5 Incredible Venues for Alternative Weddings
Planning a wedding that’s anything but traditional? You’re in luck. The East Midlands is home to some amazing, offbeat wedding venues that cater to couples looking to break away from the cookie-cutter mold. Whether you’re dreaming of an industrial-chic setting, a woodland ceremony, or a tipi festival vibe, these five venues offer something unique for your big day.
1. The Old Cow Shed, Leicestershire
If you’re all about rustic charm with a twist, The Old Cow Shed is your spot. This quirky venue offers a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere perfect for couples who want an intimate celebration without the fuss of a traditional wedding. The rustic barn, surrounded by the countryside, sets the stage for a day filled with laughter, love, and a few happy tears. With its blend of rustic elements and modern touches, The Old Cow Shed lets you infuse your personality into every corner, making it a perfect choice for alternative couples.
Why We Love It: The venue’s no-fuss, DIY approach means you can get creative with decor, whether that’s vintage furniture, eclectic florals, or a boho theme. It’s the ideal blank canvas for making your unique vision come to life.
2. Hirst Priory, Crowle – Woodland Wedding Magic
For couples who dream of an enchanting outdoor ceremony, Hirst Priory offers a stunning woodland wedding setting. Imagine exchanging vows under a canopy of ancient trees, with sunlight filtering through the leaves and the sounds of nature as your backdrop. It’s a magical, intimate experience that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Perfect for boho, festival-style, or even gothic-themed weddings, this venue allows you to embrace nature in its most beautiful, raw form.
Why We Love It: The woodland ceremony space is pure magic for couples who want a natural, earthy vibe. With the option to string up fairy lights, hang dreamcatchers, or create a petal-strewn aisle, you can bring a whimsical touch to your wedding day that’s straight out of a storybook.
https://www.hirstpriory.co.uk/
3. Scrivelsby Walled Garden, Horncastle – Tipi Festival Vibes
If a festival-style wedding is what you’re after, Scrivelsby Walled Garden is the place to be. This venue offers a secluded, enchanting space surrounded by historic brick walls and lush greenery. Picture a tipi or stretch tent set up in the garden, fairy lights twinkling as the sun sets, and a live band playing your favorite songs as you dance the night away. It’s the perfect spot for couples who want a relaxed, bohemian vibe with a focus on fun and celebration.
Why We Love It: The freedom to style the garden as you like — think festival flags, fire pits, and food trucks — makes this venue a dream for anyone looking to create a laid-back yet unforgettable party atmosphere. It’s all about bringing your vision to life in a stunning, natural setting.
https://wonderlandweddingvenues.co.uk/our-venues/scrivelsby-walled-garden-swg/
4. The Pumping House, Ollerton, Nottinghamshire – Industrial Elegance
For those who love the industrial-chic aesthetic, The Pumping House is a showstopper. This beautifully restored Victorian pumping station combines history with a modern edge, featuring high ceilings, exposed brick, and large arched windows that flood the space with natural light. It’s perfect for couples who want a stylish, urban wedding venue with plenty of character. Whether you’re leaning towards a minimalist vibe with clean lines or a bold, eclectic look, this venue can accommodate it all.
Why We Love It: The flexibility of the space allows for unique setups, from contemporary decor with neon signs and geometric details to vintage-inspired elements. The Pumping House is a versatile venue that lets you create a wedding day that truly reflects your style.
5. Kelham Hall & Country Park, Newark-on-Trent – Gothic Grandeur
For a dramatic, unconventional setting, Kelham Hall is an architectural gem. Its gothic-style features and grand halls make it a perfect venue for couples who want to embrace a darker, more romantic theme. Whether you’re into vintage, steampunk, or fantasy-inspired weddings, the hall’s impressive stonework, high ceilings, and stained-glass windows provide a stunning backdrop. It’s a venue that invites you to go all out with your creativity and make a bold statement.
Why We Love It: The venue’s unique gothic vibe offers endless possibilities for alternative themes. Imagine candlelit tables, velvet drapes, and a dramatic, moody color palette to set the scene for a one-of-a-kind celebration.
https://www.renaissance-kelham.com/weddings/
Ready to Plan Your Dream Alternative Wedding?
These five incredible venues offer something for every couple looking to say "I do" in a unique and memorable way. Whether you're planning an intimate woodland ceremony, a tipi festival, or a chic industrial celebration, the East Midlands has plenty of options to suit your vision. So, start exploring, get inspired, and prepare for a wedding day that’s as unique as your love story!