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At Bassmead Manor Barns, there is a rich family history that runs throughout every part of this unique wedding venue. The estate’s blend of modern styling with centuries-old architecture truly reflects the journey of the Squire family to modernise Bassmead into the well-loved venue it is today.
Richard and Cordelia Squire, the owners of Bassmead, are the seventh generation of the Squire family to call the farm home, and they now raise their three children on the estate. Bassmead has been owned by the Squires since 1845, when Richard’s ancestor Sir Peter Squire bought the farm to grow herbs for his apothecary business in London. Sir Peter was a royal chemist to Queen Victoria, and it is believed that herbs grown at Bassmead Manor Farm were used in the Coronation Oil used at royal coronations! Today Richard continues to work the farm, supported by his wife Cordelia, who trained as a Chartered Physiotherapist.
The Bassmead estate is over 700 years old, with the Grade II listed manor house and farm buildings sitting within the medieval moat enclosure that gives the barn wedding venue its unique moated status today. In 2012, English Heritage, Bedford Conservation officers and County Archaeologists helped support the Squires in a huge archaeological excavation of the old yard that uncovered a medieval cobbled courtyard, which is now part of the garden and the beautiful new Bridge Barn.
The Squire family first had the idea to set up Bassmead Manor Barns as a wedding venue 15 years ago after Richard’s cousin Hannah asked to hold her reception on the farm. Richard set about restoring the old barn that stored agricultural machinery, and it was to become Rickety Barn brides, and grooms love today. The wheels were set in motion, and over the next decade Bassmead Manor Barns was transformed into a warm and welcoming wedding venue. When it became clear that couples loved the family feel and stunning location, the Squires renovated the barns fully in 2012. With a team of expert planners and designers and Cordelia’s eye for interior design, Bassmead Manor became the unique wedding venue it is today.
Find out more about holding your dream day at Bassmead Manor Barns and begin your journey as a married couple here with us. Check on available dates, download our wedding brochure or experience the venue for yourself by arranging a showround.
