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About
On Hitched.co.uk since 2021
Last update: December 2024
Set within the enchanting Forest of Dean, Clearwell Castle is a historic wedding venue situated in Coleford, Gloucestershire. This multi-award-winning property stands proud within 20 acres of pristine grounds, providing an idyllic setting for a fairytale wedding. Dating back to the mid-15th century, the castle is a tasteful blend of modern flourishes and characterful architecture surrounded by stunning beauty. The site is brimming with possibilities, from al-fresco gatherings to majestic ceremonies down a 75-foot aisle, giving couples ample choice for staging their unique happily ever after.
Facilities and Capacity
Journeying up to Clearwell Castle, guests will be mesmerized by the striking tree-lined driveway that leads to an impressive Portcullis. Just beyond, the stately venue awaits, ready to open its doors and 15 luxury suites to the happy couple. Through the historic entrance lies the great hall, complete with an inviting log fire and plush sofas. Here, guests can enjoy welcome drinks before stepping into one of the castle's many event spaces. The spectacular Ballroom is the most prestigious with its leaded glass windows, golden aisle, and raised dais. Steeped in natural light, couples can exchange their vows surrounded by 150 friends and family. Alternatively, the Bandstand is a beautiful outdoor location that offers a picturesque castle backdrop for a truly distinguished ceremony. After the nuptials, the newlyweds can stroll to the nearby Croquet Lawn for an intimate photo session while guests enjoy some light entertainment. For the evening reception, the Vaulted Cellar Bar provides a contemporary setting to celebrate with up to 250 guests. The Ballroom can also be transformed into a lavish banqueting hall ideal for a wedding breakfast. In addition to the castle's bedrooms, The Wyndham offers a further 24 suites only a short walk away with bar facilities. 3 beautiful cottages lie within the glorious grounds and are ideal for the wedding party to stay ahead of the big day.
Services Offered
Clearwell Castle offers to-be-weds exclusive use of its grounds for a private wedding celebration. With their bespoke all-inclusive package, couples can enjoy the assistance of the venue's experienced wedding coordinator. This friendly professional can help with every facet of the venue design and set-up, including choosing the most suitable suppliers from their trusted selection. From photographers to firework specialists, couples can feel confident their day is in capable hands. Meanwhile, an onsite banqueting manager and elite culinary team are ready to wow guests with incredible bites and quality service. As part of their bespoke package, the newlyweds-to-be can also avail of finishing touches to enhance their day, including a prosecco stand, personalized cushions, an ice-cream tricycle, and much more.
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Contact Clearwell Castle and their preferred suppliers
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Clearwell Castle -
Bourton Hall -
St Audries Park
Frequently asked questions
Venue type:
In the country
Castle
Stately home
Historic
Outdoor license
Unique weddings
Ceremony options:
Civil ceremony licence
Dining options:
Seated meal facilities
Alcohol licence
Buffet meal facilities
In-house catering
Evening entertainment:
Dance floor
Entertainment licence
Live band facilities
Evening reception facilities
DJ facilities
Outdoor fireworks permitted
Overnight accommodation:
Overnight accommodation for wedding couple
Overnight accommodation for guests
Venue staff assistance:
Master of ceremonies/toastmaster
Wedding coordinator
Venue leisure facilities:
Hairdresser
Beautician
Other features:
Exclusive use
Accessible facilities
Car parking
Helipad
Confetti permitted
Pet-friendly
Do you have any questions?
Reviews for Clearwell Castle
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5.0 out of 5 rating
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5.0 out of 5 rating
84 reviews
99% recommend it
Rhiannon Sent on 05/05/2024
5 out of 5 rating
Incredible service
I cannot speak highly enough about Clearwell Castle as a wedding venue. The venue itself is absolutely stunning. It rained on our wedding day but the indoor space was so vast and beautiful that ourselves and our guests still had the most amazing time! Our wedding co-ordinator, Phaedra, was absolutely incredible, both before and during the wedding. She was always so professional, replied to all of my emails (there were many) and answered all queries efficiently. On the day, we genuinely could not have managed without her. The day flowed so well with her guidance and it really helped me as the Bride as I felt I didn't need to worry about anything! All the other staff at Clearwell and at the Wyndham hotel were also so wonderful! Everyone worked so hard and every member of staff was so kind to us; it just made our day incredibly special and we are so appreciative to them all. The food was great, service very quick and all the guests really enjoyed it! We had so many compliments about the staff and venue! I honestly could not recommend Clearwell castle more as a wedding venue!
Neil C. Sent on 06/09/2024
5 out of 5 rating
Unbelievable venue
From the moment we first visited Clearwell, we knew this was the venue for us. From the moment we started planning to the final touches on the day, all the staff were fantastic. Ann, our wedding coordinator, was a delight to work with throughout. Nothing was too much trouble and she kept us updated throughout. The day was tailored exactly to our needs and when we arrived at the venue on the day they had prepared everything perfectly.
We did the night before package which included rooms and food the evening before. We were supplied with so much food no one went hungry. The rooms in the Wyndham and the Castle are fantastically appointed.
The venue itself is gorgeous. The cellar bar downstairs adds a whole different dimension to the occasion where you can really let your hair down.
This was an absolute dream come true venue for us. We loved every single minute.
We did the night before package which included rooms and food the evening before. We were supplied with so much food no one went hungry. The rooms in the Wyndham and the Castle are fantastically appointed.
The venue itself is gorgeous. The cellar bar downstairs adds a whole different dimension to the occasion where you can really let your hair down.
This was an absolute dream come true venue for us. We loved every single minute.
Victoria F. Sent on 23/12/2023
5 out of 5 rating
Perfect Fairytale Wedding
Our wedding on 10/11/23 was just the absolute perfect day from start to finish. Our wedding planner manager, Hannah, was incredible, not just on the day but throughout the whole planning process. She ensured everything ran smoothly on the day, sparing no details ensuring everything was just perfect and to time but without being stressful. She was very accommodating with the planning meetings working around both mine and my now Husband's shift patterns.
We both stayed the night before our wedding and the night of the wedding with many of our guests travelling a distance so also staying in the Wyndham which was very convenient. Staying in Keepers cottage with the Bridesmaids the night before added to the experience with the added feature of the hot tub, the groomsmen were very jealous. The beds were very comfortable and everyone was excited to stay in a castle.
On the day of the wedding, the staff were very accommodating moving the bridal party along to the bridal suite to finish preparations earlier than originally planned. The breakfast provided was the perfect amount for a busy morning getting ready. Everything, including the gardens, were immaculately kept adding to the WOW factor of getting married in a Castle.
The canapes served and welcome drinks were well received by the guests and ourselves whilst we had photographers prior to the wedding breakfast. The food was phenomenal and great portions and I was stuffed after. The staff were very accommodating for us with a lot of people with allergies, dislikes of mushrooms so adapting the menu for these individual people. We were even able to swap out a few bottles of wine included in our package for cocktails as us as the Bride and Groom did not drink wine.
As soon as we walked in the venue the first time, we knew it was the place we wanted to get married. Everytime we went back to view the venue again I fell more and more in love. For anyone thinking about viewing or even booking this incredible venue I would say do it! We will be going back for events in the future to relive the best day of our lives.
We both stayed the night before our wedding and the night of the wedding with many of our guests travelling a distance so also staying in the Wyndham which was very convenient. Staying in Keepers cottage with the Bridesmaids the night before added to the experience with the added feature of the hot tub, the groomsmen were very jealous. The beds were very comfortable and everyone was excited to stay in a castle.
On the day of the wedding, the staff were very accommodating moving the bridal party along to the bridal suite to finish preparations earlier than originally planned. The breakfast provided was the perfect amount for a busy morning getting ready. Everything, including the gardens, were immaculately kept adding to the WOW factor of getting married in a Castle.
The canapes served and welcome drinks were well received by the guests and ourselves whilst we had photographers prior to the wedding breakfast. The food was phenomenal and great portions and I was stuffed after. The staff were very accommodating for us with a lot of people with allergies, dislikes of mushrooms so adapting the menu for these individual people. We were even able to swap out a few bottles of wine included in our package for cocktails as us as the Bride and Groom did not drink wine.
As soon as we walked in the venue the first time, we knew it was the place we wanted to get married. Everytime we went back to view the venue again I fell more and more in love. For anyone thinking about viewing or even booking this incredible venue I would say do it! We will be going back for events in the future to relive the best day of our lives.
Dan W. Sent on 23/11/2023
4.6 out of 5 rating
Fairy-Tale Perfection: A Glowing Review for Clearwell Castle Wedding Venue
Clearwell Castle exceeded all our expectations for our wedding day. The moment we stepped onto the grounds, we were captivated by its timeless charm. The staff, especially Hannah, went above and beyond to make every detail perfect, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. The Ball Room, where we exchanged our vows, felt like something out of a storybook. The surrounding gardens provided a stunning backdrop for photos and added to the overall enchantment of the day. Our guests were equally impressed, and many commented on the unique and romantic atmosphere. Choosing Clearwell Castle was the best decision we made for our special day; it truly felt like a fairy-tale come to life.
Stephen B. Sent on 16/10/2023
5 out of 5 rating
The perfect Wedding
We had the perfect wedding at Clearwell Castle, their team were superb in providing planning assistance from the point of our booking, guidance on all aspects of our wedding choices from registrars and suppliers, and coordination on the day of the wedding to make sure it flowed seamlessly. It was a beautiful day, and we couldn't be happier with our choice of Wedding location.
Laura J. Sent on 28/06/2023
5 out of 5 rating
My wedding at Clearwell
We had an amazing day at Clearwell Castle on 22nd July 2010. It was perfect from start to finish and Davina our Wedding manager was awesome. She made the day so smooth and stress free, and even now our friends say its the best wedding they've ever been to!!!
We recently revisited the castle for dinner and it was just as amazing as it was 13yrs ago!! Beautiful place and amazing food and the team are fabulous.
We recently revisited the castle for dinner and it was just as amazing as it was 13yrs ago!! Beautiful place and amazing food and the team are fabulous.
Chloe Sent on 08/06/2022
5 out of 5 rating
Perfect wedding
Me and my (new!) husband had our wedding day at Clearwell Castle on May 1st, 2022 and we couldn't have had a more perfect experience, particularly with Sian Russell as our wedding planner. She ensured we were on top of all documentation ahead of the day and the process felt effortless—I don't know how, but she took literally all of the stress out of planning (which was the bit I was the most worried about!) I felt like all I had to do was just turn up in my dress. And that's basically what happened. It was great!
The Keeper's Cottage was such a gorgeous place to stay the night before, and me and my bridal party really enjoyed having the hot tub to relax before the big day. In the morning we were so glad we had booked Clearwell's recommended suppliers, as the hair and makeup team (Margot + Lace) and our photographer (Nick Murray) knew the venue inside and out, and everything went incredibly smoothly.
The ceremony in the ballroom was magical (and Sian helped us arrange having a friend "marry" us so we didn't need a registrar, which we really appreciated); the food, even though we hadn't tasted it previously, was so decadant, and easily the best wedding food we'd ever had; our 3-tier cheesecake cake, provided by Clearwell's chef, was stunning and so delicious; and the waitstaff, bar staff, and DJ were all so friendly and professional.
Sian was my rock all day, even rushing to write out placecards for the guests when I didn't have any. I didn't have to worry about a thing!
Our friends and family still can't stop talking about what a lovely time they had and neither can we. The rooms in the castle are also absolutely beautiful (especially the bridal suite with the jacuzzi bath!) and we're so glad our wedding party were able to stay right in the castle and have breakfast with us the next day (which was also excellent!)
I can't recommend Clearwell Castle enough for anybody planning their wedding. The fact that Clearwell can also provide so many additional services (for example, we opted for table decorations, candles and lanterns throughout the castle, iced buckets of beer in the main rooms, a candy cart, and lawn games) meant we had to worry about so much less leading up to the wedding. It couldn't have gone more perfectly. Thank you Sian and the Clearwell Castle team!
The Keeper's Cottage was such a gorgeous place to stay the night before, and me and my bridal party really enjoyed having the hot tub to relax before the big day. In the morning we were so glad we had booked Clearwell's recommended suppliers, as the hair and makeup team (Margot + Lace) and our photographer (Nick Murray) knew the venue inside and out, and everything went incredibly smoothly.
The ceremony in the ballroom was magical (and Sian helped us arrange having a friend "marry" us so we didn't need a registrar, which we really appreciated); the food, even though we hadn't tasted it previously, was so decadant, and easily the best wedding food we'd ever had; our 3-tier cheesecake cake, provided by Clearwell's chef, was stunning and so delicious; and the waitstaff, bar staff, and DJ were all so friendly and professional.
Sian was my rock all day, even rushing to write out placecards for the guests when I didn't have any. I didn't have to worry about a thing!
Our friends and family still can't stop talking about what a lovely time they had and neither can we. The rooms in the castle are also absolutely beautiful (especially the bridal suite with the jacuzzi bath!) and we're so glad our wedding party were able to stay right in the castle and have breakfast with us the next day (which was also excellent!)
I can't recommend Clearwell Castle enough for anybody planning their wedding. The fact that Clearwell can also provide so many additional services (for example, we opted for table decorations, candles and lanterns throughout the castle, iced buckets of beer in the main rooms, a candy cart, and lawn games) meant we had to worry about so much less leading up to the wedding. It couldn't have gone more perfectly. Thank you Sian and the Clearwell Castle team!
Natasha M. Sent on 12/10/2021
5 out of 5 rating
Fantastic day
E we had abs amazing day at clearwell castle, it’s such a beautiful venue. The staff were amazing and nothing was too much trouble, the food was amazing too, would have no hesitations in recommending this venue to anyone.
Beth K. Sent on 27/08/2024
5 out of 5 rating
I could not have wished for a better experience
I cannot fault this venue at all. We initially had to change our wedding date because of lockdown and they were so supportive and empathetic.
Ann, our coordinator, is quite possibly the loveliest person on the planet. She was always happy to answer any questions and it never felt like we were being a nuisances or asking a silly question.
On the morning of the wedding she was a lovely calm presence and the whole day just ran like clockwork.
The food was out of this world with many guests saying it was the best food they’d had at a wedding and one person actually thought we’d hired a Michellin Chef!
The venue is so so beautiful with plenty of space. The downstairs cellar was a great place to party the night away, it was like an exclusive nightclub. There were lots of quieter rooms for people who wanted some peace.
The DJ was brilliant, we forgot to give a list of songs we liked but he did a great job of guessing what we liked ( he must’ve looked at our age and figured nineties dance music was our era. And he was bang on the money)
I do not have a single complaint about this venue
Ann, our coordinator, is quite possibly the loveliest person on the planet. She was always happy to answer any questions and it never felt like we were being a nuisances or asking a silly question.
On the morning of the wedding she was a lovely calm presence and the whole day just ran like clockwork.
The food was out of this world with many guests saying it was the best food they’d had at a wedding and one person actually thought we’d hired a Michellin Chef!
The venue is so so beautiful with plenty of space. The downstairs cellar was a great place to party the night away, it was like an exclusive nightclub. There were lots of quieter rooms for people who wanted some peace.
The DJ was brilliant, we forgot to give a list of songs we liked but he did a great job of guessing what we liked ( he must’ve looked at our age and figured nineties dance music was our era. And he was bang on the money)
I do not have a single complaint about this venue
Vanessa T. Sent on 15/12/2023
5 out of 5 rating
Perfect Wedding
We got married at Clearwell castle April 2023. What can I say it's the most perfect venue and we had the most amazing day. The organisation was amazing and the staff were great on the day and even leading up to the big day. Phaedra was our wedding planner and communication with her was great throughout and on our wedding day she ensured that it all ran smoothly. I cannot recommend Clearwell castle and their staff enough. Thank you again for helping us have our dream wedding.
Kind regards
Vanessa & David x
Kind regards
Vanessa & David x
Sarah P. Sent on 13/12/2023
5 out of 5 rating
Just incredible in every way!
We had the most amazing wedding day on the 24th of November 2023, the whole day ran so smoothly and all our guests absolutely loved the venue. The food was amazing and our guests loved the fish and chip buffet in the evening! The whole progress of planning the wedding was so straight forward and Phedera was a great wedding manager.
Marlene M. Sent on 14/09/2023
5 out of 5 rating
Mr & Mrs Coates - 14th August 2023
I hope this message finds you in great spirits. I wanted to take a moment to express myself and Gary gratitude for the incredible work and dedication each one of your team put into setting up our wedding. The day turned out to be nothing short of magical, and it wouldn't have been possible without your tireless efforts.
From the early planning stages to the final moments of the reception, your expertise and attention to detail were evident in every aspect of the event. The decorations were absolutely stunning, and the venue was transformed into a dreamlike setting. The floral arrangements were exquisite, and the lighting created a warm and inviting atmosphere. Every guest commented on how beautifully everything came together.
The professionalism and teamwork of your staff were exceptional. You handled every challenge with grace and made sure everything ran smoothly. Your ability to coordinate different elements of the event was truly impressive. It was clear that you all worked seamlessly together, and it made a significant impact on the overall experience.
Additionally, your warm and approachable demeanour made my entire guests feel comfortable and reassured throughout the entire process.
We are truly grateful for the countless hours and the passion you poured into making our wedding day unforgettable. Your dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed, and we couldn't have asked for a better team.
From Mr & Mrs Coates
14th August 2023
From the early planning stages to the final moments of the reception, your expertise and attention to detail were evident in every aspect of the event. The decorations were absolutely stunning, and the venue was transformed into a dreamlike setting. The floral arrangements were exquisite, and the lighting created a warm and inviting atmosphere. Every guest commented on how beautifully everything came together.
The professionalism and teamwork of your staff were exceptional. You handled every challenge with grace and made sure everything ran smoothly. Your ability to coordinate different elements of the event was truly impressive. It was clear that you all worked seamlessly together, and it made a significant impact on the overall experience.
Additionally, your warm and approachable demeanour made my entire guests feel comfortable and reassured throughout the entire process.
We are truly grateful for the countless hours and the passion you poured into making our wedding day unforgettable. Your dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed, and we couldn't have asked for a better team.
From Mr & Mrs Coates
14th August 2023
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Badges
Clearwell Castle Real Weddings
Sam & Rebecca
14 photos · 17/05/2024
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70 photos · 14/12/2023
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10 photos · 02/10/2022
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113 photos · 13/08/2022
Andrew & Sue
20 photos · 14/07/2022
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120 photos · 03/07/2022
Deals
Preferred suppliers
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4.7 out of 5 rating , 32 reviews
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5.0 out of 5 rating , 156 reviews
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Country Weddings Map
Church Road GL16 8LG Coleford (Gloucestershire)
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