Let's create an incredible atmosphere with personalised music, warm hosting, and an experience your guests will remember forever.
About the Venue
Tucked away in the rolling West Sussex countryside, Southend Barns blends rustic heritage with contemporary luxury. Located just outside Chichester, this family-run venue sits on a former working farm and features restored 200-year-old barns, a secret garden for outdoor ceremonies, and charming courtyards for drinks and mingling. Since 2012, it has been the setting for countless love stories.
Venue Type
Rustic-luxe restored barns
Location
Donnington, Chichester, West Sussex
Capacity
Up to 150 seated guests, 200+ for evening receptions
Spaces Available
Dairy Barn (indoor ceremony), Secret Garden (outdoor ceremony), Threshing Barn (reception), The Collecting Yard (courtyard)
Onsite Accommodation
Yes – bridal suite, shepherd's hut, bell tents
Why Couples Love This Venue
From the alfresco charm of the Secret Garden to the grandeur of the Threshing Barn, Southend Barns offers an immersive wedding journey from "I do" to dancefloor. Highlights include:
- Indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces with unique character
- Romantic courtyards and fire pits for evening mingling
- Award-winning catering by Roots using local ingredients
- Stylish accommodation options for an overnight stay
- Scenic countryside backdrops ideal for photography
- Excellent layout for sound, lighting, and entertainment flow
I Know This Venue Well
I've had the pleasure of performing at Southend Barns multiple times, and it remains one of my favourites in West Sussex. The layout flows beautifully — from the airy Dairy Barn to the high-ceilinged Threshing Barn where the party truly comes alive.
"Whether it's an outdoor ceremony among the alpacas or a packed dancefloor beneath chandeliers, Southend Barns brings the magic — I simply help amplify it."
Entertainment Tailored to Southend Barns
Southend Barns is a venue where thoughtful design meets heartfelt celebration — which makes it ideal for the style of entertainment I offer. My approach is always tailored to the vibe of the space and the couple. At Southend Barns, I typically provide:
- Elegant music for ceremonies in the Dairy Barn or Secret Garden
- Custom introductions and MC hosting for wedding breakfasts in the Threshing Barn
- A personalised "Love Story" narration during the meal or speeches
- Icebreakers like "The Mr & Mrs Game" or a wedding quiz
- High-energy DJ sets for the evening party — ensuring the dancefloor stays full
- Flexible sound setups that accommodate indoor and outdoor zones
Frequently Asked Questions
Have you worked at Southend Barns before?
Yes — I've performed at Southend Barns several times and know the venue's flow, acoustics, and ideal DJ/MC setups.
Can you DJ for outdoor ceremonies here?
Absolutely. I bring battery-powered speakers and wireless mics, perfect for outdoor ceremonies in the Secret Garden.
What happens if there's a sound limiter?
Southend Barns does have music restrictions (ending by 11:30 PM), and I'm well-versed in adapting sets to suit both energy and volume limits while keeping the atmosphere vibrant.
Ready to Plan Your Wedding at Southend Barns?
Let's chat about how to bring the perfect vibe to your celebration with music, hosting, and seamless coordination.