Millbrook Estate
Runaway Weddings in Devon
The idea came to us one evening in 2011 at our home in Devon. We'd been talking about weddings — not planning one, just the whole concept — and we realised that big, traditional ceremonies weren't what either of us would have wanted. So we launched Millbrook Estate's very first runaway weddings in May 2011, and we've been specialising in them ever since. We were one of the first venues in the UK to do so.
Since then, we've helped hundreds of couples run away together and get married here in the Devon countryside — properly married, legally, in a licensed ceremony space, with a coordinator who's been there from the very first email. It's a small, family-run business, and every wedding matters to us. In 2024 we were named South West England's Intimate Wedding Venue of the Year, which meant a great deal to our team.
If you're looking for a wedding without the fuss — just the two of you, somewhere private and beautiful, doing it entirely your way — that's exactly what we do. See our packages or read on to find out more.
What Is a Runaway Wedding?
A runaway wedding — also known as an elopement — is an intimate ceremony for just the two of you. No extensive guest list, no rigid schedule, no months of complicated planning. You run away together, get married somewhere that feels right, and celebrate however you like.
It's not about avoiding people — it's about putting yourselves at the centre of the day. Many couples find the whole experience far more personal and emotional than a traditional wedding, precisely because there's nothing else to think about except each other.
Whether it's just the two of you or with a couple of people who really matter, a runaway wedding is a private, low-key way to get married without the pressure.
The Legalities — What You Need to Know
A runaway wedding at Millbrook Estate is completely legally binding. The Summerhouse is a licensed ceremony space, and your ceremony is conducted by a registrar from Devon Registration Service.
Before you can marry, you'll need to give notice at your local register office — not in Devon, wherever you currently live — at least 29 days before the wedding. We'll walk you through exactly what to do when you enquire.
For couples coming from overseas, the process is slightly different and we can help with guidance on that too. We're also happy to act as your witnesses, so you don't need to bring anyone with you unless you want to.
Winter Runaway Wedding Packages from £899
Available November to January — cosy log fire ceremony, accommodation, coordinator, witnesses and fizz included. One wedding a day.
