If you are looking for a picturesque, one-of-a-kind venue with an incredible marquee, Vikki from Your Wedding Friend is joining us today to explain why Flaxbourne Gardens is a perfect choice!

There are so many venues with marquees, so how do you choose between them? Not all marquee venues are the same so it comes down to your personal priorities but one you should definitely consider is the one at Flaxbourne Gardens. And here’s why …

Nestled on the Beds/Bucks border near the pretty village of Aspley Guise is Flaxbourne Gardens. A unique privately owned garden venue not too far from junction 13 of the M1. It is set in a rural area next to a farm, which as you arrive gives little away about what’s in store, but once inside you’ll be amazed at what has been created. This is a marquee venue unlike any other you’ll find elsewhere.

They worked hard to achieve their licensed ceremony venue status, making them even more appealing as you can do your legal ceremony there as well as the reception. Meaning the gardens are yours for the whole day, giving you the chance to make the most of every moment, which you’ll need to take it all in.

The gardens at Flaxbourne are outstanding, and the groundskeeping team take a great deal of pride in their seasonal flowerbeds and manicured lawns, perfect for outdoor games and drinks. But the wow factor comes from all the places you can choose from for your photographs. From its folly and focal points to the mini moated castle, that have been created by the owners, this is a truly unique venue. You also have a miniature windmill and a hermit’s cave, arches and bridges, you’ll find that you’re spoilt for choice. Whether you’re planning a quirky, whimsical or classical romantic wedding you won’t be disappointed with the stunning surroundings.

This marquee venue can accommodate up to 300 people maximum for a mix of seated and standing for an evening reception, or up to 100 people for a ceremony.  So, it’s not a bad sized venue. Legal ceremonies have to happen in a specific beautiful spot in the grounds but for a celebrant led non-legal ceremony you have more options. Food is primarily provided by the talented Paul Linden but they can be flexible, if you need something specific that they’re unable to provide, meaning you could bring in your own catering (for a fee). But Paul Linden’s catering is fantastic; offering canapes to sit down meals, to the most exquisite, beautiful desserts. Menus are available to view on the Flaxbourne Gardens website, so check them out, and I can vouch for how tasty it is, and prices are very reasonable for their offer.

The venue hire prices are also flexible depending on the day of the week and what you need, but if you’re looking for a great deal here the value you get with an early in the week date is amazing. Marquees are traditionally only available in the best part of the year, which is just as well because you really want the best possible weather to make the most of this venue. This usually means April to October, but of course, with any outdoor venue, there are no guarantees of the great British weather always being on our side. I highly recommend having a sunny weather plan and a rainy day plan; if you’re ready for anything you’ll never be disappointed.

This is not a budget wedding venue option, but you definitely get what you pay for AND they offer payment plans, so you don’t have to pay huge amounts in one go like you do at other venues. Yes, Flaxbourne has no accommodation so you’d need to book a nearby hotel or similar, but you’re not too far from some lovely ones. My recommendation is to give this fabulous venue a look before making a judgement.

For more on what Flaxbourne Gardens have to offer, follow their website link. X

Contact Vikki to chat about your wedding planning, or for advice on picking a venue.
Instagram: @yourweddingfrienduk | Facebook: @YourWeddingFriend

SEE VIKKI’S OTHER VENUE REVIEWS HERE.