Business Details
Historic Event Venue in Reading
Mapledurham Estate is a historic 12th-century family house and farming estate nestled beside the River Thames. Our estate combines centuries-old tradition with sustainable commercial practices to ensure its preservation for future generations. We offer exclusive event spaces for weddings, corporate gatherings, and film productions, leveraging our unique historical architecture and scenic landscapes. Our partnership with Raw Tipis enables bespoke outdoor events, while our Country Park provides versatile space for large-scale gatherings. With a rich heritage dating back to the Domesday Book, we maintain a balance between historical preservation and modern functionality. Our team specialises in creating memorable experiences, from intimate ceremonies to large events accommodating up to 200 guests. The estate features notable landmarks including England's oldest pair of magnolia trees and a watermill featured in film and music history.We prioritise sustainable land management across our arable farm, biomass heating system, and hydroelectric turbine. Our residential and commercial lettings support the estate's upkeep while serving local communities. With over six centuries of continuous family ownership, we offer unparalleled expertise in historic property stewardship. Our commitment to excellence has earned recognition from satisfied clients, including wedding couples and film production teams. We maintain rigorous standards for accessibility, offering pre-booked tours while preserving the estate's tranquility. Our strategic location near Reading provides convenient access while maintaining a secluded atmosphere. Through careful conservation and innovative event management, we ensure Mapledurham remains a vital cultural and commercial asset.
Services
Weddings
Filming Locations
Corporate Events
Residential Lettings
Commercial Lettings
Historical Tours
Country Park Hire
Highlights and features
- We offer exclusive use of historic venues dating back to the Domesday Book
- Our partnership with Raw Tipis provides sustainable outdoor event solutions
- We host events from intimate gatherings to 200-guest celebrations
- Our estate features film history landmarks including The Eagle Has Landed
- We combine six centuries of property stewardship with modern sustainability
What people say
Memorable experience
Beautiful venue
Excellent service
Historical significance
Professional team
Services
Weddings
Mapledurham Estate offers exclusive wedding venues across its historic grounds. Couples can exchange vows at St Margaret's Church before moving to the main house or watermill for receptions. Our partnership with Raw Tipis provides luxury tipis accommodating 160-200 guests. The estate's scenic riverside setting and centuries-old architecture create memorable backdrops for ceremonies and photographs. Our experienced team coordinates logistics, from boat arrivals to catering arrangements.
Filming Locations
Our estate has hosted film productions since the 1976 classic 'The Eagle Has Landed'. Available spaces include the Grade I listed house interior, historic watermill, and 12 acres of landscaped grounds. The diverse terrain features woodland, arable fields, and riverside vistas. Modern logistics include secure parking for production vehicles and proximity to major transport routes. Recent productions include the 'Wonka' film and Sky Atlantic's 'Mary and George'.
Corporate Events
We provide venues for corporate events ranging from board meetings to team-building activities. Available spaces include the Old Manor for small conferences, Coach House for training sessions, and main lawns for large-scale events. Our country park accommodates outdoor activities like clay shooting and car rallies. The estate's historical setting offers unique branding opportunities for product launches and networking events.
Residential Lettings
The estate manages residential properties including traditional cottages and the historic Almshouse. Properties are available in and around Mapledurham village, with waiting lists maintained for all units. Our rental portfolio preserves architectural heritage while meeting modern living standards. Tenants benefit from rural tranquility within easy reach of Reading's amenities.
Historical Tours
Pre-booked guided tours explore the estate's 800-year history. Highlights include priest holes from Catholic persecution periods, England's oldest magnolia trees, and the watermill's film history. Visitors access restricted areas like the Great Stairwell and chapel containing Blount family tombs. Tours combine educational commentary with opportunities for photography in landscaped grounds.
Questions
Can I visit Mapledurham House without booking an event?
The house and grounds are open by pre-booked appointment only, primarily for event planning purposes rather than general tourism.
Are there accommodation options on the estate?
While we don't offer hotels, our residential lettings include traditional cottages and the Almshouse, with waiting lists maintained for available units.
What makes Mapledurham unique for film production?
Our estate combines Grade I listed architecture, historic watermill, and diverse landscapes with modern logistics, having featured in films since 1976.
How does Mapledurham support sustainability?
We implement sustainable practices through hydroelectric power generation, biomass heating, responsible farming, and eco-friendly events with Raw Tipis.
What event capacities do you accommodate?
From intimate gatherings of 15-20 guests in the Old Manor to large events for 200+ guests using tipis or marquees on our main lawns.