Downing College

Downing College is a historic wedding venue set within 20 acres of stunning lawns and trees just half a mile from Cambridge's enchanting centre in Cambridgeshire. A beautiful setting for a wonderful wedding celebration, the 19th-century building, boasts elegant style and spectacular surroundings in a convenient central location. Embraced by a neo-classical style, you can enjoy ample flexibility and beauty, whether you seek a grand occasion or a more intimate event.
Facilities and Capacity
Downing College offers a fantastic selection of versatile function rooms licensed to hold civil ceremonies. The Howard Building can hold up to 120 guests, while the West Lodge is ideal for smaller weddings with 40 guests. The college offers a choice of dining locations for your wedding breakfast, from the classic College Hall to the West Lodge. Meanwhile, the idyllic college lawns and gardens provide a delightful spot for a relaxed drinks reception in the warmer summer months. Moreover, they feature a wealth of stunning backdrops for those all-important wedding photos. For weekend weddings or overnight stays, the venue also provides some of the finest accommodation in Cambridge, including a range of ensuite rooms to suit a variety of budgets. The College and its facilities are available throughout the summer months of July and August. Please note Downing only hosts weddings for College alumni, Fellows, current members and staff.
Downing College is now fully booked for 2024 but we would be delighted to speak with you about your wedding plans for 2025 and beyond.
Services Offered
At Downing College, you can enjoy the dedicated services of a personal wedding coordinator, who will guide you through your plans with a friendly, professional approach. Under their care, you can make the most of the venue's signature wedding package, which can be tailored to suit smaller weddings if required. Features include:
Exclusive hire
Sparkling Wine and soft drinks on arrival
A four-course wedding breakfast
Coffee and petit fours
Champagne for the toast
A wedding cake stand and knife
An overnight stay in the superior guest room
Complimentary Parking (subject to availability)
A croquet garden game set