Our Story ...
Our Love For Nature isn't just a responsibility- it's a part of who we are.
Welcome to Moonacre
A Little Different. A Lot More Personal.
Welcome to Moonacre, a family-run woodland wedding and events venue nestled in the beautiful Dorset countryside, close to the village of Sturminster Marshall.
Our story began long before Moonacre became the wedding venue it is today. Originally known as Partyfield, the site underwent a major transformation in 2020, when we set out to create something truly special: a place where couples could celebrate their wedding day surrounded by nature, with the freedom to make it entirely their own.
Since then, we've had the pleasure of hosting over 200 weddings and events, each with its own personality, atmosphere and unforgettable moments.
Today, Moonacre offers a unique combination of beautiful private woodland, open countryside, quirky on-site accommodation and thoughtfully designed event spaces. Whether it's a relaxed outdoor ceremony, a weekend of celebrations or something completely unconventional, we believe the best events are the ones that truly reflect the people behind them.
As a family-run business, we take enormous pride in what we've created. We believe in being approachable, flexible and genuinely invested in making every event a success.
More Than Just a Wedding Venue
From the very beginning, Moonacre has been built around three principles that remain at the heart of everything we do.
1. Protecting and Celebrating Nature
Our beautiful woodland setting isn't simply a backdrop; it's one of the most important parts of Moonacre.
We've worked hard to create a venue that exists in harmony with its natural surroundings, encouraging biodiversity and providing a welcoming habitat for local wildlife.
Over the years, we've seen wildlife flourish across the site, including sightings of the elusive lesser spotted woodpecker.
We want future generations to enjoy this beautiful corner of Dorset just as much as we do.
2. Supporting Our Local Community
Being part of the Dorset community means a great deal to us.
We work closely with local businesses, independent suppliers and tradespeople, helping to support the local economy wherever possible.
We're also passionate about giving something back, whether that's through free community events, supporting village initiatives or hosting fundraising activities for local causes.
Our relationship with neighbouring Sturminster Marshall and the wider community is something we genuinely value.
3. Making a Difference Through Charity
Moonacre has always been about bringing people together, and we believe our venue should be able to make a positive difference beyond weddings and celebrations.
We're proud to make our facilities available free of charge to charitable organisations and have supported groups including NHS Trusts, Julia's House and Dorset Mind.
We have also worked with Dorset Council and BCP Council to provide emergency accommodation for vulnerable women.
These partnerships are an important part of who we are, and we're committed to continuing this work as Moonacre grows.
The People Behind Moonacre
None of what we've achieved would have been possible without the people around us.
From our dedicated team, many of whom are family, to the talented local suppliers, neighbouring businesses and supportive residents who have been part of our journey, we're incredibly grateful.
And, of course, to the hundreds of couples who have trusted us with one of the most important days of their lives: thank you.
Moonacre has never been about creating identical weddings. It's about giving people a beautiful place, the freedom to celebrate their way, and memories that last a lifetime.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Our story
Our story began in 1985
Our Story
From Partyfield to Moonacre
Moonacre's story stretches back decades, long before it became one of Dorset's most distinctive woodland wedding and events venues.
What began as a family project has gradually evolved into a unique countryside destination, shaped by a passion for bringing people together, celebrating nature and creating unforgettable experiences.
Our Family Roots
In 2005, the family planted more than 30 acres of woodland around what would eventually become Moonacre, laying the foundations for the beautiful natural surroundings our guests enjoy today.
Before Moonacre, the land had a rather different life. Originally used the site for clay pigeon shooting events and later developed a motocross track.
In 2009, the site was developed into Partyfield, a venue dedicated to bringing people together through music, celebrations and outdoor events.
The Transformation
A major milestone came in 2014, when Dorset Council granted permission for licensed events throughout the year, opening up new opportunities for the site.
By 2020, we had a bigger vision: to transform Partyfield into a beautiful, purpose-built woodland wedding venue that retained its original character and independence.
And so, Moonacre was born.
Significant investment followed, with improvements to the grounds, facilities, event spaces and guest accommodation.
One of our greatest achievements was securing approval to host legal wedding ceremonies. Following more than a year of collaboration with Dorset Council and the relevant authorities, Moonacre became a licensed wedding venue, allowing couples to exchange their vows in our beautiful woodland surroundings.
Since then, we've proudly welcomed over 200 weddings, alongside numerous private celebrations, wellbeing retreats and community events.
Growing With Nature
The natural environment has always been central to Moonacre's identity.
Building on the woodland planting started by the family in 2005, we've continued to plant hundreds of trees and improve the landscape, creating new habitats and encouraging wildlife to thrive.
Our ambition has never simply been to build an events venue in the countryside, but to create a place where celebrations and nature can exist together.
A Landmark Year for Moonacre
9 January 2026 marked one of the most important milestones in our history.
After more than four years of planning, consultation and collaboration with Dorset Council, Moonacre secured the planning approval needed to establish the venue's long-term future.
It was a significant achievement for our family and everyone who has helped shape Moonacre over the years.
With the future of the venue secured, we're now able to focus on the next chapter: continuing to enhance our facilities, invest in our beautiful surroundings and explore exciting ideas for making Moonacre an even more sustainable and welcoming place.
The Next Chapter
From its early days as a family-run outdoor events site to the wedding venue it is today, Moonacre has continually evolved while staying true to its roots.
We're proud of our history, grateful to the community that has supported us and excited about everything still to come.
Our story is still being written, and we're delighted that so many couples, families and guests have become part of it.
Protecting our legacy
At Moonacre, we are deeply committed to preserving the natural environment that surrounds us, and we feel truly blessed to be situated in such a beautiful and serene part of Dorset. Our venue is built on a foundation of eco-conscious principles, and we strive to honor the land we call home in every aspect of our operations. From using sustainable materials in our buildings and decor to implementing eco-friendly practices like waste reduction, recycling, and energy efficiency, we aim to minimise our environmental footprint. We are passionate about nurturing and protecting the local flowers and forestry, ensuring that the stunning natural landscape we share with our couples is preserved for future generations.
But we couldn't do it alone!
At Moonacre, we believe in supporting our local community and fostering strong, collaborative relationships with those around us. Our venue thrives thanks to the hardworking individuals who help bring our vision to life, and we are proud to work alongside local craftsmen and tradespeople, including our skilled handymen Scott who assisted with our site maintenance and upkeep. We also provide opportunities for young adults to gain experience and develop their skills, with many joining us for bar work and event support, creating a welcoming environment that encourages local talent.
Additionally, we actively seek to collaborate with local industry suppliers, from florists and caterers to photographers and musicians, ensuring that our couples have access to the best that Dorset has to offer while supporting small businesses and the regional economy. By working together with the people and businesses that make our community unique, we create a wedding experience that is truly reflective of the local countryside charm and spirit that makes Moonacre so special.
