40 Castle Wedding Venues Fit for Royalty
Make your fairy tale wedding dreams come true by browsing our ultimate guide to the 40 best castle wedding venues across the UK...
For a celebration that's truly fit for a fairy tale, why not celebrate your marriage in a castle wedding venue?
There’s a wealth of majestic castle wedding venues in the UK to choose from, and we’ve searched high and low to bring you the best and brightest for your big prince or princess moment. Whether it’s a period property set in enchanting woodland, or a medieval mansion nestled in the big city, there’s something to suit all budgets and wedding styles.
Prepare to be royally spoiled with grand banqueting halls, acres of stunning grounds and even a peacock or two. But a castle wedding venue isn’t just limited to antique furnishings and history either; there are plenty of properties that feature modern facilities. Yep, a castle with an onsite spa exists – and you can book it for your wedding.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with choices or you don’t know where to start, take a look at our roundup of the best castle wedding venues across the UK and get ready to enjoy your happily ever after…
40 Stunning Castle Wedding Venues in the UK
Planning on having your wedding in a castle? Here's 40 of the best castle venues in the UK.
1. Thornbury Castle – Gloucestershire
Dating back over 500 years, Thornbury Castle in Gloucestershire was once owned by King Henry VIII and even served as his honeymoon destination. Now, having undergone a multimillion-pound restoration, it hosts a one-of-a-kind castle weddings in the most beautiful historic setting.
The grand Tudor opulence of this castle wedding venue is second to none, boasting traditional features such as exposed stone walls, intricate tapestries, and high ceilings. You can host your ceremony in the impressive Tudor Hall or if you're getting married in the warmer months, head outside to the formal gardens for an outdoor wedding celebration.
You and your wedding party can even immerse yourselves thoroughly into the Tudor lifestyle over the course of your wedding weekend with historic tours, archery, axe throwing and falconry displays, or if you want to relax, spa treatments are available too.
As for the food, renowned for his superb cuisine, award-winning chef Carl Cleghorn will serve up delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
But don't just take our word for it; one happy newlywed commented "Thornbury Castle exceeded our expectations as a wedding venue and accommodation. They catered for our every wish. The interior was delightful. The food lovely. The service fantastic. We would highly recommend."
You can also see our review of the UK's most romantic castle here.
- Capacity: 70 (seated); 120 (evening)
- Pricing: From £7,000
2. Clearwell Castle – Gloucestershire
Clearwell Castle, situated in the Forest of Dean, is a beautifully British venue that would fit right into the pages of an Austen or Bronte novel.
As well as the magnificent exterior and exquisite grounds, there’s a 75ft aisle for your grand entrance, a ballroom that boasts beautiful leaded glass windows and a vaulted cellar bar where you and your guests can relax for the evening reception.
If that wasn’t enough, the grounds feature a croquet lawn and bandstand, making this wedding venue castle the perfect backdrop for your photographs. But don't just take our word for it – "The venue is beautiful, the food was amazing and the staff are incredible. Our day couldn’t have gone any better and our guests still talk about the day as the best wedding they have ever been to," said one Hitched user.
In addition to the castle's bedrooms, the venue provides 24 additional rooms at The Wyndham Barn & Lodge, located only a short stroll away.
- Capacity: 250 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £100
- Deals: Save up to £2,000 when you make a low season booking before the end of 2024 or snap up one of the venue’s remaining 2024 dates last minute for just £9,995 (including a complimentary upgrade).
3. Warwick Castle – Warwickshire
Warwick Castle, a fortress on the banks of the river Avon, is every inch the medieval fantasy – with grand state rooms, a banqueting hall, a central courtyard surrounded by towers and ramparts, and next-level entertainment options that include falconry and knights on horseback.
This West Midlands wedding venue allows you to immerse yourself in a whopping 1,100 years of history – and we couldn’t think of a better place to celebrate than the venue where the Earl of Warwick himself once hosted parties.
Hitched users rate this highly, too: “We couldn’t have wished for a more spectacular day. We’ll be reminiscing forever, and our guests are still telling us what a magnificent venue it was”, says one.
Come nightfall, the Tower Suites (often chosen as the wedding suite for the nearlyweds) features gorgeous antique furnishings and a wooden four-poster bed.
- Capacity: 120 (seated); 180 (evening)
- Pricing: From £8,000
- Deals: Get a special deal on micro wedding packages (maximum of 20 guests).
4. Leeds Castle – Kent
Surrounded by 500 acres of parkland, immaculate gardens and even a moat, Leeds Castle is the most idyllic picture-book setting you could imagine.
It has a host of gorgeous spots to both tie the knot and celebrate, from the castle state rooms to the barn, and even the wisteria-clad medieval manor house. Some spaces can cater for up to 200 guests, with larger parties of up to 1,000 being hosted in a marquee on the Cedar Lawn – ideal if you’re looking for a regal setting for an Asian wedding.
Expect beautifully designed floral displays created by the in-house florist, unrivalled service, and perfect canapés from both the butler and spectacular catering team – all of which will make your big day stress-free and talked about for all the right reasons.
“From booking to the day itself, the Leeds Castle team have been amazing. Our wedding day was flawless, and we could not have wished for a better day. The Maiden’s Tower is simply stunning!” says one newlywed.
With a rich 900-year past, this castle wedding venue is also one of our favourite historic wedding venues.
- Capacity: 1,000 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £150
5. Leez Priory – Essex
Nestled in rural Essex, there are seven licensed settings within the 40 spectacular acres of Leez Priory, including the intimate Great Tower and the Great Hall, giving you plenty of choices.
Love the vibe of rustic weddings? You might choose to tie the knot in the converted Coach House barn, which can seat up to 100 guests below its beautiful beams.
If you’re marrying in the summer, there's a picture-perfect inner courtyard complete with a sprawling croquet lawn, while winter weddings will see you gather around roaring log fires.
There are 15 bedrooms on-site, including the spectacular wedding suite, complete with a four-poster bed and a Jacuzzi bath. When it comes to castles to get married in, this Tudor mansion will have you feeling like royalty.
One satisfied newlywed said, "From the first moment we stepped onto the grounds of Leez Priory we knew it was the one. Beautiful, steeped in history and supported by staff who truly care, they made every effort to support me and bring my vision to life and I could not be happier!"
- Capacity: 250 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £100
- Deals: Save up to £2,000 when you make a low season booking before the end of 2024 or snap up one of the venue’s remaining 2024 dates last minute for just £9,995 (including a complimentary upgrade).
6. Sudeley Castle – Gloucestershire
Like something straight out of a storybook setting, Sudeley Castle’s grounds are a maze of dramatic castle ruins, romantic rose arbours and tucked-away secret gardens.
Without doubt, the centrepiece of this castle wedding venue is the elegant Orangery – a glass structure that can cater for up to 150 seated guests with sublime views of the castle, terrace, and the rolling hills beyond.
Host drinks on the beautiful North Lawn overlooking the romantic ruins of the Tithe Barn, while guests enjoy a spot of croquet or other garden games. Or, if you’re planning a larger celebration, you can host a marquee reception here, too.
Sudeley Castle also offers blessings in its ancient 15th-century on-site chapel, while the private family library is the perfect spot for intimate civil ceremonies.
- Capacity: 150 (indoor); 450 (marquee)
- Pricing: From £4,500
7. Rowton Castle – Shropshire
If cocktails and croquet on the lawn followed by an incredible wedding banquet sounds like your thing, check out Rowton Castle.
One Hitched couple were particularly please with this wedding venue castle, stating, "It was a fairy tale wedding, with sophisticated decoration, amazing food, a breath-taking and wonderful venue, and great, dedicated staff."
Nestled within the rolling Shropshire countryside and located close to the picturesque market town of Shrewsbury, this beautiful Grade ll listed castle wedding venue is what country wedding dreams are made of. And with walled gardens, woodlands, hidden ponds and orchards, there are plenty of spots to bring all your wedding photo ideas to life.
The Cardeston Suite boasts dramatic gothic character and, bathed in natural light, would be idyllic for your ceremony. Alternatively, for an intimate celebration, the Jaci Vianna Room is decorated in elegant 18th-century style.
- Capacity: 150 guests
- Pricing: From £995
8. Hever Castle – Kent
A turreted affair, located in Edenbridge in Kent, Hever Castle gives you the opportunity to enjoy a wedding steeped in history, having once been the childhood home of Anne Boleyn.
Decked with ornate Italian walnut panelling and antique tapestries and portraits, the castle rooms are licensed for civil ceremonies, as is the equally historic Astor Wing and the Loggia in the gorgeous Italian Garden.
With a magical lakeside location, sweeping grounds and authentic Tudor décor, there are infinite places for photos – and plenty of spots that work for both winter weddings and summer wedding celebrations.
And in true royal style, five-star accommodation is also available to book at the castle. “Every one of our guests commented and said it’s the best wedding they have ever attended, and the venue was unbelievable,” said one happy newlywed!
- Capacity: 200 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £150
- Deals: Enjoy great deals when you snap up the last remaining dates for 2024 in either the castle, the Astor Wing, or the Italian Garden.
9. Farnham Castle – Surrey
Farnham Castle is situated in the historic town of Farnham in Surrey, combining the old with modern touches to make it one of the most unique castle wedding venues in the UK.
This quintessentially English wedding venue has plenty of space for you to get ready in on the morning of the wedding. Plus, there's a choice of two chapels or the Lantern Hall for the ceremony – all of which boast endless countryside views.
We also love the Great Hall, with its grand fireplace and magnificent gold-framed portraits. So do our users, with one commenting, "The Castle provided a rich and historical setting for the celebrations. We are still looking back with excitement and fond memories at the many photos and videos shared from the day."
When it comes to the wedding catering, a team of specialist chefs will create fresh and flavourful dishes to your taste. The menu gallery is seriously mouth watering!
- Capacity: 265 guests
- Pricing: From £4,000
10. Carlton Towers – North Yorkshire
Click your Jimmy Choos three times and you may well find yourself in the glamourous and dramatic setting of Carlton Towers – a stunning North Yorkshire stately wedding venue that’s home to Lord and Lady Gerald Fitzalan Howard.
Choose from either of the three grand state rooms to celebrate and then stay in one of the 16 individually designed bedrooms when the party’s over. Expect nothing less than ornate ceilings, statement chandeliers and exquisite gold panelling for a setting that’s rich in grandeur. It's a wedding photographer's dream.
Your wedding can be as big or small as you’d like, with a range of packages – plus a dry hire option – available to choose from.
Carlton Towers is a popular choice with Hitched users, too, with one commenting: “The house and setting are stunning and just perfect. The staff are fantastic and cannot be more helpful.”
- Capacity: 250 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £70
11. Allerton Castle – North Yorkshire
It’s pretty exciting to tell your guests you're hiring one of the UK's impressive castles to get married in, and Allerton Castle definitely lives up to the hype.
Situated between Harrogate, Leeds and York, this North Yorkshire wedding venue castle is easily accessible, yet still rural enough to enjoy stunning views of the Yorkshire countryside.
There’s a huge log fire, a great staircase for photographs and plenty of decadently decorated rooms. Once you’ve enjoyed the excellent catering provided by Bradshaws of York, you and your guests can venture outdoors and enjoy a magical firework display. This place really is a dream come true.
But don't just take our word for it: one of the many reviews on Allerton Castle's Hitched listing says, "We had a fantastic time – it was everything we had hoped for and more. Allerton Castle was a fantastic venue, we had so many comments on how amazing it was."
- Capacity: 120 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £150
12. Bickleigh Castle – Devon
When it comes to picking your dream wedding venue, Bickleigh Castle in Devon has something to suit all styles and tastes. One Hitched user commented, "It would be difficult to find a more attractive and romantic location for a wedding anywhere in Britain" – high praise indeed!
Alongside the magical and enchanting castle, you'll find the quaint thatched chapel and beautiful views over the Devonshire countryside. We can see a summer garden celebration or an entire wedding weekend being the perfect fit.
And if you're planning a religious ceremony, there are several churches located nearby – you can even use one of the venue's classic Rolls-Royces to return back to the castle in style.
- Capacity: 150 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £200
13. Polhawn Fort – Cornwall
Polhawn Fort is hidden away in a tranquil cove on the Rame Peninsula. The venue boasts a drawbridge for the grandest of entrances, plus a fairy tale-worthy spiral staircase leading into the 80ft long vaulted hall.
Marry with up to 100 guests in the Grand Napoleonic Hall or, for a more smaller wedding, choose the Emperor's Room for you and up to 30 friends and family. The tucked-away location means your castle wedding venue becomes an intimate escape, and the venue's own private beach provides excellent photo opportunities.
Polhawn even offers three- or four-day wedding packages allowing you to carry the celebrations on for a whole weekend or more.
If you enjoy having the freedom to personalise your wedding, this could be the venue for you – just listen to this review: "I loved how we could be as creative as we wanted and everything was totally up to us – which differed from other venues which followed a set day plan. The staff are super helpful and made planning it much easier."
- Capacity: 100 guests
- Pricing: From £4,700
14. Lumley Castle Hotel – Durham
Lumley Castle Hotel is more than 630 years old, and seamlessly blends classic English heritage with sophisticated facilities.
This historic wedding venue is nestled in nine acres of beautiful parkland overlooking the River Wear and the nearby cricket ground. There are options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, so this dreamy space can be enjoyed whatever the weather and, as this is an exclusive use castle wedding venue, you'll also experience complete peace and privacy.
Once the celebrations have drawn to a close, you and your guests can retire to the castle's hotel rooms, all of which are individually decorated to reflect the medieval period of the castle – think four-poster beds, roll-top baths and pretty fireplaces. While the cosier courtyard rooms are located within the original stable block.
Previous customers have loved it. One said, "I recently had my wedding at Lumley Castle and I can honestly say it was the most perfect venue."
- Capacity: 150 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £19.95
15. Hedingham Castle – Essex
With its 900 year-old Norman keep, Hedingham Castle is a mansion house dating back to the early Georgian period, set within a leafy 160-acre estate overlooking the Essex countryside.
Ceremonies can be held in the candlelit Banqueting Hall, beneath its gorgeous stone arch, before you and your guests head towards the Georgian House for a relaxed champagne reception that spills out into the picturesque grounds. For summer celebrations, you might choose an outdoor ceremony on the lawn.
The Ballroom Marquee, with its own dance floor and private bar, is the perfect spot to dine and see in the evening. While smaller celebrations can party within the majestic walls of the castle itself.
You know you'll be in safe hands here – one review reads, "We had our wedding at Hedingham Castle in August 2022 and it was absolutely amazing. Everything was perfect – the venue itself, the planning, detail and care Sarah and the team put in leading up to the wedding, the food, and the staff on the day."
There are plenty of photo opportunities, too, including the Tudor bridge (originally built for Henry VII), ornamental lake, fountain and huge log fires.
- Capacity: 150 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £206
16. Amberley Castle – West Sussex
Amberley Castle is nestled within 12 acres of elegantly landscaped gardens – where you may even spot the venue’s two resident white peacocks – close to South Downs National Park.
If you're looking for a venue that offers unique backdrops to bring your wedding photograph ideas to life, your search ends here.
This castle wedding venue is surrounded by a dramatic medieval stone wall and the interior is richly decorated with suits of armour and historic coats of arms. There’s also an 18-hole putting green, croquet lawn and tennis court to see you through the weekend.
Post-wedding, you and your partner can relax in your Premier Deluxe candlelit bathroom, complete with fluffy white robes and champagne on ice.
We're utterly convinced you'll love Amberley Castle, but don't just take our word for it – one satisfied newlywed said, "It was exactly what we wanted and would highly recommend other couples to have their weddings or other events at Amberley!"
- Capacity: 250 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £250
17. Ripley Castle & Gardens – North Yorkshire
The 700 year-old Ripley Castle, surrounded by private woodland, exudes historic English country charm, and is right in the heart of North Yorkshire.
There’s a huge choice of elegant, light-filled rooms for your ceremony and reception, including the main house reception and the gorgeous oak-panelled library.
Foodie couples will be in for a treat, too – the in-house catering team garners incredible reviews for its tasty plates and tipples. One Hitched user said, "The food was out of this world and guests still comment now and how amazing their meals were."
Choose from a range of packages for up to 120 guests, for celebrations in either the East Wing or the castle main house. No matter what you envision, the team at Ripley Castle are dedicated to helping your wedding dreams come true.
- Capacity: 120 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £125
18. Dunskey Estate – Dumfries & Galloway
With an estate comprising acres of rugged Scottish countryside and dramatic coastline, Dunskey Estate is a Scottish wedding venue with real wow factor.
This stunning Edwardian castle wedding venue is guaranteed to impress your guests while providing the ultimate romantic setting for your wedding day. You can choose to say ‘I do’ inside or outside, with either a gorgeous stone fireplace or the surrounding wild woodland as your ceremony backdrop.
After your vows, make the most of the beautifully refurbished castle spaces and tuck into a bespoke wedding feast created by the highly experienced in-house chef.
One review says, "No detail is spared in the planning and execution of a Dunskey event, but more importantly, the care, personal attention and relationships set Dunskey apart. It is truly a magical place."
- Capacity: 80 (seated); 120 (outdoor)
- Pricing: POA
19. Hensol Castle – Vale of Glamorgan
Wales boasts an abundance of striking castles and South Wales wedding venue Hensol Castle is no exception.
Hensol's epic estate includes an impressive 15-acre lake and serpentine pool complete with pontoon – a knockout spot for photographs. It's also the perfect place for you and your partner to escape to for a tranquil moment alone.
The Oak Room is licensed for ceremonies and features high arched windows and a beautiful period fireplace, or you can choose to wed outside under the bandstand. Later, get the party started within the castle walls of the Courtyard Hall. Plus, with 143 luxurious bedrooms at the nearby Vale Resort, all of your guests can be accommodated after the day's celebrations.
You won't have to worry about a thing, the venue's dedicated wedding co-ordinator will take care of every last detail. According to one happy client: "I was lucky enough to get married here last Friday and I can’t recommend the venue highly enough. The place is beautiful but it’s the staff that make it."
- Capacity: 200 guests
- Pricing: From £5,200
20. St Audries Park – Somerset
Located within 100 acres of peaceful deer park and with stunning sea views, St Audries Park is a castle wedding venue and one of Somerset's best-kept secrets.
You'll have private hire of the whole house on your wedding day, making it one of the most romantic and exclusive castle wedding venues.
Say 'I do' in the light-filled Victorian Orangery before you and up to 130 guests tuck in to a fine-dining wedding breakfast in the Banqueting Hall, which overlooks the dreamy rose garden and the deer park beyond.
The venue also has 41 stylish bedrooms across the main house and the surrounding cosy cottages that you and your guests can retire to pre- and post-wedding. Hitched users also add: "The venue is beautiful and all the staff were very friendly and welcoming."
- Capacity: 130 (seated); 250 (evening)
- Pricing: Menus from £100
- Deals: Save up to £2,000 when you book a low-season wedding, while remaining 2024 dates can be snapped up for just £9,995 all in, including a free upgrade!
21. Dundas Castle – Lothian & Borders
If you're looking for medieval-style castle wedding venues, it doesn't get more grand and historic than Dundas Castle in Scotland.
A brilliant mix of glamour and seclusion, this castle feels a world away, despite being just 25 minutes from Edinburgh city centre.
Choose from four ceremony locations: The vaulted Great Hall, contained within a medieval Auld Keep, can seat up to 110 guests, while the lawn and the courtyard – with its arched doors and white stone fountain – allow you to welcome 200 guests for your vows.
As for the dining, whether you want an intimate candlelit feast in the stone-walled Stag Chamber, a classic wedding breakfast that spills out onto the lawns via the elegant Croquet Room, or a larger celebration for up to 200 in the Pavilion, Dundas Castle has something to suit.
Check out this rave review, too: "We may be biased but it is the most gorgeous venue we’ve been to in Scotland. It was exactly what we were looking for, a Scottish castle yet intimate with a lovely family feel."
- Capacity: 200 guests
- Pricing: POA
22. The Castle Westenhanger – Kent
For a fairy tale venue that combines the rich history of a 16th century castle and the gorgeous façade of a Georgian stately home, The Castle Westenhanger near Hythe is something rather special.
In fact, Henry VII and Queen Elizabeth II are just some of the notable figures who have enjoyed this spectacular venue and its exquisite grounds.
There are three stunning ceremony spaces to choose from: the purpose-built thatched gazebo on the castle lawn is surrounded by ruins for a dreamy outdoor celebration, while the banqueting hall features exposed brickwork and medieval windows for a setting like no other.
“We cannot recommend The Castle at Westenhanger enough. Quite simply the best. A totally professional team who made our day so special,” says one Hitched user.
- Capacity: 300 guests
- Pricing: From £8,150
- Deals: Couples planning a twilight wedding can do so here from just £9,210, while those planning a midweek wedding can make use of The Castle Westenhanger’s incredible £8,150 deal. Not only that, but the venue is also proud to offer up to £600 off for Blue Light Card holders.
23. Swinton Estate – North Yorkshire
Grand in scale and huge on first impressions, the epic Swinton Estate is surrounded by 20,000 acres of landscaped gardens, parkland, and woodland in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.
It couldn’t be more perfect for couples who crave the grandeur of a country castle backdrop but who love the idea of an off-grid rustic wedding; The Deer House is the perfect space to enjoy a candlelit reception (complete with acoustic music and torches to light the way), while the Swinton Bivouac allows you to get back to nature with a yurt-style celebration on the edge of the moor and an outdoor ceremony at Druid’s Temple.
You and your guests can then sleep beneath the stars in the venue’s charming Meadow Yurts and Tree Lodges, or in the luxury of the hotel.
If that’s not enough, this incredible estate also has a luxury spa to boot.
"Everything was perfect, the staff were helpful and attentive, the food was amazing and enjoyed by all our guests, and the DJ hired by the venue was brilliant," says one Hitched user.
- Capacity: 250 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £140
24. Le Gothique – South West London
If you’re looking for a city wedding venue that also happens to be a castle (niche, we know), Le Gothique is a hidden gem on Wandsworth Common, located within the ancient walls of the Royal Victoria Patriotic Building.
Up to 250 guests can gather in the restaurant’s award-winning Secret Garden, where you can enjoy an open-air ceremony surrounded by lush greenery and breath-taking gothic architecture. And for that jaw-dropping entrance, how about pulling up in the venue’s own vintage Rolls-Royce?
The gazebo structure is perfect for seated drinks receptions – plus it’s heated, so suitable for all year round.
This is also a great option for foodies – the impressive French-inspired menu features such delights as lobster bisque and sea bass in lemon butter sauce. One of our newlyweds said: “Wedding food can be a compromise, but I can honestly say this was one of the best meals of our lives.”
- Capacity: 250 guests
- Pricing: Menus from £99
25. Cluny Castle – Aberdeen & Deeside
Cluny Castle is an enchanting and magical wedding venue castle set amidst the farmland of Aberdeenshire. Surrounded by more than 200 acres of dreamy landscape, you're guaranteed nothing less than a tranquil and private weekend.
It's a majestic setting that has serious wow-factor before your guests have even entered, as they make their way up the winding path and across the sweeping lawns.
One of Cluny's stand-out features is its very own chapel. With intricate stained glass windows and rustic oak pews, it's able to seat up to 120 people for a religious ceremony or blessing.
Afterwards, relax with friends and family inside a marquee within the grounds, or plump for the charming Tenants' Hall for a more intimate celebration and dance the night away on its parquet flooring.
The reviews speak for themselves: "As far as exclusive-use venues go, it really doesn't get better than this. If you are considering Cluny Castle as your wedding venue, I cannot recommend it enough and wish we could do it all over again!"
- Capacity: 300 guests
- Pricing: From £9,995
26. Hampton Court Castle – Herefordshire
From romantic courtyard ceremonies and chapel blessings to magical mazes and whimsical wisteria arches, Hampton Court Castle is a wedding venue castle with something to suit every kind of celebration. Hitched users have described it as, "simply magical, a dream come true for any couple wanting to get married somewhere beautiful and memorable."
This wedding venue would be a brilliant choice no matter what season your wedding is being held – enjoy bright blooms in the gardens come summer or cosy, roaring open fires in the winter time.
All eyes will be on you as you cut the wedding cake, too – this venue offers a ceremonial sword in place of a knife!
There are 24 spacious guest bedrooms for your family and friends to make use of, and you can enjoy a full wedding debrief the next morning over breakfast.
- Capacity: 120 guests
- Pricing: From £9,500
- Deals: Enjoy exclusive access for your wedding with up to 50 guests for less than £10,000. Plus, couples who book late availability will receive a complimentary gift.
27. Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa – Lancashire
For a setting that combines the 700-year history and beauty of a heritage property with modern facilities, Blackburn Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa is a four-star gem in the Lancashire countryside.
The majestic stone exterior – with its original turrets and porticos – is the stuff of fairy tales, while courtyard is the perfect spot to host a cocktail drinks reception.
Evening celebrations are held in the Towneley Suite – a luxurious ballroom with a huge dance floor that provides a ridiculously grand backdrop to your party. “Everyone who came to our wedding commented on the food, service and attention to detail,” said one Hitched reviewer.
But the best bit? The super-luxe spa, complete with heated pool, fitness centre and beauty treatment rooms. It’s perfect for winding down pre- and post-wedding with your maids or new spouse.
- Capacity: 250 (seated); 380 (evening)
- Pricing: Menus from £110
- Deals: Hitched users can get an exclusive £6,500 deal on dry-hire services. Or, if you’re keen to book last minute, get late availability deals for 2024 for just £4,999.
28. Blenheim Palace – Oxfordshire
A World Heritage Site and the only non-Royal building in England to have the title of Palace, Blenheim Palace is a beautiful castle wedding venue – and then some.
With a number of spaces to choose from, this is a venue that works perfectly for grand-scale weddings, with The Great Hall and Library (with its 10,000 books – one of the longest rooms in a British stately home) able to accommodate up to 300 seated guests.
If your wedding guest list is even longer, there are 2,000 acres of manicured grounds and parkland to take advantage of – perfect for a marquee celebration and jaw-dropping photographs.
But don’t just take our word for it – one happy Hitched newlywed said: “We’re still on a huge high and have had so many comments about how spectacular the venue was, how delicious the food was and how pleasant all the staff were.”
- Capacity: 1,000 guests
- Pricing: From £9,500
29. Highcliffe Castle – Dorset
Set high on a clifftop and a stone’s throw from the scenic Dorset coastline, Highcliffe Castle is considered one of the jewels of British architecture – and we can see why. Exposed brickwork, light-filled spaces with high period ceilings and antique details provide the most magical setting for a wedding day.
“Every single guest told us that it was a great venue for a wedding because the stunning ceremony room and the layout of the evening reception was perfect for what we had planned,” said one Hitched newlywed.
Even the grounds are glorious – we think an outdoor wedding ceremony in the winter garden would be so romantic!
A footpath leads down to the sandy beach where you can your partner can enjoy photographs before heading back up for drinks and canapés in the elegant Drawing Room.
- Capacity: 110 (seated); 200 (evening)
- Pricing: POA
30. Lympne Castle – Kent
From kings to archbishops to A-list celebrities, Lympne Castle has housed the good and the great over the centuries. And excitingly, you can now follow in the footsteps of nobility and make this gorgeous castle wedding venue yours for the day.
At Lympne Castle, you can exchange vows in the historic surroundings of the West Drawing Room, with its elegant wood panelling, dramatic stone fireplace and views of the southeast coastline.
The wows just keep on coming as your guests move into The Great Hall, a beautiful banqueting space for drinking, dining and dancing, complete with wooden roof beams and gothic arched windows. The tucked-away on-site cottages are the perfect place for you to prepare the night before the big day, too.
We think this cosy setting would be great for winter wedding celebrations in particular: “We had the benefit of Christmas trees and cosy log fires which made our winter wedding particularly festive in the castle setting. The building and views are stunning – our guests were in awe!” says one Hitched reviewer.
- Capacity: 140 guests
- Pricing: From £7,000
- Deals: Hitched couples can bag an exclusive deal on late availability in 2024!
31. Thirlestane Castle – Lothian & Borders
If you're looking for a fairy tale wedding venue north of Hadrian's Wall, you're sure to fall in love with Thirlestane Castle, which Hitched users have described as "truly the fairy tale castle of Scotland".
As one of Scotland's oldest castles for weddings, this one-of-a-kind 16th century property is brimming with timeless elegance and magical views. What's more, it can set the scene for both intimate weddings and large-scale celebrations, with a range of opulent spaces to choose from.
Exchange vows in one of the castle's state rooms before milling into the next or heading outside for reception drinks. Later, you can move into the State Dining Room to wine and dine, as well as making the most of Thirlestane's contemporary spaces like the delightful cobbled courtyard and the cosy vaulted cellar.
- Capacity: 100 guests
- Pricing: From £2,500
32. Eastnor Castle – Herefordshire
It’s easy to see why Eastnor Castle, an incredible wedding venue at the foot of the picturesque Malvern Hills, has attracted so many couples over the years.
Hire all 5,000 acres for an epic wedding weekend complete with activities like archery, clay pigeon shooting, off-road driving, and yoga, or simply enjoy being king and queen for the day within the walls of the gothic-inspired Drawing Room and State Dining Room.
Foodie couples will be in heaven here, too – treat your guests to a bespoke menu that's created using only the finest local ingredients. We’re sold!
- Capacity: 150 guests
- Pricing: From £8,000
33. Powderham Castle – Devon
If you were to look up the word 'elegant' in the dictionary, don't be surprised if you see a picture of Powderham Castle. As one of the most enchanting Devonshire wedding venues, it's rightfully adored for its vintage charm, postcard-perfect surroundings and welcoming atmosphere.
The wedding venue castle possesses a whopping 3,500 acres of land, providing you with countless photographic opportunities. Stunning views of the Exe Estuary can be seen from the Belvedere Tower, while the 18th century Pavilion is a wonderful place to pledge your love.
Upon venturing inside, your friends and relatives will be struck by the abundance of refined décor. Gold-framed paintings line the walls, while opulent chandeliers hang from the palatial patterned ceilings.
Powderham Castle is also home to eight luxurious bedrooms, one of which is a honeymoon suite that offers idyllic views.
- Capacity: 200 guests
- Pricing: From £4,500
34. Auchen Castle – Galloway & Ayrshire
Are you searching for gilded staircases, classic turrets, blossoming gardens and a fairy tale atmosphere? Then you've come to the right place: Auchen Castle possesses all of these features and more.
Couples opting for a Scottish wedding venue will be thrilled to find this castle wedding venue nestled in the rolling Moffat Hills. Here you can enjoy 34 acres of private gardens to celebrate your wedding with up to 122 of your friends and family.
Both indoor and outdoor wedding ceremonies and feasts can be hosted at Auchen Castle. There are no rules, marking this as one of the most flexible castle wedding venues in the UK.
Hitched users love it, with one newlywed saying, "The venue is so so beautiful, even more stunning in person. A lovely romantic venue, with such history and beautiful décor and surroundings with modern touches in all the right places."
- Capacity: 120 guests
- Pricing: From £995
- Deals: Hitched users can enjoy offers on last-minute bookings for intimate weddings of up to 40 guests.
35. Wadhurst Castle – East Sussex
You may well recognise Wadhurst Castle: this rather swish TV and film wedding venue starred in The Crown!
But that’s not the only exciting feature of this gorgeous castle wedding venue. Nestled in a 140-acre private estate in a glorious Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this glorious Regency property has history and romance oozing from its thick castle walls.
When it comes to nuptials, choose from the interconnecting, high-ceiling reception rooms in the castle itself, which lead out into the Winter Garden and South Lawn, or the more modern Carriage Barn space, where you can dine beneath beautiful oak beams.
This is also an exclusive-use castle wedding venue: “What sets it apart from other similar venues is that it is a very flexible space with stunning surroundings that are exclusively yours for the day,” says one Hitched user.
Oh, and did we mention this is a no-corkage wedding venue? That means you can provide your own drinks throughout the festivities.
- Capacity: 130 guests
- Pricing: POA
- Deals: Hitched couples can bag themselves an exclusive discount on both late availability packages and intimate wedding packages.
36. Winton Castle – Lothian & Borders
Blending grand palace and family home vibes, Winton Castle delivers on its promise as a venue for unique castle weddings in the UK. It's also an exclusive-use castle venue, allowing you to tailor your wedding celebrations to suit your own big-day vision.
Winton Castle was originally designed for entertaining in the 17th century and features five interconnecting reception rooms ideal for celebrating and mingling with your guests.
Those holding larger-scale ceremonies can arrange for a marquee to be set up on the croquet lawn, offering incomparable views towards the castle, loch and gardens. One happy newlywed commented, "The castle is set in beautiful grounds, with the gardens and river providing brilliant locations for wonderful photos."
If you want to keep the party going, this castle wedding venue boasts luxurious accommodation for up to 50 wedding guests both in the castle and across three on-site country houses.
- Capacity: 400 guests
- Pricing: From £8,000
37. Bolton Castle – North Yorkshire
Fancy entertaining your guests in true royal style? Then check out Bolton Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in history. This magnificent property is another one of the UK's exclusive castle wedding venues, giving you ultimate privacy to enjoy your day without any intrusions.
Civil ceremonies can be held in the south-facing Solar Room, while the magnificent Great Chamber is a favourite spot for wedding breakfasts.
There are several areas ideal for drinks receptions, too, including the partially ruined chapel, courtyard and medieval gardens.
Ask nicely, and you could even have a barn owl quietly fly down during your candlelit ceremony to deliver your wedding rings – or enjoy a falconry display during the photographs.
It's a popular choice with Hitched users, one of whom said, "[Bolton Castle] provided us with the flexibility to have the wedding reception exactly as we wanted it, with stunning photo backdrops of the castle and the valley, and our guests enjoyed being able to explore the grounds and the castle."
- Capacity: 250 guests
- Pricing: From £1,500
- Deals: Enjoy £1,000 off selected remaining dates in 2024 – but be quick as they go fast!
38. Castle Goring – West Sussex
Castle Goring is a romantic, year-round castle wedding venue offering couples a number of unforgettable spaces to tie the knot.
Hitched couples love it, too – one newlywed said, "Highly recommend this as a wedding venue – it looks spectacular, great team and you have exclusive use to shape the day specifically how you want it."
The Ceremonial Hall is a popular room for couples to say their vows – unsurprising once you see its grand double doors and ornate décor. You can also host your wedding breakfast here, before moving onto the three large interconnecting state rooms for your drinks reception, canapés and post-dinner relaxation.
This West Sussex wedding venue also gives you the option of having an outdoor wedding ceremony, and a dedicated team who will be on-hand to help you throughout the wedding planning process.
- Capacity: 200 guests
- Pricing: From £1,950
39. Newcastle Castle – Tyne & Wear
Dating all the way back to the 11th century, Newcastle Castle is a rugged yet beautiful one-of-a-kind building for intimate weddings.
This Norman Fortress can be your very own castle for the day – allowing you to live out all your elaborate fairy tale wedding dreams in style. This city wedding venue is only a short walk from Grey Street, known for its gorgeous Georgian architecture and great for unique photo opportunities.
Newcastle Castle also gives couples the option to add some cool medieval touches to their celebrations – we're talking live medieval music (who knew that was a thing?), cannon fire to announce your marriage, or even a personalised banner to hang in the Great Hall.
Hitched users say: "We chose Newcastle Castle because it's an iconic building, for its history and its beauty. From start to finish, we were treated with respect and anything that could be done to ensure our day went exactly the way we wanted, they made happen."
- Capacity: 50 guests
- Pricing: From £950
40. Hazlewood Castle – North Yorkshire
Nestled in 70 acres of glorious woodland, Hazlewood Hotel, Restaurant & Spa is a wedding venue castle located less than 30 minutes from both Leeds and York.
Couples looking for woodland wedding venues *need* to check out Hazlewood Castle – the surrounding grounds make it the perfect spot for off-grid celebrations. Hazlewood is also a great choice for couples searching for Asian wedding venues, due to its large capacity, dreamy dining options and experience of hosting Asian celebrations.
There are a variety of different ceremony spaces here, each with its own ambiance. Whether you want an indoor or outdoor wedding and function, Hazlewood's got you covered with a plethora of choices.
One happy Hitched user said, "I can’t put into words how wonderful our wedding at Hazlewood was. Nothing is too much trouble for the team, they are there to help you every step of the way and on the day they made sure every thing ran perfectly."
- Capacity: 300 guests
- Pricing: POA
- Deals: Enjoy a free upgrade on your winter wedding package when you book for late 2024/2025. Upgrades include a complimentary bar tab of £1,000 or £1,000 off your final bill.
After something a little smaller? Take a look at our round-up of the most adorable small and intimate wedding venues in the country. You’ll be cutting your guest list down in no time!
