A labour of love leads to unique wedding venue in Woodhall Spa

Husband and wife team Will and Jo Nelstrop have launched the exciting venture after building what is believed to be the first mud and stud barn in Lincolnshire for over 300 years.

The barn is at Abbey Farm on the outskirts of Woodhall Spa.

The traditionally built oak barn offers views over 30 acres of tranquil gardens and the ruins of Kirkstead Abbey.

Mrs Nelstrop describes the barn as ‘a beautiful space with a truly unique atmosphere’. 

The story began just over two years ago when the existing outbuildings at the farm were knocked down.

The oak used to build the timber structure was sourced from Lincolnshire woodland – Aswarby, Welton Woods and Southrey Wood.

Mrs Nelstrop, owner and director of Abbey Farm Weddings, explained that traditional Lincolnshire craftsmen have been used to build the structure.

She told the News: “It’s been a really exciting journey building the barn - with some great friends made along the way.

“My husband Will must definitely take the credit for the project management skills and vision in creating the space.

“The Oak Barn definitely has a unique atmosphere and it is so exciting sharing this with the couples.

“For me, this is the time when the vision becomes the exciting reality of creating an amazingly romantic space.”

Mrs Nelstrop said the initial feedback had been very positive.

She added: “We’ve been delighted with the response we’ve had from couples who have already seen the barn.

“Seeing their excitement when they realise the backdrop  the barn can create for their reception is just wonderful!”

Abbey Farm Weddings has been running since 2005.

Previously, an area on the farm was being rented out as a marquee venue - meaning experience of weddings is plentiful.

Mrs Nelstrop has also worked hard developing links with other locally based businesses who can offer services, like bespoke catering, flowers, cakes, dresses and photography .

She is hoping the setting - and facilities - will meet the current trend favoured by many couples for rustic/country weddings.

The barn seats up to 112 on trestle tables.

Mrs Nelstrop said: “They really lend themselves to the rustic feel and we are able to accommodate up to 150 evening guests.

“This is the perfect venue for 2015-16 and beyond.”

A real fire within the Oak Barn and a fire pit outside the Oak porch are other features of Abbey Farm which just add more charm and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. 

An adjacent barn - the Stone Barn - is also available for hire to accommodate larger numbers, or as a chill out or bar area.

Mrs Nelstrop explained: “This really does give an opportunity to break the mould and hold a reception somewhere a little different.”

As for the actual ceremony itself, the small and charming St Leonard’s Church is situated on the farm.

Mrs Nelstop stressed, though, that couples should have a family link to the parish of Woodhall Spa if they want to get married at the church.

She pointed out that an equally historic alternative venue is the beautiful National Trust property at Tattershall Castle.

She added: “That is also close by and conducts civil ceremonies. “

The Nelstrop family, though, are rightly proud of their new venue.

Mrs Nelstrop added: “The Oak Barn is wonderfully in tune with the current trend for rustic, informal receptions and a unique opportunity for a bespoke venue. 

“The stunning countryside views are a wedding photographer’s dream.

“Being only one mile outside of Woodhall Spa - with its extensive range of B&Bs and hotels - accommodation is only a step away.

“Holding your reception at Abbey Farm also means you become part of a very small club.

“ Only 10 weddings will be held here each year in the barn, so a wedding at the venue really is very exclusive.

○ For further information: contact Abbey Farm Weddings, Abbey Farm, Abbey Lane, Kirkstead, Woodhall Spa  LN10 6UH, or www.abbeyfarmweddings.co.uk 

Mrs Nelstrop is available on 07795 396979. 

The couple stress that viewings are available - but only by appointment