Dream Come True: Castle Weddings

January 17, 2017 3:45 pm

From small intimate venues, to those with grandeur, there is a wide selection of options when it comes to finding the ideal wedding venue. For many couples, there is something unique and appealing about the prospect of getting married in a castle.

Castles were designed as imposing structures, created to protect and defend. They were constructed from heavy stone, with great detailing and often included a reflection of the character of the owner. The banqueting halls and bedrooms were specifically designed for entertaining prestigious guests, where making the right impression was of great importance.

What’s more castles were built in places of prominence. They were located in the midst of extensive landscapes, with views over the surrounding countryside. Tree lined or surrounded with deer parks, the long driveway up to the property was styled to build the anticipation as visitors arrived. Closer to the main building, intricately designed gardens and lawns surrounded the property.

Thanks to investment by recent owners, many castles have retained their majesty. From pulling into the grounds, to making an entrance down a magnificent staircase, a castle is an impressive site. It is this unsurpassable grandeur that makes castles the most impressive backdrop for a wedding day.

A castle offers the couple a chance to live like a king and queen for the day. With exclusive use of the property, it is possible for the wedding ceremony, wedding banquet, celebratory party and guest accommodation to be provided under one roof.

Best Castle Wedding Venue

Within the UK, Scotland is the most renowned country for stunning castles and there are plenty offering deluxe wedding packages. However, if the far reaches of Scotland are too distant, there are many other options in England, Ireland and Wales.

Entries for the 2017 UK Wedding Awards are currently being reviewed and voted for, with winners to be announced in the spring, but we can look to last year’s shortlist for inspiration. The 2016 winner in the castle wedding venue category was Hever Castle in Kent. Others in the shortlist included Hazlewood Castle in North Yorkshire, Melville Castle in Edinburgh, Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire, Walworth Castle in Darlington and Tregenna Castle in Cornwall.

The list of desirable wedding venues that has been compiled by Tatler Magazine highlights different options. These include Achnagairn Castle in Inverness, which boasts 60 guest rooms of 5 star quality and Highclere Castle in Newbury, which was the setting of Downton Abbey. Hedington Castle in Essex is the best preserved Norman Keep in England, whilst the cliff top Culzean Castle offers unrivalled views over Arran.

Considering a Castle

The choice of wedding venue can impact on many other planning decisions, so it is vital that you visit to experience the premises for yourself. Make sure that you can access all of the rooms that are included in the wedding package, including the bridal suite. Ensure that you are completely clear on what is included in the wedding package. For example, if food isn’t included in the core price, request the menu options and ask whether outside catering is allowed.

Wedding Theme

The style of the castle can influence the colours, fabrics, floral displays and decorations that you select for your wedding. Typically rich, opulent colours, weighty fabrics and large blooms would fit the setting. The country theme, with inspiration from the natural surroundings can also make a great impact.

Wedding Car Hire

The venue can even determine the choice of wedding car. It’s all about arriving in style, so you need plenty of space, a comfortable ride and a high specification interior. When you may also need to travel out into the countryside, there is one ideal solution; a luxurious 4×4 vehicle. To find out more details about selecting a Range Rover for your wedding car hire option, click here.

So, if you’ve dreamed of a fairytale wedding, a castle could deliver the experience of a lifetime. What a way to celebrate your big day!