​​There’s something about The Big Barn at Ash Barton that gets everyone talking. Maybe it’s the size (it’s huge), maybe it’s the fairy lights (we have a lot), or maybe it’s the way it can transform from rustic countryside charm to sleek modern elegance with just a few thoughtful touches… even change in size if you need it.

Whatever your style, the barn is your blank canvas. It’s the heart of the estate, versatile, character-filled, and just the right amount of wild. We don’t really do rules here, if you can dream it (and it won’t set the place on fire), you can probably do it.

Here’s how couples have made the barn their own and a few ideas to spark your imagination.

 

The Romantic Glow-Up

If you’re all about timeless romance, start with what’s already there. Those twinkling fairy lights and soft exposed beams. Add long trestle tables dressed in linen, trailing greenery, and candles in every shape and size.

Soft pinks, creams and golds work beautifully here, especially against the barn’s warm rustic walls. You can even hang draped fabric or floral hoops from the rafters to frame your ceremony space.

Think:

• Rows of flickering candles down the aisle

• A statement floral arch for “I do”

• Champagne towers and string quartets 

 

Rustic Countryside Charm

Lean into the barn’s natural character, it’s Devon, after all. Wooden tables, wildflower arrangements, and hand-lettered signage create a relaxed, homegrown feel.

For food, go for sharing boards or a hearty feast that brings everyone together. Add hay bales, vintage crates, or barrels as styling props, and let your guests spill out into the courtyard between courses.

Think:

• Wildflower centrepieces and hessian runners

• Local cider or craft beer on ta

• A folk band or acoustic duo for that laid-back vibe 

 

Festival Feels

The barn is at its best when it’s buzzing with energy, and festival weddings are made for it. Mix bright colours, neon signage, and mismatched seating. Bring in street food vans, hanging lanterns, and maybe even your own bell tent village outside.

This is the kind of setup where shoes come off early and no one’s checking the time.

Think:

• Bright florals, confetti canons and disco balls (we’ve even got discos balls already!)

• Glitter bars and cocktail trucks

• A live band that keeps going long after sunset

 

Modern Minimalist

Love clean lines and a contemporary aesthetic? The barn can do that too. Strip back the décor and let the space breathe with white drapes, monochrome accents, and elegant tableware can transform it into something strikingly simple.

It’s a look that works brilliantly with statement lighting and bold details, like geometric florals or black cutlery.

Think:

• Soft uplighting and hanging Edison bulbs

• Crisp white tablescapes with metallic touches

• A dramatic backdrop for your vows

 

After Dark Magic

Some couples choose to make the barn come alive at night and honestly, it’s hard to beat the atmosphere. Once the sun goes down, the fairy lights twinkle, the dance floor fills, and the place takes on a kind of glow you can’t fake.

Use candles, festoon lighting, or even coloured uplighting to give it that party feel. And don’t forget the courtyard it’s perfect for midnight pizzas, fire pits, and a moment of quiet between songs.

Think:

• Warm, moody lighting and reflective surfaces

• Live sax or DJ sets that spill out onto the law

• Espresso martinis on tap

 

Your Barn, Your Way

That’s the beauty of Ash Barton. The barn can be whatever you want it to be whether it be romantic, raucous, or completely unconventional. No packages, no strict finish times, no “you can’t do that” energy.

It’s a space that bends to your story. So bring your ideas, your people, your playlist and make it yours.