Cornwall, with its rugged coastline, enchanting woodlands, and picturesque villages, offers an array of intimate wedding venues that can turn any nuptial into a memorable event. For couples looking to tie the knot in a cozy, personal setting, Cornwall’s small wedding venues provide a variety of choices from seaside retreats to historic estates. This article explores some of the best small wedding venues throughout Cornwall, highlighting their unique features, capacity, and the kind of experiences they offer.
The Eden Project – Bodelva
While The Eden Project is known for its giant biomes and exotic plants, it also offers smaller, intimate spaces ideal for weddings. The Rainforest Biome, one of its unique features, can be transformed into a tropical paradise for a wedding, providing a backdrop of lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. This venue is perfect for those who dream of an unusual yet intimate setting. The Eden Project can cater to weddings of various sizes, but its smaller spaces are ideal for gatherings of up to 50 guests.
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens – Penzance
Nestled in a sheltered valley overlooking St Michael’s Mount, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens is a verdant oasis featuring artistic installations amidst exotic and native planting. This venue offers a magical setting for a small wedding, with the sculpture gardens providing a unique artistic backdrop. The venue is ideal for weddings of up to 30 guests, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions.
Pentillie Castle and Estate – Saltash
For those who envision a fairy tale wedding, Pentillie Castle and Estate presents a splendid option. This 17th-century castle is set in the midst of a 2,000-acre estate on the banks of the River Tamar. Despite its grandeur, Pentillie offers the warmth and intimacy needed for smaller weddings, accommodating around 60 guests. The castle’s Bathing Hut, a quaint cabin by the river, is particularly suited for micro-weddings and elopements.
The Green – Liskeard
Located close to the moors and the sea, The Green in Liskeard offers a versatile venue tailored for small weddings. It provides a range of options from a rustic barn to a luxurious house, all set within a private estate. With facilities to host up to 120 guests, couples can choose a more intimate gathering by using smaller configurations of the space. The serene lake and lush woodlands around provide a beautiful setting for wedding photos.
Stennack Farm – Praze
Ideal for those looking for a rustic wedding, Stennack Farm in Truro offers a charming barn set in a traditional Cornish farm environment. This venue is perfect for small, intimate weddings of up to 50 guests. The farm provides a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with beautiful rural surroundings, ideal for a laid-back wedding day.
Lusty Glaze Beach – Newquay
Imagine getting married with the sand between your toes. Lusty Glaze Beach in Newquay is a private cove that offers just this experience. It’s perfect for a small beachfront wedding, providing a romantic setting with stunning sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean. The venue is suited for weddings of up to 75 guests, offering a variety of packages that include beachside ceremonies and receptions.
BoHo Cornwall – St Just
BoHo Cornwall is a beautiful old mansion turned boutique hotel, located on the edge of the ocean. Specializing in elopements and intimate weddings, this venue offers a truly romantic escape. The venue handles all details, providing a package that includes a ceremony in their beautiful drawing room or outdoors, followed by a luxurious stay. It’s perfect for couples wanting a private ceremony with up to 20 guests.
Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate – St Ives
Carbis Bay, with its award-winning beach, offers a spectacular setting for a small wedding. The estate includes several venues such as the Beach Club or the Ocean Venue, each providing views of the beautiful coastline. With a capacity for up to 100 guests, Carbis Bay offers flexibility for small to medium weddings while maintaining a sense of intimacy.
Trevigue – Crackington Haven
Set on a cliff top near Crackington Haven, Trevigue is a 16th-century farmhouse offering a dramatic backdrop for your wedding. This venue is well-suited for smaller weddings, with a capacity for up to 40 guests. The rugged coastline and the Atlantic Ocean provide stunning views and photo opportunities, making it an unforgettable location for a wedding.
Polhawn Fort – Rame Peninsula
A historical fort with breathtaking views over the sea, Polhawn Fort is a venue that combines history with romance. Ideal for intimate weddings, the fort offers various spaces that cater to different sizes, generally accommodating weddings of up to 60 guests. The fort’s private beach and surrounding gardens make it a scenic choice for both ceremonies and receptions.
Conclusion
Cornwall offers a diverse array of small wedding venues, each with its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront ceremony, a rustic barn, or a historic castle, Cornwall has something to offer for every couple dreaming of a smaller, more intimate wedding. These venues not only provide beautiful settings but also ensure a personal and memorable experience for your special day. When planning your wedding in Cornwall, consider these exceptional venues for an event that reflects your style and personality in a truly magical setting.
