News / Weddings
Historic cemetery named among top outdoor wedding venues
Arnos Vale, one of Bristol’s historic cemeteries, which boasts some 45 acres of woodlands, has been named among the top outdoor wedding venues in the UK.
The site ranked fourth in OBJKTS Jewelry’s “Top 10 Most Enchanting Woodland Wedding Venues,” with Wasing Park in Berkshire taking the top spot.
OBJKTS Jewelry compiled a list of 35 woodland wedding venues across the UK using platforms such as Hitched and Outdoor Ceremonies. Then each venue’s Instagram presence was quantified where Arnos Vale amassed an impressive 9,893 hashtags.
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Arnos Vale’s history dates back to 1839, when it was established as a Victorian garden cemetery, a response to the overcrowded churchyards of the time.
Arnos Vale ranked fourth in OBJKTS Jewelry’s “Top 10 Most Enchanting Woodland Wedding Venues photo: Arnos Vale
Inspired by the grand cemeteries of Paris, it was designed as both a resting place for the dead and a peaceful green space for the living.
Over the decades, it became the final resting place for thousands of Bristolians, including prominent figures such as Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a key social reformer in India whose monument stands on College Green.
While originally created for burial and remembrance, Arnos Vale has evolved into a community space and heritage site, blending history, nature and architecture.
Its atmospheric Grade II listed buildings, including the restored Anglican Chapel and Spielman Centre, now serve a variety of functions, from public events to private ceremonies.
The historic and tranquil setting has made Arnos Vale a distinctive choice for weddings. Couples can exchange vows beneath a canopy of trees in the secluded Underwood Centre or within the settings of the Anglican Chapel.
The historic and tranquil setting has made Arnos Vale a distinctive choice for weddings – photo: Bristol Contemporary Photography
The site’s blend of Victorian architecture and natural woodland charm offers a deeply romantic and meaningful backdrop for modern celebrations.
What was once reserved for solemn reflection now also hosts joyous milestones.
The data, collected in June, reflects popularity at the time which subjects to fluctuation.
Main photo: Becky Weir Photography
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