As a country, the UK is well known for it's historical buildings, and none of these is more spectacular than a castle. If you want a unique fairytale wedding, then a castle wedding venue is the ideal place to say 'I do'. From tall stone turrets to Gothic architecture and banqueting halls, having a castle wedding is the perfect way to feel like royalty for your big day.
Castle wedding venues are perfect for you if:
- You want a fairytale wedding
- You're a big fan of history
- You don’t want to do a huge amount of decorating
- You want some incredible photo opportunities
- You're flexible with your ceremony times
Frequently Asked Questions - Castle Wedding Venues in South Wales
Is it possible to have our civil ceremony in a castle wedding venue?
Most castle wedding venues in South Wales 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, then contact the venue to check they hold a license for outdoor ceremonies. If your chosen castle venue aren't able to hold civil wedding ceremonies, then you can always enquire about holding your civil wedding ceremony at a registry office nearby or having a humanist ceremony, before having an unforgettable wedding reception at the castle.
Can I have a religious ceremony at a castle wedding venue in South Wales?
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 your castle wedding venue doesn't have a chapel or church, then you may be able to find one near by. Be sure to ask your chosen venues when enquiring about religious ceremonies to find out if this is a possibility.
Are there castle wedding venues in South Wales that are wheelchair friendly?
If you need a wheelchair friendly castle 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.
What are the costs involved in hiring a castle wedding venue?
Castle wedding venues in South Wales can be surprisingly affordable. Even huge palaces and historical monuments don’t always need a royal 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.
Will there be limitations on decorating a castle wedding venue in South Wales?
Couples who don't want to do much decorating at their wedding venue will find that a castle in South Wales is the perfect option. 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. You may not be able to hang decorations or bunting, and many castles will not allow paper confetti.
What themes work for a castle wedding venue in South Wales?
A classic fairytale wedding theme is perfect for a castle venue. Think horse-drawn carriages, ball gown wedding dresses, glistening chandeliers and red roses 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 South Wales often have recommended entertainers such a falconers and dancers that are ideal for this, and your guests will certainly enjoy a tasty medieval feast.
We also find that Christmas is an ideal time of year for your 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!