The Crown & Thistle Barn
Characterful Grade II listed coaching inn and event space at The Crown & Thistle, Abingdon-on-Thames, with licensed Barn and in-house catering.
Our renovated Barn function space for 80 seated guests
Adjacent private function room
Our Mediterranean-inspired menu
Completely bespoke wedding package to suit your needs
Our cosy, boutique bedrooms
Seated and Standing wedding receptions
Business details last verified on 11th of February 2026 by the Guides for Brides team.
Prices & Capacity
Prices
Typical Price: £5,500
Price Range: £1,000 - £13,325
Capacity
Ceremony: 80
Standing: 100
Seated Meal: 80
Accommodation
Sleeps: 40
About The Crown & Thistle
The Crown & Thistle sits on Bridge Street in Abingdon-on-Thames in a Grade II listed coaching inn with a history dating back to 1605, its restored buildings clustered around a cobbled courtyard framed by mature wisteria. The character of the inn remains visible in original timber beams, open brickwork and irregular window frames that run through the restaurant, bar and function spaces, alongside 18 boutique-style bedrooms each finished with their own décor.
For weddings and civil ceremonies, the venue offers two function rooms that can be hired individually or together, including The Barn, licensed for civil ceremonies and capable of seating up to around 80 guests or holding a larger standing reception. A private bar and PA system are included in venue hire, along with table linen, a cake stand and knife, and support from a maître d’ for the day.
Food and drink for celebrations are created by in-house chefs who prepare seasonal menus, whether this is a three-course meal or buffet, with drinks selections available from the pub’s cellar. On the wedding morning or the next day, couples and guests may use the restaurant space for breakfast to continue the occasion.
Accommodation for overnight stays is part of the experience, with each en-suite room offering free superfast Wi-Fi and room service. This allows the wedding party and guests to remain on-site through the celebrations and into the following morning.
The Details
Type of Ceremony
Civil ceremony licensed
Humanist / Celebrant weddings
Receptions Only
Venue Type
Boutique hotel
Barn
Small Hotel
Pubs, Bars & Restaurants
Additional Facilities
Honeymoon suite
Dance floor
Live music permitted
Discos permitted
Wedding coordinator
Onsite car parking
Licensed bar
Wedding packages
Bespoke weddings
Venue Setting
Town
Catering Options
Inhouse Caterers
Vegan
Contact & Location
The Crown & Thistle
Bridge Street, OX14 3HS, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
FAQs
No, unfortunately, we can only offer exclusive use of the function spaces and the hotel rooms should you wish to book those as well.
Yes.
No, we only have a license for indoor weddings.
Yes, we do allow corkage. Please enquire for prices.
No, we do not allow for outside catering as we are first and foremost a restaurant.
For weddings, we will always offer access to the room on the morning of and possibly the day before as well but this is dependant on whether we have any other functions the previous day.
Finish Times: Monday - Wednesday - 11PM, Thursday - 12AM, Friday & Saturday - 1AM & Sunday - 10.30PM. To be out by: Monday - Wednesday - 11.30PM, Thursday - 12.30AM, Friday & Saturday - 1.30AM & Sunday - 11PM.
Yes - live bands and DJs must finish by half an hour before the end time, at which point we will switch to house music until everyone leaves.
No.
No - this is the only decoration we do not allow.
Yes, if provided by the guest.
Yes - room 6.
Yes - 18 rooms.
There are other hotels in the area but none that are owned or managed by us.
Yes, the whole wedding party will recieve 20% off the B&B room rate on the night of the wedding.
Yes, the whole wedding party will recieve 20% off the B&B room rate on the night of the wedding.
We will offer access from 9am unless othwerwise requested. If the Barn is avialable the day before, you will be welcome to access the room then.
Why Couples Recommend The Crown & Thistle Barn
Couples consistently praise The Crown & Thistle for its exceptional service and beautiful rustic setting, which combine to create a perfect and stress-free wedding day. The staff are frequently described as a standout highlight, with many reviews commending the entire team for being incredibly helpful, professional, and accommodating from the initial planning stages to the event itself. Their seamless coordination and meticulous attention to detail ensure everything runs smoothly in the background, allowing couples to relax and enjoy their celebration, confident that every aspect is under control. The venue's barn is repeatedly called stunning and charming, creating a warm, rustic, and intimate atmosphere that captivates guests. Many feel its natural character, with exposed brickwork and wooden features, requires minimal decoration. The quality of the food and drink receives high praise, with guests often commenting on how delicious the wedding breakfast and buffet options are, and how efficiently the service is managed. The convenience of having beautiful on-site accommodation is also noted as a significant advantage, making the celebration feel more special. Furthermore, the venue is recognised for its clear, reasonable pricing and flexibility, working with couples to create a bespoke day that suits their individual budget and vision.
Customer Reviews
70 reviews
Need more?
We are featured in the following articles:
Discover articles and real weddings featuring The Crown & Thistle.
Suggested for you
We are recommended by
The Crown & Thistle is trusted by the following wedding businesses.
Download e-Brochure for The Crown & Thistle Barn
Just supply your name and email so The Crown & Thistle Barn can check if you have any questions.