Turrets, towers and looming battlements add up to a wildly romantic backdrop and, as our wedding album shows, there’s no shortage of ways for brides and grooms to capture the castle
Words by Libby Norman
Castle weddings never go out of style and, let’s face it, the UK and Ireland is well supplied in that department. From atmospheric ruins to spectacular buttressed and turreted monuments, these are the most romantic places to say ‘I do’, as this album of photos from some of our most talented photographers proves.
Charlie and Tony
Mighty Warwick makes a stunning wedding setting, especially if you wear your clan colours. Charlie and Tony took time out from their guests – in true lord and lady of the manor style – to survey the view from their castle walls. alexsharp.co.uk
Lara and Andrew
Melbourne-born Lara met Irishman Andrew on his last weekend Down Under and were married in fine style on his home soil, choosing Cabra Castle in County Cavan for its magical atmosphere – right down to resident Irish Wolfhound. Photographer Phil Voon was on hand to capture every romantic moment. giveusagoo.com
Nat and Andy
Old Wardour Castle, Wiltshire, was originally built for lavish entertainment, so this picturesque ruin now managed by English Heritage made the perfect spot for Nat and Andy to host a glamorous summer wedding overlooking its glorious lake. kismetphotography.co.uk and english-heritage.org.uk
Alexandra and Ruairidh
Borthwick Castle, near Edinburgh, once sheltered Mary Queen of Scots and was a picture-perfect choice for Alexandra and Ruairidh, who held a simple humanist ceremony, followed by feasting and dancing. The bride looked stunning in her Jenny Packham gown, as captured beautifully by photographer annaurban.com
Trisha and Christian
Trisha and Christian chose the fairytale Leeds Castle, near Maidstone. On a beautiful October day, photographer David Fenwick captured a just-married kiss against one of its magnificent mediaeval doorways. davidfenwick.co.uk
Sarah and Iain
Sarah and Iain were married in the wonderful cathedral-like Banqueting Hall of Hedingham Castle, Essex, taking a turn round the Minstrels’ Gallery for magical photo opportunities afterwards. benbull.net
Jude and Colin
Jude and Colin chose Crom Castle in Northern Ireland’s beautiful Lake District for their celebration and took some time out afterwards to dip their feet in the waters of Lough Erne, as beautifully captured by photographer Graham Crichton. grahamcrichton.com
Tara and Jonny
Mont Orgueil Castle stands sentinel on the Jersey coastline at Gorey, offering fantastic views to France. Tara and Jonny were married in its awe-inspiring chapel before celebrating in style with feasting and fireworks. andylegresleyweddings.com
SEE MORE WEDDING PHOTO ALBUMS
Check out our album of beach weddings