Hazel Gap Barn – Cripps & Co: A Stunning Nottinghamshire Wedding Venue with DJ-Friendly Features
- Ian Bennett
- May 15
- 4 min read
If you're looking for a breathtakingly beautiful countryside wedding venue that offers rustic charm, atmospheric lighting, and top-tier hospitality, look no further than Hazel Gap Barn, part of the Cripps & Co family. Nestled on the historic Welbeck Estate in Nottinghamshire, this red-brick barn with dramatic watchtower turrets is a real head-turner and a dream come true for couples wanting a relaxed yet luxurious celebration.
From the moment you drive up the tree-lined path to Hazel Gap, it's clear you're in for something special. The venue’s clever layout combines natural rural elements with modern comfort, creating a space that’s both elegant and down-to-earth. But how does it shape up as a wedding venue—and more importantly, as a DJ? Here's everything you need to know.
A Venue That Makes a Statement
Hazel Gap Barn has been carefully and lovingly restored by Cripps & Co, a team renowned for transforming agricultural buildings into timeless wedding venues. The main barn’s high ceilings, oak beams, and grand central fireplace make for a stunning ceremony backdrop that oozes rustic romance.
After the ceremony, guests move through to the Oak Room, a bright, plant-filled dining space with views of the garden and woodland beyond. This is where the real magic starts: crackling fire pits, a glowing courtyard, and atmospheric lighting combine to create an evening party ambience like no other.
Evening Receptions: Party Until 1AM
Hazel Gap Barn boasts a late licence until 1AM, which is a massive win for couples who want to make the most of the dancefloor. After dinner, the main barn transforms into the evening party space. Though the venue doesn’t have in-house lighting effects or a fixed dancefloor, it’s a blank canvas for DJs and entertainment pros to create something spectacular.
DJ Review: How Hazel Gap Barn Performs as a Party Venue 🎧
As a professional DJ who’s worked across the Midlands and beyond, I always appreciate venues that make setup smooth and the night seamless. Hazel Gap Barn has several standout features that make it very DJ-friendly, along with a few quirks to plan around:
✅ The Good
No Sound Limiter: DJs can perform without worrying about volume cut-offs—huge plus!
Easy Access: Load-in from the car park is a breeze. Everything is on the ground floor, meaning no dragging gear up stairs or long walks through corridors.
Generous Power Provision: Plenty of accessible 13A sockets, meaning setups from simple to complex can be accommodated without hassle.
Staff Support: Venue staff are professional and responsive. Every event I’ve worked has been well-coordinated with a clear timeline.
⚠️ The Quirks
No Built-In Lighting Effects: DJs need to bring their own lighting to create atmosphere. This is fine, but it's worth knowing in advance.
No Designated Dancefloor or Stage: While there's plenty of open space, there isn’t a fixed dancefloor or performance platform. As a DJ, you’ll be setting up on level ground, so plan your lighting to define your zone.
No Windows / Ventilation During Party Time: The barn gets warm once the dancefloor heats up. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s something guests and performers alike may want to factor in.
❌ The No-Go
Haze/Smoke Effects Are Prohibited: If your DJ setup relies on smoke or haze to enhance lighting beams, you’ll need to adapt your visuals accordingly.
Real Couple Reviews: A Seamless, Stylish Experience
Don’t just take my word for it—Hazel Gap Barn’s reviews from couples and suppliers alike are glowing. Here are a few highlights:
“The barn looked beautiful and you guys were absolutely amazing, nothing was ever too much trouble.” – Beth & Oliver“The venue is stunning in itself but the staff really do make it a whole package.” – Karl & Billie“All our guests said the food was the best they’d ever tasted and the venue was like a fairytale.” – Holly & Richard
Even wedding cake suppliers and photographers have praised the team’s professionalism and the venue's aesthetic beauty. When suppliers love coming back, you know you’re in good hands.
What Makes Hazel Gap Barn Unique?
Flame-Cooked Food: Their open kitchen features a giant BBQ and rotisserie. Your guests will rave about the food for years to come.
The Courtyard: By day, it’s tranquil and full of greenery; by night, it glows with fairy lights, fire pits, and lanterns—an ideal spot for golden-hour photos or a sparkler send-off.
Fully Exclusive Use: Hazel Gap Barn is all yours for the day, giving you total privacy and freedom to shape your celebration.
Flexible & Personalised: The staff are known for their “nothing is too much trouble” attitude. You’re never forced into a cookie-cutter package—your wedding will feel truly your own.
Verdict: A Picture-Perfect Venue with Party Potential
Hazel Gap Barn is one of the finest barn venues in Nottinghamshire, combining beauty, practicality, and character in equal measure. From a DJ and supplier’s perspective, it scores highly on access, sound flexibility, and friendly staff support. If you're planning an entertainment-led wedding or just want your guests to dance the night away, it's well worth considering—just make sure your DJ is ready to bring the lights!
Whether you're dreaming of a relaxed rural wedding or a big barn bash that lasts into the early hours, Hazel Gap Barn delivers on every level.
Quick Info Recap
📍 Location: Budby Road, Newark, Nottinghamshire
🎉 Capacity: Up to 150 for dining, 250 evening guests
💡 DJs Welcome? Absolutely – just bring your own lights and no haze!
🕺 Late Licence? Yes – until 1AM
🅿️ Parking & Access: Easy and plentiful
🧑🍳 Food: In-house, cooked over open flame – and it’s sensational
If you’re considering Hazel Gap Barn for your big day and want to make sure your party hits the right note, I’d love to help you create the perfect wedding soundtrack. Feel free to get in touch with me at Alt. Entertainments or check out my wedding DJ packages.
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