Fairytale wedding venue that's the size of a small British village

One uber-luxurious rural retreat is fast becoming one of the most sought-after wedding venues in the country and it's easy to see why.

Having already welcomed the likes of Alexa Chung, Jack Whitehall, Zoella, Sandi Toksvig, Binky Felstead and Marvin Hume to celebrate and relax within its extensive walls, The Wilderness Reserve in Saxmundham is a Soho Farmhouse-style country retreat that is understated and opulent in equal parts. The brainchild of property entrepreneur Jon Hunt, the 8,000-acre estate is a selection of properties that come together to form a hedonistic hamlet in the heart of Suffolk.

Featuring woodland, lakes, and rolling pastures all looking pretty as a picture it's a serene idyll that offers everything from country house opulence to an off-grid experience unlike any other. Not only available for those wanting to tie the know, the estate can also be rented for holidays, special days and family get-togethers.

The Historic Sibton Park sits

The Wilderness Reserve boasts more than a dozen unique properties for guests to choose from, ranging from charming thatched cottages and barns to the stunning Grade-II listed Sibton Park Georgian country manor. There is also the romantic Hex Cottage - an off-grid one-bedroom gem that’s heated by a wood-burning range and illuminated by firelight and candles, with no electricity to distract you from each other

Each property offers a distinct experience, combining historical charm with delicious modern comforts.

Adding to the estate's enchanting atmosphere, housekeeping staff drive around the grounds in pastel-coloured Morris Minors, maintaining the properties with care and attention to detail. This nostalgic touch enhances the overall experience, evoking a sense of timeless elegance and charm.

Hex Cottage

Guests are given a warm welcome as personal hosts escort them to their accommodations in classic Series 1 Land Rovers. This thoughtful service sets the tone for a stay that is both luxurious and steeped in tradition, making Wilderness Reserve a truly unique destination.

The restoration work at Wilderness Reserve is part of a long-term conservation and restoration project. This initiative aims to protect the English countryside while revitalizing historic properties, ensuring they continue to be appreciated for generations to come. The dedication to preserving nature and heritage is evident in every corner of the estate, making it a sanctuary for both wildlife and visitors alike.

Guests with deep pockets can explore the expansive woodlands, relax by the picturesque lakes or enjoy some more active pursuits such as riding horses, practising archery or playing tennis on the estate's two courts. On sunny days, the swimming pool, with its kidney shape and the nearby Jacuzzi provides a warm retreat regardless of the weather.

Guests can even borrow a boat to navigate the ornamental lake or spend a leisurely afternoon beneath an oak tree that is said to have sheltered Elizabeth I during a hunting excursion.

boating lake

Overall, Wilderness Reserve offers a diverse array of distractions and activities, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, the estate provides a perfect setting. Its combination of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and modern amenities makes it a unique and captivating destination.

If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here