Affordable Wedding Venues for Hire in Bristol

Where you choose to get married and where you host the reception afterwards can make or break your wedding budget. Let’s face it, not everyone can afford to have their wedding at the hottest venues in town. Many couples would prefer to save the money instead of planning an elaborate reception and put it towards a home or something more sensible. 

Getting married in Bristol presents a unique set of choices when it comes to choosing a venue – Bristol is a gorgeous city alongside the River Avon, and it is home to dozens of amazing historic castles, estates, and exquisite wedding venues alike. It can be intimidating to see all of the fancy (and expensive) wedding venues available in the city, but just because the area is known for extravagant venue options, doesn’t mean that there aren’t some cheaper hidden gems. In fact, there are even a few great options for wedding venue deals under £1000 and wedding packages under £56/per person! 

Near the city centre, along Queens Road, there are several great choices for affordable wedding reception venues. Another fun and popular way that some people are choosing to celebrate their wedding on a budget is by going to a local-destination that will be unforgettable! From a Bristol Zoo wedding or a reception by the Bristol Harbour to an outdoor wedding in Castle Park and boat reception on the Brunel’s SS Great Britain, there are countless places in the area to have your wedding and reception that won’t cost you your life’s savings! 

Affordable Wedding Venues in Bristol FAQ

Can you recommend some affordable wedding venues in Bristol?

With pleasure! Here are some of our favourite options that are sure to catch your eye!

Wills Hall & Winterstoke Hall at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery - This venue will definitely add a ‘wow’ factor to your wedding celebrations. It offers a flexible and elegant space you can customise according to your guest number and style. Apart from that, it offers an excellent location nearby the University of Bristol. 

Whole Venue at Walton Castle - If you’re dreaming of a countryside wedding, this venue might be for you! Conveniently located in Clevedon, it offers a stunning lush garden, panoramic views of the countryside and original, historic architecture. 

Wills Hall and Winterstoke Hall at Royal West Of England Academy - This gallery on Queens Road provides a flexible and original setting with a historic feel. It features wooden floors, marble friezes and beautiful artwork from prominent artists.

How much does it cost to hire an affordable wedding venue in Bristol?

If you're on a budget and looking for an affordable wedding venue in Bristol, we've got some good news for you! On average, you can expect to pay between £60 to £100 per person for a wedding package that includes food and drinks, along with basic tableware and decorations that you can customise to your liking. It is also possible to hire a venue on the basis of minimum spend, and in Bristol, you should expect to pay anywhere from £1500 to £6500 per event. If you're looking for something even more flexible and cost-effective, hiring a venue on an hourly basis may be a better option. These venues can be found starting at around £80, so you can pick and choose the services you need without breaking the bank. (All data from Tagvenue.com.)

How early should I book a wedding venue in Bristol?

It's best to book your wedding venue in Bristol as early as possible! Ideally, at least a year in advance. Popular venues tend to get booked up quickly, especially during peak wedding season, so the sooner you can secure your date, the better the chance of securing a venue that fits all of your needs. Additionally, booking early gives you more time to plan and organise the other important details of your special day, like catering, decorations, and entertainment. So don't wait too long and risk missing out on your dream venue!

Any tips for hosting an affordable wedding in Bristol?

Sure! Here are our top 5 tips that make all the difference in hosting a wedding on a budget!

1. Be flexible with your wedding date - Consider getting married during off-peak seasons, like in winter or mid-week, as venues usually offer lower rates during these times.
2. Choose a non-traditional venue - Look for unique and creative venues like community halls, gardens, or local museums and art galleries. These venues often offer more affordable hire fees and provide a more personalised experience.
3. DIY Decorations -  Instead of hiring a professional decorator, consider creating your own decorations with the help of family and friends. Apart from saving money on decorations, you’ll make your wedding more personal and memorable!
4. Simplify your guest list - Fewer guests mean lower costs for food, drinks, and tableware. So make sure to consider inviting only close family and friends instead of the whole family. 
5. Catering - Having a buffet-style meal instead of a sit-down dinner or opting for a less formal catering option like a food truck or barbeque may significantly reduce the costs which you can allocate on other wedding elements.

Remember, your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other. By being creative and thoughtful, you can have an affordable wedding in Bristol without sacrificing the beauty and significance of your special day.