top of page

The Barn at Drovers Rest Open Day

  • Writer: Russell Lewis
    Russell Lewis
  • Nov 22, 2024
  • 2 min read

Updated: Jan 20

On November 16th, I spent the day at The Barn at Drovers Rest wedding open day as one of the featured photographers. It was good to be back at the venue and to see it set up for couples beginning to plan their wedding day.

Set in the Herefordshire countryside, The Barn at Drovers Rest offers a relaxed mix of character and thoughtful modern touches. It’s the kind of venue that gives couples freedom to shape the day around them, rather than fitting into a fixed template.


A bride in a white wedding dress with a lace bodice and flowing veil sits on an olive green vintage sofa at Drovers Rest. Captured by Russell Lewis Photography, the backdrop features rustic wooden panels and decorative plants, creating an elegant and serene setting.

A Venue That Offers Space and Flexibility

The Barn at Drovers Rest is more than just a good looking setting. With around 40 acres of open fields and woodland, couples have exclusive use of the entire estate.

That space allows weddings here to feel unhurried and personal. Outdoor ceremonies with wide open views sit comfortably alongside the barns themselves, which work well in all seasons. Whether couples are planning something informal and relaxed or a more structured celebration, the venue adapts easily to different styles.

From a photography point of view, that flexibility makes a real difference. Natural light, open landscapes and considered details throughout the site create opportunities for genuine moments to unfold naturally, rather than feeling staged.


Highlights From the Open Day

The open day itself had a calm, welcoming feel. Couples were able to explore at their own pace, ask questions and begin picturing how their own day might come together.

A few things stood out during the afternoon


  • Food and drink Seasonal samples gave a good insight into the venue’s approach, with a clear focus on quality and presentation.

  • Supplier showcases It was great to meet couples at my stand and chat through their plans. A range of local suppliers were also there, offering everything from floristry to entertainment.

  • Venue tours Couples were able to explore the barns, outdoor ceremony areas and accommodation, which really helps bring the layout to life.

  • Live music Soft background performances added to the atmosphere and helped people imagine how the spaces feel during an actual wedding.


A rustic outdoor cooking setup at Drovers Rest showcases chickens and bunches of carrots hanging above a metal grill, captured beautifully by Russell Lewis Photography. Nearby, a pineapple rests as a fire crackles below with glowing embers and charred wood, creating an enchanting backdrop perfect for weddings.


Aerial view of Drovers Rest in Herefordshire captures the countryside farm with several buildings, surrounded by fields and trees in autumn colors. Cows and a horse graze on the green pasture. The overcast sky creates a misty atmosphere—a perfect setting for weddings photographed by Russell Lewis Photography.

Why The Barn at Drovers Rest Works So Well

Having photographed weddings at many venues over the years, some places naturally lend themselves to relaxed celebrations more than others.

The Barn at Drovers Rest is one of those venues.

It allows couples to create something personal, whether that leans towards a festival feel or a more traditional barn wedding. The team are approachable and organised, and that attention to detail is reflected throughout the estate.

For me, the appeal lies in how naturally everything fits together. My approach is always focused on documenting the day as it unfolds, and this is a venue where that style works particularly well.


Thank You

To everyone who stopped by for a chat on the day, thank you. It was genuinely lovely to hear about your plans and what you’re hoping your wedding will feel like.

If you weren’t able to attend the open day but would like to talk about wedding photography at The Barn at Drovers Rest, or simply want to chat through your ideas, you’re very welcome to get in touch.

For more information about the venue itself, you can also visit The Barn at Drovers Rest website.


Under the warm glow of string lights at Drovers Rest, a group of friends gathered around a round wooden table. Clad in casual jackets and a pink beanie, they shared laughter beneath the wooden pergola while being entertained by a magician in an extravagant hat. Captured by Russell Lewis Photography, the scene exuded a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere.



 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page