Shortmead is an exclusive use wedding venue in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. Originally built in the 16th century it was restored in 1790 as a Georgian country manor. The house and its grounds have since been transformed into a modern and luxurious venue that still pays homage to its storied past. The result is the perfect place to celebrate weddings of most sizes at any time of year.
Shortmead is licensed to conduct civil ceremonies. These take place in one of three spaces, each with its own unique charm. The Thatch is a large outdoor thatched rotunda, the perfect place to enjoy the warm weather while also being covered against any unexpected rain. There’s also The Pergola, which is outdoors and overlooks Shortmead’s pool. Both these spaces can seat up to 120 guests. For smaller ceremonies, there’s The Stables, the former home to the house’s suit of horses. This indoor ceremony space seats up to 150 guests, ideal for winter weddings.
With the ceremony complete, the couple can start capturing their first married photos. Shortmead is awash with unique spots for this to happen. Most intriguing of all is the pool, which is heated year round and makes the perfect backdrop for a few post-ceremony drinks. In addition, there’s also the sizable landscaped gardens and grounds, maximising the house’s rural location, including a quarter acre lake and stunning water features.
The evening party and wedding breakfast are typically hosted in Shortmead’s marquee. This can be decorated to the couple’s exact taste and provides the perfect combination of outdoor setting with some shelter. Food is provided by one of two local caterers who have worked with Shortmead’s owners for decades. The wedding breakfast can be whatever the couple want it to be, ranging from a traditional three course sit down meal to a BBQ or buffet.