The Barns Withygate

Set at the end of a hedge-lined lane, scattered with wildflowers, The Barns at Withygate sit peacefully in a secluded valley on the edge of Exmoor. Surrounded by fields and woodland, these old stone and cob barns offer a beautiful blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance, with breathtaking views over the rolling hills of the North Devon countryside, dotted with grazing sheep and bathed in golden light.

The Barns at Withygate offer a variety of beautiful spaces to host your ceremony. Indoors, the stunning Pillar Barn, with its restored stone pillars, oak flooring and gallery, offers a timeless and elegant setting, filled with natural light and rustic character. The gallery provides a unique vantage point for musicians to perform during the ceremony or for capturing a beautiful photograph of the entire wedding party gathered below.

For those dreaming of an outdoor celebration, you can choose between the central courtyard, enclosed by the character and charm of the original barns, or the lawn to the west, where open skies and far-reaching countryside views create a truly memorable backdrop. The comfort and shelter of the Pillar Barn are always available as a fallback should the weather change.

For couples wishing to hold a traditional church ceremony, several beautiful parish churches are located nearby within a short drive of Withygate.

After your ceremony, reception drinks can be served outside in the beautiful central courtyard or on the lawn and terrace, perfect for mingling with guests while enjoying views across the Devon countryside. Or in the Pillar Barn, a stylish indoor alternative. At the far end of the Pillar Barn, a fully staffed bar is revealed.

Up to 140 guests can be seated in the Cob Barn for your wedding breakfast, with a layout that suits your style, from long banquet tables to round tables. The meticulous restoration of this space has preserved its original character, with exposed stone walls, topped with traditional cob, and soaring ceilings featuring original trusses adorned with string lights. This timeless charm is beautifully balanced with contemporary features, tall glass windows that flood the room with natural light. The result is a space filled with warmth, atmosphere, and just the right amount of sparkle, the perfect setting to gather, dine, and celebrate.

A geothermal heating system ensures the barns stay cosy on cooler days, while solar panels, a professional sound system, and flexible lighting offer modern comfort with a sustainable edge.

There’s ample space beside the lawn for evening food options, such as wood-fired pizza or a hog roast, a fun, relaxed addition to your celebration.

As the sun sets, the courtyard and gardens are gently lit, creating a magical setting for evening drinks, conversation, and stargazing. Inside, The Cob Barn comes alive with dancing and celebration, making it the perfect end to an unforgettable day.

Thanks to the area’s natural appeal, there’s an abundance of accommodation nearby, from cosy B&Bs and countryside cottages to stylish hotels, making it easy for you and your guests to find the perfect place to stay.

Wherever possible, traditional materials such as lime mortar, lime render, and cob have been used to preserve the character of the historic barns while minimising environmental impact. Heating is provided by a ground-source geothermal system, delivering an efficient and eco-friendly way to keep the spaces warm throughout the year.

A 30kW solar array supplies the majority of the venue’s electricity during the summer months, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy. The Barns at Withygate also draws from its own natural water source, offering a clean and self-sufficient supply for the site.

With Exmoor National Park on the doorstep and the dramatic North Devon coastline just a short drive away, The Barns at Withygate is perfectly placed for couples and guests looking to extend their celebration into a weekend escape.

This part of the country is known for its extraordinary natural beauty – think wild moorland, wooded valleys, and the rugged, surf-lashed coastline. Hike to the top of Dunkery Beacon for panoramic views, explore the ancient clapper bridge at Tarr Steps, or take to the famous Tarka Trail on foot or by bike. For those seeking adventure, try mountain biking across Exmoor, coasteering at Croyde, or pony trekking across the open commons.

Discover charming fishing villages along the coast, enjoy a pub lunch in one of the many country inns, or spot the iconic Exmoor ponies on a Land Rover safari. And when night falls, Exmoor’s status as a Dark Sky Reserve means the star-filled skies are nothing short of spectacular.

For those craving a slower pace, nearby Barnstaple (11 miles) offers a rich history, independent shops, and markets. In comparison, South Molton, located 7 miles away, is a traditional farming town with a warm, local character.

• Just 7 miles from the market town of South Molton and 13 miles from Barnstaple, the venue is well connected via the M5 (Junction 27), the North Devon Link Road (A361), and the A399 to Brayford.
• For those arriving by train, Barnstaple Station is around a 30-minute drive away. Tiverton Parkway, 32 miles from the venue, offers fast and regular services to London Paddington and other major destinations.
• Exeter Airport is situated 47 miles away and provides a convenient gateway for domestic and international travellers.