Charming, Quirky & Intimate: Why The Cottage Hotel in Nottingham Is a Hidden Gem for Weddings

The Cottage Hotel in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire

By Alt. Entertainments | DJ Review Included

Planning a wedding often means balancing atmosphere, affordability, and convenience—all while searching for somewhere that feels personal and memorable. Nestled in the pretty village of Ruddington on the outskirts of Nottingham, The Cottage Hotel delivers all that and more, making it one of Nottinghamshire’s most charming wedding venues.

A Venue with Heart and History

The Cottage Hotel is exactly what its name suggests: a lovingly converted cluster of 17th-century cottages built around a peaceful central courtyard. Rose vines climb the stone walls, a quaint fountain bubbles gently, and in summer, the scent of honeysuckle fills the air. It’s a setting that feels more like a romantic countryside retreat than a city-edge hotel, yet you’re only a short drive from Nottingham’s centre and Junction 24 of the M1.

From the very start, the hotel radiates warmth. There’s no conveyor-belt feeling here. Every wedding is the sole focus of the day, with exclusive use available—including its 21 bedrooms for guests who want to make a weekend of it. The venue is ideal for up to 90 dining guests and 200 for your evening party.

A Wedding Day Made Yours

One of the standout things about The Cottage Hotel is its flexibility and personal touch. You won’t find rigid packages or one-size-fits-all pricing here. Instead, you’ll be paired with an experienced wedding planner who helps you tailor the event to your taste, from food to décor to timeline. Need something unusual? They’ll make it happen. One couple even had a surprise guest accommodated at 12 hours’ notice, with no fuss.

The ceremony space is licensed and has an intimate elegance—ideal for couples who want their wedding to feel like a shared celebration rather than a formal production. After the vows, guests can enjoy drinks in the sun-drenched courtyard or unwind in the comfy lounge. For those bringing older or very young guests, there’s ample indoor and outdoor space to relax and recharge.

The Food: Fresh and Flexible

All food is freshly prepared in-house, and dietary requirements are happily catered for. From hearty wedding breakfasts to canapé receptions and midnight snacks, the hotel’s kitchen team shines in delivering comfort and quality. The in-house bar is fully stocked and staffed, making sure no one goes thirsty!

DJ Review: A Cosy Dancefloor and a Night to Remember

As a DJ with Alt. Entertainments, I’ve worked at The Cottage Hotel on several occasions, and every single time has been a joy. The venue’s layout lends itself to a warm and connected evening celebration. You’re never too far from the action, and the acoustics in the main reception room are great for dancing and atmosphere alike.

It’s especially refreshing how accommodating the hotel team is with entertainment. Setup is straightforward, the staff are helpful (special shoutout to the bar team who keep the energy flowing), and the party often spills from the dancefloor into the adjoining spaces—making for a dynamic but intimate vibe.

One of my favourite weddings here involved a couple who gave me a playlist that spanned everything from Fleetwood Mac to 00s dance—by the end of the night, people were dancing barefoot in the courtyard under fairy lights. It was electric, and a testament to how well this venue works for lively, music-filled celebrations.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a wedding venue in Nottinghamshire that feels romantic, unfussy, and genuinely welcoming, The Cottage Hotel deserves a spot on your shortlist. Whether it’s the flower-filled courtyard, the bespoke service, or the beautiful bedrooms for your guests, this venue offers a relaxed yet refined setting that’s easy to fall in love with.

The Cottage Hotel isn’t just a place to host a wedding—it’s a place to make memories.