Favourite barn to shoot at? Maybe. Cripps Barn was one of the first venues I ever worked at when I photographed a friend’s weddings there about a decade ago, and ever since then I’ve struggled to find a barn venue that’s come close to it.
Jess and Seb found me as I’d shot one of their friends’ wedding the year before. They must have liked what they saw, and so booked me to cover their day. I’m so pleased they did as it was an equally fun, sunny, relaxed and easy going occasion.
The day started with Jess and her besties getting their bride and bridesmaids hair and make-up sorted at the beautiful setting of Ampney Field Farm Cottages, which could be a wedding venue in itself. Champagne and Prosecco, strawberries and chocolates were all enjoyed whilst the prepped themselves for the day ahead.
Once we made the short journey to Cripps, it wasn’t long until Jess was walking down the aisle towards her husband-to-be, Seb who had waited patiently with his best men for her to arrive. Ceremony completed and it was outside for some celebratory drinks, photos and general fun and giggles with everyone in the beautiful gardens of Cripps.
Speeches were done after an amazing bride and groom entrance to the main breakfast area – they entered to the wildest and best napkin swinging I’ve seen yet.
Once the food was taken care of, it was onto the cake cut, the first dance and then the dancing itself, which didn’t disappoint. The band kept the dance floor filled all night long and Jess even had a dress change to enable her throw some moves a little easier than before.
All in all, a great day!
Suppliers:
Prep: Ampney Field Barn
Ceremony: Cripps Barn
Hair & Makeup: Anna White
Dress: Sassi Holford
Suits: Suitsupply / Oliver Brown
Florist: Go Wild Flowers
Stationary: Papier
Photo Booth: Mad Hat
Band: Brother From Another
Videographer: Amy Elizabeth Videography
Cripps Barn
Cripps Barn is one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Gloucestershire and an absolute gem for couples dreaming of a rustic Cotswolds wedding. Nestled in the heart of the countryside, this 18th-century Cotswold stone barn offers a timeless setting that is not only perfect for romantic celebrations but also ideal for breathtaking wedding photography. With its rich history and character-filled architecture, Cripps Barn continues to attract couples and professional wedding photographers alike, all drawn to its undeniable charm and natural beauty.
Originally constructed in the 1700s, Cripps Barn was built using traditional Cotswold stone, a hallmark of the region’s architectural heritage. This historic barn was lovingly restored and converted into a dedicated wedding venue in the early 1990s by Mark and Felicity Henriques, the founders of Cripps & Co. Their vision brought new life to the space, transforming it into one of the most iconic rustic wedding venues in the Cotswolds—an exceptional location that continues to inspire wedding photography filled with warmth, emotion, and authenticity.
For couples planning a rustic countryside wedding, Cripps Barn offers everything you could hope for in a wedding venue. Its interiors are brimming with rustic elegance—flagstone floors, exposed wooden beams, open fireplaces, and original stone walls create a visually stunning environment that is perfect for capturing every special moment, from the bridal preparations to the first dance. Whether bathed in natural daylight or lit by flickering candlelight, every corner of Cripps Barn offers a picture-perfect backdrop for timeless wedding photography.
Cripps & Co, a family-run business with a deep passion for crafting unforgettable wedding experiences, continues to manage the venue with care and attention to detail. Their commitment to excellence makes Cripps Barn not just a beautiful venue, but one that delivers a warm and personal experience for every couple. This thoughtful approach is something wedding photographers truly appreciate, as it allows for natural, relaxed photo opportunities throughout the day.
Today, Cripps Barn remains one of the top Cotswolds wedding venues for couples across the UK and beyond. Its romantic outdoor ceremony space, scenic countryside views, and intimate indoor setting provide endless inspiration for wedding photographers who specialize in documentary, editorial, and fine art wedding photography styles. No matter the season, Cripps Barn offers a magical setting—from blooming summer gardens to cozy winter weddings, making it a favorite among both brides and photographers seeking a venue with soul, style, and story.
For those looking to capture their wedding day in a way that feels as organic and unforgettable as the love they share, Cripps Barn is a dream venue that delivers not only an exceptional experience but also stunning, frame-worthy wedding photos that will last a lifetime.
The Cotswolds: A Historic and Romantic Destination for Weddings and Photography
The Cotswolds, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), is one of the most picturesque and historically rich regions in England. Stretching across Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Somerset, it offers a perfect blend of rolling hills, golden stone cottages, and centuries-old villages that have made it a top destination for countryside weddings and wedding photography.
The name “Cotswolds” originates from Old English: “cot” (sheep enclosure) and “wold” (hill), reflecting the region’s roots in medieval sheep farming. The booming wool trade between the 13th and 15th centuries brought great wealth, seen today in the grand “wool churches” of Chipping Campden, Northleach, Fairford, and Painswick—all stunning venues for wedding ceremonies and photo backdrops.
Historic market towns like Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester (once Roman Corinium Dobunnorum), and Burford reveal Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and layers of history—including pivotal roles in the English Civil War. Burford Church even witnessed the execution of Leveller prisoners in 1649. These rich narratives lend depth to modern events held there.
The region is dotted with architectural gems like Bibury, with its postcard-perfect Arlington Row, and Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds.” Nearby, Castle Combe, Upper and Lower Slaughter, and Painswick maintain an untouched, timeless beauty that draws photographers and couples alike.
Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe, once home to Queen Katherine Parr, is a Tudor treasure and popular wedding venue. Similarly, Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill, offers grandeur on a royal scale. Bath, also partially within the Cotswolds, holds UNESCO status and adds Roman and Georgian charm to the region’s appeal.
Modern wedding venues like Cripps Barn, Foxhill Manor, Euridge Manor, Elmore Court, Stone Barn, and The Slaughters Manor House combine historic elegance with luxury amenities, catering to stylish couples and providing endless inspiration for photographers. Whether it’s a ceremony at The Barn at Upcote or portraits by Broadway Tower, every setting feels cinematic.
Each season brings its own magic: wildflower meadows in spring, lavender fields in Snowshill during summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and frosted villages in winter. From intimate chapels to grand estates, the Cotswolds offers unmatched variety and beauty for weddings, engagements, and elopement photography.
More than just a destination, the Cotswolds is a living storybook. With its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and world-class venues, it continues to be one of the UK’s top wedding destinations – a dream for couples and wedding photographers alike.
Things To Do
The Cotswolds, stretching across several counties in south-central England, is a region renowned for its golden-hued villages, gentle rolling hills, and timeless charm. It’s a perfect escape whether you’re after a romantic getaway, a walking holiday, or a leisurely exploration of England’s countryside heritage.
Begin your journey by exploring some of the region’s most picturesque villages and towns. Bibury, often hailed as the prettiest village in England, is home to the iconic Arlington Row – a cluster of 17th-century weavers’ cottages that look as if they’ve leapt from a postcard. Not far off, Bourton-on-the-Water, nicknamed the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” offers quaint low bridges spanning the River Windrush, making it a perfect place for a riverside stroll and cream tea.
Stow-on-the-Wold, perched on a hill, features a charming market square, antique shops, and the magical yew-tree-framed doorway of St. Edward’s Church. Broadway, with its art galleries and boutiques, offers a taste of elegant village life, while Chipping Campden showcases beautiful honey-stone terraced houses and is steeped in Arts and Crafts movement history. Castle Combe, technically in Wiltshire but often associated with the Cotswolds, is another must-see, especially for film lovers – its untouched charm has made it a favorite filming location. For a quieter experience, head to Painswick, known as the “Queen of the Cotswolds,” with its narrow lanes, Cotswold stone cottages, and stunning churchyard filled with centuries-old yew trees.
The Cotswolds also boasts a rich history, visible in its castles, manors, and gardens. Sudeley Castle near Winchcombe is both beautiful and historic – it’s the burial place of Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII. Blenheim Palace, just outside the official Cotswolds boundary near Woodstock, is an opulent World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Winston Churchill. Quirkier but equally fascinating is Snowshill Manor, a National Trust property filled with an eccentric collection of curiosities. Garden lovers shouldn’t miss Hidcote Manor Garden, one of England’s most celebrated Arts and Crafts gardens, or Westonbirt Arboretum, particularly breathtaking in autumn.
Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in the natural beauty of the region through a variety of scenic walks. The Cotswold Way, a 102-mile national trail running from Chipping Campden to Bath, offers dramatic views, historic landmarks, and charming stops along the way. A shorter but rewarding hike takes you up to Broadway Tower, a hilltop folly offering panoramic views across several counties. Slad Valley, immortalized by Laurie Lee in his memoir Cider with Rosie, is a tranquil area for walking and reflecting. For a dose of mystery, head to the Rollright Stones, a collection of ancient Neolithic monuments near Chipping Norton.
Food and drink are highlights of any Cotswolds visit. Stop by Daylesford Organic Farm, a luxury farm shop and café that also hosts a cookery school. Nearby, The Wild Rabbit in Kingham – part of the Daylesford estate – is a beautifully designed pub serving exceptional seasonal dishes. The Swan at Southrop is another gem, a rustic-chic gastropub set in a sleepy village. For something uniquely British, consider visiting the Pudding Club at the Three Ways House Hotel in Mickleton. There, traditional desserts like treacle sponge and sticky toffee pudding are celebrated in grand fashion.
Culture and shopping also have their place in the Cotswolds. Chipping Campden is home to the Old Silk Mill, which still hosts craft workshops. While Cirencester offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman Britain at the Corinium Museum and its preserved amphitheater. Cheltenham, a refined spa town, balances Regency elegance with a lively arts and festival scene. For antique lovers, Tetbury is a treasure trove, boasting numerous high-end shops filled with classic English pieces.
When it comes to accommodation, the Cotswolds doesn’t disappoint. You can choose from historic coaching inns like The Lygon Arms in Broadway or The Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold – which claims to be the oldest inn in England. For something a little different, try one of the region’s luxury glamping sites offering shepherd huts or treehouse stays nestled in secluded countryside.
Spring and autumn are arguably the best times to visit, when the landscape is especially beautiful and crowds are fewer. Renting a car is highly recommended, as it gives you the flexibility to explore the smaller villages and remote countryside spots of the charming Cotswolds. Local markets in towns like Stroud, Cirencester, and Chipping Norton are great places to pick up local produce, crafts, and gifts.
Whether you’re wandering ancient trails, indulging in scones and clotted cream, or simply soaking in the slow, golden light of a village evening, the Cotswolds offers a perfect slice of rural England – peaceful, romantic, and endlessly enchanting.
