Planning a wedding in the Cotswolds and want something that’s chic, relaxed, and so you? You’re in the right place.
I’ve photographed at some of the most gorgeous wedding venues in the Cotswolds – the kind that let you slow down, soak it all in, and celebrate with intention (without feeling like you’re stuck in a production line). These are places I know well, trust deeply, and wholeheartedly recommend to couples who care about the vibe, the light, and the experience.
Here are 6 venues to check out – 5 I’ve shot, and 1 I’d absolutely love to.
✨ 1. Elmore Court – Editorial, elegant, and effortlessly cool
This place is just a dream. You’ve got the grandeur of a historic home, wild meadows for portraits, and a modern, soundproof party barn (the Gillyflower) hidden behind the trees.
Elmore Court blends 750 years of heritage with bold, creative energy – thanks to owner Anselm Guise, a former festival founder and record label owner. When he inherited the estate in 2007, he brought that musical spirit with him, building the Gillyflower – a soundproof, eco-conscious party barn made from rammed earth and reclaimed estate materials. It’s not just beautiful.. it’s built for celebration. And I am HERE for it!
🎯 Why it works:
Effortless natural light and character in every corner. It’s editorial without ever feeling staged
Spacious, thoughtfully designed prep rooms that make the morning feel calm and unhurried
Dreamy golden hour light just steps from the dance floor, no need to disappear for ages
- It’s hands-down my favourite venue to shoot, and the team there make it even more special.
📸 Photographer’s note: The whole day flows like a story here. No chaos, just emotional, editorial moments that unfold naturally.
👉 Elmore Court is one of my all-time favourites for editorial-style weddings. You can visit their official site here to check out the Gillyflower and house layout – and if you want a photographer who’s already shot there, here’s what it looks like through my lens.
📩 Planning your Elmore wedding? Let’s chat.
🌿 2. Cripps Barn – Rustic, romantic, and full of soul
If you want a barn with real warmth, atmosphere, and fire-cooked food? Cripps Barn has that nailed. It’s candlelit, cosy, and unpretentious: perfect for couples who want a chilled but meaningful day.
🎯 Why it works:
All-in-one venue: ceremony, dinner, dancing
Stunning woodland backdrop for portraits
Fire pit, fairy lights, and food that guests rave about
📸 Photographer’s note: Every corner has mood and texture – perfect for storytelling and sneaky golden hour escapes.
👉 See Cripps Barn
📩 Thinking of Cripps Barn? I’d love to hear about your plans.
🔥 3. Stone Barn – Moody, modern, and cinematic
Stone Barn mixes industrial textures with romantic vibes. Corrugated iron walls, candlelit dinners, a huge open indoor BBQ kitchen – it’s bold but still intimate.
🎯 Why it works:
A stunning winter venue. Candlelight, festoon lights, and built-in warmth make it feel intimate and inviting even on the coldest days
The open kitchen adds theatre to the reception. Guests can watch fire-cooked feasts being prepared right beside them
Surrounded by golden fields and wild countryside – ideal for romantic portraits in every season
📸 Photographer’s note: If you love visual storytelling and want a bold-but-beautiful backdrop, this one delivers.
👉 Explore Stone Barn
📩 Let’s talk about your Stone Barn wedding
🌾 4. Kingscote Barn – Stylish, warm and surrounded by views
Kingscote Barn is one of those venues that just feels good. Tucked into rolling hills, it’s full of warm stone, gorgeous prep spaces, and that peaceful countryside energy couples love.
🎯 Why it works:
Huge, light-filled prep barn with room for your crew
Scenic backdrop for portraits in every direction
A warm, welcoming team that makes the day run smoothly
📸 Photographer’s note: It’s the kind of venue where moments unfold easily. The light is soft, the space is flexible, and the energy always feels relaxed.
👉 Kingscote Barn weddings
📩 Planning a Kingscote Barn wedding? Let’s talk
🪵 5. The Barn at Upcote – Rustic charm, courtyard vibes, and effortless flow
Hidden away in the hills near Cheltenham, The Barn at Upcote is a gem of a venue. It’s got that perfect mix of traditional Cotswolds stone and relaxed, modern styling. The central courtyard makes everything flow naturally – ceremony, drinks, dinner, dancing – without ever feeling rushed.
🎯 Why it works:
Beautiful on-site ceremony barn with tons of light
A private, tucked-away feel (but still accessible)
Courtyard layout makes for smooth transitions and easy guest movement
📸 Photographer’s note: I love how self-contained and peaceful this venue is. The space is great, the gardens catch gorgeous light, and the whole day unfolds with minimal stress. It’s ideal for couples who want a chilled, countryside vibe without sacrificing style.
🌐 Visit the venue website →
📩 Planning your Upcote wedding? Let’s talk
🌾 6. Lapstone Barn – Light-filled, calm, and just gorgeous
Lapstone is full of golden stone, soft textures and space. The prep area looks like a boutique apartment, and the ceremony room has huge windows that flood it with natural light.
🎯 Why it works:
Gorgeous prep space + courtyard for mingling
Works equally well in summer and winter
Elegant but not stiff – think “slow wedding” vibes
📸 Photographer’s note: This venue is made for real moments – you don’t need to fake anything here. It just flows.
👉 Visit Lapstone Barn
📩 Want your day captured here? Let’s chat
🧭 Choosing Your Cotswolds Venue
There’s no one-size-fits-all. But if you’re looking for a wedding day that’s relaxed, beautiful and true to you, these venues are a great place to start.
💌 Want someone who knows the vibe you’re going for, and how to capture it?
📩 Let’s talk about your wedding plans
LET'S TALK
You’re not just booking a supplier. You’re inviting someone into the middle of your story.
I’ll be there for the nerves, the laughter, the beautiful chaos - and I’ll make sure it all feels like you.
Drop me a message, tell me your story, and let’s make something honest and unforgettable.
