When you hear the word 'barn' what sort of picture springs to mind? We ask that because the barns we list as wedding venues and places to hold your receptions come in all shapes and sizes, though not the working hayloft and dairymaid sort, romantic though the idea may be.

We feature historic barns that cannot help but add an extra layer of charm to the day. Some huge places too, grand enough to accommodate both tribes; or smaller, more intimate buildings if that suits your style more closely.

Why choose a barn for your wedding venue or the place to hold your reception? If we start with the practical, they may offer exactly the size you need to fit your plans; and in all likelihood will have more than enough parking however big the event.

On the fuzzier side of things, a barn almost inevitably is going to offer a more relaxed atmosphere than certain other types of venue. Less stuffy, though some of those we feature are decidedly grand in scale and in decidedly grand surroundings. Down to earth without being earthy. Fun without being funny.

So if the idea of a calmer, rather rustic and stylish wedding appeals to you, browse the barns in our list.