About Lains Barn

Over the years Lains Barn has been used for a wide range of functions, from the simple to the exotic - wedding ceremonies and receptions, May balls, family celebrations, barbecues and banquets, dinner dances, company lunches and dinners, conferences, training courses, opera, theatre, jazz and folk evenings, TV shows and of course, barn dances and ceilidhs. In 1997 Lains Barn became an approved venue for civil marriage ceremonies in Wantage, Oxfordshire.

The main barn and gallery can hold up to 150 people. In addition there is a glazed and heated cow byre, kitchen, toilets, lighting, heating, bar and plentiful electric sockets.

By providing a competitively priced facility in a unique rural setting, we are producing an income to further the ideals of the Trust. More importantly, we are conserving a magnificent example of our agricultural heritage for future generations to enjoy and wonder at.

The Bar

A fully equipped and staffed bar is available at all functions. We can offer a comprehensive wine and celebration package, or bespoke package, to suit your occasion. Both alcoholic and soft drinks are available.

Disabled

Wheelchair access and disabled parking are available and specially designed disabled toilets, with baby changing facilities too.

No Smoking

Lains Barn is a listed wooden building and therefore smoking is not permitted.

History

Lains Barn was originally used for corn. During the harvest, wagons would enter through the large doors. The sheaves were unloaded and stored at either end of the barn. Later, during the Winter, these were threshed with flails between the two open doors, using the draught of air to separate the grain from the straw. 

In Victorian times, corn was threshed by machine, so the barn was extended with the addition of an L-shaped cow byre enclosing a fold yard. In 1970 the barn was no longer useful for modern farming methods - planning permission for residential use had been refused - and it's future was threatened by demolition. In 1977 the Vale and Downland Museum Trust in Wantage acquired the property to restore it for the community.

The restoration of the barn was initiated by Dr Dick Squires. Conversion plans for the barn were basic but flexible, leaving the majestic spaces intact. As a pioneer project it created great interest in architectural circles. The Montague Report "A Policy for the re-use of Britain's Historic Buildings" states:

"Lains Barn, a classic timber framed barn dating in part from 1750 is now used for community and educational functions. The low key conversion scheme using mainly voluntary labour and old materials is recognised as one of the most successful barn conversions in the country."