Business Details
34 Years
experience
Your Dream Wedding Venue in Hertfordshire
Established in 1992 by John and Ann Hope, The Priory has become one of England's most cherished wedding venues. Our 16th-century Tithe Barn, built by a carpenter to King Henry VIII, offers a historic yet contemporary setting for civil ceremonies and receptions. As a family-run business, we prioritise meticulous attention to detail, ensuring couples can personalise their weddings while enjoying seamless service. The venue, set in Hertfordshire's scenic countryside, accommodates up to 180 guests and includes exclusive use of landscaped gardens. Over 2,000 weddings have been celebrated here, with our team dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences.Karen, our experienced wedding coordinator, works closely with couples to realise their vision. Testimonials consistently praise our award-winning cuisine, exceptional staff, and the venue's unique blend of heritage and modernity. We offer aerial tours, supplier partnerships, and flexible booking options for March to December dates. As we approach our final year of operations in 2024, we remain committed to delivering five-star service and making every couple's dream wedding a reality.
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Receptions
Outdoor Space
Food and Drink
Decorations
Entertainment
Venue Hire
Wedding Coordination
Catering
Supplier Partnerships
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- Family-owned and operated since 1992 with 30+ years of wedding expertise
- Exclusive use of historic 16th-century Tithe Barn and landscaped gardens
- Award-winning cuisine consistently praised by guests and suppliers
- Personalised service with dedicated wedding coordinator Karen
- Stunning Hertfordshire countryside setting with flexible booking options
What people say
Stunning venue
5 star service
Outstanding food
Perfect day
Faultless staff
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Licensed civil ceremony venue in a 16th-century Tithe Barn with exclusive use of grounds. Accommodates up to 180 guests with flexible layout options. Historic architecture combines with modern amenities for memorable weddings.
Receptions
Full-day venue hire including ceremony and reception spaces. Landscaped gardens provide photo opportunities and outdoor entertaining areas. Personalised layout options to suit wedding themes and guest numbers.
Food and Drink
Award-winning catering using locally sourced ingredients. Menu options for all dietary requirements with chef-prepared dishes. Wine list curated to complement seasonal menus and guest preferences.
Outdoor Space
Exclusive use of landscaped gardens and courtyard areas. Ideal for ceremonies, photos, and outdoor receptions. Features include period architecture backdrops and seasonal floral displays.
Wedding Coordination
Personalised planning support from experienced coordinator Karen. Supplier partnerships for entertainment, decor, and logistics. On-day management to ensure smooth event execution.
People
John Hope
Owner
Co-founder of The Priory with 30+ years' experience in wedding venue management. Specialises in historic property preservation and customer service excellence. Continues to oversee venue operations and guest experience.
Ann Hope
Owner
Co-founder instrumental in establishing The Priory as a premier wedding destination. Focuses on maintaining the venue's unique character while ensuring modern event requirements are met. Active in supplier relationship management.
Karen
Wedding Coordinator
Experienced coordinator providing tailored planning support for weddings. Manages day-of logistics and vendor coordination. Known for exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail.
Questions
What dates are available for 2024 weddings?
2024 is our final year as a wedding venue with availability from March to December. Contact us directly for specific date inquiries and special offers.
What does exclusive venue hire include?
Exclusive hire includes full use of the Tithe Barn and landscaped grounds for your chosen day. This covers ceremony, reception, and outdoor spaces with dedicated staff support.
Are accommodation options available?
While we don't have on-site accommodation, we partner with local hotels including Needham House and Cromwell Hotel for guest bookings with special arrangements.
Can we customise our wedding decorations?
Yes, we encourage personal touches and custom decorations. Our venue provides a blank canvas for styling while offering guidance to maintain the space's historic integrity.
What catering options are available?
We offer seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients, including options for all dietary requirements. Our chefs work with couples to create bespoke dining experiences.
How do we arrange a venue viewing?
Request a private viewing through our website or contact us directly. Availability depends on existing bookings, with viewings conducted during regular business hours.
Videos
