Choosing the right venue is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding. It sets the tone for the whole day, it’s where you’ll say “I do,” and it’s where all your favourite people will come together to celebrate. That’s a lot of things to tick off your list, but we genuinely believe you can’t go wrong with a barn, especially if it’s nestled in the Cotswold countryside.
So, if you’re still weighing up your venue options, let us help. Here are our top five reasons to choose a barn wedding venue, and why barn wedding venues in the Cotswolds are pretty hard to beat…
1. They are the perfect mix of rustic charm and modern luxury
The best barn wedding venues bring together the beauty of original features – think exposed beams, stone walls and vaulted ceiling – with all the modern comforts you need to celebrate in style. At Lapstone Barn, we’ve worked hard to keep the soul of our 18th-century barn intact while giving it the love and updates it needs to feel effortlessly elegant. We’ve retained every bit of 18th-century charm, while adding luxurious touches like our bridal area, a state-of-the-art sound system, and a beautiful on-site bar. So yes, you can have twinkling fairy lights, a roaring fire and a banging sound system, all with a hearty dose of rustic charm!
2. Breathtaking backdrops, whatever the weather
One of the best things about barn wedding venues in Gloucestershire is how beautifully they sit within the natural landscape – and trust us, the Cotswolds never disappoints! Rolling hills, golden stone, and sweeping countryside views make the most magical setting for your ceremony, party and all-important photos. And Lapstone Barn, set in a rural location just outside Chipping Campden, is a photographer’s dream. But what happens if the British weather throws a curveball? Our indoor spaces are just as beautiful, so you’ll be well-covered (literally).
3. Everything is all in one place
One of the biggest perks of barn venues is how they are often perfectly set up to host every part of your day. Rather than moving between locations, everything happens in one stunning spot. At Lapstone Barn, you can get ready on-site in our thoughtfully-designed space, the Hayloft, walk down the aisle in our gorgeous Grade II listed Stone Barn, enjoy your drinks reception in the courtyard or the bar, and dance the night away in our atmospheric Northwick Barn – all without setting foot in a car. We also have luxury on-site wedding accommodation right next door, so you and your loved ones can relax and celebrate all night long.
4. There’s space to make it your own
No two barn weddings are the same, and that’s exactly how we like it. With flexible spaces and a neutral, stylish backdrop, barns give you the freedom to really personalise your day. Whether you’re planning a whimsical wildflower vibe, a luxe candlelit dinner or a full-on disco bash, the space adapts to you. We’ve had couples arriving on tractors, installed dramatic treescapes, put up retro photo booths and more – and our team is always on hand to help bring your ideas to life. Read about some of the other ways couples have personalised their day in our blog Arriving in style – unique wedding transport ideas.
5. An atmosphere like no other
There’s something incredibly special about a barn wedding. It’s warm, it’s welcoming, and it invites everyone to relax and enjoy the moment. And because barn venues like ours are set up specifically for weddings, everything is set up to run like clockwork. Our experienced team knows exactly how to keep things running smoothly so you can soak up every second, right up until the music finishes at 1am. Whether it’s a big celebration or an intimate gathering, barn weddings have a magic all of their own that makes them completely unforgettable.
Your Barn Wedding Questions Answered
We know picking a venue is a big decision, so here are a few of the questions we get asked most often about barn wedding venues:
Are barn weddings expensive?
They can actually be more cost-effective than you think, especially when everything is under one roof. With ceremony, reception and accommodation all in one place, you’ll often save on transport and logistics. Plus, Lapstone Barn is an exclusive-use venue, so you’re getting the entire place to yourselves.
How convenient is a barn venue?
One of the major benefits of barn wedding venues in the Cotswolds is their all-in-one nature. With on-site facilities, easy parking, and local accommodation nearby, it’s all about convenience for you and your guests. And the Cotswolds is just 90 minutes from London – rural charm with an easy commute!
Can we have our ceremony on-site?
Absolutely. At Lapstone Barn, we’re licensed for civil ceremonies, so you can hold your wedding indoors or outdoors (weather depending, of course). No need to travel between venues – just one beautiful setting for your whole day.
Do barn weddings work in winter?
Barns are the cosiest, most romantic spots for a winter wedding. Think candlelight, roaring fires and warm, rustic vibes. We love winter weddings at Lapstone – there’s just something magical about them.
Is there flexibility for styling and suppliers?
At Lapstone Barn, we want your wedding to reflect you, so we offer plenty of flexibility with styling, florals and finishing touches. We also have a list of fantastic local suppliers, but you’re welcome to bring your own, too.
Curious about having a barn wedding?
We’d be delighted to show you around Lapstone Barn and answer any other questions you have. Whether you’re local or planning a Cotswolds destination wedding, we’re here to help you make it magical.
Get in touch to book a tour – we can’t wait to meet you!
