Gloucester’s multi-award-winning Blackfriars Priory is celebrating another major achievement after being shortlisted for Wedding Venue of the Year in the Bristol, Bath, Somerset and Gloucestershire Tourism Awards.
The historic venue – owned by English Heritage and managed by Gloucester City Council – is one of four finalists, going head-to-head with Ellenborough Park Hotel & Spa in Cheltenham, The Roman Baths and Pump Room in Bath, and fellow Gloucester contender Hatherley Manor Hotel and Spa.
Hosting around 30 weddings a year, the Blackfriars team underwent a rigorous judging process, including a mystery visit and an interview with an awards judge. Venues were marked on eco-credentials, inclusivity, customer service and continuous improvement.
Blackfriars impressed by championing sustainable weddings, scoring highly for running Gloucestershire’s first Eco Wedding Festival, promoting low-carbon menus, encouraging guests to use public transport and working towards accreditation with the Sustainable Wedding Alliance.
Accessibility has also been a key focus, with the venue introducing visual impairment training, high-contrast seating and quiet visiting hours to support neurodiverse guests.
Set within a medieval priory founded in 1239, Blackfriars boasts a secluded courtyard garden and the most complete medieval library in Britain. It has earned multiple accolades including a platinum Best of Bridebook Award, plus wins at the Hitched Wedding Awards and the Matrimony Awards. Cllr Caroline Courtney, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure at Gloucester City Council, said:
“These awards are a ‘who’s who’ in the wedding world and recognise excellence across the region’s tourism sector. It’s testament to our hardworking team at Blackfriars who go above and beyond to make each couple feel special and each wedding truly unique. We’re incredibly proud and have our fingers crossed.”
Winners will be announced later this year.