Best Nottinghamshire Wedding Venues | Photographers Guide

What Should You Look for in a Nottinghamshire

Wedding Venue from a Photography Perspective?

Choosing a wedding venue is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and from a photography standpoint, your choice has a huge impact on the look and feel of your final gallery. As photographers, we have learnt to see venues through a unique lens. Here are the key elements we look for to ensure your wedding photos are as beautiful as the day itself:

• The Quality of Natural Light: Light is the single most important ingredient in photography. Look for venues with large windows, high ceilings, and light, neutral-coloured walls. Spaces that are flooded with natural light create soft, flattering, and romantic images. When you visit a venue, pay attention to how the light falls in the ceremony and reception rooms at the time of day you’ll be using them. Dark rooms with limited natural light can be challenging and may result in a completely different style of photography.

• A Balance of Indoor and Outdoor Spaces: The ideal venue offers the best of both worlds: stunning interiors and beautiful outdoor areas. Manicured gardens, rustic fields, charming courtyards, or scenic views provide breathtaking backdrops for your couple portraits and group photos. However, the unpredictable British weather means that a beautiful indoor alternative is essential. A venue with a grand staircase, an elegant library, or a light-filled orangery ensures that you will have gorgeous photo opportunities, no matter what the weather decides to do.

• Variety and Space: A venue with a variety of backdrops—from architectural details to open landscapes—allows for a diverse and interesting wedding gallery. Consider if there is enough space for the key moments of your day. Is there a spacious, uncluttered area for family group photos? Is there a private spot where the two of you can escape for some intimate portraits? Having different settings to work with allows us to tell a richer, more complete story of your day.

• Seasonal Beauty: Think about what the venue will look like during the season of your wedding. A garden that is breathtaking in summer might look very different in winter. Consider the colours of the foliage in autumn, the potential for snow in winter, or the vibrant blooms of spring. A great venue will offer photographic beauty all year round, and an experienced photographer will know how to make the most of each season’s unique character.

How Do Different Venue Styles Affect Your Wedding Photos?

The style of your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding day and plays a huge role in the atmosphere of your photographs. Each type of venue has a distinct personality that we, as photographers, love to capture. Here’s a guide to how different venue styles can influence your wedding photos:

• Manor Houses and Stately Homes: These venues are all about timeless elegance and grandeur. If you choose a manor house, expect your photos to have a classic, formal, and sophisticated feel. The architecture—grand facades, sweeping staircases, and ornate details—provides a sense of scale and history. The extensive, beautifully maintained grounds are perfect for romantic, sweeping portraits that feel both epic and intimate.

• Barns and Rustic Venues: Barn venues offer a relaxed, informal, and wonderfully romantic atmosphere. The textures of exposed brick, ancient wooden beams, and the soft glow of fairy lights create a warm and inviting backdrop. Your photographs will feel intimate, heartfelt, and full of character. These venues are perfect for couples who want their day to feel like a joyful, laid-back celebration with a touch of rustic charm.

• Contemporary Hotels and Modern Venues: Clean lines, minimalist design, and bold architectural statements define modern venues. These spaces are perfect for chic, stylish, and sophisticated weddings. The photography will often have a more editorial feel, focusing on form, light, and composition. Large windows and neutral colour palettes create bright, airy images, while unique design features can be used to create dramatic and artistic shots.

• Unique and Quirky Venues: From industrial mills to historic museums, a quirky venue allows you to showcase your personality. These spaces provide a one-of-a-kind backdrop for creative and memorable photography. The photos will be a direct reflection of your unique story as a couple, filled with fun, character, and talking points that are completely personal to you.

What Questions Should You Ask Your Venue About Photography?

During your venue search, it’s important to ask a few specific questions related to photography to ensure your day runs smoothly and your photographer can work their magic without any hitches. Here are some key questions to ask:

• Are there any restrictions for photographers? Some venues, particularly historic properties or places of worship, may have rules about where photographers can go and when they can take pictures (e.g., restrictions on flash photography during the ceremony). It’s crucial to know this upfront.

• Do you have a recommended or exclusive supplier list? Many venues have a list of suppliers they prefer to work with. It’s important to clarify if this is a list of suggestions or if you are required to use their exclusive photographer. While recommended lists can be a great starting point, you should have the freedom to choose a photographer whose style and approach you fall in love with.

• What is the contingency plan for bad weather? Ask to see the indoor options for your couple and group photographs in case of rain. Are these spaces large enough? Do they have good natural light? A great venue will have a solid Plan B that is just as beautiful as Plan A.

• Are there any time constraints for using the grounds? Some venues, especially those open to the public, may have specific times when you can use certain areas for photography. Knowing this will help you and your photographer plan the timeline for your portraits.

• What are the rules on confetti and sparklers? Confetti and sparkler shots are iconic wedding photos, but many venues have restrictions. Ask if they allow them and, if so, whether they require biodegradable confetti or have a designated area for sparklers. This ensures you can have those magical shots without any last-minute disappointment.

• Are there any restrictions on drone flights? Many venues now allow drones under a certain weight (250 grams) which means you can get incredible aerial images and film, but it is advisable to check prior to your wedding day.

Nottinghamshire Wedding Venues at a Glance

Kelham House Country Manor Hotel

As wedding photographers, we are always captivated by the timeless elegance of a country manor, and Kelham House, a stunning Edwardian gem near Newark, is a perfect example. This imposing 1903 manor, set within nine acres of private grounds, offers a wonderfully romantic and secluded setting. The tree-lined driveway creates a grand entrance, providing a beautiful natural frame for arrival shots. We love the versatility of the venue, from the light-filled indoor spaces to the licensed outdoor gazebo, which allows us to capture ceremonies in the heart of the beautiful gardens.

The blend of manicured lawns and rich woodland offers a diverse canvas for couple portraits, whether we are seeking the soft, golden light of late afternoon or the dappled shade of the trees. The intimate and exclusive feel of Kelham House, combined with its classic architecture, makes it a dream for creating a storybook wedding album filled with grace and romance.

Langar Hall

Langar Hall is a venue with a personality as unique as the couples who marry there. Described as 'stubbornly English, deliciously stylish, and quietly eccentric', this terracotta-hued Georgian country house offers a wonderfully intimate and characterful setting for a wedding. As photographers, we are drawn to its quirky charm and the beautiful quality of light that bathes its distinctive facade. Specialising in smaller, more informal weddings, Langar Hall provides an exclusive and personal atmosphere that allows us to capture the most genuine and heartfelt moments.

The picturesque grounds, including a croquet lawn and views of the neighbouring church, offer a quintessentially English backdrop for portraits. The interior is equally captivating, with each of the 12 bedrooms boasting its own unique character, providing stunning settings for bridal preparation shots. For couples seeking a venue that is anything but ordinary, Langar Hall is a photographer's delight, offering endless opportunities for creative and timeless images.

Hodsock Priory

Hodsock Priory is a venue that truly takes your breath away, offering a magnificent blend of history, grandeur, and natural beauty. For us as photographers, the journey begins with the spectacular 19th-century Tudor Gatehouse, which provides an unrivalled backdrop for dramatic and memorable photographs. Set within an 800-acre estate, the historic country house, a lovingly restored family home, exudes a sense of timeless romance.

The sheer variety of photographic opportunities is astounding, from the formal gardens and serene lake to the enchanting bluebell woods in spring. The light filtering through the historic windows of the Panelled Hall creates a soft, ethereal glow for indoor ceremonies, while the option of an outdoor ceremony in the Georgian gazebo allows us to capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Hodsock Priory is a venue that offers a new perspective at every turn, enabling us to create a rich and diverse collection of images that tell the story of a truly magical day.

Hazel Gap Barn

Hazel Gap Barn, a standout venue from the renowned Cripps & Co. group, is a photographer's dream, masterfully blending dramatic architecture with rustic elegance. Located on the historic Welbeck Estate, the striking red-brick barn with its twin watchtowers and crenellated entrance creates a powerful first impression and a unique ceremony backdrop. Inside, the light-filled Oak Room, with its magnificent archways and views over the woodland, provides a beautiful setting for the wedding breakfast.

We particularly love the central courtyard, which is a fantastic social space for guests and a wonderful location for capturing candid moments. As evening falls, the courtyard is transformed with fire pits and fairy lights, creating a magical, romantic atmosphere that is simply stunning on camera. The combination of dramatic architecture, beautiful natural light, and enchanting evening ambiance makes Hazel Gap a truly exceptional venue for creating stylish and atmospheric wedding photography.

Swancar Farm Country House

Swancar Farm Country House offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary elegance, creating a wonderfully relaxed and idyllic setting for a wedding. As photographers, we love the versatility of this exclusive-use venue. The 16th-century country house and its surrounding barns have been beautifully restored, offering a variety of spaces that are full of character. The Barn, with its exposed beams and crystal chandeliers, is a beautiful, light-filled space for ceremonies, while the majestic Oak Hall provides an elegant setting for the reception.

The pretty paved courtyard is perfect for capturing those joyful, candid moments during the drinks reception. The extensive grounds, with their beautiful lawns and rural views, provide a picturesque canvas for couple portraits, especially during the golden hour. Swancar Farm's blend of historic character and modern luxury, combined with its beautiful countryside location, allows us to create a wedding album that is both timeless and full of natural beauty.

Trent Bridge

For couples seeking a venue that is truly unique and iconic, Trent Bridge, the world-famous cricket ground, offers a spectacular setting for a wedding. As photographers, we are inspired by the sheer scale and sense of history that this venue provides. The modern, light-filled banqueting suites, with their floor-to-ceiling windows, offer panoramic views of the immaculate pitch, creating a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop for both the ceremony and reception.

The opportunity to have portraits taken in the stands or by the pitch itself is something truly special, allowing us to create images that are both personal and epic in scale. The use of the giant screens to display the couple's names adds a fantastic, personalised touch that always looks great in photos. For sports fans, or for couples simply looking for a venue that is modern, spacious, and undeniably impressive, Trent Bridge offers a wedding experience and a set of photographs that are truly in a league of their own.

Wollaton Hall

Wollaton Hall is a venue that needs no introduction. This spectacular Grade I listed Elizabethan mansion, set within 500 acres of historic deer park, is one of the most magnificent wedding backdrops in the country. As photographers, we are simply spoilt for choice. The sheer grandeur of the Great Hall, with its hammer-beam ceiling and stone-screen archways, creates a ceremony setting of unparalleled drama and romance.

The formal gardens, with views across the park to the lake, provide a beautiful and elegant setting for couple portraits, while the presence of the resident deer adds a touch of natural wonder to the images. The Camellia House, a stunning Victorian glasshouse, is a beautiful, light-filled space for a drinks reception, whatever the weather. A wedding at Wollaton Hall is a truly cinematic experience, and we relish the opportunity to create images that are as epic and timeless as the venue itself.

Inkersall Grange Farm

For a wedding that embraces the beauty of the great outdoors with a cool, bohemian vibe, Inkersall Grange Farm is an exceptional choice. As Nottinghamshire's original tipi wedding venue, it offers a truly unique and relaxed setting in the heart of the countryside, overlooking Sherwood Forest. As photographers, we love the magical atmosphere created by the magnificent tipis, especially as day turns to night and they begin to glow with fairy lights and open fires.

The surrounding fields and woodland provide a stunning natural backdrop for romantic, informal portraits, and the laid-back festival feel of the venue encourages guests to relax and enjoy themselves, which is perfect for capturing authentic, candid moments. The King's Barn provides a beautiful rustic setting for the ceremony itself. Inkersall Grange Farm is the perfect canvas for a creative, personality-filled wedding, allowing us to capture images that are full of warmth, love, and laughter.

Rufford Mill

Nestled within the picturesque Rufford Abbey Country Park, Rufford Mill offers a unique and charming setting that beautifully blends industrial heritage with natural beauty. As photographers, we are captivated by the venue's location, with its stunning views across the lake and the romantic backdrop of the 12th-century abbey ruins. The former saw mill and corn mill has been transformed into a stylish and versatile venue, with the Talbot Suite providing a beautiful, light-filled space for ceremonies and receptions.

The surrounding parkland, with its ancient woodlands and formal gardens, offers a wealth of diverse settings for wedding photography, from romantic walks by the lake to dramatic portraits amongst the historic ruins. The relaxed, rural atmosphere of Rufford Mill, combined with its unique historical context, makes it a wonderful choice for couples seeking a venue with character, charm, and a connection to Nottinghamshire's rich heritage.

Woodborough Hall

Woodborough Hall is a hidden gem, a Grade II* listed country house that perfectly combines historic charm with the luxury of a boutique hotel. Dating back to the 17th century, this lovingly restored hall offers an intimate and exclusive setting for a wedding. As photographers, we are drawn to its elegant interiors and the beautiful quality of light that fills its rooms. The four versatile function rooms can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, while the two deluxe rooms and three opulent suites provide a stunning backdrop for bridal preparations.

The surrounding grounds, though more compact than a large country estate, are beautifully maintained and offer a charming setting for romantic portraits. Woodborough Hall's strength lies in its five-star service and attention to detail, ensuring a seamless and personal experience. This allows us to focus on capturing the genuine emotion and joy of the day in a setting that feels both grand and wonderfully intimate.

Colwick Hall Hotel

Colwick Hall Hotel is a magnificent Palladian-style Georgian mansion that offers a sense of grandeur and history, just a stone's throw from Nottingham city centre. Once the ancestral home of Lord Byron, this Grade II* listed building is set within 60 acres of parkland, offering a stunning and versatile setting for weddings of all sizes. As photographers, we are particularly impressed by the venue's flexibility, with a range of beautiful spaces that can accommodate everything from an intimate ceremony to a grand celebration for up to 500 guests.

The Lakeside Pavilion, with its panoramic views, is a particularly beautiful spot for a reception. The grand architecture of the hall itself, combined with the picturesque parkland and lake, provides a wealth of classic and romantic backdrops for wedding photography. Colwick Hall offers the perfect blend of city convenience and countryside grandeur, allowing us to create a truly elegant and timeless wedding album.

Belvoir Castle

For the ultimate fairytale wedding, there is nowhere in the region that can compare to the majestic splendour of Belvoir Castle. As the ancestral home of the Dukes of Rutland, this magnificent castle offers a truly regal setting for a wedding. As photographers, we are simply in awe of the sheer opulence and history that surrounds you at every turn. From the breathtaking beauty of the Elizabeth Saloon, with its French Rococo style, to the grandeur of the State Dining Room, every room is a masterpiece. Ceremonies can be held in the castle's own chapel or, for a truly romantic outdoor setting, in the stunning Rose Garden.

The panoramic views across the Vale of Belvoir from the castle's battlements provide a backdrop for portraits that is simply unparalleled. A wedding at Belvoir Castle is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we relish the challenge of creating images that do justice to the magnificent surroundings.

Newark Castle

Newark Castle offers a unique opportunity to get married amidst the dramatic and romantic ruins of a medieval fortress. While the castle is currently undergoing restoration, with weddings set to return in 2027, its historic significance and stunning location on the banks of the River Trent make it a truly special place. As photographers, we are drawn to the raw beauty and texture of the castle's ancient stone walls, which provide a powerful and atmospheric backdrop for wedding photography.

The castle grounds, with their beautiful Victorian gardens and bandstand, offer a softer, more romantic setting for portraits, creating a wonderful contrast with the ruggedness of the ruins. A wedding at Newark Castle is a chance to become part of the town's rich history, and we look forward to capturing the unique stories of couples who choose to marry in this iconic and evocative setting.

The Walled Garden at Beeston Fields

The Walled Garden at Beeston Fields is a truly enchanting discovery, a secret garden that offers a wonderfully relaxed and beautiful setting for a wedding. As photographers, we adore the sense of intimacy and seclusion that this Victorian walled garden provides. Restored to its former glory, it is filled with beautiful flowers and plants, creating a vibrant and colourful backdrop for photography throughout the seasons.

The elegant Georgian-style marquee sits perfectly on the lawn, providing a light and airy space for the reception that feels connected to the surrounding gardens. The garden itself is licensed for civil ceremonies, allowing couples to say 'I do' surrounded by the beauty of nature. The Walled Garden is a venue that is full of charm and character, perfect for couples seeking a romantic and informal celebration, and a joy for us to photograph in.

Thoresby Courtyard

Set within the historic Thoresby Park, on the edge of Sherwood Forest, Thoresby Courtyard offers a unique and picturesque setting that combines rustic charm with Victorian elegance. For us as photographers, the stunning Victorian Riding Hall is the star of the show. Its large windows flood the space with beautiful natural light, creating a wonderfully atmospheric setting for the ceremony.

The adjacent cobbled courtyard is a fantastic, characterful space for a drinks reception, offering a wealth of opportunities for capturing candid moments. The nearby Secret Garden provides a more intimate and romantic setting for couple portraits, while the wider estate, with its ancient woodlands, offers a dramatic and natural backdrop. Thoresby Courtyard is a venue that is steeped in history and surrounded by the natural beauty of Sherwood Forest, allowing us to create a wedding album that is both timeless and full of character.

Stubton Hall

Stubton Hall is a magnificent 19th-century country house that offers a grand and elegant setting for a wedding, and the fact that it's pet-friendly is a wonderful bonus for animal-loving couples. Set in 24 acres of beautiful parkland on the Nottinghamshire-Lincolnshire border, this exclusive-use venue provides a stunning backdrop for photography. The Georgian architecture of the hall is simply beautiful, and the light-filled Orangery is a particularly lovely space for ceremonies.

As photographers, we appreciate the variety of settings, from the grand reception rooms to the manicured gardens and sweeping parkland. The ability to include a beloved pet in the celebrations adds an extra layer of personal joy to the day, and we love capturing those special moments between a couple and their furry friend. Stubton Hall offers a perfect blend of grandeur, elegance, and a warm welcome for all members of the family, two-legged and four-legged alike.

Bestwood Lodge Hotel

Bestwood Lodge Hotel, a former royal hunting lodge with a rich history, offers a unique and characterful setting for a wedding. Set within 700 acres of beautiful parkland, it provides a sense of seclusion and grandeur, and its pet-friendly policy means that your four-legged companion can be part of your special day. As photographers, we are drawn to the building's distinctive architecture and the vast expanse of the surrounding parkland, which offers endless opportunities for beautiful and varied wedding photography.

The hotel offers a range of function rooms to suit different sizes of celebration, and the availability of all-inclusive packages can make planning a breeze. We enjoy capturing the unique character of this historic venue, and the addition of a cherished pet always brings an extra element of fun and personality to the wedding photos, creating memories that the couple will treasure forever.

The Nottinghamshire Golf & Country Club

For couples seeking a modern and stylish venue with the convenience of an all-inclusive package, The Nottinghamshire Golf & Country Club is an excellent choice. Set in 340 acres of rolling parkland, the venue offers stunning panoramic views across its two championship golf courses. As photographers, we appreciate the clean lines and contemporary design of the event spaces, which are flooded with natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

The beautifully landscaped grounds, with their mature trees and serene lakes, provide a picturesque and well-maintained backdrop for couple portraits. The all-inclusive packages are designed to simplify the planning process, allowing couples to relax and enjoy their engagement. The combination of modern facilities, beautiful scenery, and a dedicated events team makes The Nottinghamshire a great option for a stress-free and elegant wedding, allowing us to focus on capturing the joy and celebration of the day.

Eastwood Hall

Eastwood Hall offers a blend of historic character and modern convenience, making it a popular choice for couples looking for a comprehensive, all-inclusive wedding experience. Set within 26 acres of private grounds, this former home of the local colliery owner has been transformed into a versatile hotel and conference venue. For us as photographers, the grounds offer a variety of settings for portraits, from manicured lawns to more natural woodland areas.

The venue has a range of event spaces to accommodate weddings of different sizes, and the all-inclusive packages are designed to cover every detail, ensuring a smooth and stress-free planning process. The convenience of having on-site accommodation for guests is a major plus. While it may be a more contemporary hotel setting, the historic main house still provides a sense of character, and we can work with the couple to find the perfect spots to create beautiful and lasting memories of their special day.