As a country, the UK is well known for it's historical buildings, and none of these is more magical than a castle. For those hoping for the ultimate fairytale wedding day, then a castle wedding venue is the ideal place to say 'I do'. From impressive feasting halls to tall stone towers and Gothic architecture, having a castle wedding is the perfect way to feel like royalty on your wedding day.
A castle wedding venue is just the thing for you if:
- You would like a fairytale wedding
- You're a big fan of history
- You don’t want to do a huge amount of decorating
- You would like some spectacular photo opportunities
- You're flexible with your ceremony times
Castle Wedding Venues FAQ in Derbyshire
Can I have a civil ceremony at a castle wedding venue?
Most castle wedding venues in Derbyshire will have a civil ceremony license, allowing you to have a legally binding marriage in one of their rooms or in the grounds. If you want to marry in the castle grounds, be sure to check that the venue has an outdoor ceremony license too. If your chosen castle venue aren't able to hold civil wedding ceremonies, then you can always enquire about having your wedding ceremony at the nearest registry office or having a humanist ceremony, before hosting your wedding reception at the castle.
Can I have a religious ceremony at a castle wedding venue in Derbyshire?
Often, castles have their own chapel or church on site, which is where its inhabitants would have religious services. This means that you may be able to have a religious wedding ceremony without leaving the castle grounds! If you are unable to find the right castle wedding venue with a chapel or church on site, then do have a look as there may be some near by. It's important to check with your chosen castle venues to find out whether having a religious ceremony on site is possible.
Are there castle wedding venues in Derbyshire that are wheelchair friendly?
If you need a wheelchair friendly wedding venue, then you may be amazed to know how accessible castle venues can be. Most castles will be a tourist attraction in their local area and is therefore important that wheelchair users can be accommodated. However, there may be steep towers or areas where this isn’t possible. Be sure to ask your venues ahead of time if accessibility is top of your priorities list.
How much do castle wedding venues cost to hire?
You'll be pleased to know that castle wedding venues in Derbyshire are certainly affordable. Even huge palaces and historical monuments don’t always need an extravagant wedding budget, so it’s always worth enquiring. For those on a strict budget and need to save money on your castle wedding, then opting for a midweek package or marrying in an off-peak season is a brilliant way to cut costs.
Do castle wedding venues in Derbyshire have limitations on decorating?
If you're hoping not to do too much decorating at your wedding venue then a castle in Derbyshire is perfect. After all, they’re often sumptuously decorated in the first place. With their hanging tapestries, stunning artwork and beautiful candelabra, a castle's decor is truly unique. However, as they’re often listed buildings, there may be restrictions as to how you can decorate. It may not be possible to hang certain decorations, with many castle's not permitting paper confetti.
What themes work for a castle wedding venue in Derbyshire?
A classic fairytale wedding theme would be the ideal fit for a castle venue. Think horse-drawn carriages, ball gown wedding dresses, roses and sparkling chandeliers and you have the perfect castle wedding theme.
If you’re a history lover, then a medieval wedding theme is also perfect for a castle. Castles in Derbyshire often have recommended entertainers such a falconers and dancers that are ideal for this, and your wedding guests will love a delicious medieval banquet.
We also find that Christmas is the perfect time to have a castle wedding, as castles are often richly decorated for Christmas with candles, trees and traditional touches. Take advantage and have a beautiful winter wedding in a castle!