Let’s say it straight; a wedding in a pub might not adhere to traditions of the past. But, it is certainly becoming a more popular option amongst couples selecting a venue for a reception for their big day. Pub weddings are on the rise, and by making a free house the setting of your wedding, you can achieve that much-coveted rustic, intimate feel when you tie the knot. An added bonus, of course, is the chance to celebrate with the finest cask ale. Cheers!

In all seriousness, it’s the break from convention and the looser, less formal sense of occasion which is increasingly appealing to so many. With that in mind here are 4 IDEAL reasons to host your wedding at a pub.

A UNIQUE TAKE ON BRIDAL SUITES 

When we think of pubs and inns, we imagine warm, traditional décor that feels welcoming, respectful of tradition yet informal. Sounds like the blurb for your ideal wedding? Yep, us too.

Pubs are versatile spaces, as such, they can provide a perfect alternative wedding setting, plus they tend to feel cosier than country houses with high ceilings and drafty rooms.

Where this might be most keenly felt is the bridal suite. Equipped with original beams, classic furnishings, and a hearty breakfast delivered to the door when you wake up as newlyweds for the first time, this kind of comfort is a key selling point for those looking to have their wedding in a pub or inn. Bridal suites in pubs offer a unique charm, perfect for laid back couples. Many pubs have also added rooms to their facilities, meaning that they can accommodate wedding guests to remove any stress of finding somewhere to stay nearby. Convenience and cosiness? Count us in.

LOCAL SPECIALITIES

Like us, we’re sure you will have frequented a fair few pubs in the past, and maybe you’ve even got a favourite spot where you’re a regular customer. Us Brits love a good boozer for a variety of reasons, but the delicious, hearty food served in these institutions is certainly being one of key factors which keeps us propping up the bar.

Yep, if you’re looking for something a bit different in terms of wedding catering, far removed from the carvery and cake served so many times before, try focusing your pub venue search on places famed for their food. In Britain, some of the island’s most highly regarded cuisine is prepared in pub kitchens, just ask star chefs Tom Kerridge, Stephen Harris, Josh Eggleton et al. Perhaps consider venturing further afield, as regional twists are what make British cuisine truly intriguing. Periwinkles and spotted dick anyone? Perhaps not on your wedding night, mind.

EVERYONE WELCOME…

One of the main ways in which the pub industry caters so kindly to the wedding industry is that typically, there are no guest exemptions. While some couples choose not to allow children to attend an elaborate evening reception (‘we want to get pissed away from the kids!’…fair enough) the intimacy of pub weddings mean that kids can be kept entertained without the sense that they’re spoiling the mood or getting lost in sprawling grounds. Pubs tend to be more family orientated settings, devoid of the stuffy nature of more traditional reception venues, and this encourages a more inclusive atmosphere. And that’s an atmosphere we’re personally always down with.

…INCLUDING ANIMALS

What’s more, pubs are traditionally extremely welcoming of dogs. If you’ve got separation anxiety just thinking about booking your furry friend into the kennels for an overnight stay, then fear not. Many inns and pubs allow dogs into their venues, but if canine accomodating is a deciding factor in your decision making, consider heading to the Northumberland Coast where you’ll find plenty of dog friendly pubs in Alnwick. Here, you could wake up the morning after your wedding and go for a fresh, coastal walk with your beloved pooch. They are part of the family after all. Now that’s inclusivity.