Planning a small and intimate wedding at the stunning Abbey House Hotel & Gardens in Cumbria is a dream come true. Nestled within 14 acres of picturesque grounds, adjacent to the atmospheric Furness Abbey ruins, this award‑winning, four‑star venue is perfect for couples seeking an unforgettable elopement wedding experience a
Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy gathering or a full, exclusive-use affair, Abbey House caters to your needs with care, expert coordination, and an idyllic backdrop.
1. Choose the Right Package
Abbey House offers a variety of tailored wedding packages—from small “Evening Only” and “You & I” options, to full exclusive‑use experiences
- Smaller elopement-style formats start from around £1200, perfect for a minimal guest list.
- For a complete wedding experience with exclusive use of grounds and accommodation, packages range up to £37,500
2. Pick Your Ceremony Setting
The venue offers several enchanting options:
- Wedding Garden – recently unveiled for Summer 2025, designed for secluded outdoor ceremonies with scenic views
- Furness Abbey ruins – exchange vows in the romantic shadows of historic stonework
- Elegant indoor suites, such as the Cavendish Suite or Great Hall, offering classic charm for smaller gatherings
3. Keep It Intimate
Ideal for small weddings, Abbey House delivers:
- Professional wedding coordinators to ensure every detail is meticulously handled
- In-house catering with versatile menus, wine selection, and optional corkage means you can curate an elegant, personalised dining experience for your closest loved ones.
4. Add Personal & Romantic Touches
- Utilise expert coordination support to introduce personal flourishes wildflower blooms, fairy lights in the woodland, or a champagne ride in the iconic Herbie buggy around the grounds.
- Enhance photos surrounding Furness Abbey, in the gardens, and within the hotel’s beautifully decorated rooms, including honeymoon suites.
5. Consider Your Guest List
Abbey House’s exclusive-use policy ensures privacy, even for intimate elopements or small wedding parties. Evening-only packages work beautifully for receptions ranging from 20–40 guests, while full-day options accommodate up to 180–250 in larger suites
6. Book in Advance & Stay Relaxed
Couples emphasised how relaxed and well-organised the process felt, thanks to Abbey House’s seasoned wedding team:
“Nothing was ever too much they really looked after us flawlessly from start to finish”
With open days you can visit, explore options, and connect with the team before committing.
7. Enjoy Your Intimate Celebration
From the curated menus to guiding guests from ceremony to reception Abbey House transforms your elopement wedding into an elegantly intimate, stress‑free celebration.
Planning Checklist for Abbey House Elopements
1. Inquire Early
Request brochure and view packages fitting small wedding or intimate elopement formats
2. Choose Ceremony Spot
Garden, Abbey ruins, or Grand Hall – all are magical for intimate ceremonies
3. Customise Décor
Work with coordinators on mood and personal elements
4. Finalise Catering
Select menu and drinks
5. Book Extras
Consider Herbie buggy ride, photography sessions, or fun fairground flair
6. Attend Open Day
Meet the team, walk the grounds, and visualise your day
7. Relax & Enjoy
Let the expert team handle logistics so you can focus on each other
Abbey House’s blend of historical ambience, elite service, and flexible offerings makes it a perfect choice for your elopement wedding in Cumbria. With attention to detail, support from experienced planners, and dreamlike settings, your small wedding will feel effortlessly romantic and truly unforgettable.
