Known as one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Essex, Braxted Park has always been synonymous with grandeur, yet now it’s offering something a little more untamed. Nestled among towering trees, this new outdoor setting allows couples to exchange vows in private woodland with a 600-year-old tree as its awe-inspiring centrepiece.
Imagine exchanging vows beneath a leafy canopy, with sunlight softly filtering through while your guests rejoice and relax in the shade. There’s even a bespoke Woodlands Bar ready to serve up pre-ceremony drinks, which only adds to the appeal IMO! So, if you’ve been searching for a wedding venue that combines heritage charm with romance and a breathtaking natural backdrop, you NEED to learn more about Braxted Park.
Meet Braxted Park
Set within 200 acres of private estate, Braxted Park’s sweeping driveway is enough to have you falling head over heels; however, once inside the estate, you’re greeted with manicured gardens, historic architecture, and rolling countryside views that feel miles away from the hustle of everyday life—the dream!
For those drawn to the romance of history, there’s the Orangery or a nearby church for a religious ceremony. The Woodlands and the Summer House offer fantastic outdoor options for those searching for something al fresco (with a sprinkling of magic). Last but certainly not least, there’s the Pavilion—a sleek, fully-equipped space for a stylish wedding reception, complete with a dance floor, bar, and everything else you need to keep the party going well into the night!
Why We love Woodland Weddings
There’s something inherently relaxed yet effortlessly stylish about a woodland wedding—wouldn’t you agree? Maybe it’s the pretty dappled light or the natural sense of privacy you get when surrounded by trees, but it’s certainly an atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Braxted Park’s new Woodlands ceremony space taps into this laid-back elegance, creating a tree-filled pocket where you feel immersed in nature and completely away from it all.
Whether you’re imagining a minimalistic, pared-back look with nature front and centre, or you plan to add a bit of zhuzh with dramatic florals and rustic furniture, the Woodlands space can handle it all. It’s flexible enough to suit a bohemian, festival vibe but equally at home with something more polished and chic. And with nature already doing most of the heavy lifting, you can keep décor simple and let the surroundings speak for themselves—the perfect blank canvas ceremony space, I think you’ll agree!
What’s more, a woodland setting lets you truly experience the seasons in all their glory. From the fresh green shoots of spring to the golden hues of autumn and the warm, lazy light of a summer’s day, each season brings its own beauty to the happy occasion. And let’s not forget the endless potential for stunning photography. With towering trees, dappled light, and 360 degrees of lush greenery, your photos will feel timeless, natural, and never overdone.
Tips for planning a woodland wedding ceremony
Planning a woodland wedding is all about embracing the natural beauty around you, but it’s always worth keeping a few practical details in mind to ensure your day runs smoothly.
Have a Plan B: While the idea of exchanging vows under a canopy of trees is undeniably romantic, the unpredictability of UK weather is something to consider. Make sure you have a solid backup plan in place. At Braxted Park, the venue offers stunning indoor options like the Orangery or the Pavilion, so if the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can seamlessly move your celebration indoors without sacrificing style or atmosphere.
Consider the Terrain: Woodland settings come with their own unique charm, but with that comes uneven ground, which can pose a challenge for both you and your guests. Think about practical footwear—perhaps swap your heels for stylish flats or wedges that won’t sink into the earth. It’s also worth considering how accessible the area is for any guests with mobility issues. At Braxted Park, the team is on hand to help plan around these factors and ensure everyone can enjoy the day comfortably.
Embrace Sustainability: With centuries-old trees lining your aisle and nature all around, a woodland wedding is the perfect opportunity to incorporate sustainable choices. Consider eco-friendly options like recycled paper invitations, locally-sourced flowers, or even repurposing florals from the ceremony to the reception. You could also explore biodegradable confetti, potted plants as décor, or using seasonal blooms to further reduce your carbon footprint. Braxted Park’s natural setting complements these sustainable touches, helping you create a celebration that feels both thoughtful and in tune with the environment.
Visit Braxted Park and discover Woodlands for yourself
If you’re looking for a historic, romantic, and utterly charming wedding venue that’s also home to a magical natural setting that feels worlds away from everything, Braxted Park should be on your shortlist! Book a visit today, experience The Woodlands, and discover how this enchanting space could work for your big day.