Find Wedding Reception venues for rent in Oxford, UK

About Oxford

Oxford, with its deep historical roots and cultural richness, is a city that never fails to fascinate. It is home to the University of Oxford, the second oldest university in the world, highlighting the city's long-standing commitment to education and intellectual pursuits. For a brief period, the city even served as the capital of England, reflecting its significant role in the nation's history. In addition, Oxford boasts stunning architecture and beautiful parks, including the Botanic Garden and Sheldonian Theatre, further enhancing its unique charm.

The city's rich history and breathtaking landmarks also make Oxford a highly sought-after destination for wedding receptions. The city offers an array of remarkable venues, from the grandeur of historic colleges to the elegance of manor houses and hotels. Each venue provides a unique backdrop that embodies the city's heritage, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for couples and their guests.

Choosing Oxford as a wedding reception venue comes with numerous benefits. Beyond the stunning aesthetics, hosting a wedding in this city means immersing your guests in a place steeped in history and culture. It's an opportunity to create memories in a location that has been the site of significant historical events and academic advancements. Moreover, the city's convenient location, just an hour away from London, makes it easily accessible for guests travelling from near and far.

Wedding Reception Options in Oxford

• Wedding Planner
  A wedding planner is a professional who specialises in organising all aspects of a wedding, from the ceremony to the reception and everything in between. They can help couples plan their perfect day, oversee vendors, make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of, and provide support throughout the planning process.
  
  
• Photographer
  Hiring a professional photographer for your special day can help capture memories that will last a lifetime. In Oxford, there are many talented photographers who specialise in wedding photography and can provide beautiful shots of the ceremony, reception, and all the special moments throughout the day.
  
  
• Makeup and Hairstyle Artists
  Professional makeup artists and hairstylists are key for looking picture-perfect on your special day. They can create stunning looks that complement the bride's dress and the overall theme of the wedding and help bridesmaids get ready quickly before heading out to the reception hall.

Wedding Reception Vendors in Oxford

• New Dawn Events
  For over 17 years, New Dawn Events has been a leading name in the event management industry, delivering top-tier services. Boasting a broad international network, the professional team at New Dawn Events is committed to designing events that are customised to meet their client's unique requirements and preferences. From extravagant weddings to virtual gatherings, every event is meticulously planned according to the client's vision, with a particular focus on crafting unforgettable experiences. Furthermore, New Dawn Events prides itself on providing exemplary customer service, promptly addressing any queries or concerns and readily accommodating any necessary changes.
  
  
• S.R.Urwin Wedding Photography
  Steve combines his decade-long experience as a professional photographer with an eye for detail and a passion for capturing beautiful moments, ensuring that your wedding photos will be something you treasure for years to come. From candid shots to traditional poses, Steve has an array of packages available to suit your needs and budget, as well as a range of add-ons such as extra hours or digital downloads of all your images, giving you the flexibility to create a package that suits you perfectly. He can also travel to your wedding destination throughout the UK and even abroad.
  
  
• Oxford Wedding Hair & Makeup
  With over 14 years of experience in the wedding industry, Oxford Wedding Hair & Makeup is an acclaimed bridal hair and makeup service. Spearheaded by the exceptionally talented and professionally trained artist, Holly, this service prides itself on offering custom designs that are consistently stylish and trendy. Holly's commitment to continuous learning and development is evident in her regular attendance at workshops, courses, premier events, and exploration of online tutorials, along with her creation of unique styles. Serving clients across Southern England, Oxford Wedding Hair & Makeup is dedicated to enhancing your special day with its expert services.

Pros and Cons of Wedding Reception Venues in Oxford

Deciding how to organise a wedding reception in Oxford can be a difficult decision. Many advantages and disadvantages are involved that need to be carefully considered before making any decisions. Below is a list of some of them:

Advantages

• The rich history of Oxford provides couples with a plethora of unique venues to choose from, allowing for a truly memorable event.
  
  
• Many experienced vendors are available in the city, so couples can have access to reliable services for their reception.
  
  
• The hospitable atmosphere of the city welcomes visitors and will make guests feel at home during the celebration.
  
  
• Oxford has some of the most beautiful countryside views which offer an excellent backdrop for photographs.

Disadvantages

• It may be more expensive to hold a wedding reception in Oxford than other locations due to the high demand and limited availability of venues or vendors in the area.
  
  
• With such an old city comes certain restrictions on where receptions can take place due to preservation laws, which may limit couples’ choices.
  
  
• Heavy tourist traffic throughout the year can cause difficulties with traffic management and finding parking spots for guests attending the reception.
  
  
• Limited 24-hour transportation options may also create problems with getting essential supplies or staff to and from venues on time if necessary.

Tips on How to Organise Wedding Receptions in Oxford

Organising a wedding reception in Oxford is no small feat. With the city's rich history and beautiful architecture, it can be difficult to choose what to include and how to arrange it all. To make the process easier, here are five tips on how to organise your wedding reception in Oxford:

• Utilise the city's environment: Take advantage of the city's stunning historic landmarks as part of the backdrop for your wedding photos and celebrations. This will add an extra special touch of sophistication and elegance to your event.
  
  
• Research venues thoroughly: While Oxford offers many venues with different features and services, it is important to do thorough research before choosing one that fits all of your needs, such as dates, prices, availability, catering options etc.
  
  
• Secure accommodation: Be sure to arrange accommodation for all guests travelling from far away—this way you can be sure they’ll arrive in good time for your nuptials and festivities!
  
  
• Consider local vendors: When selecting caterers and other suppliers for your big day, take into consideration local Oxford vendors who have been tried and tested by other brides-to-be in the area. These businesses will know what works best when planning a reception in this sophisticated destination.
  
  
• Create a timetable: Make sure there is sufficient time allocated between each activity during the reception such as speeches or meals—this will help keep things running smoothly throughout the day and ensure that everything runs according to plan!

Famous Locations in Oxford

• The University of Oxford
  The University of Oxford is an internationally renowned institution, known for its remarkable academic excellence and innovation. It boasts some of the world's top scholars and researchers, with more than 18 Nobel Laureates amongst its alumni. Its esteemed faculty offers a broad range of disciplines and courses, from medicine to law to mathematics. With over 130 libraries, including the Bodleian Library—one of the oldest in Europe—students and scholars have access to a vast amount of information and resources. The university's impressive collection of historical artefacts includes items ranging from ancient manuscripts to modern works, affording visitors a unique glimpse into the city's history. Boasting an impressive 5-mile circumference filled with architectural landmarks, The University of Oxford provides a stunning backdrop for learning and exploration.
  
  
• Christ Church
  Christ Church is a renowned college and cathedral located in Oxford, England. Established in 1546, it was originally founded by King Henry VIII, making it the only college to be established during his reign. Over the centuries, it has become one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, with its famous Tom Tower gracing the Oxford skyline. Visitors can explore its expansive grounds which include Magdalen College Lawns, The Christ Church Meadow and Christ Church Cathedral Lawns. The Picture Gallery holds a variety of historical artwork from prominent artists such as William Hogarth and Joshua Reynolds while its magnificent dining hall served as inspiration for the Great Hall at Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. With various attractions to explore and rich history to uncover, Christ Church is an essential part of any visit to Oxford.
  
  
• The Saxon Tower at St Michael at the North Gate
  The Saxon Tower at St Michael at the North Gate is an incredible sight to behold. Standing proud since the 11th century, it is the oldest building still in existence in Oxford. Built of limestone and flint, the tower stands an impressive 25 metres tall with a diameter of about 8 metres wide—proof of the superior craftsmanship used by its creators. From the top of the tower, visitors are treated to a breathtaking view of Oxford and its surrounding area. A must-see for anyone visiting Oxford, the Saxon Tower offers a unique glimpse into history and is a reminder of how much has changed over time in this ancient city.