Arnos Vale Cemetery

Arnos Vale is a Victorian cemetery and woodland estate in Bristol, with three separate spaces for weddings. It covers about forty-five acres of historic landscape within the city.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

Arnos Vale is a strong fit for couples who want a wedding with real character and a strong sense of place. You can use one space or combine several, so a woodland ceremony, a Victorian chapel or a glass-fronted reception hall can be mixed to suit your plans. Weddings are held on every day of the year except the Christmas and New Year period, which gives flexibility on dates. The grounds also include a wildlife haven, so photographs can take in old stone monuments, mature trees and long views across the city.

Ceremonies

The Underwood Centre is an outdoor woodland space for smaller groups, licensed for civil ceremonies, partnerships and handfasting. The Spielman Centre is a Grade II listed building with a modern glass addition, licensed for civil ceremonies and partnerships. The Anglican Chapel is a Victorian building licensed for church ceremonies. Dogs are welcome in the Underwood Centre.

Receptions and food

Couples choose from a list of preferred caterers, offering anything from canapes and barbecues to afternoon tea and formal sit-down dinners. The Spielman Centre can host a seated meal and a larger evening reception, and the chapel can hold a wedding breakfast. The venue is licensed for music and entertainment.

Staying

There is no accommodation on the estate. Bristol has a wide range of hotels and bed and breakfasts, many within a short taxi ride of Bath Road.

Getting there and the area

Arnos Vale is on Bath Road, BS4 3EW, south-east of the city centre. Bristol Temple Meads station is a short drive or bus ride away, and the city centre, Totterdown and Bedminster are close. Note that the Underwood Centre is reached by a woodland path and the Spielman Centre has stone steps at the entrance, so ask the team about step-free routes.

Good to know

• Weddings run every day except the Christmas and New Year period.
• Three licensed spaces can be combined.
• Preferred caterers supply the food.