Belle Haven on the James is a beautifully preserved, historic estate just south of Charlottesville, Virginia and is a stunning backdrop for elegant weddings and events. Overlooking the James River, and featuring a variety of spaces for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions as well as amenities, Belle Haven affords couples one of the most uniquely beautiful wedding experiences available in Albemarle County.

THE SPACES

THE FRONT LAWN

The main entrance to Belle Haven is set off by a large round lawn within a circular drive with garden borders and a mature flowering cherry, offering a perfect place to greet guests.

 

THE NORTH TERRACE

Affectionately called the “Secret Garden,” this tucked away space on the north side of Belle Haven is ideal for a small gathering or pre-ceremony activity. Shaded by a mature red oak, framed by flowering borders and picturesque porch, this quiet terrace with rustic table feels enchantingly secluded.

 

 

THE WEST LAWN

The back steps of Belle Haven’s wrap-around porch descend to an English path leading to an ornamental pond encircled by  gardens and rose arbor, creating a natural setting for a ceremony or cocktails. Bracketed by the “Village” and a border with viburmum, dogwood and old boxwood, the West Lawn is lovely at “golden hour” for photographs as the sun is setting.

THE ALLÉE

An elegant curve of mature evergreens sweeps toward the Knoll with ample space for a seated ceremony, intimate cocktail hour, or a lovely rehearsal dinner.

 

THE KNOLL

A perfect tent site on the south east side of Belle Haven, overlooking the Labyrinth and with extended views over rolling fields to the barn and house. The Knoll has been pre-approved by Belle Haven’s preferred tent provider.

THE WILDFLOWER LABYRINTH

Inspired by the 11 circuit Chartres Labyrinth, the Wildflower Labyrinth is mown into a hay field and has a diameter of 150 feet.  A beautiful, meandering walk among wildflowers for guests or simply a stunning vista afforded over the rolling hills.

THE BANK BARN

One of the few remaining unspoiled bank barns in Albemarle County with accommodations for approximately 150 people and suitable for a variety of layouts. Double height entrance doors slide open to reveal a spacious, lofty open space with double doors opposite overlooking a paddock, fields and tree line. Original plank floors and handcarved beams make The Bank Barn Albemarle’s most elegantly maintained barn.

AMENITIES

BRIDAL DRESSING ROOM

With tall windows to the south and southwest, “Fern’s Room” is spacious and light and adjacent to a large bathroom, providing ample space for the bridal party.

THE COTTAGE

Nicknamed “the Village” because of its many roof lines, the cottage is available to the Bridal or Groom’s party. The Cottage includes a sitting room, galley kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bathroom, and lots of character.

 

VENUE RESERVATIONS

Belle Haven on the James is available for reservations which include usage of any and all of the above spaces and amenities. Please contact Belle Haven for further booking information.

CONTACT

Jan Glennie-Smith, Owner

jan@bellehavenonthejames.com

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