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Price: £2,500 – £6,000
Guests: 120
Bedrooms: 18
Description
Description
More About the Venue
The best weddings aren't remembered because everything went perfectly. They're remembered because everyone felt together.
That's what we believe at Drovers Rest. Nestled beneath the Black Mountains on our 16th-century organic farm, we've created a place where weddings unfold naturally. Woodland ceremonies, long-table feasts, cooked over open fires, evenings around the fire-pit, dancing in the barn and breakfast together the next morning—it's all designed to bring people together.
We're proud not to be a wedding factory. We host fewer weddings each year so every celebration has the time, space and freedom to become completely your own.
A place to gather
For the time you're here, the farm is exclusively yours. Exchange your vows in our ancient orchard, woodland or beautiful barns before wandering through 40 acres of fields, gardens and forest with the people you love most. Every part of the day flows naturally from one space to another, creating moments that feel effortless rather than staged.
Fire-cooked feasts
As South Africans, cooking over fire is part of who we are. Your guests can watch the feast being prepared over open flames before generous sharing platters are brought to the tables, encouraging conversation, laughter and memories that last long after the last course. Finish the evening with cocktails, dancing and wood-fired pizzas fresh from the oven.
Stay a little longer
The celebration doesn't end when the music stops. Thirty-six guests can stay in our beautifully restored stone cottages and luxurious safari tents, with an additional pop up tent village available for larger gatherings in the summer. Wake up together, share breakfast and enjoy one last morning with the people who matter most.
Because some of the best moments happen after the wedding day itself.
Message from the team
Name of Wedding Contact: Kesri & Paul Smolas (Owner)
Thanks for stopping by our profile. We know choosing a wedding venue is a big decision, so we'd love to show you around the farm, answer your questions and hear what you're dreaming up. Every couple who visits imagines their day differently, and that's exactly how we like it. We hope to meet you soon.
Experience
Year Business Was Established
2023
No. of Weddings Hosted
Between 30 and 50
Public Liability Insurance
Yes
No. of People In Team
12
Overview of The Barn At Drovers
Wedding Venue Type
Barn / Farm
Wedding Venue Capacity
Dining Capacity
120
Reception Capacity
150
Wedding Venue Accommodation
No. of Bedrooms
18
Sleeps No. of People
36
Bridal Suite
Honeymoon Suite
Wedding Ceremony & Reception
Sound system available
Confetti permitted
Wedding license
Outdoor Ceremony Available
Choose from woodland, orchard, meadow or beautiful barn ceremonies. Fire ceremonies and open flames are welcome, but fireworks are not permitted to protect our animals.
Dancefloor available
Wedding Venue Details
Open Flame Permitted
Exclusive use
Bridal Changing Facilities
Pet friendly
On-site parking
Outdoor Reception Space
A 16th-century organic farm designed for relaxed wedding gatherings, with woodland or rustic barn ceremonies, fire-cooked feasts, stone cottages and luxury safari tent glamping
In-house wedding coordinator
Wedding Catering
In-House Wine List
In-house catering
Alcohol license
Asian catering
Vegan catering
Mediterranean
Middle Eastern
Indian
Western / European
African
Latin / South American
Caribbean
Eastern European
Chinese / Japanese
Bar
Signature - Fire-cooked feasts, Wood-fired Pizzas & Sharing Platters
Cultural Specialists
Other
Asian Wedding Specialist
Jewish Wedding Specialist
Pricing for The Barn At Drovers
Pricing for The Barn At Drovers
What's Included?
Exclusive use
Furniture included
Wedding coordinator available on the day
External caterers not permitted
Day before set up available
Multiple course wedding breakfast
We ensure there are no hidden costs, that's why we include everything in the venue hire fee (furniture, vat, staffing).
The onsite accommodation and any food surrounding the wedding day like, dinner the night before, breakfast the day of the wedding and brunch the day after is the only extra we have which is normally paid by your guests. Most couples take the venue for 2 or more nights. We do have a Day night price as well. Onsite Accommodation is available for 36 in permanent accommodation and then an extra 20-40 in a pop up tent village
Example Cost:
A typical wedding for 80 guests in 2027 in summer weekend hire will cost from £14,000 (includes venue hire + food & drink).
Accommodation eg. £181 pp for 2 nights accommodation, dinner the night before, breakfast the day of and brunch the day after
Hide detailsReviews (71)
- SSCOTT & ELLIE31/07/2026The Most Perfect DayThe Most Perfect DayMy partner & I got married at Drovers Rest in June, and it was an absolute dream come true! We knew from the moment we pulled in to the car park for our first visit that it would be the one after seeing its rustic charm, animals grazing and stunning grounds. After speaking to Kesri and the team this was solidified and no other venue came close - dog friendly, AMAZING food, alpacas & gorgeous accomodation- what more could you want?! We’re so glad that we went ahead with that decision, and chose Drovers to be the place we celebrated one of the most special days of our lives. Kesri was always just a message away when we had 100 questions during the build up, and they did all they could to help us get everything just the way we wanted. The team are so flexible with your choices and wishes, they did their best to accommodate to every wish or idea we had and wanted to get on board. The team were incredible the whole weekend too - from Paul picking me and my bridesmaids up in his 4 x 4 from Drovers Cottage in the pouring rain to take me to the rustic barn for the ceremony, all the way through to the chefs saving us the canapés we missed whilst having photos taken, and Kesri making bouquets out of the left over flowers we had to give to friends and family. There’s not a single guest who hasn’t commented on how incredible they all were, they made us all feel so welcome and like a part of their family. Our parents were especially impressed and grateful for all their efforts and kindness 🤍 The food was really amazing, and again, praised by everyone. We had a breakfast together the next morning for all guests who stayed on site, all freshly cooked on the fires outside which was such a special and unique touch to end the experience with our closest friends and family. All in all, it’s a truly wonderful and unforgettable place, with a team that go above and beyond for you, your family & your friends. Honestly, thank you so much for everything, you are the most kind-hearted and welcoming family, you’ve given us a day we will never forget, perfect from start to finish, and we would love nothing more than to do it all over again. But nevertheless, we will be back to stay in the glamping and enjoy one of your feasts off the fires and wander amongst the alpacas next summer ❤️ My partner & I got married at Drovers Rest in June, and it was an absolute dream come true! We knew from the moment we pulled in to the car park for our first visit that it would be the one after seeing its rustic charm, animals grazing and stunning grounds. After speaking to Kesri and the team this was solidified and no other venue came close - dog friendly, AMAZING food, alpacas & gorgeous accomodation- what more could you want?! We’re so glad that we went ahead with that decision, and chose Drovers to be the place we celebrated one of the most special days of our lives. Kesri was always just a message away when we had 100 questions during the build up, and they did all they could to help us get everything just the way we wanted. The team are so flexible with your choices and wishes, they did their best to accommodate to every wish or idea we had and wanted to get on board. The team were incredible the whole weekend too - from Paul picking me and my bridesmaids up in his 4 x 4 from Drovers Cottage in the pouring rain to take me to the rustic barn for the ceremony, all the way through to the chefs saving us the canapés we missed whilst having photos taken, and Kesri making bouquets out of the left over flowers we had to give to friends and family. There’s not a single guest who hasn’t commented on how incredible they all were, they made us all feel so welcome and like a part of their family. Our parents were especially impressed and grateful for all their efforts and kindness 🤍 The food was really amazing, and again, praised by everyone. We had a breakfast together the next morning for all guests who stayed on site, all freshly cooked on the fires outside which was such a special and unique touch to end the experience with our closest friends and family. All in all, it’s a truly wonderful and unforgettable place, with a team that go above and beyond for you, your family & your friends. Honestly, thank you so much for everything, you are the most kind-hearted and welcoming family, you’ve given us a day we will never forget, perfect from start to finish, and we would love nothing more than to do it all over again. But nevertheless, we will be back to stay in the glamping and enjoy one of your feasts off the fires and wander amongst the alpacas next summer ❤️
- SSam & Tom17/07/2026Incredible Woodland Wedding Incredible Woodland WeddingWe had the most wonderful wedding at Drovers. Kesri and the team were incredible throughout and made sure we had the most perfect day. The food was outstanding and it was such a lovely relaxed environment. We got married in the woodland, which was beautiful and all our guests stayed on site. The whole space of Drovers is just amazing. Honestly couldn't have asked for better. Would reccommend without a doubt. Magical & fully of whimsy. We had the most wonderful wedding at Drovers. Kesri and the team were incredible throughout and made sure we had the most perfect day. The food was outstanding and it was such a lovely relaxed environment. We got married in the woodland, which was beautiful and all our guests stayed on site. The whole space of Drovers is just amazing. Honestly couldn't have asked for better. Would reccommend without a doubt. Magical & fully of whimsy.
- HHayley & Jack16/10/2025A Dream Wedding at The Barn at DroversA Dream Wedding at The Barn at DroversA Dream Wedding at The Barn at Drovers We couldn’t have asked for a more magical venue than The Barn at Drovers for our wedding day. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the stunning setting, the rustic charm of the barn, and the peaceful beauty of the surrounding countryside. What truly made our experience exceptional, though, was the incredible team behind it all. Kesri, was a calming and reassuring presence throughout the planning process—always available, always kind, and full of helpful advice. Lola, was an absolute star. Her attention to detail, creativity, and dedication ensured everything ran smoothly and looked beautiful. Both made us feel completely at ease, and nothing was ever too much trouble. The staff on the day were equally amazing—friendly, professional, and genuinely invested in making our celebration special. Every guest commented on how well looked after they felt. We are so grateful to everyone at The Barn at Drovers for helping us create memories that will last a lifetime. If you're looking for a venue that combines natural beauty with heartfelt hospitality, this is the place!A Dream Wedding at The Barn at Drovers We couldn’t have asked for a more magical venue than The Barn at Drovers for our wedding day. From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by the stunning setting, the rustic charm of the barn, and the peaceful beauty of the surrounding countryside. What truly made our experience exceptional, though, was the incredible team behind it all. Kesri, was a calming and reassuring presence throughout the planning process—always available, always kind, and full of helpful advice. Lola, was an absolute star. Her attention to detail, creativity, and dedication ensured everything ran smoothly and looked beautiful. Both made us feel completely at ease, and nothing was ever too much trouble. The staff on the day were equally amazing—friendly, professional, and genuinely invested in making our celebration special. Every guest commented on how well looked after they felt. We are so grateful to everyone at The Barn at Drovers for helping us create memories that will last a lifetime. If you're looking for a venue that combines natural beauty with heartfelt hospitality, this is the place!
- MMeg & Rhys16/10/2025We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful venue or a more supportive team.We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful venue or a more supportive team.We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful venue or a more supportive team. Drovers is a stunning, peaceful setting that made our wedding feel like a dream. A huge thank you to Kesri and the entire team – your care, attention to detail, and calm professionalism made everything run so smoothly. From the picturesque ceremony space to the cosy accommodation and incredible food, every part of the day was perfect. We’re so grateful for the unforgettable memories. Highly recommended!We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful venue or a more supportive team. Drovers is a stunning, peaceful setting that made our wedding feel like a dream. A huge thank you to Kesri and the entire team – your care, attention to detail, and calm professionalism made everything run so smoothly. From the picturesque ceremony space to the cosy accommodation and incredible food, every part of the day was perfect. We’re so grateful for the unforgettable memories. Highly recommended!
- HHannah & tom16/10/2025If you’re considering having your wedding at Drovers - do it!If you’re considering having your wedding at Drovers - do it!If you’re considering having your wedding at Drovers - do it! We first went to view the venue 18 months before we got married and the magic of Drovers shone through immediately, despite it being a dreary January day. We chose Drovers as our venue without going to see anywhere else. Having had our wedding there last weekend, it was 100% the right decision. From start to finish, we couldn’t have asked for any more. The venue itself is amazing - the setting, the accommodation, the views, the barns, the animals! The food was something which drew us towards Drovers initially and it did not disappoint. Everything from the chilli on the Friday night, to the breakfast hampers, the wedding day feast and the Sunday brunch was just incredible. Seeing it come together right in front of our eyes was a highlight for everyone. If all of the above isn’t enough, the thing that stood out most to us about Drovers is the people - everyone who works there is kind, relaxed, cheerful and fun. So many guests commented on the team - on how close-knit they are and on what a wonderful atmosphere this creates. There is a sense of calm at Drovers, which I can only imagine is quite rare to find in the wedding industry, and it is absolutely priceless. We cannot thank Drovers enough for giving us a wedding weekend that exceeded all of our expectations and we would wholeheartedly recommend them.If you’re considering having your wedding at Drovers - do it! We first went to view the venue 18 months before we got married and the magic of Drovers shone through immediately, despite it being a dreary January day. We chose Drovers as our venue without going to see anywhere else. Having had our wedding there last weekend, it was 100% the right decision. From start to finish, we couldn’t have asked for any more. The venue itself is amazing - the setting, the accommodation, the views, the barns, the animals! The food was something which drew us towards Drovers initially and it did not disappoint. Everything from the chilli on the Friday night, to the breakfast hampers, the wedding day feast and the Sunday brunch was just incredible. Seeing it come together right in front of our eyes was a highlight for everyone. If all of the above isn’t enough, the thing that stood out most to us about Drovers is the people - everyone who works there is kind, relaxed, cheerful and fun. So many guests commented on the team - on how close-knit they are and on what a wonderful atmosphere this creates. There is a sense of calm at Drovers, which I can only imagine is quite rare to find in the wedding industry, and it is absolutely priceless. We cannot thank Drovers enough for giving us a wedding weekend that exceeded all of our expectations and we would wholeheartedly recommend them.
- NNatalie & Chris16/10/2025From the moment we turned into the drive at Drovers Rest, we knew this was somewhere special.From the moment we turned into the drive at Drovers Rest, we knew this was somewhere special.From the moment we turned into the drive at Drovers Rest, we knew this was somewhere special. The rustic barns, rolling hills, and sweeping views felt like a scene from a storybook. We parked up the cars, stepped out into the fresh countryside air, and instantly felt ourselves exhale. It was as if time slowed down. Our guests kept saying it felt like we’d all escaped on holiday together. The day unfolded like a dream. Sensational food was cooked over open fires right before our eyes – such a unique and magical sight. Every dish was plentiful, bursting with flavour, and beautifully presented. And the cheesecake… an unforgettable dessert that’s a must-have for anyone visiting – rich, creamy, and impossible not to go back for seconds. The team at Drovers Rest were more than staff – they felt like part of our wedding party. Warm, friendly, and quietly attentive, they not only made sure every moment ran smoothly but also took the time to chat with our guests, making everyone feel welcome and at home. As the sun set over the fields, we looked around at our friends and family smiling, eating, and celebrating together, and we knew this was the perfect place for our wedding. The only downside was how quickly the day went. For such a breathtaking and unique setting, the price was incredibly reasonable, and we’re already dreaming about returning for one of their special event evenings. Drovers Rest didn’t just give us a venue – they gave us a place we’ll carry in our hearts forever. Natalie - The BrideFrom the moment we turned into the drive at Drovers Rest, we knew this was somewhere special. The rustic barns, rolling hills, and sweeping views felt like a scene from a storybook. We parked up the cars, stepped out into the fresh countryside air, and instantly felt ourselves exhale. It was as if time slowed down. Our guests kept saying it felt like we’d all escaped on holiday together. The day unfolded like a dream. Sensational food was cooked over open fires right before our eyes – such a unique and magical sight. Every dish was plentiful, bursting with flavour, and beautifully presented. And the cheesecake… an unforgettable dessert that’s a must-have for anyone visiting – rich, creamy, and impossible not to go back for seconds. The team at Drovers Rest were more than staff – they felt like part of our wedding party. Warm, friendly, and quietly attentive, they not only made sure every moment ran smoothly but also took the time to chat with our guests, making everyone feel welcome and at home. As the sun set over the fields, we looked around at our friends and family smiling, eating, and celebrating together, and we knew this was the perfect place for our wedding. The only downside was how quickly the day went. For such a breathtaking and unique setting, the price was incredibly reasonable, and we’re already dreaming about returning for one of their special event evenings. Drovers Rest didn’t just give us a venue – they gave us a place we’ll carry in our hearts forever. Natalie - The Bride
- SScott & Ellie16/10/2025We knew from the moment we pulled in to the car park for our first visit that it would be the one after seeing its rustic charm, animals grazing and stunning grounds We knew from the moment we pulled in to the car park for our first visit that it would be the one after seeing its rustic charm, animals grazing and stunning groundsMe & my partner got married at Drovers Rest in June this year, and it was an absolute dream come true! We knew from the moment we pulled in to the car park for our first visit that it would be the one after seeing its rustic charm, animals grazing and stunning grounds. After speaking to Kesri and the team this was solidified and no other venue came close - dog friendly, AMAZING food, alpacas & gorgeous accomodation- what more could you want?! We’re so glad that we went ahead with that decision, and chose Drovers to be the place we celebrated one of the most special days of our lives. Kesri and Lola were always just a message away when we had 100 questions during the build up, and they did all they could to help us get everything just the way we wanted. The team are so flexible with your choices and wishes, they did their best to accommodate to every wish or idea we had and wanted to get on board. The team were incredible the whole weekend too- from Paul picking me and my bridesmaids up in his van from Drovers Cottage in the pouring down rain to take me to the ceremony, all the way through to the chefs saving us the canapés we missed whilst having photos taken, and Kesri making bouquets out of the left over flowers we had to give to friends and family. There’s not a single guest who hasn’t commented on how incredible they all were, they made us all feel welcomed and like a part of their family. Our parents are especially impressed and grateful for all their efforts and kindness 🤍 The food was amazing, and again, praised by everyone. We had a breakfast together the next morning for all guests who stayed on site, all freshly cooked on the fires outside which was such a special and unique touch to end the experience with our closest friends and family. All in all, it’s a truly wonderful and unforgettable place, with a team that go above and beyond for you, your family & your friends. Honestly, thank you so much for everything, you are the most kind-hearted and welcoming family, you’ve given us a day we will never forget, perfect from start to finish, and we would love nothing more than to do it all over again. But nevertheless, we will be back for a good camping holiday around the fires with the alpacas next summer ❤️Me & my partner got married at Drovers Rest in June this year, and it was an absolute dream come true! We knew from the moment we pulled in to the car park for our first visit that it would be the one after seeing its rustic charm, animals grazing and stunning grounds. After speaking to Kesri and the team this was solidified and no other venue came close - dog friendly, AMAZING food, alpacas & gorgeous accomodation- what more could you want?! We’re so glad that we went ahead with that decision, and chose Drovers to be the place we celebrated one of the most special days of our lives. Kesri and Lola were always just a message away when we had 100 questions during the build up, and they did all they could to help us get everything just the way we wanted. The team are so flexible with your choices and wishes, they did their best to accommodate to every wish or idea we had and wanted to get on board. The team were incredible the whole weekend too- from Paul picking me and my bridesmaids up in his van from Drovers Cottage in the pouring down rain to take me to the ceremony, all the way through to the chefs saving us the canapés we missed whilst having photos taken, and Kesri making bouquets out of the left over flowers we had to give to friends and family. There’s not a single guest who hasn’t commented on how incredible they all were, they made us all feel welcomed and like a part of their family. Our parents are especially impressed and grateful for all their efforts and kindness 🤍 The food was amazing, and again, praised by everyone. We had a breakfast together the next morning for all guests who stayed on site, all freshly cooked on the fires outside which was such a special and unique touch to end the experience with our closest friends and family. All in all, it’s a truly wonderful and unforgettable place, with a team that go above and beyond for you, your family & your friends. Honestly, thank you so much for everything, you are the most kind-hearted and welcoming family, you’ve given us a day we will never forget, perfect from start to finish, and we would love nothing more than to do it all over again. But nevertheless, we will be back for a good camping holiday around the fires with the alpacas next summer ❤️
- AAbi & Alex16/10/2025If we could sum up our personalities within a venue - this was - the one!If we could sum up our personalities within a venue - this was - the one!After viewing what felt like a hundred wedding venues, we were so happy when we came across Drovers Rest. If we could sum up our personalities within a venue - this was - the one! 12 months later and the team at Drovers absolutely smashed it, and gave us the best weekend of our lives and the perfect wedding which we’ll remember forever! Festival vibes, a fire cooked feast, a woodland ceremony and a party that lasted from Friday - Sunday ( quite literally ) - the onsite accommodation was perfect for all, and the relaxed atmosphere really took the stress away from everyone ( mainly me :) ) - Thankyou to the best team, who went far beyond what we ever expected. We can’t wait to visit you all again in the future for more great memories ( and food :) )! Much love guys! From Alex, Abi and all our guests!After viewing what felt like a hundred wedding venues, we were so happy when we came across Drovers Rest. If we could sum up our personalities within a venue - this was - the one! 12 months later and the team at Drovers absolutely smashed it, and gave us the best weekend of our lives and the perfect wedding which we’ll remember forever! Festival vibes, a fire cooked feast, a woodland ceremony and a party that lasted from Friday - Sunday ( quite literally ) - the onsite accommodation was perfect for all, and the relaxed atmosphere really took the stress away from everyone ( mainly me :) ) - Thankyou to the best team, who went far beyond what we ever expected. We can’t wait to visit you all again in the future for more great memories ( and food :) )! Much love guys! From Alex, Abi and all our guests!
- BBeth & Matt16/10/2025The specifics on food and the accommodation etc are very easy to describe, but what is difficult to explain is how I feel about the family and the venue now. The specifics on food and the accommodation etc are very easy to describe, but what is difficult to explain is how I feel about the family and the venue now.I was lucky enough to get married at Drovers Rest in August. What can I say... I fell in love with the farm, the family, the staff, the animals... The specifics on food and the accommodation etc are very easy to describe, but what is difficult to explain is how I feel about the family and the venue now. It almost feels like another home, and I am really looking forward to going back soon. For one short weekend we really felt like we were part of the family. Kesri and Paul made it so clear from the start that they would try and make whatever idea we had to come true. Luckily for them, we are pretty laid back people. The biggest and most important thing for us was that we, and our friends, felt comfortable and could enjoy the weekend as much as we possibly could. And they fulfilled that in every sense. Before the wedding, Lola and Kesri were really good with quotes, ideas, help, talking us through things and making sure we were really happy with everything. We also headed up to the venue for an open day and tried the INCREDIBLE food and had a good look around the cottages and the options for the ceremony. Paul showed us around and we had a really good laugh with him about ideas and what other people have done on site. We opted to have our ceremony in the woods, and it was truly beautiful. The sun came through the leaves and branches, and it is so quiet and peaceful. Then the drinks reception afterwards was a lot of fun. The bar is great, and all the team seem to get involved in making sure drinks are flowing. We had games and music and it felt really great in the shade of the sun. Then the team start to cook the food... in the courtyard with you. And people LOVE being able to see it being cooked in front of them. Service was great throughout the meal, and then we partied the night away... And I'm really glad to say that we got to party with the team. Marta (we love you!) and her daughter were dancing with us, Kesri and Paul joined us for toasts, and their children had a great laugh with us making cocktails and serving shots at the bar. And then we got to do it all again on the Sunday! I'll end by saying that it was genuinely getting a little awkward with the amount of our guests telling us how amazing everything was. This was no grand "pimp my wedding" style affair, but it was heartfelt, and done exceptionally well, and the two things that really made it were the amazing food and the incredible team. Everyone loved all the staff and the family, and every plate of food that was served was met with absolute joy, and whilst we (I) was happy to take a lot of the credit from our guests for a great wedding weekend, really it was down to Drovers to understand what we wanted, understand that (I think) we're on the same page in many ways, to deliver incredible food and drink, but mainly to just be themselves and to welcome us into their home for the weekend. KEsri, Paul, Family and Team. Thank you.I was lucky enough to get married at Drovers Rest in August. What can I say... I fell in love with the farm, the family, the staff, the animals... The specifics on food and the accommodation etc are very easy to describe, but what is difficult to explain is how I feel about the family and the venue now. It almost feels like another home, and I am really looking forward to going back soon. For one short weekend we really felt like we were part of the family. Kesri and Paul made it so clear from the start that they would try and make whatever idea we had to come true. Luckily for them, we are pretty laid back people. The biggest and most important thing for us was that we, and our friends, felt comfortable and could enjoy the weekend as much as we possibly could. And they fulfilled that in every sense. Before the wedding, Lola and Kesri were really good with quotes, ideas, help, talking us through things and making sure we were really happy with everything. We also headed up to the venue for an open day and tried the INCREDIBLE food and had a good look around the cottages and the options for the ceremony. Paul showed us around and we had a really good laugh with him about ideas and what other people have done on site. We opted to have our ceremony in the woods, and it was truly beautiful. The sun came through the leaves and branches, and it is so quiet and peaceful. Then the drinks reception afterwards was a lot of fun. The bar is great, and all the team seem to get involved in making sure drinks are flowing. We had games and music and it felt really great in the shade of the sun. Then the team start to cook the food... in the courtyard with you. And people LOVE being able to see it being cooked in front of them. Service was great throughout the meal, and then we partied the night away... And I'm really glad to say that we got to party with the team. Marta (we love you!) and her daughter were dancing with us, Kesri and Paul joined us for toasts, and their children had a great laugh with us making cocktails and serving shots at the bar. And then we got to do it all again on the Sunday! I'll end by saying that it was genuinely getting a little awkward with the amount of our guests telling us how amazing everything was. This was no grand "pimp my wedding" style affair, but it was heartfelt, and done exceptionally well, and the two things that really made it were the amazing food and the incredible team. Everyone loved all the staff and the family, and every plate of food that was served was met with absolute joy, and whilst we (I) was happy to take a lot of the credit from our guests for a great wedding weekend, really it was down to Drovers to understand what we wanted, understand that (I think) we're on the same page in many ways, to deliver incredible food and drink, but mainly to just be themselves and to welcome us into their home for the weekend. KEsri, Paul, Family and Team. Thank you.
- TTom & Leigh16/10/2025It was just perfect! It was just perfect!We got married at Drovers Rest in September 2025 and it's was just perfect! Kesri, Paul and the whole team were wonderful, they were there when we needed help or advice but they left you to really make the place your own! From the first enquiry to the day after the wedding they were available via WhatsApp for every little question we had. The food and accommodation was amazing and we are still getting compliments on all of the weekend from family and friends. We were a bit worried the week of the wedding with the weather not looking good so we changed from the forest area to inside last minute, but this was still just as beautiful and we couldn't make the day better if we tried! If you are wanting a relaxed, unique and beautiful weekend to celebrate your wedding then Drovers Rest is exactly what you are looking for... Plus super cute animals around every corner! We got married at Drovers Rest in September 2025 and it's was just perfect! Kesri, Paul and the whole team were wonderful, they were there when we needed help or advice but they left you to really make the place your own! From the first enquiry to the day after the wedding they were available via WhatsApp for every little question we had. The food and accommodation was amazing and we are still getting compliments on all of the weekend from family and friends. We were a bit worried the week of the wedding with the weather not looking good so we changed from the forest area to inside last minute, but this was still just as beautiful and we couldn't make the day better if we tried! If you are wanting a relaxed, unique and beautiful weekend to celebrate your wedding then Drovers Rest is exactly what you are looking for... Plus super cute animals around every corner!
Location & Contact Details for The Barn At Drovers
Location & Contact Details for The Barn At Drovers
Wedding Venue Address
Travel Notes
It's best to enter our venue Drovers Rest on Google Maps. 3 miles outside Hay on wye
Nearest Town
Hay on wye
Nearest Motorway & Junction
M4
Nearest Train Station
Hereford
Nearest Airport
Cardiff, Bristol, Birmingham
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FAQs
Find out a bit more from our FAQs
Can I bring my dog to the wedding?
Absolutely! We know dogs are family, and we'd love them to be part of your day. Whether they're proudly walking down the aisle, posing for photos or simply snoozing while you celebrate, well-behaved four-legged guests are always welcome. We just ask that someone keeps an eye on them so everyone—humans, dogs and our farm animals—have a wonderful time.
Is Drovers Rest accessible for guests with limited mobility?
Yes, with a few things to bear in mind. Our barns, bar and accessible toilets are all mobility friendly. As we're a 16th-century working farm, some of the outdoor areas have uneven ground, grass and gravel paths, which can make parts of the site more challenging.
If you've chosen our woodland or orchard ceremony spaces, we're always happy to help guests who need a lift in our 4x4, so they can enjoy the ceremony comfortably. If you have any accessibility requirements, just let us know—we'll always do our best to make sure everyone feels included and can enjoy the day.
Are you LGBTQ+ friendly?
Without question. We warmly welcome all couples and are committed to creating a space where everyone feels comfortable, respected and celebrated. Your wedding should reflect who you are, and we'll do everything we can to help make that happen.
Do you welcome fire ceremonies and African wedding traditions?
Absolutely. As South Africans ourselves, we understand how important it is to honour family traditions and cultural heritage. Whether it's a fire ceremony, symbolic rituals, traditional dress, music or customs that are meaningful to you, we'd love to help you incorporate them into your day. Every wedding is unique, and we'll work with you to create a celebration that feels authentic to who you are.
Is onsite accommodation mandatory?
Yes, for our main wedding packages. We ask couples to reserve our onsite accommodation for at least 36 guests, because it's one of the things that makes a Drovers Rest wedding so special. It means your closest friends and family can stay together, relax, celebrate into the evening without worrying about the journey home, and wake up together for breakfast the next morning. It's often those extra hours spent together that become everyone's favourite memories. Guests normally pay for their own accommodation. and food around the wedding loike the dinner the night before, breakfast the morning of and brunch the day after if its the multiple wedding gathering you are after
Can we add something special to the menu that's meaningful to us?
We'd love that. Some of our favourite wedding menus have included family recipes, cultural traditions and dishes with wonderful stories behind them. Food has an incredible way of bringing people together, so if there's something that's important to you, we'll always see what's possible.
What if the British weather has other ideas?
We've got you covered. We can easily move your ceremony into one of our beautiful barns, often at the last minute if needed. Whatever the weather, we'll make sure your day feels relaxed, seamless and every bit as special as you'd imagined. You don't need a Plan B—you simply have another beautiful option in our rustic barn
What are the top three reasons couples choose Drovers Rest?
1. Time together.
Our weddings aren't rushed. Whether you choose one day or a whole weekend, you'll have the time and space to truly enjoy the people you've invited, rather than feeling like you're racing through a timetable.
2. Food that brings people together.
Our South African-inspired fire-cooked feasts are more than a meal—they're part of the experience. Guests gather around the fires, watch the food being cooked and share generous platters around long tables, creating memories long after the last bite.
3. A wedding that feels like you.
We host fewer weddings each year so every celebration feels personal rather than off the shelf. From woodland ceremonies and bespoke menus to signature cocktails and meaningful traditions, we'll help create a day that's uniquely yours.
Why do couples choose a Weekend Gathering?
Because one day goes by in a flash. And of some couples they want to extend the celebrations. A weekend gives you time to welcome your guests properly, enjoy an evening together before the wedding, celebrate without watching the clock, and wake up together the next morning for one last breakfast. If your wedding is about more than just the ceremony—if it's about bringing your favourite people together—a weekend gives you the time to make the most of every moment.
How do payments work?
We know weddings are a significant investment, so we spread the cost over several payments rather than asking for everything upfront. Once you book, we'll send you a simple payment schedule with all the dates and amounts, making it easy to budget for your celebration.
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Bridebook Special OfferPrivate viewings for all Bridebook Couples can be arranged any day of the week
