Wilderness Woodland is a 60 acre community woodland and wedding venue in Hadlow Down, East Sussex. The area was first coppiced in Roman times, when the wood was used to create charcoal for the iron industry. Today, the woodland is used to generate timber used in garden structures and buildings and firewood. It’s also home to the Morrish family, who’ve owned Wilderness Woodland since 2014, the Reed family, who are the woodland caretakers, and operates as an educational centre for schools and families.
It’s licensed to host six exclusive use weddings a year. This involves closing the woods to members and visitors. Civil ceremonies take place in the Meeting House, designed and built by Dan Moorish, an architect, the building opened in 2014-15. As a wooden log cabin, it seamlessly blends into its surroundings, the perfect place to set the tone for the rest of the woodland big day.
Up to 100 guests and the happy couple have full access to the 60 acres of woodland. Informal, non-legal ceremonies can take place in the grounds, offering a unique, natural setting for part of the day. Those hiring the woodland are also asked to join members in looking after and improving the woods, ranging from assisting with building new structures to helping out with special events.
Depending on the couple’s preference, the wedding breakfast can take several forms. Wilderness Woodland works with a range of local caterers, including vegetarian and vegan options, BBQ, and wood fired pizza ovens. Food is typically prepared at the Cook House, a large outdoor kitchen and dining area complete with tables and a terrace.
The venue’s licence means that music must be mainly acoustic or a silent disco. A barn-dance can also work well and the events team are happy to advise on local bands.