FAQs
Bookings
To arrange a private tour, use our online calendar to book either a virtual or in-person viewing. You can also experience the charm of High House in person at one of our upcoming open days. If you’d like a sneak peek before booking a visit, you can use our 360-degree virtual tour.
Wedding prices at High House vary depending on your chosen date and guest numbers. For 2027, prices range from £11,995 to £37,595. Download our latest brochure for more information or contact our team to discuss your requirements.
Our Events team will be in touch, and will assist in the planning of your wedding day to ensure it is all you dreamed it would be. From creating the plan for your day with you, liaising with your suppliers to being there with you on the special day itself – you know you are in the best hands to be supported through the planning process.
Absolutely. You will visit us in person for your planning meetings (unless you would prefer a virtual meeting) and also are welcome to come along to our many Open Days and catch up with the team with any questions you may have.
We don't typically offer dry hire, but please do get in touch to discuss your requirements.
Our Venue
Barn - 120
Wedding Breakfast - 140
Evening Reception - 200Yes, High House is a licensed wedding venue.
To arrange your wedding ceremony, please contact Essex Registrars directly.
Of course, we always welcome humanist and independent wedding celebrants. They can offer flexibility and personalised ceremonies. You can find out more about celebrant-led wedding ceremonies here.
High House is an exclusive-use venue, which means your wedding is the only event taking place on the day and the whole estate is yours to enjoy with your guests.
For couples seeking the charming elegance of an indoor ceremony, the Grade II listed Essex Barn is a dream come true.
For couples who would prefer an outdoor ceremony, you can say ‘I do’ beneath a thatched gazebo, with panoramic views stretching over the serene lake and surrounded by vibrant country flowers.
You can finalise your ceremony space choice on the morning of your wedding day, giving you the flexibility to choose whether to be indoors or outdoors on the day itself.
Absolutely. Couples can choose their aisle style, seating layout, music and decorative touches to reflect their own vision for the ceremony.
High House was designed with accessibility in mind, the venue is pathed throughout for easy access. We also have a dedicated disabled toilet on site.
We work with many talented local suppliers and we’d be happy to provide recommendations based on your requirements. Please refer to our list of recommended suppliers.
We know how special it is to include your dog in your wedding day, and at High House, we’re happy to make this a reality. You’re welcome to have your dog involved in your ceremony and on the grounds during your drinks reception.
Please note, only dogs of the married couple can be included, and they are not permitted to stay at the accommodation or remain for the afternoon/evening celebrations.
At High House, we are able to offer you a range of thoughtfully curated, cost-effective wedding extras that have been designed to enhance every element of your special day. Browse our extras brochure here.
We provide either 6ft round or trestle tables for your wedding breakfast, the choice is yours.
Wedding insurance isn’t mandatory, but we strongly recommend taking out a policy to protect your plans and payments against unforeseen circumstances.
Our bar closes and music ends at 11:30pm, guest departure by midnight. We recommend organising taxis for 11:45pm.
Absolutely. You can have a live band, DJ or your own playlist for your evening entertainment. The Orangery's acoustics bring your chosen music to life.
We are unable to allow fireworks at High House, but are happy to provide sparklers so that you can create the wonderful sparkler line photograph with your guests in the evening.
Yes, however the flame must be covered or contained so that no one can touch the open flame.
Due to the wildlife we have on site, we ask that any confetti used at High House is fresh petals.
Wedding morning
Yes! Designed with luxury in mind, our dressing room – for bride and/or groom – is complete with soft, comfortable sofas, dressing tables, generous en-suite bathroom and a dedicated changing area. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated for your comfort.
The dressing room will be ready for you from 9am on the morning of your wedding. This gives you plenty of time to get ready with your nearest and dearest before you say "I do."
Our decorative pool is not for swimming in, but it offers a stunning backdrop for unforgettable photos. It is also the perfect spot to dip your toes in and enjoy a refreshing moment before the big day.
We offer a range of food and drinks for our wedding parties on the morning of their wedding, meaning you can relax and know that everything is ready for your arrival and enjoyment.
Food & Beverage
Unless have hired the venue on a dry hire basis, all catering is provided by our wonderful in-house catering team.
Food is provided by our in-house catering teams. We understand that food is an essential part of your day, and that's why our menus are crafted to reflect your vision, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local suppliers within a 30-mile radius. Whether you're looking for something informal or a refined dining experience, our highly skilled team caters to all preferences and requirements.
We are proud to offer a 30-mile menu, which showcases the best seasonal produce from within a 30-mile radius of our venue. By supporting local growers, we're not just serving up incredible food, but also reducing food miles, supporting sustainable farming practices, and strengthening our community.
We understand that your guests are as important as the food itself, and that's why we make sure everyone is catered for. Whether it's gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan, our expert catering team is adept at accommodating all dietary needs without compromising on taste or quality.
Our dedicated chef will work with you to select dishes from our menus that suit your tastes. Whether you choose a traditional wedding breakfast or something entirely bespoke, we'll be there to bring your vision to life with exceptional food and drinks.
A tasting dinner is included as part of the planning process.
All drinks are provided by the brilliant High House bar team. We can of course source bespoke drinks should you wish to serve something not typically available at our bar.
If you've got a particular drink or concept in mind that captures the essence of your celebration, just let us know, as we have the skill, passion, and excitement to make your vision come to life.
Yes. Our beautiful handcrafted, 8-metre-long copper and walnut bar in the Orangery brings a dramatic vibe to your celebration. We also have our Stable Bar, used on arrival and during the drinks reception. From refreshing summer cocktails to English Sparkling wines, our extensive bar menu ensures there's something to suit every taste.
We accept card and cash payments, but card is preferred.
Accommodation
Yes! Across our Farmhouse, Courtyard and Couples Retreat, we can accommodate 27 guests across 13 double rooms and 1 single room. We can also accommodate an additional 8 beds for children across all accommodation options.
All rooms are reserved by the couple on behalf of their guests.
Check in at the Farmhouse is 3pm on the day of the wedding and 12 noon for the cottage and courtyard rooms.
We ask guests to depart High House by 10am the day after your celebrations.
Yes. You and your guests can enjoy an informal, continental style breakfast in the White House. You can choose from an array of croissants, pastries, cereal, fruit, teas, coffees and fresh juices.
Please refer to our local accommodation list.
Travel & Transport
High House sits in the Essex countryside and is easy to reach from London, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. It feels rural and peaceful while still being convenient for guests to travel to.
Our address is: High House Weddings, Old Heath Rd, Althorne, Chelmsford, CM3 6EW.
High House has free onsite parking.
You are welcome to leave your car overnight in our car park. Collection the following morning is between 8am and 10am. There is no access outside of these times.
Taxis must be pre-booked. You can find a list of our recommended taxi and coach services here.
events
Yes. The venue is available for events throughout the year, depending on availability.
High House can host private parties, corporate events and seasonal celebrations, in addition to weddings.
Choose between exclusive hire Christmas parties where you can enjoy the whole venue to yourselves or take part in a joiner night where you can book private tables and share the space with other groups.