Weddings in Berkshire - everything you need for your Berkshire wedding

Berkshire is one of the home counties in the South-East of England.  Berkshire became a royal county in 1957, an accolade awarded by the Queen because of the presence of Windsor Castle.

Close to London and easily reached via the M4 motorway, Berkshire is popular with London commuters because it offers a rural way of life with picturesque countryside and easy access to the capital.  This stunning rural backdrop also offers a whole host of wedding venues for brides and grooms to say ‘I do’ with quintessential ‘chocolate box; villages brimming with classic period architecture and providing pretty settings for a country wedding.

There are probably more approved wedding venues in Berkshire than anywhere else in the country.  It’s royal residence and proximity to London has meant Berkshire has always been a county of wealth and prosperity and this is reflected in the amount of quality architecture which has been beautifully preserved in the towns and villages.

For a rural bride, Berkshire has all the charm you could want with a huge range of picturesque manor houses, classic mansions, grand stately homes and timbered barns to choose from.  There is an almost endless network of picture postcard villages like Pangbourne and Bisham situated along the M4 corridor.  If you fancy something a little different then why not consider a location with tipis or yurts or even a treetop ceremony?  There are plenty of wedding companies aiming to offer something a little alternative in this most English of counties so you can combine a truly glorious pastoral scene with something just a little contemporary.

Berkshire is also home to the River Thames with pretty pubs, restaurants and mills all available to provide a waterside setting for your special day.  Despite its proximity to London, Berkshire has a tranquillity and a slower pace of life even in the towns.  For a pretty and historic setting, look no further than Eton, located on the other side of the River Thames from Windsor and home to the famous public school.  Windsor and Eton are connected by a bridge over the Thames with the most fabulous views of the castle’s water edge and a spectacular photo opportunity.  Eton is a clever choice as it is quieter than Windsor but still with riverside and castle views, it has a quaint and old-fashioned atmosphere, and you would hardly know you were so close to London.

Foodies will not be disappointed as Berkshire is home to many local food producers which means you can tantalise your guests’ taste buds and also keep your food miles down to almost nothing.  Add some wine to the menu from Stanlake Park Wine Estate near Twyford, the largest vineyard in Berkshire with a range of red, white and sparkling wines to incorporate a true local flavour to your wedding banquet.

It’s hard to think of any disadvantages to getting married in Berkshire, whatever type of wedding you are looking for, Berkshire can offer it and then some.  Ideally situated along the M4 corridor, road links are excellent, and it is just a short hop up the motorway to London Heathrow for air travel.