voco Oxford Thames offers a serene waterside wedding setting on the banks of the River Thames, where couples can arrive by boat Couples can arrive in unforgettable style at voco Oxford Thames, one of the few Oxfordshire-based wedding venues that allow arrivals by boat directly from the River Thames. Guests can gather along the water’s edge to welcome the happy couple as they arrive by water, creating a memorable start to their celebrations. Once a 12th-century Augustinian priory, voco Oxford Thames offers a romantic blend of historic charm and contemporary elegance. Its origins are still visible today in the timber beams, stone walls, and barn buildings, blending monastic heritage with modern hospitality. The exterior provides a picturesque wedding backdrop, marrying historic architecture with beautifully landscaped grounds. Set within 30 acres of riverside parkland, the venue features honey-coloured stone buildings, quaint courtyards, manicured lawns, colourful seasonal planting and mature trees. Winding pathways lead to secluded corners alongside open green spaces, perfect for drinks receptions. The tranquil setting along the River Thames offers far-flung views as the backdrop for elegant photo opportunities and a peaceful countryside atmosphere for celebrations. Ceremonies can be held indoors or outdoors, with licensed spaces accommodating small, intimate gatherings or larger affairs for up to 200 guests. These include the characterful Little Barn, packed with rustic charm for smaller celebrations of up to 90 loved ones; the picturesque Riverside Gazebo, which can hold up to 120 guests; and the spacious Oxford Suite, for larger ceremonies of up to 150 people. The bright and airy Conservatory holds up to 110 guests for the wedding breakfast and up to 150 for the evening reception. This stunning space boasts a blend of historic and contemporary design, featuring exposed 15th-century brickwork, a glass roof, white beams, elegant chandeliers, wooden flooring, and a private bar. It’s flooded with natural daylight and offers a romantic atmosphere by night. The Little Barn, which has access to a courtyard, can seat up to 60 guests for the wedding breakfast and accommodate up to 80 party-goers for the evening. It’s the ideal spot for couples seeking a relaxed, cosy atmosphere and a more intimate wedding celebration. Larger gatherings can enjoy the elegant Oxford Suite, the largest reception room at the venue, offering a bright, contemporary setting with floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening on to the gardens and private terrace. Flexible in layout, it can be adapted for both grand celebrations of up to 140 guests for the wedding breakfast and up to 200 for the evening reception, plus smaller gatherings too. The venue offers a complimentary menu tasting session with each wedding package, as well as the bridal suite for the happy couple on the night of their wedding. The venue has just launched its Twilight Package, which is ideal for couples seeking a relaxed evening celebration, combining stylish reception spaces, delicious catering, drinks, dancing, and the venue’s beautiful riverside setting. 01865 334444 ihg.com/voco/hotels/gb/en/oxford/oxfdt/hoteldetail/meetingsevents/weddings instagram.com/vocohotels Down by the Riverside 25
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