Swanley Meadows

Swanley Meadows is a family-run tipi wedding venue located in the Cheshire countryside, near Congleton and Macclesfield.

Set on a farm cared for since 1958, the venue offers open fields, ancient trees, and the quiet of the countryside, while remaining within easy reach of the M6. Seasonal wildflower borders and young woodlands frame the tipis, giving each moment a distinctly natural backdrop. Wildlife, including deer, owls, hares, and buzzards, adds to the sense of connection with the environment, reflecting the family’s long-term commitment to conservation.

Couples can exchange vows beneath the ancient beech tree, with sunlight filtering through its branches and the gentle sound of birdsong as a natural accompaniment. For shelter or wet-weather contingencies, ceremonies may take place within the tipis or an additional stretch tent. Swanley Meadows is licensed for civil ceremonies and also welcomes celebrant-led, humanist, or blessing ceremonies, allowing every couple to create a meaningful and personal experience.

The heart of Swanley Meadows is its stunning tipi reception space, thoughtfully designed to blend beautifully with its natural surroundings. The linked tipis can seat up to 150 guests for dining and host evening celebrations of up to 200, with open or closed sides in summer and cosy firepits for when the sun goes down.

Outside, guests can enjoy drinks receptions on the meadow, surrounded by open countryside. Hay bales, outdoor seating, and festoon lighting create a relaxed and sociable atmosphere, while music, laughter, and the soft glow of the sunset make for a truly unforgettable experience.

The indoor and outdoor spaces are wonderfully flexible, allowing couples to tailor the day exactly as they wish. There’s plenty of room for lawn games, outdoor entertainment, or creative extras. Whether planning an intimate gathering or a full-scale festival-style celebration, the layout at Swanley Meadows gives couples the freedom to bring their vision to life.

For couples and guests who wish to fully embrace the countryside and skip the taxi home, Swanley Meadows works with trusted bell tent partners who can provide luxury onsite glamping accommodation. These beautiful tents offer comfort and adventure, allowing guests to enjoy the great outdoors for just a little bit longer.

Beyond the venue, Swanley Meadows is surrounded by a fantastic range of local accommodation options. Within a short drive, guests will find boutique hotels, cosy B&Bs, country inns, and self-catering options in Congleton and Macclesfield. The venue provides a curated list of recommended stays for couples and their guests.

Swanley Meadows gives couples the freedom to create a dining experience that truly reflects them. The tipi dining area comfortably seats up to 150 guests, with additional space for evening food, grazing stations, or interactive catering options.

Couples can choose from a trusted network of local caterers or bring in their own suppliers. From sharing feasts and fine-dining banquets to BBQs, grazing tables, and street-food vans, the tipi layout lends itself perfectly to relaxed, sociable dining in the heart of the countryside.

The venue’s fully functioning copper Airstream bar offers flexible and reasonable drinks packages, with options for professional service or a more personalised approach. Whether providing cocktails, prosecco, or soft drinks, the bar team ensures every guest enjoys an inviting and well-stocked experience.

Swanley Meadows is deeply committed to environmental stewardship. Conservation includes wildflower meadows, tree and hedge restoration, and habitats for wildlife. Couples can take part in ceremonial tree planting, leaving a living legacy on the farm. Local suppliers, recycling, and waste reduction are central to operations, while ongoing projects continue to enhance biodiversity and the wider landscape.

The venue sits in picturesque Cheshire countryside, with Congleton and Macclesfield offering boutique shops, cafés, traditional pubs, and local hotels. The Peak District National Park is a short drive away, providing scenic walks and charming villages. For city excursions, Manchester is under an hour by train, while local farm shops and country walks allow guests to fully embrace the rural surroundings.

• Swanley Meadows is located 10 minutes from Congleton, 15 minutes from Macclesfield, and 45 minutes from Manchester, with easy access to the M6 and A34.
• Macclesfield station links directly to London in 2 hours and 30 minutes and Manchester in 20 minutes.
• Manchester and Liverpool airports are 30 and 60 minutes away, respectively.
• Clear signage and ample parking make arrival simple, while the surrounding countryside ensures privacy and a sense of escape.