or receptions.
Nether Winchendon House, Buckinghamshire
Surrounded by 600 acres of parkland, Nether Winchendon House is a romantic Tudor country manor house set in seven acres of tranquil gardens. The beautiful Church of St Nicholas is just a 2-minute walk from Nether Winchendon House. This historic church dates from the early 13th Century but there has been a church on the site since Saxon times. Alterations to the interior did not occur after the early 17th Century. So, the Chancel and Nave have retained an elegantly simple appearance. It retains an enchanting character and atmosphere that can have changed little since the late 18th Century.
Nether Winchendon House & Barn
Enchanting Exclusive Use Wedding VenueFarnham Castle, Surrey
Located on five acres of stunning grounds, Farnham Castle continues its 900-year legacy of hosting lavish weddings. This romantic and elegant venue has two beautiful chapels. The Norman Chapel offers traditional and simple features with a wooden floor and a grand stone arch. On the other hand, The Bishop's Chapel is perfect for a more intimate ceremony with white walls and architectural design reflecting its rich history.
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Farnham Castle Wedding Venue
We are an exclusive, multi-award-winning ,historic, stunning, castle wedding venue. Your day will be truly unforgetable.Orchardleigh Estate, Somerset
Set on the Orchardleigh Estate, home to both Orchardleigh House and Elmhay Park, is St. Mary's Church. The church is set on its own secluded island, provides a truly enchanting backdrop. This charming setting, with a capacity of up to 100 guests, offers a traditional and intimate atmosphere for a religious ceremony. Its candlelit services and hand-pumped organ create a timeless and romantic ambiance, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding experience.
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Orchardleigh House
Our Amazing Three day Wedding Experience, Exclusive use for 60 to 250 guests, Drink & Dance 'til DawnSandon Hall & Park, Staffordshire
Sandon Hall is one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the heart of the Midlands. The country mansion's magnificent interior and picturesque gardens make it the perfect wedding location. The range of stunning backdrops include the majestic, 13th-century All Saints Church. Sandon Church is perfect for those wanting a traditional church wedding. Also, it is only a short drive—or carriage ride—from the house. So, the Hall is the perfect setting for all styles of wedding receptions from intimate gatherings to festival parties.
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Sandon Hall & Park Wedding Venue
Discover Sandon Hall & Park, a majestic stately home offering enchanting surroundings for your dream wedding day.If you're still on the hunt for the perfect church wedding venue then head over to our Guides for Brides church finder.