The Woodyard at Worstead Estate

The Setting

The Woodyard is a stunning range of traditional thatched and Norfolk brick barns tucked into the Worstead Estate’s 300-acre private parkland. Set within landscaped grounds, The Woodyard’s west terrace overlooks a sweeping lawn with romantic pathways leading to a beautiful lake and island. The patchwork brick and pretty fruit trees of the estate’s walled garden stand proud above the west lawn, enhancing the feeling of peaceful seclusion.

Just across from The Woodyard, and looking out over the east courtyard, is Estate Cottage, their splendid Georgian cottage. Classic elegance and modern amenities combine to provide luxury accommodation throughout, with three double bedrooms, a private hot tub and a games room, all set neatly within its own walled garden.

The wider estate includes 2,000 acres of farmed land around the quaint historic village of Worstead in North Norfolk. The Paterson family has managed the estate for three generations and has diversified over time to include holiday accommodation, Wildcraft Brewery and a family-friendly equestrian centre. Traditional cropping methods for spring barley grown on the estate are used to brew Wildcraft Brewery beer, which is available for guests to enjoy.

The Vibe

Once the sawmill for Worstead Estate and now lovingly restored, the barns retain their original features, with spectacular oak beams and traditional Norfolk brick. The combination of rustic charm, character and modern luxuries, together tucked into a peaceful and private lakeside setting, creates a truly unique venue.

The interior design reflects the surrounding history, with these buildings once alive with the hustle and bustle of the estate’s sawmill. Each room tells its own tale, from the Thatched Barn with its striking, detailed brickwork, vaulted ceiling and stunning chandeliers to the natural light and airy space of the Mulberry Room. A hint of the industrial nature of the work once carried out there is provided in the bar, contrasting beautifully with the Norfolk brick of the main barn.

Outside, the landscaped grounds provide a wonderfully romantic setting for drinks receptions, afternoon entertainment and photographs. Doors open onto the east-facing courtyard, whilst the Thatched Barn opens onto the sun-kissed West Terrace, the perfect spot for an alfresco cocktail hour. The sweeping west lawn and romantic tree-lined paths guide you along a short walk to the private lake, with a beautifully restored boat house and bridged island.

For intimate occasions for up to 50 people, couples are invited to host their ceremony on Lake Island against a breathtaking backdrop of leafy woodland and calm waters.

The Woodyard is available for weekend hire. 40-120 guests can be comfortably seated for dinner in the room of your choosing. Each space can be decorated as you like, providing couples with the opportunity to create a unique indoor setting for their perfect day. Hardesty Event Design provide a dedicated event management team, there to support you throughout the planning process, with the option of bespoke wedding planning and design services (at additional cost).

Alongside The Woodyard, just a stone’s throw from the front courtyard is the beautiful Estate Cottage, set within its own private walled garden. The cottage can be hired with the wedding venue and provides luxury accommodation, sleeping six in three bedrooms, a private hot tub and a games room.

Couples are offered priority booking on accommodation on the estate, providing an opportunity to enjoy an extended luxury weekend with their closest friends and family. Holly House, Gatehouse North and New Lane Cottage together sleep up to 25 additional guests, and each brings its own unique character along with luxury furnishings, BBQs and outdoor dining, private hot tubs and beautiful gardens.