Planning a Riverside Wedding: Tips from Our Events Team
When it comes to planning your dream wedding, the where is just as important as the what. At the Riverside Venue Bar and Restaurant in Stratford-upon-Avon, we’ve been lucky enough to help countless couples celebrate their special day with unforgettable views, delicious food, and a relaxed riverside atmosphere. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate ceremony with close friends or a lively celebration that lasts well into the night, a riverside wedding offers a unique blend of natural beauty and timeless romance. Our experienced events team has pulled together some of our favourite tips to help you plan the perfect wedding right here on the banks of the River Avon.
Create a Backdrop Worth Remembering
One of the most magical things about a riverside wedding is the setting — and here at the Riverside Venue, you truly get the best of both worlds. Nestled beside the peaceful waters of the River Avon and just minutes from the historic centre of Stratford-upon-Avon, our venue offers the perfect balance of rustic charm and modern elegance. When you host your wedding with us, you’re not just getting a reception space, you’re getting the full scenic experience. From your first arrival to the final dance, you and your guests will be surrounded by greenery, flowing water, and one of the most iconic landscapes in Warwickshire.
Many couples choose to hold their drinks reception outside on the terrace or in the riverside garden, where the views speak for themselves, especially in spring and summer. If you’re lucky enough to catch golden hour — that soft, dreamy light just before sunset — you’ll have wedding photos you’ll cherish for a lifetime. For those seeking a romantic wedding venue in Stratford-upon-Avon, our riverside location truly stands out.
Personalise Your Wedding Menu
Let’s be honest — everyone remembers the food. That’s why we believe your wedding menu should be as memorable as the rest of the day. At the Riverside Venue, our chefs work closely with couples to create bespoke menus tailored to your taste, theme, and dietary needs. Whether you prefer a formal sit-down meal or a relaxed buffet-style service, our culinary team brings passion, creativity, and local flavours to the table.
We use fresh, seasonal ingredients and partner with trusted local suppliers, so your guests will enjoy the best of what Warwickshire has to offer. From starters to late-night snacks, everything is prepared with care. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re always happy to recommend popular pairings!
Raise a Glass (or Two)
A good bar is the heart of any celebration, and at the Riverside Venue, we take pride in offering a wide selection of wines, beers, spirits and cocktails. Our bar staff are experts at keeping the drinks flowing and the mood light, and we offer custom drinks packages to suit every type of wedding. If you’re planning a relaxed gathering with pints and prosecco or a sophisticated evening with signature cocktails, we’ll work with you to ensure everything fits your vision.
One popular option is to create a bespoke cocktail that reflects your personalities — perhaps a fruity, floral “Bride’s Blush” and a smoky, spiced “Groom’s Old Fashioned” – your drinks should be just as personalised and celebratory as the rest of your day.
Set the Tone with the Right Entertainment
Whether you’re into live acoustic music, string quartets, DJs, or a bit of everything, entertainment can set the tone for your entire wedding day. At the Riverside Venue, we’ve hosted everything from relaxed afternoon jazz to dancefloor-filling party bands — and we’ve got the connections to help you find the right acts. Our events team can recommend local performers who know how to read the room and keep guests entertained from your first dance through to the last encore.
Our spaces are flexible and fully equipped for music, speeches, and dancing. Many couples opt for a mellow acoustic set during the ceremony, followed by more upbeat music in the evening. If you’re planning a summer wedding, a dance floor under the stars with fairy lights overhead can be a magical touch that guests will talk about for years.
Let Our Events Team Take the Stress Away
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Our in-house events team is here to support you from day one, making sure every detail is covered and every part of the day flows seamlessly. From creating a timeline and liaising with suppliers to helping with decorations, seating plans, and last-minute changes, we’re here to make sure your wedding is as stress-free as it is unforgettable.
We’ve helped plan weddings of all sizes and styles, so whether you’re organising a traditional formal affair or something completely unconventional, we’ll make sure your personality shines through. You’re never just another booking to us — we truly care about helping you create the perfect day.
Let’s Start Planning Your Dream Riverside Wedding
If you’re looking for a wedding venue in Stratford-upon-Avon that combines stunning views, delicious food, warm hospitality, and experienced event planning, the Riverside Venue Bar & Restaurant could be just what you’ve been searching for. We’d love to invite you for a private tour of the space and talk about how we can bring your ideas to life.
To find out more or to book a viewing, get in touch with our friendly events team today. We can’t wait to help you say “I do” in the most beautiful setting in Stratford-upon-Avon.
📧 Email: events@avon-estates.co.uk
📞 Phone: 01789 299492
📍 Location: Riverside Venue Bar and Restaurant, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 7AB