OUR HISTORY AND AMAZING TEAM
The Grade II listed tithe barn is over 400 years old and is the most stunning example of its type, for both it's size and beauty, in the area. It has a rich history of agricultural heritage as well as events being held here celebrate the harvest as far back as 1934. The famous wood carver, Gwen Raverat, produced a carving of the 'Farmers' Feast' based on our barn, see background image above, or view the Gwen Raverat Website here.
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The barn was used to store cereals, namely wheat. But as regulations changed over the storage of food in wooden barns, our barn became redundant. It was sad to see such a flagship of craftsmanship left to collect cobwebs, so in 2008 Edd and Paula decided to begin work to give it back it's former glory. Now 'The Manor Barn' is used to celebrate love and look forward to the future. As lucky custodians of this special place, Edd and Paula are determined to lead the way in diversification and champion all things British. They can now add their pages to the story of the barn and you can become part of that history too. What will those pages say about you and your wedding?
With that vision comes hard work and a need for skilled people to help that dream become a reality. So, we have carefully handpicked staff that embody our philosophy. We are very proud of the team we have built, so here they are...
EDD
OWNER
Edd is the 3rd generation of the Banks family to own this magnificent site and over the last 15 years has worked tirelessly to look after and nurture the site.
He has dedicated this time to find a future for the barn that honours the past and embraces the future.
His most recent projects include the new heat producer on site providing green heat and hot water to the whole site, and total redevelopment of the old concrete yard which now houses native plants and new wildlife is already moving in.
PAULA
OWNER
Edd and Paula married in The Manor Barn in 2008, known then as simply the 'old barn'.
Paula has worked to grow the business since that time and has been excited to see it flourish into the space it is today while also making time for her artwork and many animals that you will see (or hear) around the site.
Because of her creative side, Paula is now working as the creative director of the business, designing all marketing, media, interior design and artwork around the site.
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MARTIN
HEAD CHEF
We are very lucky to have Martin with us, he has exceptional experience in the kitchen including previous work at some of the top establishments in London, including The Savoy and Almeida.
Now, Martin brings restaurant quality to your wedding through his carefully designed menus. He lives to exceed your expectations!
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KERRIE
EVENT PLANNER
''I love making wedding dreams come true!''
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Kerrie joined us full-time after working on a few events with us and she was too good for us not to snap her up! Kerrie has vast experience in events and compliments our team perfectly with her 'can do' attitude and attention to detail.
Kerrie is a keen athlete, keeping mind and body fit hiking. Her picture above was taken on her climb up Snowdon.
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PEPE
THE MAN WHO CAN...
...do anything!
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Pepe joined us as a kitchen porter but over the years has proven to be able to turn his hand to anything from fine dining to fine carpentry.
He is a key member of the kitchen team producing incredible food, contributing to menus and ensuring the food we produce is second to none.
the big bosses
Let's be honest, it's the kids that run the show in most families and the Banks' are no different. These two are Edd and Paula's children and they are truly a part of the growth of the business. We include them in discussions for ideas and they are always keen to help when they can. You will probably see them around the site when you visit, usually in a go-kart or on a pony!