Your Wedding Venue Checklist
Plan your dream wedding with us at Worstead Estate
Choosing the perfect wedding venue is one of the most exciting and important steps in planning your big day. It sets the scene, defines the style, and shapes the experience for you and your guests. At Worstead Estate, we know how much thought and care go into this decision. To help make the process seamless, we’ve curated your go-to Wedding Venue Checklist, everything we think you should consider when choosing where to say “I do.”
1. Venue Style & Atmosphere
What kind of setting best reflects your love story? Romantic countryside? Historic charm? Rustic elegance?
At Worstead Estate, you’ll find all three in harmony. Our stunning Thatched Barn is a locally listed building that offers character, space, and versatility, ideal for anything from traditional, unique, to timeless black tie.
Also, think about the space, can you have reception drinks away from the room of your wedding breakfast and ceremony? If it’s a nice day, can you move the wedding outside? Many of our own couples love to mix up their day, with having the ceremony by the lake, cocktails in the Walled Garden, their wedding breakfast in the Mulberry Room, and then dancing in the Thatched Barn for the evening.
2. Capacity & Layout
Before you fall in love with a venue, make sure it can comfortably accommodate your guest list. Consider not just the ceremony and reception, but the flow between spaces, the dance floor, and dining layout.
Worstead Estate's Mulberry Room can seat up to 120 guests for a wedding breakfast and even more for evening celebrations, with ample outdoor space for summer drinks, games, or even an additional marquee within the Walled Garden.
3. Accommodation Options
Are there nearby places for guests to stay? How will you be getting to and from the venue?
At Worstead Estate, we offer luxurious on-site accommodation across 5 different cottages which are all conveniently located just a short distance from the venue. Estate Cottage is only a stone’s throw away!
Perfect for knowing your guests or wedding party will all be close by, and ideal for continuing the celebrations over the whole weekend.
4. Catering Flexibility
Food is a major part of your celebration. Does the venue offer catering or allow you to choose your own?
We provide a curated list of trusted local caterers, all offering flexibility to match your taste and budget. From elegant sit-down dinners to wood-fired pizzas under the stars, it’s your menu, your way.
5. Exclusive Use & Privacy
Do you want a private, intimate setting with only your guests in attendance?
Worstead Estate offers exclusive use of the barn and grounds, meaning the only people on-site are your guests and staff. It’s your slice of Norfolk countryside for the weekend and allows for a relaxing and stress-free setup and check out.
6. Licensing & Legalities
Is the venue licensed for civil ceremonies? What are the legal requirements?
Our barn and outdoor spaces are fully licensed for civil ceremonies, giving you the convenience of hosting your entire day in one beautiful place, from vows to dancing.
7. Accessibility & Transport
Is the venue easy to find and access for all guests?
Worstead Estate is nestled in the Norfolk countryside but easily accessible by road and rail. With on-site parking and just minutes from Worstead train station, getting here is simple for local and travelling guests.
Throughout The Woodyard you’ll also find accessible touches from wheelchair lifts across the whole of the barn and outdoor terrace to sound loops across the site. We want our venue to be shared with everyone.
8. Personal Touches & Decor
Can you bring your vision to life?
The Woodyard is a true blank canvas with architectural character, making it the perfect backdrop for your styling. Whether it’s floral installations, festoon lighting or handmade table décor, we welcome your creativity.
Let’s plan your day at Worstead Estate
Ready to turn this checklist into your reality? Whether you’re just starting your venue search or ready to book a viewing, the Worstead Estate team is here to help. From first enquiry to final dance, we’ll ensure your day is everything you dreamed and more.
📞 Contact us to book your tour or request a brochure.
weddings@worsteadestate.com