Imagine this: you’re standing in a grand medieval hall, chandeliers casting a golden glow over centuries-old stone walls. The echoes of history surround you, and outside, rolling green hills stretch as far as the eye can see. Your wedding day feels straight out of a fairy tale—because you’re getting married in a castle!
If you’ve ever dreamed of tying the knot in a place worthy of kings and queens, a castle wedding in the UK is the perfect choice. Whether you want a grand celebration in a fortress or an intimate ceremony in a Tudor-style manor, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best castles for weddings in the UK, answer common questions about planning a castle wedding, and share expert tips to make your big day unforgettable.
Why Choose a Castle Wedding in the UK?
Let’s be real—who wouldn’t want to feel like royalty on their wedding day? But beyond the sheer fantasy of it all, castle weddings come with some pretty amazing perks:
🏰 Timeless beauty – Castles don’t need much decorating; their stunning architecture and historic charm set the perfect scene.
📸 Incredible wedding photos – From ivy-covered towers to candlelit banquet halls, every backdrop is breathtaking.
💃 Space for a grand (or intimate) celebration – Many castles have vast ballrooms, but others cater to smaller, romantic gatherings.
✨ Exclusive and private – Unlike hotels, you often get the entire castle to yourself. No uninvited tourists in your wedding photos!
Top Castles for Weddings in the UK
Planning a UK castle wedding? Here are some of the most magical venues to consider.
1. Leeds Castle, Kent
📍 A castle on an island—yes, really!
Website: Leeds Castle Weddings
If you’re looking for a venue straight out of a fairy tale, Leeds Castle is the place. It’s set on an actual island, surrounded by a shimmering moat. With its elegant Banqueting Hall and lush gardens, this venue is perfect for both grand and intimate weddings.
💡 Pro tip: Book the Maiden’s Tower for a more private, exclusive wedding experience.
2. Thornbury Castle, Gloucestershire
📍 Sleep where King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn once stayed!
Website: Thornbury Castle Weddings
If you want a wedding infused with Tudor history, Thornbury Castle is perfect. This 16th-century castle offers lavish four-poster beds and roaring fireplaces, making it ideal for a cozy, romantic celebration.
💡 Pro tip: Stay overnight to experience the full royal treatment—breakfast in bed included!
3. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
📍 A wedding with a view (and bagpipes, if you’re lucky!)
Website: Edinburgh Castle Weddings
Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers one of the most dramatic wedding settings in the UK. Imagine saying your vows in the historic St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh.
💡 Pro tip: If you want your guests to have the full Scottish experience, hire a bagpiper to escort you down the aisle.
4. Hever Castle, Kent
📍 The childhood home of Anne Boleyn
Website: Hever Castle Weddings
With its romantic Italian gardens and lakeside views, Hever Castle is the perfect mix of history and elegance. This intimate venue is ideal for couples who want a Tudor-style wedding with a touch of modern luxury.
💡 Pro tip: Hever Castle has a stunning outdoor setting for summer weddings—think floral arches and lakeside ceremonies.
5. Peckforton Castle, Cheshire
📍 A medieval-style castle that feels like a fantasy film set
Website: Peckforton Castle Weddings
If you love the idea of candlelit corridors, grand staircases, and towering stone walls, Peckforton Castle is the perfect venue. This fortress-style castle has serious Game of Thrones vibes.
💡 Pro tip: Their Great Hall is one of the most stunning indoor wedding spaces in the UK—perfect for winter weddings!
6. Warwick Castle, Warwickshire
📍 A medieval experience, complete with knights and falconry!
Website: Warwick Castle Weddings
For couples who love medieval history, Warwick Castle offers a full-on immersive experience. Guests can enjoy torchlit banquets, live jousting, and even falconry displays.
💡 Pro tip: Opt for an evening reception with fire performances for the ultimate medieval wedding spectacle.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About UK Castle Weddings
How much does it cost to get married in a castle?
Castle wedding prices range from £5,000 to £50,000, depending on the location, size, and included services.
Can I have an intimate wedding in a castle?
Absolutely! Some castles cater to small weddings—Thornbury Castle and Hever Castle are great for more private ceremonies.
Are castle weddings only available in summer?
Nope! Many castles offer stunning winter weddings with roaring fires, candlelight, and a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Do castles provide catering?
Most castle venues offer in-house catering with gourmet menus fit for royalty. Some even provide medieval banquets for an authentic experience.
Can guests stay overnight?
Yes! Many castles have luxurious accommodations, allowing your wedding to turn into a weekend celebration.
How to Make Your Castle Wedding Truly Magical
💎 Choose the right season – Spring and summer bring floral gardens, while autumn and winter offer cozy, candlelit charm.
📸 Pick a photographer who knows castle weddings – The lighting in castles can be tricky, so experience is key!
🌿 Add candlelight and greenery – Enhance the historic beauty without over-decorating.
🥂 Treat your guests to a royal feast – A banquet-style meal will complete the experience.
Capture Your Castle Wedding with Timeless Photography
A castle wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and you deserve wedding photos that reflect its magic. Whether it’s the grandeur of a stone staircase or the intimate glow of candlelight, I specialize in capturing those breathtaking moments.
📸 Explore my portfolio: Wedding Photography
💍 Find the perfect photography package: Wedding Packages
📩 Let’s plan your dream wedding shoot: Contact Me
Your fairy tale wedding deserves a photographer who can turn moments into masterpieces. Let’s make magic together! ✨
