The Oak Barn Hittisleigh Wedding Photogrpaher

a little bit of devon perfection

The Oak Barn at Hittisleigh Barton is a proper Devon gem near Exeter, a historic farmstead turned exclusive-use venue that feels like a relaxed countryside escape. It's set on working farmland with mature gardens, open fields, and long views toward Dartmoor.

You get the whole place from Friday through Sunday, no other events, no rush to clear out. Accommodation keeps everyone close (The Oak Barn itself, Linhay bridal suite, Acorn Barn, Farmhouse rooms), so the weekend builds naturally into a small community gathering rather than a one-day event.

What the day feels like Morning prep spreads across the on-site spaces, Bridal party in the Linhay suite, groom and ushers in the Farmhouse or Acorn Barn. Ceremonies happen in The Oak Barn (warm, characterful interior), the gardens (open and green), or Acorn Barn (cosy alternative). Drinks and garden time follow, lawns for games, fun and laughter, and wandering, then dinner and speeches back in The Oak Barn. Evening shifts to dancing inside or spilling out if the weather is kind.

The flow is gentle and unhurried, guests move between barn, gardens, and fields with so much to explore. It's outdoors led when possible (Dartmoor views as backdrop), but everything's covered indoors if needed. The community vibe comes from there being so much accomodation, late-night chats, kids running around, family lingering, making it feel personal and yours.

Photography highlights The site's position gives excellent sunset light, fields and gardens catch that warm golden hour glow beautifully, with Dartmoor in the distance. Mature gardens offer varied pockets (lawns, paths, planting) that look amazing year-round and keep improving. Barn interiors have character (exposed beams, cob walls, natural window light), so indoor moments always look great.

Why it suits my style This venue plays perfectly to how I work best, capturing real, relaxed moments in a setting that encourages people to be themselves. The gentle pace, on-site accommodation, and community feel mean guests settle in quickly, no waiting to be ushered around, just lots of fun with plenty of energy. The outdoor gardens and Dartmoor views give endless opportunities for genuine, landscape-framed shots, while the barn's character provide indoor moments with warmth and texture.

It's especially strong for couples who want a laid-back Devon countryside weekend, outdoors time, no rigid structure, rather than a tightly scripted or very formal day. The relaxed atmosphere and blank-canvas flexibility let personalities shine through, which is exactly what I chase in documentary coverage.

If The Oak Barn Hittisleigh is on your list (or you're weighing it against another venue), drop me a message. I can share honest thoughts from days there, talk how photography fits your weekend, or just chat about what you're planning.

If you’re planning a wedding at The Oak Barn and want insight from someone who’s worked there across full weekends, you can see more of my work here or drop me a message with any questions.

The Oak Barn’s own website has further information about the venue.

If you want to see a similar venue, check out my guide to Higher Eggbeer Farm here