
Notley Abbey Wedding Photography
Before taking a look at my Notley Abbey wedding photography below, here’s a bit about the history of the place. Notley Abbey was originally an Augustinian abbey constructed in the 12th century. The building has been visited by notable figures such as Henry V, and was owned by the celebrities Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh. A team from Oxford excavated Notley Abbey in 1937, establishing a layout and timeline of the building’s construction. Today, the abbey is a wonderful wedding venue, owned by Harper Weddings, where I’m privileged to be a recommended photographer.
Notley Abbey was originally built based on the medieval architecture, popular during the era of its construction. The stone-built main residence is L-shaped and two-storied throughout. The reconstruction of Notley Abbey in 1890 introduced architecture more reminiscent of the late medieval period, specifically in the replacement of Georgian casement windows with those of the Tudor form. When Notley Abbey was excavated in 1937, only the abbot’s house and portions of the western and southern claustral buildings were relatively intact.
In 1944, Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh purchased the remains of the Abbey, after they found their home destroyed by a bomb raid that took place during the war. During their residence, the couple was known for holding parties at the house. It was also used for the shooting of several films.
5 Reasons Why I Love Notley Abbey Wedding Photography
- The simply stunning house and grounds of Notley Abbey are an absolute dream to photograph. The warm stone of the abbey and garden paths are ideal for my Notley Abbey wedding photography style of relaxed portraits, and a wonderful backdrop to your drinks reception.
- The sheer scale of Notley Abbey means that there are several ceremony options for small and large gatherings, and even the increasingly popular option of an outdoor ceremony for truly amazing Notley Abbey wedding photography.
- Notley Abbey is perhaps the ultimate all-in-one wedding venue where you and your wedding guests are able to spend the whole day. There is even accommodation on site for the night before and the night of your wedding, where close family are also able to stay. Spending the whole of your wedding day in one place has the added advantage that your Notley Abbey wedding photography will be more comprehensive, without the need for travel between various locations.
- A subtle blend of history and modernity. Notley Abbey has been so lovingly restored to create a wedding venue that has all the appeal of a historical country house, but with all the convenience and luxury that you’d expect of a high end venue.
- The Harper team at Notley Abbey, are perhaps what clinches many wedding bookings at the venue. I’ve heard first hand from many couples how cared for they feel when dealing with the staff before, during and after their wedding. From holding regular taster days, recommending other suppliers (including my Notley Abbey wedding photography) to the wedding breakfast service on the day, the team at Notley Abbey will work tirelessly to make your dream wedding a reality.