Wedding Venues Around Cambridge: 5 Beautiful Options for your Wedding Day
Cambridge isn’t just a city of history and academia—it’s also a stunning place to get married. Within a 30-minute drive from the city centre, couples will find a mix of elegant estates, rustic barns, and one-of-a-kind venues that combine charm, convenience, and photographic beauty.
This guide highlights five of the best wedding venues near Cambridge, each offering something unique—whether you’re after countryside tranquility, a fairytale setting, or a place to host an unforgettable party. We’ve also included insider planning tips to help you confidently choose the perfect spot.
1. Longstowe Hall (Southwest of Cambridge)
Style: Historic Manor House + Lakeside Garden
Capacity: Up to 150 seated
Starting Price: Venue hire from £6,500+
Link: https://longstowehall.co.uk/
Why It’s Special: A romantic, privately owned 19th-century hall with formal rose gardens, a heart-shaped lake, and a stunning oak-framed Long Barn for receptions. The grounds are meticulously kept, and the backdrop is tailor-made for elegant, floral-filled weddings.
What to Know:
- Civil ceremony license
- On-site parking and dedicated wedding team
- No on-site accommodation, but partner hotels nearby in Cambourne and Cambridge
Tip: Perfect for summer weddings—don’t miss the photo ops on the lakeside bridge.
2. South Farm (Royston area)
Style: Eco-Friendly Farm & Garden Venue
Capacity: Up to 146 seated
Starting Price: Packages from £5,000–£12,000+
Link: https://south-farm.co.uk/
Why It’s Special: A working organic farm with colourful Romani caravans, an orchard for outdoor ceremonies, and a Tudor-style farmhouse. South Farm is a favourite among couples looking for rustic charm, sustainability, and exceptional food (most of it grown on-site).
What’s Included:
- Exclusive use of the whole venue
- Accommodation for 24 guests
- In-house catering focused on seasonal, local produce
Insider Tip: Their off-peak discounts for winter weddings are generous—and the farmhouse glows with candlelight.
3. The Willow Tree (Bourn, 20 mins west of Cambridge)
Style: Boutique Pub Garden Venue
Capacity: 30–100 seated
Starting Price: Packages from ~£3,000 for intimate weddings
Link: https://thewillowtreebourn.com/
Why It’s Special: A hidden gem with a whimsical garden marquee, fairy-lit trees, and cozy indoor dining. Ideal for smaller weddings or relaxed celebrations with gourmet pub food and countryside vibes.
What You’ll Love:
- Flexibility with guest numbers
- Magical at twilight with festoon lighting
- Excellent in-house catering with creative flair
Caution: Best for more intimate weddings—space is limited if you’re planning a large party.
4. Childerley Long Barn (Dry Drayton)
Style: Rustic Barn in Historic Grounds
Capacity: 140–180 seated
Starting Price: From £4,500+ (venue only)
Link: https://www.childerley.org/
Why It’s Special:
A spacious, 19th-century timber barn on a working farm estate, surrounded by wildflowers, orchards, and historic gardens. It blends rustic architecture with a blank-canvas setup, giving you total creative control.
Good To Know:
- Dry-hire style, but with excellent recommended suppliers
- Civil ceremony license
- Easily accessible from the A428
Pro Tip: Use the glass-fronted garden room for canapés and drinks—it’s a serene transition between the ceremony and barn reception.
5. Madingley Hall (Northwest of Cambridge)
Style: Tudor Mansion with Formal Gardens
Capacity: Up to 100 seated
Starting Price: Packages from £4,500+
Link: https://www.madingleyhall.co.uk/
Why It’s Special: Owned by the University of Cambridge, this stately venue offers grandeur without pretension. The gardens are exquisite, the architecture dramatic, and the service polished. You can get married indoors or outside under their historic pergola.
Logistics:
- In-house accommodation for guests
- Licensed for civil ceremonies
- On-site parking, 10 mins from central Cambridge
Tip: Ask to view the Saloon Room—it’s perfect for smaller ceremonies or an elegant wedding breakfast.
Planning Advice & Local Tips
How Far in Advance to Book:
For summer or weekend weddings, aim to book 12–18 months ahead. Some venues like South Farm and Longstowe fill up quickly during peak months (May–September).
What to Ask During Venue Visits:
- Do you require exclusive suppliers?
- Are there corkage fees if we bring our own wine?
- Is there a backup plan for rain if the ceremony is outside?
- Can we stay the night, or is there nearby accommodation?
Red Flags to Watch:
- Vague pricing or unclear package details
- Limited access time on the wedding day
- High additional charges for essentials (tables, linens, etc.)
Cost-Saving Ideas:
- Consider weekday or shoulder season weddings
- Look for venues with inclusive catering and accommodation
- Share transport for guests from central Cambridge