The Swan Hotel, Bibury

The Swan Hotel is an 18th-century hotel on the River Coln in Bibury, a Cotswold village in Gloucestershire. It has a riverside garden, a summer house for ceremonies, two indoor wedding rooms and 22 bedrooms, so the whole celebration can stay in one place.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

It is a strong fit for couples who want a small or medium wedding with a team on hand and a village setting to themselves. The garden is reserved for the wedding party, the hotel has its own coordinator, and a private cottage suite with a hot tub gives the two of you somewhere quiet at the end of the night. Guests can stay in the hotel, so there is no logistics puzzle on the day.

Ceremonies

The hotel is licensed for civil ceremonies. The Summer House in the garden is licensed for up to 100 guests. The Signet Room holds up to 110 for a ceremony, and the Library suits a smaller group of up to 26 guests.

Receptions and food

The Signet Room has large windows and a private bar, and seats up to 110 for the wedding breakfast and evening reception. The Library works for a small meal or can be used for children or a photo booth when the main party is larger. Wedding breakfasts and evening food are provided by the hotel. Overnight guests have breakfast included.

Staying

There are 22 bedrooms, 18 in the main building and four garden cottage suites, each styled differently. The Whooper Garden Cottage is a private suite for the couple. Dogs are welcome at the hotel, which many couples value.

Getting there and the area

Bibury sits between Cirencester and Burford, in the Cotswolds. Arlington Row, the village bridges and the river are all within walking distance, which makes good backdrops for photographs. The nearest large town is Cirencester, and guests will usually arrive by car or taxi.

Good to know

• 22 bedrooms across the main hotel and garden cottages.
• A wedding coordinator and open days are offered.
• The garden is reserved for the wedding party.