So, you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in a place that feels straight out of a storybook? Maybe where the hills roll on forever, the air smells like ancient tales, and the sheep might just outnumber your wedding guests? Welcome to Ireland and Wales — two Celtic soulmates that deliver drama, charm, and that old-world magic that turns a wedding into a legend.
Let’s take a little wander through some of the best wedding venues in Ireland and Wales. Expect castles, cliffs, cozy countryside manors, and even a colorful Mediterranean-style village (yes, in Wales!).
Ireland: The Land of Castles, Cliffs & Enchanted Forests
If you want your wedding to come with mossy stone backdrops, cozy fireside dinners, and maybe even a harpist playing as you walk down the aisle… Ireland’s calling. Here’s where you might want to answer:
1. Castle Leslie Estate, County Monaghan
Think Downton Abbey but make it Irish. This 1,000-acre estate comes complete with lakes, woodlands, and a castle that feels like it was built to host love stories. The best part? It’s still family-run, so it feels personal and real.
📍 castleleslie.com
2. Adare Manor, County Limerick
Opulence alert. Michelin-star dining, Gothic revival architecture, a golf course that hosted Tiger Woods — if your wedding vibe is “royalty meets romance,” this is your place.
📍 adaremanor.com
3. Ballyvolane House, County Cork
Chickens, gin, and chandeliers. Yep — this cozy country house has it all. Famous for its Bertha’s Revenge gin and laid-back charm, it’s ideal for couples who want that elegant, rustic, wildly photogenic vibe.
📍 ballyvolanehouse.ie
4. Ashford Castle, County Mayo
13th-century grandeur meets 5-star luxury. It’s where dreams (and celebrity weddings) happen. Think turrets, lakes, and a private cinema for post-dinner popcorn and cuddles.
📍 ashfordcastle.com
When to get married in Ireland?
April to September offers the most consistent weather (with fewer surprises from the rain gods), but winter weddings here — with roaring fires and candlelit castles — are something else.
Wales: Where Myth Meets Mountains
Wales may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to scenic drama. From coastal cliffs to cozy manors, it’s all rolling hills, castle towers, and that deep, poetic charm you didn’t know you needed.
1. Iscoyd Park, Wrexham
Elegant, exclusive, and timeless. This Georgian gem offers full weekend weddings and enough room for your friends, your nan, and your cousin who’s basically a wedding crasher.
📍 iscoydpark.com
2. Hensol Castle, Vale of Glamorgan
A fairytale venue with lake views, dramatic staircases, and ivy-covered walls — need we say more? The photos basically take themselves.
📍 hensolcastle.com
3. Celtic Manor Resort, Newport
Spa, golf, rooftop views — Celtic Manor is huge, sleek, and ready for big weddings with high expectations. Oh, and it hosted a NATO summit. Talk about high profile.
📍 celtic-manor.com
4. Portmeirion Village, Gwynedd
Now for something completely different: this Italian-style village on the Welsh coast looks like someone dropped Amalfi into Snowdonia. Bright buildings, tropical gardens, sea views — it’s perfect for couples who want wow-factor and whimsy.
📍 portmeirion.wales
Pro Tips for Planning Your Celtic Wedding Adventure
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Legal bits? You’ll need to register your wedding with local authorities at least 3 months in advance. Make sure your celebrant is legally recognized.
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Weather prep: Always have a backup indoor option — Celtic skies are unpredictable.
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Photo magic: Aim for golden hour (an hour before sunset). That soft, misty light makes Ireland and Wales glow like a dream.
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Dress smart: Embrace tweed, velvet, or flowing dresses that match the wild, romantic landscapes.
Why Trust Me with Your Big Day?
I’m Serg, the photographer behind Your Happy Moments, and I’ve been lucky enough to capture weddings across Europe — from Italian vineyards to misty Irish cliffs. I specialize in destination weddings and emotional storytelling that lives forever in photos.
So whether you’re planning to get hitched in a castle with a drawbridge or on a cliff with a breeze that just might steal your veil — let’s create something unforgettable together.
📸 Want to see what these weddings look like through my lens?
Dive into my blog, check out my wedding photography packages, or reach out to me directly. I’ll bring the camera, the calm, and maybe even a few tissues (happy tears, of course).
