Lora Murphy's Blog: Getting to Know

Venue Name: Gaynes Park

Location: Near Epping, Essex

What type of venue is Gaynes Park and how old is the building?

Gaynes Park is a breathtaking barn wedding venue in Essex, with a wealth of ceremony and reception spaces, glorious gardens and remarkable views. The venue has everything you could need on your big day, from a stunning cottage to prepare beforehand to fantastic fine dining wedding food. There is luxurious accommodation on-site too, provided separately by Gaynes Park Ltd.

The estate has been in the Chisenhale-Marsh family since the 1780s. The 1,000-acre estate comprises approximately 300 acres of woodland, with wood milled in the listed barns. Seasoned in the open-sided Gather Barn, the wood was then used as ship masts and supports in mines. This rich history is still clear to see and provides a wonderful sense of authenticity to Gaynes Park.

Orangery with wedding ceremony seating at Gaynes Park

How long has Gaynes Park been a wedding venue?

Gaynes Park has been a wedding venue for 12 years. In that time we’ve catered for many magical weddings, helping couples make one the most important days of their lives extra special.

What is the capacity for a wedding ceremony and wedding reception at Gaynes Park?

Couples will find plenty of space for 150 guests for a civil ceremony in the Orangery, Mill Barn and Gather Barn. All options can use different seating plans, offering flexibility and choice. Wedding breakfasts in the Mill Barn can hold a maximum of 150 guests too, with space for a further 50 for the evening reception.

Gather Barn at Gaynes Park

What rooms are available for couples having their wedding at Gaynes Park?

On your wedding day you have exclusive use of the peaceful and private Apple Loft Cottage before the ceremony, the light-filled Orangery, the unique, open-sided Gather Barn and rustic Mill Barn. Set within the grounds and picturesque gardens, every aspect is yours to enjoy as you wish. Exclusive use comes as standard for weddings at Gaynes Park.

The Walled Garden at Gaynes Park

Is catering provided for weddings or can couples bring in their own caterers?

Galloping Gourmet, Gaynes Park’s expert in-house caterers , can offer everything from spectacular fine dining menus to relaxed sharing boards and theatrical street food. You can even create a bespoke menu full of the things you love. They also provide an extensive array of drinks packages to tailor your day to your specific tastes.

Wedding breakfast tables in Mill Barn at Gaynes Park

What would a typical wedding breakfast menu be?

There are plenty of different menus and dishes available for your wedding breakfast that range from reimagined British classics to delicacies from around the world. The exquisite flavours are only matched by the incredible presentation, so whatever you choose you can be sure it will delight your guests.

Does Gaynes Park have a set price for weddings or is there a tiered pricing structure? What packages do you offer?

The venue fee for Gaynes Park depends on the day of the week and time of year. With the whole venue, tables and chairs, linen and crockery and plenty more included, all that’s left to do is choose your perfect food package.

Outside Mill Barn at Gaynes Park

Does Gaynes Park have a wedding co-ordinator on site, are they available on the day of the wedding?

Gaynes Park’s Venue Director, Yvonne, will guide you around the venue on your first visit. From then onwards, the Galloping Gourmet Events Team will be by your side right through to your wedding day.

Your own personal wedding planner will help make sure your dream wedding becomes a reality, helping you every step of the way.

Bride and groom walking in grounds of Gaynes Park

What can a couple expect from having their wedding at Gaynes Park?

When you tie the knot at Gaynes Park, expect a magical country setting with breathtaking views of the London skyline. Expect enchanting woodland, rolling fields filled with lambs and sheep, and beautiful gardens with the most amazing natural aisle for you to walk down. Expect delicious food and drink and, most of all, expect the highest quality throughout every aspect of your day.

Brides looking at view from Gaynes Park

What is the best thing about having your wedding at Gaynes Park?

It’s hard to pick just one part of Gaynes Park that stands out above all the others, but perhaps the most romantic is its natural aisle. When you’re ready to tie the knot, head through the Heart Gate, down the Long Walk surrounded by colourful flowerbeds and along the path of the Walled Garden. This is the perfect opportunity to compose yourself, spend a few minutes with your loved ones and take in your magical surroundings.

Bride and groom walking in Walled Garden at Gaynes Park

How many rooms does Gaynes Park have for guests to stay in?

The luxurious Coach House, provided separately by Gaynes Park Ltd, includes a stunning honeymoon suite and nine relaxing rooms for your nearest and dearest. All are stylish and inviting, with unique touches to make each one individual.

You can enjoy a nightcap in the lounge after your wedding has drawn to a close, and reminisce about your wedding day over breakfast with your loved ones the following morning in the charming dining area.

There are also many nearby hotels and B&Bs just a short journey from the venue.

Wedding dress hanging in bedroom of Apple Loft Cottage at Gaynes Park

Describe Gaynes Park in three words.

Elegant, rustic and enchanting.

What’s your top tip for choosing the perfect wedding venue?

Think about the style and level of formality you want for your day and find a venue that works with that. Weddings can be as relaxed or formal as you want so it’s all about deciding what suits you best.

Bride and groom under the Wedding Pavillion at Gaynes Park at night