As the largest country in the south east of England, Hampshire boasts more than its fair share of stunning wedding venues, but sometimes less is more. When you’re on the hunt for the best wedding venues in Hampshire we think it makes life a lot easier to have a carefully curated list rather than all the options (which we hope you agree with).
To that end, we’ve sifted through all the options and come up with a pretty special selection of only the very best wedding venues in Hampshire. To ensure we’re covering all basis we’ve gone for a mix of styles to suit all tastes and budgets. While you might expect this little corner of England to boast beautiful stately homes – which it does – it also has some quirkier options if you’d prefer something a bit less traditional. Choose from all sorts of places, from farm and barns through to castles and even your very own vineyard.
Before you pick your top venue there are a few things to think about ahead of being in touch with the team. The first consideration is of course capacity, will they have room for all of your guests? The next is whether or not they restrict your choice of suppliers – if you want full autonomy and to pick your own caterer, for instance, then a hotel probably isn’t for you. Finally, make sure to have a good browse through any pictures of previous weddings at the venue on social media. This will give you a great idea of the styles that are possible, helping you to begin to plan your day.
One of the things we love about many of the best wedding venues in Hampshire is that lots offer on-site accommodation and in-house wedding planners and coordinators. Being able to have your closest friends and family stay with you around your wedding day is so special, and an extra hand on the planning front can never be a bad thing.
Lainston House, Winchester
What: A stunning location for couples wanting to host a wedding day in the countryside, Lainston House is a historic wedding venue that dates back to the 10th century. Set within 63 acres of land, the location is also home to a rustic barn and a pretty outdoor pavilion, giving you ceremony options inside and out. Larger wedding parties can also choose to use the vast outside space for a tipi or marquee.
Where: Winchester, SO21 2LT
Find out more: Lainston House
Cain Manor, Headley Down
What: With a license to hold ceremonies both inside and outside, Cain Manor is a flexible wedding venue in Hampshire, with sprawling grounds and a country house at its heart. The main space for receptions is within the gorgeous barn which boasts warm wooden beams and a neutral colour scheme. There’s room for up to 123 seated guests and there are 12 bedrooms too, meaning you can stay with your nearest and dearest on site.
Where: Headly Down, GU35 8SR
Find out more: Cain Manor
The Hospital of St Cross
What: A fun fact about this uniquely named wedding venue is that it was originally founded by the grandson of William the Conqueror in 1132. This site is also home to one of the oldest almshouses still running in the UK. The venue’s nearly 900-year old Norman church is licensed for Church of England ceremony and can also host receptions and evening celebrations - so couples can host their whole wedding from start to finish.
Where: Winchester, SO23 9SD
Find out more: The Hospital of St Cross
Chewton Glen, New Milton
What: Five-star Chewton Glen is renowned for its award-winning restaurant and luxurious onsite spa, so if you’re looking for somewhere to pamper your guests, this is the place. Packages start from £125 per person and include drinks, canapes and a three course meal. If you’d like to have more flexibility with your overall look and feel, there are various additionals you can opt for – from a band through to a handmade wedding cake.
Where: New Milton, BH25 6QS
Find out more: Chewton Glen
Clock Barn, Whitchurch
What: Warm wooden beams and clean white walls combine to make Clock Barn a bit of a dream wedding venue, giving you a gorgeous historic backdrop while simultaneously allowing for complete control over the décor. The team here are passionate about every couple getting their dream day, so will work with you closely to ensure each detail is exactly how you want it. We love the recent addition of The Stables, which is a luxurious prep space perfect for getting ready in before your ceremony.
Where: Whitchurch, RG28 7RB
Find out more: Clock Barn
Silchester Farm, Silchester
What: If the picture alone isn’t enough to convince you that Silchester Farm is one of Hampshire’s best wedding venues, how does on-site luxury accommodation and a built-in cocktail bar sound? This is one of those wedding venues where no stone has been left unturned and because it's offered on an exclusive use basis it’s entirely private too. Catering can be chosen from a list of trusted suppliers, while there is a choice of a spaces for things like your drinks reception.
Where: Silchester, RG7 2PS
Find out more: Silchester Farm
Rivervale Barn, Yately
What: The gorgeous outside space at Rivervale Barn is a huge selling point, as are the venue’s floor to ceiling windows which make even the inside feel like its outdoors in the most glorious way. We love the on-site pamper room for getting ready in and that the grounds present so many picture-perfect possibilities for your photos. Your day at Riverdale can be tailored to your specifications, but a typical wedding would run from the ceremony, through to a drinks and canapes recipe, finishing with dinner and dancing.
Where: Yateley, GU46 7SS
Find out more: Rivervale Barn
Fancy going further afield? Here's a round-up of the best wedding venues in Edinburgh