Venue inspiration from An Essex Wedding

Colchester Castle, Colchester

Located at the entrance of Castle Park, in Colchester, Essex, Colchester Castle is steeped in thousands of years of history and makes quite the wedding venue backdrop. Set in the heart of the town, and surrounded by manicured lawns and gardens, it's an idyllic backdrop for weddings. Crossing the grand drawbridge into the venue, guests enter the Norman castle, which dates back to the 11th century. The keep is mostly intact and is the largest of its kind in Europe. Inside, hundreds of artefacts dating back to the Romans provide unique entertainment for guests.

Little Easton Manor, Dunmow

Found in the heart of the Essex countryside, in Dunmow, Little Easton Manor estate is a precious piece of Essex history, with its 15th-century manor house being built on the foundations of a Medieval castle and recorded in the Domesday Book. The manor and its two magnificent barns proudly sit in 66 acres of glorious grounds, with lakes, manicured lawns, ever-changing seasonal flowers and resident peacocks!

Ivy Hill Hotel, Margaretting

Nestled in five acres of landscaped gardens, Ivy Hill Hotel, a wedding venue in Margaretting, Essex, is a family-owned 31-bedroom boutique hotel. Dating back to 1891, and with traditional values still very much at its core, this lovingly converted Victorian country house offers exceptional levels of comfort and service along with contemporary styling.

Greenwoods Hotel & Spa, Stock

A wedding venue located in acres of beautifully landscaped gardens in the picturesque village of Stock, Essex, Greenwoods Hotel & Spa is an idyllic big-day setting. Dating back to the 17th century, the impressive building boasts many original features, and recent extensions are in-keeping with the style of the original manor house.

Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf, Spa & Lodges, Colchester

Set in 300 acres of Constable country sits this award-winning and family-owned venue, which has been hosting weddings for more than 45 years. The rural hotel is reached via a long driveway, which passes between the stunning fairways of two championship golf courses. There are 80 en suite bedrooms and a two AA Rosette restaurant. In the winter, the hotel is transformed, with log fires burning apple wood from the owner's family farm. Guests will love the five luxury lodges for accommodation in a secluded, woodland setting beside a beautiful lake.

De Rougemont Manor Hotel & Suites, Brentwood

Nestled within the Great Warley Conservation Area near Brentwood, Essex, De Rougemont Manor is an elegant four-star country hotel wedding venue overlooking Italian-inspired gardens, acres of forest and a stunning outdoor swimming pool. The hotel is steeped in a rich history and remains in keeping with its traditional manor house style. Dressed with trees, manicured flower beds and hanging baskets, the eye-catching facade has an impressive yet inviting feel.

Marks Tey Hotel, Colchester

Surrounded by evergreen grounds, this hotel, based in Colchester, Essex is a wedding venue offering a warm welcome. Boasting traditional fixtures and fittings, the venue has a grand gallery landing for wonderful aerial photos. Weather permitting, there's plenty of outdoor space to soak up the sunshine with an al fresco drinks reception, and the front entrance is often used as a backdrop for group photos. Wedding guests can check in with preferential rates to take advantage of the excellent leisure facilities, including a pool, sauna and gym.

The Rose and Crown Hotel, Colchester

Built in the 14th century, making it Colchester's oldest hotel, The Rose and Crown Hotel is one of the town's most iconic buildings and an Essex wedding venue like no other. The interiors are brimming with period character and quirky artefacts, while oak-beamed walls create a romantic, cosy atmosphere. Bursting with heritage, the 39-bedroom hotel even has a prison in the basement! Step outside to find the Secret Garden and its jasmine-covered arbour.