Nestled in the picturesque countryside, this Oxfordshire wedding venue, Milton Hill House, is an elegant Georgian manor that offers a stunning backdrop for weddings. Located in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, this historic mansion is set amongst 22 acres of grass and woodlands, making it the perfect venue for hosting weddings and celebration events. Offering the best of old and new, the venue provides every modern amenity needed for a perfect wedding day.
A Rich History
Situated within easy access to the M4 and M40 motorways, and just 25 minutes from Oxford, the Manor at Milton Hill first appears on records in 956. Its use has changed many times over the centuries, with several owners along the way. Its 20th-century history is well documented, particularly after the house was sold to Sir Mortimer Singer in 1912. Sir Mortimer, a wealthy American from the Singer Sewing Machine family, became a British citizen in 1900. Milton Hill House was one of several houses he owned in England.
Between 1914 and 1918, during World War I, Sir Mortimer transformed the house into a military hospital. Later, in the 1930s, the house was sold to the Anglo-American oil company, now Esso Petroleum Company, and eventually became their residential training centre. In the 1970s, W H Smith Ltd purchased the property to serve as its own residential training college.
In 1996, Milton Hill House was acquired by the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS). In 1998, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II visited Milton Hill in her capacity as Patron of WRVS to celebrate their 60th anniversary. She planted a mulberry tree near the Italian Gardens during the garden party, with up to 3,000 WRVS members from across the UK gathered to see her.
New owners bought the property in 2007 and carried out a multi-million refurbishment in 2008. In 2015, The Venues Collection took over the running of Milton Hill House, bringing a new vision of historical elegance, contemporary comfort and a sustainable future.
The Perfect Venue for Your Special Day
Milton Hill House seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. The 22-acre estate boasts manicured lawns, picturesque woodland, and a charming Italian garden with a pergola, providing an idyllic setting for outdoor ceremonies and an exquisite backdrop for exchanging vows.
We just want to do it all over again… how long do we have to wait to renew our vows? – Carly and Sam (photo Brandon Powell)
For indoor ceremonies, the historic Library Ceremony Room offers a refined and timeless aesthetic, perfect for intimate gatherings. The oak-panelled library, with its Flemish carved centrepiece depicting religious scenes, is one of the grandest rooms in the house. The grand fireplace, adorned with intricately carved panels dating from 1630, adds to the room’s historic ambience. This room accommodates up to 30 guests for civil ceremonies. The property is fully licenced for civil ceremonies.
For larger celebrations, the Wisteria Suite accommodates up to 120 seated day guests and up to 170 guests for an evening reception. With its high ceilings, chandeliers, and magnificent entrance leading out to the Italian Garden, it provides an elegant and spacious setting. The Oak Suite, featuring tall ceilings and whitewashed walls, seats up to 70 guests for civil ceremonies.
They can also accommodate 150 people in the Italian Garden for a ceremony.
Exceptional Food and Delightful Accommodation
Milton Hill House is committed to sustainability and offers high-quality, eco-friendly wedding menus. Their in-house chefs prioritise British seasonal ingredients, plant-forward options, and zero-waste practices. All chicken and milk served is Red Tractor assured, and the venue offers Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance-certified tea, coffee, and chocolate. Menus can be tweaked to include any bespoke requirements for you and your guests. One forward-thinking thing that’s offered is that you are provided with the carbon footprint of your menu enabling you to make greener choices, or which can be offset by choosing a project like tree planting.
Photo by Amie Louise
Guests can enjoy a traditional wedding breakfast for up to 120 guests or opt for an informal hog roast buffet in the gardens, accommodating up to 200 guests. For lively evening receptions, the venue provides a stylish black-and-white dance floor and can arrange fireworks displays.
For accommodation, Milton Hill House offers 114 double and twin guest rooms, ensuring guests can stay overnight and enjoy the celebrations without travel concerns. Wedding couples receive a complimentary stay in one of the three junior suites, while larger family groups can book the White Cottage, which includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchenette, and a lounge area.
Tailored Wedding Packages
Milton Hill House provides tailored wedding packages to suit various preferences and budgets. Packages such as The Vow or The Passion include a dedicated wedding coordinator, menu tastings, private drinks receptions, and complimentary accommodation for newlyweds. The venue has been recognized as a Top-Rated Wedding Venue in Oxfordshire for 2024 by WeddingDates Awards and is a finalist for the 2025 Guides for Brides Awards.
Photo and main image by Libby Clark
“The organisation of our day was brilliant with amazing service and quality food”
For 2025, Milton Hill House is offering an “All Inclusive” package for up to 50 guests for just £3,499 (available on Fridays and Sundays, subject to availability). This package includes generous offerings such as a glass of Prosecco per guest upon arrival and for the toast. If you’re looking for an Oxfordshire Wedding Venue this year, be sure to check it out.
