FAQ
We’ve tried to answer the main questions you might have at this stage.
Can I have a look around?
Of course! We’d love to show you around. We have open days throughout the year to showcase the venue and we can also offer private viewing appointments on request – please get in touch for further details.
How many guests can we have?
We are licensed for 120 guests at the civil ceremony. The lakeside marquee can fit 200 guests for a sit-down dinner and 250 for a party in the evening. Due to the size of our marquee we do not recommend less than 60 day guests.
Can you recommend local wedding suppliers?
Yes. We can recommend florists, photographers, bands etc. The only suppliers you must use of ours are the caterers, bar company and disco, if having one.
What happens if it rains?
Don’t panic! If you’ve planned to have your ceremony outside, we’ll relocate to the Old Ballroom. Your drinks reception will take place in Tharp Hall and its adjoining rooms. We also have plenty of umbrellas when it is time to move to the marquee for your wedding breakfast.
How much is it?
It depends which season – and day of the week – you go for. The average venue hire fee for a wedding in peak season 2025 is £8,300. But in quieter months it will be less.
Can we stay at Chippenham Park?
Yes. We have a beautiful bridal suite in the house where the bride and groom can stay and five other stunning, en-suite rooms in the converted potting sheds across the courtyard. We are also surrounded by many hotels and bed and breakfasts, so your guests can stay nearby.
When should I contact the registrar?
You need to confirm the date and time of your ceremony with the registrar as soon as possible. Our local registry office is in Cambridge, which you can reach on 0345 045 1363.
Can we combine a reception at Chippenham Park with a church ceremony?
Yes. If you have a connection with one of our three local parishes, you can have your ceremony in St Margaret’s Church in picturesque Chippenham. Contact the vicar, on 01638 721 662.
Is there a car park?
Yes. Even if you’re having a big wedding, there’ll be plenty of room for your guests to park.
Are there taxi companies nearby?
Yes, but it’s best to arrange your taxis and mini buses before the big day. We can also recommend coach companies if you’d like to organise transport for your guests.
Is Chippenham Park easy to find?
Very. We’re just off the A14 and A11 on the border between Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. Cambridge, Bury St Edmunds and Ely are a short drive away. And we’re only about an hour away from London. For map and full directions go to contact us page.
Is there a room where the bride can get ready before the wedding?
The wedding suite is available from 12pm on the day of the wedding to finish the final prep. A perfect chance to sit back and relax with a glass of bubbly before the ceremony.
Can we provide our own drinks for the reception?
We charge a £300 wine handling fee which allows you to bring your own fizz for the drinks reception and wine for the meal. This will be stored, chilled and served for you on the day.
Do you hold weddings all year round?
Chippenham Park hold weddings from the beginning of April until the first week of December.
Can we use our own caterers?
To ensure the highest levels of culinary excellence and customer service we only use Crown Catering, one of the most respected caterers in the area. Crown Catering can offer a variety of menus dependent on budgets and tastes – always ensuring that the food is one of the (many!) highlights of the day!