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8 Wedding Venues I Love to Photograph: The Ultimate Guide for Couples!

Writer's picture: chloe jessupchloe jessup
Jan 295 min read

As a wedding photographer, I’m fortunate to work in some of the most stunning and unique venues across the UK.


Every wedding venue has its own charm, offering couples a variety of backdrops that perfectly complement their love story.


Whether it’s the grandeur of historic architecture or the beauty of nature, each venue provides its own opportunities for creating unforgettable wedding photos.


Below are my 8 favourite wedding venues to photograph, with detailed reasons why they stand out and what makes them ideal for capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments.


1. Pelham House, Lewes


Pelham House, a stunning Georgian manor in the heart of Lewes, East Sussex, combines timeless elegance with modern comfort. Its history and exquisite architecture offer a refined and classic atmosphere, perfect for capturing sophisticated moments. The venue’s beautifully landscaped gardens and charming indoor spaces provide a variety of settings for photos, from romantic portraits to lively group shots.


Why couples should choose Pelham House: The perfect blend of luxury and history, Pelham

House offers a romantic setting for couples who want a stylish yet intimate celebration.


Photography tips:

  • The stone staircase inside the house is a great place for dramatic bridal portraits.

  • The walled garden offers a private, serene atmosphere for candid moments.

  • The views across Lewes and the South Downs make for breathtaking landscape shots.





2. The Secret Garden, Kent


This charming and picturesque venue in Kent offers an intimate and private setting for your wedding. With its stunning gardens, including manicured lawns, wildflower meadows, and a tranquil pond, it’s a photographer’s dream. The Secret Garden allows couples to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the elegance of a luxurious barn setting.


Why couples should choose The Secret Garden: Couples who love nature will fall in love with the Secret Garden’s enchanting atmosphere. The perfect combination of rustic elegance and botanical beauty creates an unforgettable experience.


Photography tips:

  • The walled garden with its floral displays is a fantastic place for romantic couple portraits.

  • The rustic barn and courtyard add a warm, vintage vibe to wedding photos.

  • The golden hour light filtering through the trees and gardens is magical for intimate shots.


3. Cissbury Barns, Worthing


Set amidst the rolling hills of the South Downs, Cissbury Barns is a beautiful rustic venue that combines charm with contemporary design. The venue features an array of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a stunning barn and gorgeous countryside views. Its versatility makes it a great option for couples looking for a unique and rustic wedding day.


Why couples should choose Cissbury Barns: Cissbury Barns is perfect for couples who want a rustic wedding with modern touches. The breathtaking views of the South Downs and the charming barn setting create a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere.


Photography tips:

  • The barns themselves offer a mix of rustic elegance, perfect for both indoor and outdoor portraits.

  • The surrounding countryside provides a tranquil backdrop for wide-angle landscape shots.

  • Couples can take advantage of the golden fields during sunset for a truly magical, cinematic shot.




4. Silchester Farm, Reading


This beautiful family-run farm in Reading combines the charm of a traditional barn with stunning rural views. With the farm’s rustic barns, wildflower fields, and even farm animals, Silchester Farm offers a relaxed and natural setting for a wedding day. The simplicity of the surroundings provides an elegant backdrop that lets the couple’s love shine through.


Why couples should choose Silchester Farm: For couples looking for a relaxed, countryside vibe, Silchester Farm offers a unique experience. The tranquil surroundings and rustic charm make it the ideal location for a laid-back celebration.


Photography tips:

  • Capture candid moments near the barns, as the natural light creates soft and warm tones.

  • The wildflower fields are perfect for romantic, carefree couple portraits.

  • Farm animals and country views add a whimsical touch to wedding photos.




5. Royal Pavilion, Brighton


For a wedding venue with historic significance and striking beauty, the Royal Pavilion in Brighton is truly unique. Its exotic, Indo-Saracenic architecture makes a bold statement, offering dramatic photo opportunities both inside and out. The Pavilion’s interior is rich in history and opulence, providing a grand setting for wedding portraits.


Why couples should choose the Royal Pavilion: Couples looking for a dramatic and historically rich wedding will find the Royal Pavilion to be a one-of-a-kind venue that exudes opulence.


Photography tips:

  • The Pavilion’s exterior, with its domes and minarets, makes for dramatic wide-angle shots.

  • Inside, the ornate rooms with their rich colors and textures offer breathtaking settings for portraits.

  • The gardens provide a more relaxed backdrop for photos during golden hour.




6. Highley Manor, West Sussex


Nestled in the heart of the West Sussex countryside, Highley Manor is a charming Victorian manor house with stunning gardens. The venue offers both rustic and refined aesthetics, making it ideal for couples looking for a wedding venue with a mix of elegance and natural beauty.


Why couples should choose Highley Manor: Couples who appreciate the elegance of historic estates and love the idea of celebrating in a secluded countryside setting will find Highley Manor to be perfect.


Photography tips:

  • The tranquil lake and surrounding gardens provide a serene and picturesque setting for couple shots.

  • The grand staircase inside the manor is perfect for formal portraits.

  • The venue’s expansive grounds are ideal for sweeping shots of the couple surrounded by nature.




7. Pennyhill Park, Surrey


Pennyhill Park is a luxurious venue with a combination of stately elegance and natural beauty. The stunning country house, manicured gardens, and extensive grounds provide a variety of settings for wedding photos, from indoor luxury to outdoor serenity.


Why couples should choose Pennyhill Park: For couples seeking a luxurious wedding experience, Pennyhill Park offers a blend of opulence and natural beauty that guarantees an unforgettable day.


Photography tips:

  • The Victorian-style walled garden offers a beautiful backdrop for intimate couple portraits.

  • The sprawling grounds with elegant landscaping allow for wide-angle photos with a dramatic feel.

  • The iconic stone staircase inside the venue makes for timeless and elegant bridal portraits.





8. Pangdean Old Barn, Brighton


Pangdean Old Barn is a charming, rustic venue that offers a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. Located in the heart of the countryside, this barn offers the perfect mix of rustic charm and sophistication, making it ideal for couples who want an authentic yet upscale celebration.


Why couples should choose Pangdean Old Barn: Pangdean Old Barn is perfect for couples who want a countryside wedding with a relaxed, yet upscale vibe. The rustic charm, combined with contemporary touches, creates a memorable experience.


Photography tips:

  • The barn’s wooden beams and stone floors make for stunning rustic wedding shots.

  • The surrounding fields and nature reserve provide a peaceful backdrop for romantic couple portraits.

  • Take advantage of the barn’s warm and cozy atmosphere for intimate moments.




Conclusion

Each of these 8 wedding venues is uniquely special in its own right, offering a wide variety of settings for couples to explore. Whether you’re looking for rustic charm, grand elegance, or an unforgettable natural backdrop, these venues provide the perfect canvas for capturing the most beautiful moments of your wedding day. If you're planning your wedding, explore these options and find the venue that perfectly reflects your style and vision for your big day! Happy planning!

 
 

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