Business Details
30 Years
experience
Your Historic Wedding Venue in Lavenham, Suffolk
Established in 1996, Preston Priory Barn has hosted over 300 exclusive weddings across two decades, cementing its reputation as one of Suffolk's original wedding venues. Our 15th-century timber-framed barn combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering couples a unique setting for bespoke ceremonies and receptions. The venue's authenticity is enhanced by its role as Cavendish Auction House in the BBC series Lovejoy, filmed on location for a decade. Situated on an award-winning arable farm near Lavenham, a village renowned for its mediaeval architecture and film appearances including Harry Potter, we provide exclusive use of our grounds to ensure each wedding remains special and distinctive.Our commitment to personal service includes the owner's continuous availability throughout the day, offering expert guidance to help couples create their ideal wedding experience. With seating for 160 guests and flexible configurations, we accommodate both full-day events and ceremony-only bookings, complemented by modern facilities such as heating, a caterer's kitchen, and disabled access.
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Reception Venues
Courtyard Events
Garden Photography
Catering Services
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer exclusive use of our historic venue for unique weddings
- Our owner provides expert guidance throughout your wedding day
- The 15th-century barn combines authentic charm with modern facilities
- We allow flexible catering arrangements with corkage-free wine service
- The venue's cinematic heritage adds unique photographic opportunities
What people say
Glorious setting
Owner available all day
Bespoke experience
Historic grounds
Modern facilities
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Licensed ceremonies in a 15th-century timber-framed barn with seating for 160 guests. Couples can marry in front of an antique hay wagon, followed by courtyard drinks receptions. The venue offers exclusive use and flexible configurations for bespoke events, combining historic charm with modern facilities including heating and disabled access.
Reception Venues
Exclusive use of the main barn for wedding breakfasts and evening celebrations. The space accommodates both round and long table configurations, with included furniture, heating, and a staffed pay bar. The venue allows corkage-free wine service and welcomes personal caterers for custom dining experiences.
Courtyard Events
Enclosed courtyard with garden furniture and potted plants for drinks receptions and BBQs. The space connects directly to the barn through double doors, offering convenient access and wildlife viewing opportunities from adjacent fields. Fully grassed areas complement the historic setting for daytime events.
Garden Photography
Access to sunken gardens, walled gardens draped with seasonal wisteria, and striped lawns for wedding photography. The grounds feature a historic fig tree and pathways leading past a mediaeval farmhouse, providing picturesque backdrops for capturing special moments in the venue's 570-year-old setting.
Catering Services
Flexible catering arrangements allowing personal caterers to use our equipped kitchen. Includes corkage-free welcome drinks (2 per head) and half bottle of wine per head with dinner. The venue provides a stocked and staffed pay bar for evening guests, with options for vintage afternoon tea receptions.
Questions
What's included in the barn hire?
Exclusive use of the venue, pre-wedding decorating day, choice of caterers, welcome drinks with corkage-free wine, courtyard access, tables/chairs, heating, and parking.
Can we have just a ceremony?
Yes, we offer a special ceremony-only package with options to host afternoon tea or drinks reception at the venue before moving to another location.
Are catering arrangements flexible?
Yes, you can choose any caterer. Our kitchen supports corkage-free wine service and welcome drinks (2 per head) with dinner.
How do we get pricing details?
Please call us to discuss your requirements. We'll provide a detailed breakdown of costs and inclusions for your wedding.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes, we have disabled facilities including accessible pathways, parking adjacent to the barn, and ground-level event spaces for ease of access.
Can we film at the venue?
The barn has historic film connections including BBC's Lovejoy. Please contact us to discuss filming opportunities and availability for commercial shoots.
