Salcombe Crabfest 2024: All You Need to Know
Salcombe’s crab fishing industry is coming out of its shell from 10am on Sunday 5th May to celebrate Crabfest...
by Maria Makepeace / Events
It’s no surprise that South Devon is one of the UK’s most highly sought-after wedding hot spots. With its cool coastal elegance, unique characterful venues and beautiful countryside views, these exclusive wedding venues in South Devon offer a breath of fresh air for couples seeking to tie the knot somewhere truly special.
Perhaps you want to arrive at your wedding venue by boat, leave footprints in the sand or put your wellies to use at a rustic wedding celebration.
Whether it’s all frills and formal or laid back and natural, South Devon has a wide range of wedding venues to suit all tastes and budgets. From luxury properties to ballrooms and barns, you could even get married on a working farm, cows n’ all!
Use the quick links below to find out about a particular venue, or continue reading for our complete guide to the top wedding venues in South Devon:
Salcombe Harbour Hotel is one of South Devon’s ultimate waterside wedding venues. Overlooking the glistening waters of the Salcombe Estuary, with panoramic views across the sandy beaches of East Portlemouth, backed by woodland and rolling countryside, this is an enchanting wedding venue.
Couples can take their vows against the panoramic Salcombe estuary backdrop. Sip Champagne on the private outdoor terrace, and have breath-taking photos taken at the water’s edge. Or, a popular option amongst newlyweds is to head down to stunning North Sands or South Sands, to have that perfect wedding photo on the beach that you’ve been dreaming of.
Whether you are looking for an awe-inspiring venue for an intimate coastal wedding, or a superb backdrop for a grander affair, the versatility of the venue allows you to really make your day your own.
The iconic Marine Room has floor to ceiling windows opening onto a private outdoor wedding terrace. This South Devon wedding venue is equipped to hold civil ceremonies for a minimum of 40 guests with capacity to host up to 120 guests for an evening event. Featuring a wooden dance floor, integrated sound system and private bar, this is a great location to dance the night away.
For those seeking a more intimate setting, why not opt for their unique suite on the top floor. Framed by a spectacular view, you can share your special day with up to six guests and step out onto your own private balcony to toast your union in style.
For more information about weddings at Salcombe Harbour Hotel be sure to check out their website.
If you and your partner love the seaside then Cliff House could be the perfect venue for you. This historic waterside wedding venue is located in the heart of Salcombe, and boasts an elevated view of the stunning sandy beaches at East Portlemouth, the Salcombe estuary, and out to sea. All of which come together to create the perfect backdrop for your “I do” moment.
Situated in such a fantastic position, you and your guests can arrive by boat. Start your special day taking in the beautiful vista on the water. Boasting uninterrupted views, the terraces offer a large and versatile outdoor area, the ideal spot to have reception drinks and take memorable wedding photos. It is also perfectly suited to accommodate a marquee, which can be styled and decorated to suit the theme of your wedding.
Your ceremony can be held in either of their two stylishly decorated function rooms, each featuring original period features. Whether it’s a resplendent affair in The Grand Assembly Room for up to 150 guests, with its large bay windows and French doors leading out to the idyllic terrace, or an intimate ceremony in the elegant library for 100 of your loved ones.
They provide the flexibility for a completely bespoke wedding to suit different budgets and requirements. We can hear the church bells ringing already!
Find out more about weddings at Cliff House
It’s a match made in heaven! Here at Coast & Country Cottages, we have a range of large, luxury properties in stunning locations across South Devon, that make for the ultimate setting for the wedding of your dreams.
So, whether you hire one of our spacious holiday homes, or multiple cottages within the same vicinity. You can be sure to find a wedding venue as perfectly paired as you and your soon to be Mr or Mrs.
If you’re looking for an intimate, luxury affair in Dartmouth, then Barrington House is the perfect place for you to be wed.
This elegant Victorian property is one that exudes the wow factor from the moment you open the door, with elegant contemporary interiors and striking elevated views of the River Dart.
Boasting a manicured garden that looks out over the water, the vista simply inspires and reminds you that the world is your oyster. With adventures to look forward to, start making unforgettable memories from the moment you tie the knot.
A fun way to celebrate your big day and explore South Devon is to hire the Dart Explorer for your reception. This features a dance floor, a bar and can seat up to 80 guests for a formal dining experience.
Finding the perfect catering company for your special day may seem daunting. But with a little helping hand, you can be sure to tick hiring caterers off your to-do list.
Luckily, South Devon is a foodie hotspot! That’s why we’ve put together a selection of the best catering companies in the local area. These are sure to wow you and your guests with exciting flavours.
The best catering companies in South Devon
Soar Mill Cove Hotel is nestled in a valley just outside Salcombe amongst rolling National Trust land. If you want to tuck yourselves away somewhere really romantic, then the ‘cove calls’. Uninterrupted sea views, a welcoming family feel, award-winning food and a sandy cove as your playground are just some of the delights for the wedding party.
Whether your desire is for a relaxed sense of elegance, an intimate occasion, or a large wedding, they’ll help you turn your dreams into a reality. So why not make your day extra special, take advantage of the secluded seaside setting and incredible location with the hotel’s beach chauffeur. They’ll take you to and from the cove for some truly memorable wedding photos.
Or, perhaps you prefer to keep celebrating into the evening and relish that magical moment when the sun sets behind the horizon. Share the experience with your loved ones while dining on award-winning food, made extra special by the amazing view.
For a showstopper moment wow your guests at the after-party. Evening fireworks will take your breath away as the valley comes alive in the shimmering glow of the booming light.
The choice is entirely up to you. All of the weddings at Soar Mill Cove Hotel are bespoke and tailored to your special occasion, allowing you to make your wedding entirely personal and completely unforgettable.
View the Soar Mill Cove Hotel wedding brochure for more information.
Tucked away at the end of a winding country lane, near East Portlemouth, you’ll feel as though you have stepped into another world. Witness the incredible panoramic views from this idyllic location. From the dramatic cliff tops to the hidden sands below, Gara Rock is a gorgeous venue for your big day.
Feel like you’re the only people in the world as you say your vows to one another, with your closest friends and family there to share your special moment. Whether your heart is set on a relaxed and intimate day, or something a bit more traditional or formal, you can choose to wed in the open air or indoors. From two to 130 guests, all you need to do is choose the location and they’ll take care of every little detail.
With seating for up to 130 guests, their restaurant offers the perfect setting to celebrate in style. If it’s a relaxed and casual atmosphere you aspire to have, then the terrace, which can host a maximum of 180 guests, is a wonderful spot to enjoy canapés and toast champagne alfresco. For a more intimate affair, The Lounge is a stylish and cosy option to make the most of the views on chillier days and have a drink in the bar.
If you’re looking for somewhere with real wow factor, then Gara Rock is the destination for you.
Visit the Gara Rock Hotel website
The Barn at South Milton is a delightful, renovated barn that has not lost an inch of rustic charm. In an elevated position, it enjoys panoramic views over the rolling Devon countryside, beautiful coastline and beyond. With views overlooking the horizon and across the rugged coast, the courtyard provides the perfect location for reception drinks and appetisers.
There are two beautiful barn areas. The larger of which is great for big weddings of up to 120 guests, the smaller adjoining barn is perfect for intimate weddings of between 15 and 50 guests. Both the courtyard and barn provide a wonderful blank canvas so you can create your ideal wedding. For those all-important wedding snaps head over to the beach at Soar Mill Cove or South Sands.
For more wedding information check out The Barn at South Milton’s website.
Situated on the headland just above the town of Salcombe, East Soar Farm is the perfect place for those seeking a venue with oodles of character and rustic charm. For an experience like no other, there are a selection of refurbished barns that will suit all your needs.
Mingle with guests and have pre-celebration drinks in their characterful Walkers’ Barn. Or, enjoy a warm log burner complete with fairy lights for a dreamy intimate celebration with 50 of your closest friends and family.
If it’s a larger celebration you’re looking for, the newly refurbished main wedding barn with rustic wooden tables, wooden shutters and seating for up to 140 guests is the perfect location to celebrate a laid-back, special wedding day.
Watch the sunset and enjoy sea views over Bolt Head and the South West Coastal Path in front of the firepits, or make friends with the resident animals! For nearby holiday accommodation, why not take a look at our range of nearby Bolt Head apartments.
Find out more about East Soar Farm weddings.
In the heart of an Area of Outstanding National Beauty, overlooking the meandering River Avon in Loddiswell, offering far-reaching views of the countryside and beyond. Sturtlebury Barn is one of South Devon’s newest wedding venues.
A mix of both contemporary and rustic design, the venue can accommodate up to 80 seated guests, or up to 110 guests for a more informal celebration. On one side, a large, sheltered gravelled area offers beautiful views – the perfect spot for drinks and canapés. On the other side, a paved area is a real sun trap.
When the sun is shining, make the most of the large sliding doors at both sides of the building. Allowing you and your guest’s space to celebrate both indoors or outdoors and admire the scenic surroundings. Sturtlebury Barn is conveniently located just a few miles from the bustling town of Kingsbridge, an idyllic location for loved ones to stay and use as a base to explore the beautiful South Hams.
Visit the Sturtlebury Barn website for more information.
Nestled on an island off the rugged South Devon coast, near Bigbury, surrounded by golden beaches and glistening sea, Burgh Island is one of Devon’s most iconic locations.
The Burgh Island hotel has a fascinating art deco history and represents the epitome of the Art Deco movement. For those wanting to experience this time in history, it’s considered one of the foremost places to see and experience Art Deco in Europe at its best and most authentic.
For something truly special on your wedding day, why not hire the island for an exclusive wedding for up to 50 guests. Sit back, relax in splendid surroundings and enjoy a truly unique wedding occasion. Sip champagne while listening to a live band playing 1930’s classical or jazz music.
You would be hard-pressed to walk down the aisle in a more romantic location, set on an iconic tidal island, surrounded by dramatic coastline and the golden sands of Bigbury-on-Sea. Follow in the footsteps of Winston Churchill, The Beatles, and Dame Agatha Christie and be a part of history on your special day.
Delve into all the details about this incredible location, and luxury retreat in our guide to Burgh Island.
Find out more about a weddings at Burgh Island Hotel here.
A new addition to South Devon’s array of wedding venues. The Grain Store has been lovingly transformed into the perfect venue for your special day.
Situated in the beautiful Start Bay, on the site of a traditional English farm, The Grain Store is a magical place to spend your big day. The tasteful neutral layout and interior, complemented with soft, atmospheric lighting creates a special atmosphere for you to share your special day with loved ones.
If you have always dreamed of getting married by the sea, their seafront field is the perfect place for ceremonies and blessings whilst listening to the waves.
Situated at the foot of one of the farm’s rolling fields, looking out over beautiful Beesands, with sweeping views from Start Point to Dartmouth, this location is like something out of a fairy-tale. Whether you choose to wed under a floral arch, under a canopy or clear blue sky, this is a truly special location to spend your wedding day.
For more information on weddings at The Grain Store check out their website.
Positioned on the outskirts of the picture postcard village of Thurlestone, this epic hilltop venue looks out towards iconic Burgh Island and the popular beaches of Bantham and Bigbury-on-Sea. The field is huge and a completely blank canvas, meaning there is plenty of scope to handcraft the wedding of your dreams.
Choose your own marquee, layout, style and interior furnishings to provide you with a stunning wedding venue. You’re free to personalise the space and make it one in a million, allowing you the chance to get creative. You could even go for a quick surf before the service! So, if you fancy watching the wave-riders or sunset on your wedding day then this is it.
Field marquee sites have grown in popularity over recent years. This special spot at Bantham allows you to make your wedding yours, without overwhelming limitations.
Find out more about the Bantham Bash Wedding Venue.
On a few limited occasions throughout the year, The Sharpham Trust open the estate to those looking to get married. All proceeds from each wedding day go towards the upkeep of the estate. The house is situated on the banks of the River Dart, overlooking beautiful rolling countryside and the renowned Sharpham Vineyard. This whimsical setting oozes romance.
Start your wedding day by having your reception and drinks in the manicured grounds and gardens, with breathtaking views out of the River Dart. Inside this fabulous manor, traditional interiors exude historic charm and grace. With a feature oval, cantilevered staircase, where many have said their vows on the steps, you’ll be able to feel like a real king and queen.
The entrance hall and staircase can be used together, to accommodate up to 120 people. Or, share your special day with 60 guests in either The Maurice Ash Room, with artwork by Sarah Gillespie, The Octagonal Room with views over the River Dart and Sharpham Vineyard, The South Wing Hall, or the ornate Music Room with original fireplace and grand piano.
Choose from one of their hand-picked caterers who specialise in locally sourced, seasonal produce. Or take advantage of the in-house catering provided by the trust for wholesome and tasty vegetarian food that has garnered many plaudits.
View The Sharpham Trust website for more information.
Kingston Estate is a Georgian Grade II listed building oozing charm and elegance, nestled amongst South Devon’s stunning countryside, near Totnes. One of the UK’s most stylish, extraordinary and exclusive wedding venues. It proudly heralds the status of being voted one of the top 20 wedding venues in the UK by the London Evening Standard.
You would be hard-pressed to find another venue that’s considered by historians to be one of the finest surviving Georgian residencies in Devon. Say your vows in this lovingly and meticulously maintained manor house. The owners pride themselves on being a unique wedding venue, hosting bespoke wedding celebrations to provide a lifetime of happy moments.
From the ceremony to the after-party, the estate’s very own secret vaulted nightclub, The Undercroft is the perfect place to raise a glass to the happy couple and dance the night away.
Visit the Kingston Estate website for more information on their bespoke wedding packages.
Exclusive, relaxed and romantic, Shilstone has been described by many as one of the most stunning wedding venues South Devon has to offer. Boasting a unique pairing of traditional and contemporary style, The Georgian manor house is timeless in design.
Set within 500 acres of rolling countryside, within a secluded valley just outside of Modbury, you can choose from an indoor or outdoor ceremony, enjoying a slice of South Devon paradise.
In the spring and summer months, ceremonies take place inside the rustic Ceremony Barn or outdoors in their East Garden. Following the ceremony, guests are welcome to explore the perfectly landscaped gardens and courtyards before dancing the night away in the stunning Mughal Marquee during the summer.
For a truly cosy, exclusive and charming winter wedding, celebrate with up to 80 of your closest family and guests in the Ceremony Barn, natural light-filled Terrace Room, and romantically lit Botanical Atrium. Considering every detail the team will strive to ensure that your wedding is a truly personal celebration, filled with sumptuous food, fine beverages and outstanding service.
Contact Shilstone for more information on your dream wedding.
Set in beautiful and secluded grounds in South Brent, Glazebrook House is a luxurious boutique wedding venue for your special day. Create a tailor-made wedding package with the team to ensure you craft the perfect celebration.
The enchanting atmosphere and stunning British revival décor offers an ideal event destination for weddings. Whether you choose to have your ceremony at the top of the wide staircase, a more traditional affair in the restaurant, or in the enchanted garden, the choice is up to you.
Licensed to hold civil ceremonies and with seating on sumptuous leather chairs for 64 guests, or more available with use of their dining room seats, enjoy the very best in local food and drink, with an impeccable but relaxed service.
For more information, download the Glazebrook House wedding brochure
Weddings are one of the most important occasions in anyone’s life, so why not celebrate it in a truly unique setting. The ethos of ANRÁN is to celebrate your matrimony over at least three days instead of just one!
ANRÁN is the ultimate luxury boutique venue that’s unlike any other. The Glass House has an enormous transparent ceiling, and the tropical plants are a sight to behold. It’s like being outdoors at any time of the year and dining under the stars. Bringing the outside in, you’ll be able to wow your guests with minimal decorations as the room speaks for itself…
The estate has lots of covered venues on offer. From partying in the old Nissen Hut with unique curved ceiling and quirky crystal chandeliers to enjoying a hog roast in The Hay Barn, every aspect of your big day will be covered.
The 14-bedroomed property encompasses an 18th-century courtyard, and a country manor house all set amidst 200 acres. The stunning greenery, lakes and ornamental lily pond provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. They’ll be your treasured possession for years to come.
Visit Anran’s website for more information regarding their unique wedding venue.
Planning a wedding can (at times) be a little stressful. Arranging additional accommodation for your wedding guests may not be the top priority on your ‘wed-min’ to-do list.
At Coast & Country Cottages, we have a wide range of holiday properties that are perfect for your wedding party. From cosy thatched cottages, waterside apartments and countryside retreats nestled in unspoilt spots around the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, our properties provide the perfect setting for special occasions and extended family gatherings.
View our range of luxury holiday homes
by Maria Makepeace / Events
I love the South West and ensuring visitors to the region have the best experience possible. That's why I love sharing local tips ...
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