When you were a kid and thought about the day you’d grow up to say ‘I do’, it probably took place in a castle. And why wouldn’t it? Palaces are where fairytales are made! If feeling like a princess or prince, king or queen, for a day is what you still dream of for your wedding day, you need to scope out some castles. These castle wedding venues are magnificent and often offer everything you need under one roof, from sweet ceremonies to picture-perfect backdrops at every turn.
1. Hazlewood Castle
In North Yorkshire, Hazlewood Castle stands amongst stunning parkland and breathtaking countryside. The building is steeped in the history of British kings and knights, and your love story can be a part of its new chapter. Sensitively restored, the venue has a spectacular Great Hall, which can hold up to 120 guests. Or, if you’d like everyone you know to see you get married in a castle, choose a marquee on the beautiful grounds for up to 400 people! Outside you can also exchange vows in the lovely Pagoda. Visit the historic St Leonard’s Chapel for a blessing over your union.
This is an exclusive-use castle wedding venue so that you may reign over your day with your love and your guests only. No castle would be complete without impeccable service, and the staff here are dream makers. The memories you make here will feel like dreams in the years to come.
2. Farnham Castle
Surrey boasts about Farnham Castle, and we’re anything but surprised! Complete with five acres of gorgeous gardens, this castle is elevated on a hill, overlooking the charming town of Farnham and beyond. Wedding preparation has never been so luxurious as in the Gatehouse or the Pembroke Suite.
We suggest having your ceremony in the Lantern Hall; it’s awe-inspiring, with stone arches, beautiful lancet windows and oodles of natural light for that Kodak ‘I do’ moment. For more intimate gatherings, exchange vows in one of two available historic chapels: The Bishop’s Chapel and The Norman Chapel, each remarkable. Outdoor ceremonies are also available on the East Lawn or the Great Lawn.
There is no reason to look anywhere but The Great Hall for your wedding reception. It features a grand, ornate fireplace, majestic gold-framed portraits of historical figures, and beautiful stained glass windows.
3. Swinton Estate
Swinton Estate is a gorgeous castle wedding venue nestled into the stunning Yorkshire Dales. Outside, everywhere you look, you will be met by breathtaking natural beauty. To cast eyes upon the castle is to cast your eyes upon the incredible architecture of a historic stately home.
Swinton Park, the hotel, offers a myriad of function rooms for your wedding, from the elegant and intimate to the grand and lavish. The estate boasts Lake Island, which has a Georgian-era summer house, sought after for intimate gatherings and fine alfresco dining.
The beautifully restored Deer House is for couples wishing to celebrate in a place really out of the ordinary. At night you and your guests can enjoy the magic and romance of a candlelit setting as torches light the way and braziers keep the chill at bay. There’s even the option for a silent disco. Swinton Bivouac features a unique druid temple, and tipi for your wedding reception!
4. Lumley Castle Hotel
Lumley Castle Hotel is situated in Durham, and this four-star castle wedding venue needs to be seen to be appreciated fully for its magnificence. This 14th-century cast;e is one of the oldest still standing in Britain, let alone still operational. It is a part of the nation’s history, and the next chapter of your love story could be too.
The palace is surrounded by nine acres of gorgeous parkland overlooking the River Wear. Outdoor weddings are set upon the manicured lawns and surrounded by a luscious tree line. White gazebos make for beautiful backdrops. In winter, the estate is covered in a blanket of white snow.
Inside, a series of rooms are available for your wedding ceremony and reception, depending on the size of your guest list. Each room exudes elegance and great sophistication. Stained glass featuring family crests and grand open fireplaces with intricate carvings transport you back and add a touch of royalty.
5. Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa
The idyllic Lancashire Parkland hosts Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa. The castle wedding venue is the epitome of romance. You and your guests will arrive via a sweeping tree-lined driveway and be met by 700 years of history, including turrets and porticos. What a first impression! Your guests won’t soon forget your big day.
Inside, the hotel features high ceilings, stylish furnishings and a grand 18th-century staircase – be sure to use that for your grand entrance! Outside, you and your guests can enjoy the impeccable courtyard and secluded garden, with a spiral staircase leading down to the manicured lawn and ornate fountain. It won’t be challenging to create a wedding photo album you and your love will cherish for decades.
Wedding planning can be stressful, but the Mercure Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa team has years of experience and an immeasurable passion for creating stress-free dream weddings.
