Planning your dream wedding in the Cotswolds? As a venue that has hosted countless Cotswolds weddings, we’ve gathered some valuable tips and insights to help you create a magical and memorable day. From rustic charm to modern elegance, our experiences in one of the UK’s most picturesque locations have shown us what works best. Whether you’re envisioning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, these expert tips will make your wedding planning journey a breeze.

The Best Times of Year for a Cotswolds Wedding

The Cotswolds is a beautiful destination year-round, but each season offers its own unique charm. Here are some insights to help you decide the best time of year for your wedding:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a delightful time in the Cotswolds, with blooming flowers and lush greenery. The weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Venues like Wild Thyme & Honey are surrounded by blossoming gardens, providing a picturesque backdrop for your special day. Like all British weddings, you cannot guarantee the weather, so when choosing a venue, ensure you like the inside space just as much as the outside in case those April showers do show.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the most popular time for weddings in the Cotswolds. The long, sunny days are ideal for outdoor celebrations, garden parties, and marquee weddings. With the natural beauty of the countryside in full bloom, your wedding photos will be nothing short of stunning. The summer is also a popular time for tourists to visit the Cotswolds so make sure you encourage guests to book their accommodation as soon as possible or choose venues with accommodation on-site, to avoid guests being left stranded!

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings a warm, golden glow to the Cotswolds. The vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures create a cosy, romantic atmosphere. This season is perfect for rustic-themed weddings, with opportunities to incorporate seasonal elements like pumpkins and rich, earthy tones. dditionally, autumn offers the chance to use seasonal produce in your wedding menu, adding a delightful, local touch to your celebration.

Winter (December to February)

Winter weddings in the Cotswolds are magical and intimate. Imagine a candlelit ceremony followed by a reception with roaring fires and festive decorations. The cosy indoor spaces at Wild Thyme & Honey provide a warm and inviting setting for your winter celebration. Getting married close to Christmas can also be a great way to save money on decorations, as venues are often already decorated with festive lights.

Understanding the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, stretching over 800 square miles across five counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire), is a quintessentially English region renowned for its rolling hills, charming villages, and historic landmarks. Its popularity as a wedding destination is no surprise, given the area’s stunning natural beauty and rich heritage. However, with so many beautiful locations to choose from, narrowing down your search can be quite a challenge. The Cotswolds offers a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes, cosy inns, and elegant manor houses, making it an idyllic setting for couples seeking a romantic and timeless backdrop for their special day.

Cirencester

Known as the capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester is a historic market town with Roman roots. Its beautiful church, quaint streets, and bustling market square provide a picturesque setting for wedding photos.

We recommend Cirencester not only because Wild Thyme & Honey is nearby, but also because it’s easily accessible, making it a convenient location for guests traveling from across the country.

Bibury

Often described as the most beautiful village in England, Bibury is famous for its honey-coloured stone cottages and the idyllic Arlington Row. This charming village offers a fairytale-like backdrop for your wedding.

Bourton-on-the-Water

Referred to as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” Bourton-on-the-Water features picturesque bridges over the River Windrush. It’s a perfect spot for romantic wedding photos and leisurely strolls.

Stow-on-the-Wold

This historic market town sits atop an 800-foot hill and is known for its antique shops and historic inns. The town’s charming streets and stunning views make it a lovely choice for a wedding celebration.

Castle Combe

Castle Combe is often cited as one of the prettiest villages in England. Its timeless beauty, with medieval cottages and a quaint market square, offers a serene and romantic setting for a wedding.

Colour Schemes and Flowers

Choosing the right colour scheme and flowers for your Cotswolds wedding can beautifully complement the natural beauty of the area, setting the perfect tone for your special day. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices:

Embrace Natural Tones:

Opt for colours that harmonize with the Cotswolds’ landscapes, such as soft greens, earthy browns, and gentle pastels. These hues blend seamlessly with the lush greenery and rustic charm of the countryside.

Seasonal Blooms:

Incorporate flowers that are in season during your wedding month. For spring weddings, consider blossoms like tulips, daffodils, and cherry blossoms. Summer weddings can feature roses, peonies, and hydrangeas. Autumn weddings are perfect for dahlias, chrysanthemums, and sunflowers, while winter weddings can showcase elegant blooms like amaryllis, hellebores, and anemones.

Local Flora:

Highlight local flora to add a touch of authenticity and showcase the Cotswolds’ natural beauty. Consider incorporating lavender, heather, or wildflowers into your bouquets, centerpieces, and decor.

Contrast and Balance:

Create visual interest by contrasting colours and textures. Pair bold blooms with delicate foliage or mix vibrant hues with muted tones to achieve a balanced and cohesive look.

Your Dream Wedding at Wild Thyme & Honey

At Wild Thyme & Honey, we believe every wedding should reflect the unique style and personality of the couple. That’s why we offer bespoke wedding packages tailored to your specific needs and desires. From the initial consultation to the big day, our dedicated wedding team will work closely with you to bring your vision to life.

Our talented chefs use the finest locally-sourced ingredients to create menus that celebrate the flavours of the Cotswolds. From canapés and starters to main courses and desserts, every dish is crafted with care and creativity. Whether you envision a traditional three-course meal, a relaxed buffet, or a trendy food station setup, we can accommodate your preferences.

One of the advantages of choosing Wild Thyme & Honey as your wedding venue is the convenience of on-site accommodation. With 24 beautifully appointed bedrooms, your guests can relax and enjoy the festivities without the hassle of travelling. Each room is designed with comfort and luxury in mind, providing the perfect retreat after a day of celebration. For the newlyweds, our honeymoon suite offers a romantic escape with stunning views and luxurious amenities. Wake up to the tranquil sounds of nature and start your first day as a married couple in the most idyllic setting imaginable.

Expert Tips from Our Wedding Team

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can also be a lot of fun. Here are some expert tips from our wedding team to help you navigate the process and make the most of your Cotswolds wedding experience:

1. Start Early: The Cotswolds is a popular wedding destination, so it’s essential to book your venue and suppliers well in advance. This will give you more options and help ensure you get your preferred dates and services.

2. Embrace the Seasons: The Cotswolds offers a different kind of beauty in every season. Consider the time of year when planning your wedding to take advantage of seasonal flowers, colours, and weather. Spring and summer are perfect for outdoor ceremonies, while autumn and winter provide a cosy, romantic atmosphere.

3. Personal Touches: Incorporate personal touches into your wedding to make it truly your own. Whether it’s a unique guestbook, custom wedding favours, or a special reading during the ceremony, these details will make your day even more memorable.

4. Local Flavours: Celebrate the local culture by including Cotswold-inspired elements in your wedding. This could be anything from using locally-sourced flowers and food to incorporating traditional music and dances into your celebration.

5. Relax and Enjoy: On your wedding day, remember to take a deep breath and savour every moment. Trust that your team at Wild Thyme & Honey has everything under control, and focus on celebrating your love with your friends and family.

Your Dream Wedding Awaits

At Wild Thyme & Honey, we’re passionate about creating unforgettable weddings that capture the essence of the Cotswolds. With our stunning venue, personalised service, and expert team, we can help you turn your wedding dreams into reality.

For more inspiration and ideas, check out our Ultimate Guide to a Cotswolds Wedding and learn more about our offerings on our wedding page.

Ready to start planning? Contact us today to schedule a tour and begin your journey towards the perfect Cotswolds wedding. We can’t wait to help you create a day filled with love, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.