Notley Abbey

Set in private riverside grounds dotted with lavender, Notley Abbey is impossibly romantic. The beauty of its ancient monastic architecture, tranquil walled garden and long, tree-lined driveway creates one of England’s most exquisite settings for celebration. Couples can choose to marry in the intimate Abbot’s Hall, the original main room of the house, or the spectacular, barn-like Monks’ Refectory. Outside, surrounded by wisteria in season, the walled garden makes the perfect backdrop for a summer ceremony al fresco. As guests mingle with bottomless Prosecco or Pimm’s, it’s time for your photoshoot – framed by the lime trees of the abbey’s long drive, or on the lawn with the house as your backdrop. The Grade I listed Monks’ Refectory hosts up to 164 for your three-course wedding breakfast beneath glittering crystal chandeliers, prepared with panache by Notley Abbey’s experienced banqueting chefs, and up to 250 for an unforgettable evening reception. Later, steal away to the enchanting bridal suite as your nearest and dearest settle into nine characterful bedrooms – graced, over the years, by famous guests from Henry VIII to Marilyn Monroe. Naturally, you’ll share breakfast (and stories of the night before) together the next morning. Exclusively yours for 24 hours, this is a house with a long tradition of exuberant celebration. With 25 years’ experience in planning and hosting dream weddings, yours is in the best of hands.