Captain’s Wood Barn Essex
Undoubtably one of my favourite Essex wedding venues, Captain’s Wood Barn is one of those unique venues that actually feels completely cut off from the outside world. Hidden away in a wood near Maldon in Essex, you have the whole barn, gardens and woodland for your wedding weekend.
It’s a really special setting. Certainly unlike anywhere I’ve been before. I think it’s the unique planting and the lakes that really make it feel different and of course finding a huge wood for your ceremony is always a plus!
The barn
The barn itself is a large space with a catering area out the back and guest toilets. There is a bar area and out the front is a huge open sided barn too so you literally have tonnes of space whatever the weather. It’s dry hire so that does mean you’ll have to bring your own furniture but personally I think that makes it even better as you can add your own personality.
The Wood and Gardens
This is the part where it gets really special. There is a huge area with lawn and landscaped gardens that front onto a large lake and wildflower area. This makes the perfect space to mingle with your guests. And of course there’s the 50 acres of wood with an outdoor ceremony area. Even better the owner (who’s quite the character) will take you to the ceremony on his tractor and does rides for your guests once the ceremony is over. Again there’s so much scope to make this space suit your personalities and your days.
Wedding Guest Accommodation
There is no onsite accommodation but there are lots of places nearby in Maldon
For large groups there’s Creeksea Place Barns or Bellropes which are both near Bradwell on Sea or up to 8 at this house in Danbury with a pool.
There’s also lots of caravan or camping places or standard air bnbs or hotels in the towns nearby
Getting to Captains Wood
The easiest way is definitely by car due to the remote location. There is lots of space for parking in the field. The nearest train station is Witham which is on the mainline from London.
My Review of Captains Wood Barn
Honestly I love this place. It’s quirky and special. If you want somewhere that feels unique and where you can really embrace the outdoors this is the one for you. It’s for the sort of couples who love being outside, who want a place they can add their own personality to and who love a party and a good old bonfire to end the night with. It’s definitely not for you if you think you’ll want a lot of control and are likely to get stressed over having a venue that requires a bit of setting up. It’s definitely got a bit of a wild feel to it, which I think attracts pretty chill couples but I know for some people that could mean too many logistics that would be stressful. I also love the team and the family behind this place, they bring a great atmosphere to it all and are so laid back.
Gallery of Captains Wood Barn Essex
A selection of photos from some of the weddings I’ve photographed here over the last few years.
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