Best Wedding Venues in the Lake District
The Lake District has long been one of the UK’s most romantic wedding destinations: shimmering lakes, dramatic fells and picturesque valleys in every direction. I’ve photographed weddings across the Lakes for years, so this guide comes from first-hand experience, not a brochure.
Whether you dream of exchanging vows with panoramic lake views, dancing beneath the beams of a historic barn or celebrating in a medieval castle, the Lakes have it. Where I’ve worked at a venue myself, I’ve said so, and added the little details you only know once you’ve shot there.
What are the best luxury hotel wedding venues in the Lake District?
The Lake District’s luxury hotels offer the full package: premium facilities, experienced teams and stunning natural settings.
Abbey House Hotel & Gardens, Barrow-in-Furness
Abbey House Hotel & Gardens sits in 14 acres of manicured grounds in Barrow-in-Furness, on the southern edge of the Lakes. I’ve photographed weddings here and the team genuinely look after their couples.
There are elegant function spaces and a one-wedding-a-day policy, including the Wedding Garden for outdoor ceremonies. The bedrooms mean guests can stay over too, which always makes for a better party.
The property seamlessly blends the character and charm of the original 1914 mansion with the modern comfort of The Cavendish Wing extension, creating an unforgettable experience nestled amidst the tranquil landscapes of Cumbria, just moments from the historic ruins of Furness Abbey.
Armathwaite Hall Hotel, Bassenthwaite
Armathwaite Hall is one of the most majestic venues in the Lakes: a stately country house in 400 acres of deer park and woodland on the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake. I always love a wedding here.
There are ceremony and reception spaces for all sizes, from the intimate Library to the grand Lake Room for up to 150, plus a beautiful courtyard for outdoor ceremonies.
With individually designed bedrooms, an award-winning spa and dining built around Cumbrian produce, it’s a seamless blend of lakeside grandeur and comfort.
Castle Inn Hotel, Bassenthwaite
This former coaching inn, dating back to the 1770s, sits in the shadow of Skiddaw near Bassenthwaite Lake, in seven acres of grounds with a spectacular mountain backdrop.
Licensed for civil ceremonies for up to 140 guests, the hotel provides multiple reception spaces including the elegant Castle Suite and the light-filled Tavern Restaurant.
With 45 comfortable bedrooms, leisure facilities, and various wedding packages, this venue combines authentic Cumbrian hospitality with practical wedding expertise in a dramatic mountain setting.
Daffodil Hotel and Spa, Grasmere
The Daffodil is contemporary Lake District luxury: a stylish modern hotel on the shores of Grasmere with breathtaking fell views. I’ve photographed weddings here and the setting is superb.
The Lakeside Suite takes up to 150 guests, with a private terrace overlooking the water. Add contemporary bedrooms, a luxury spa and a lakeside lawn, and it’s a cracking modern option.
Langdale Hotel and Spa, Ambleside
Set in a 35-acre Victorian estate in the Langdale Valley, surrounded by some of the Lake District’s most dramatic scenery.
The hotel accommodates weddings for up to 100 guests, with 56 luxurious rooms and suites plus additional self-catering lodges.
The award-winning Brimstone Spa offers indulgent pre- and post-wedding relaxation, while the venue’s sustainability credentials through award-winning environmental initiatives add appeal for eco-conscious couples.
Lodore Falls Hotel, Keswick
Lodore Falls commands a magnificent position at the head of Derwentwater, a grand Victorian hotel with the famous waterfall cascading behind it. One of my favourites in the whole Lakes.
There are event spaces for up to 200 guests, including the Garden Gazebo for outdoor ceremonies and the elegant Derwent Suite. My tip from experience: I know a brilliant spot with a view over Derwent Water right up to Bassenthwaite, and the portraits there are unforgettable.
With 87 bedrooms and luxury spa facilities including an outdoor hydrotherapy pool with fell views, Lodore Falls provides one of the region’s most photogenic settings where water, mountains, and sky create a memorable backdrop.
Historic Country Houses & Manors
If you want centuries of heritage around you, the Lake District’s country houses blend period elegance with modern comfort beautifully.
Briery Wood Country House Hotel, Windermere
This charming Edwardian country house sits in seven acres of secluded gardens, a stone’s throw from Lake Windermere.
The venue accommodates up to 80 guests in its elegant function rooms overlooking the landscaped gardens. With 23 individually designed bedrooms, a restaurant serving locally-sourced cuisine, and dedicated wedding coordinators, Briery Wood offers a quintessential Lake District wedding experience characterized by crackling log fires, oak-paneled interiors, and an intimate atmosphere.
Heather Glen Country House, Ainstable
This handsome sandstone manor from the 1800s sits in secluded walled gardens in the tranquil Eden Valley, just east of the National Park. Family-owned and full of character.
Multiple ceremony spaces accommodate up to 120 guests, including the elegant Garden Room with its chandeliers and garden views.
Offering exclusive use, accommodation for 22 overnight guests, and flexible catering options, Heather Glen provides a distinctive blend of historic character and personal attention at a location that offers Lake District beauty with greater accessibility and value than venues within the National Park.
Merewood Country House Hotel, Windermere
Merewood is an imposing Gothic mansion built in 1812 for the son of the 1st Earl of Lonsdale, set in 20 acres of gardens overlooking Lake Windermere. I’ve photographed weddings here and the elevated position gives it a wonderful sense of occasion.
It hosts up to 80 guests, with a conservatory-style restaurant looking out over the lake.
With 20 individually designed bedrooms and award-winning cuisine, Merewood’s secluded yet accessible location just minutes from Windermere town provides the perfect combination of convenience and tranquility in one of the Lake District’s most romantic settings.
Storrs Hall Hotel, Bowness-on-Windermere
Storrs Hall is an elegant Grade II* listed Georgian mansion from the 1790s, in 17 acres of grounds right on Windermere’s shore. I know the grounds very well, including the Temple of the Heroes down by the water, which makes a stunning ceremony and portrait spot.
The venue offers several spaces accommodating up to 120 guests, including the unique Temple of the Heroes—a lakeside folly providing a romantic outdoor ceremony setting. With 31 bedrooms in the main house plus 6 Lakeside Suites and the luxury Boathouse, Storrs Hall provides exceptional accommodation in a timeless setting that has captivated visitors for over two centuries.
The Netherwood, Grange-over-Sands
The Netherwood is a magnificent Victorian mansion from 1893, overlooking Morecambe Bay on the southern edge of the Lakes, set in 15 acres of gardens and woodland.
The elegant function rooms take up to 180 guests, and the Garden Room opens straight onto the terrace. One thing I love here: the sands are just opposite, and I’ve explored them with couples many times for portraits. Gorgeous at low tide.
The Villa, Levens, Kendal
Dating from the 17th century with Georgian and Victorian additions, The Villa blends historic character with contemporary boutique styling on the southern edge of the Lakes.
The light-filled Pavilion with its glass walls and private garden accommodates weddings of up to 150 guests, while 22 individually styled bedrooms provide elegant accommodation.
The Villa’s perfect balance of heritage and modernity, award-winning cuisine, and accessible location offers sophisticated elegance without pretension for couples seeking contemporary style informed by historic character.
Castles & Historic Buildings
If you want drama, the Lake District’s castles and historic buildings provide a naturally theatrical setting.
Abbey House, Barrow-in-Furness
Abbey House offers a distinctive Victorian setting, combining period grandeur with contemporary elegance: ornate architecture, high ceilings and beautifully kept gardens.
Set within beautifully landscaped gardens, the venue accommodates up to 100 guests with smaller spaces available for intimate celebrations.
Abbey House balances historical character with modern amenities through flexible options that allow couples to customize their day with preferred suppliers or take advantage of comprehensive wedding packages.
Augill Castle, Kirkby Stephen
Augill Castle is a whimsical Victorian Gothic castle from 1841, set in 20 acres between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. One of the most distinctive venues in the region.
It hosts up to 30 for ceremonies in the Music Room or Library, with larger celebrations in marquees, plus individually designed bedrooms and award-winning food.
Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass
Muncaster Castle is the real thing: a medieval fortress with documented history back to 1208, still owned by the same family after 800 years. I’ve photographed weddings here and it’s something special.
Ceremonies take place in the medieval Great Hall for up to 80 guests, with receptions for up to 200.
The combination of authentic castle, world-famous gardens and views towards Scafell is hard to beat. When couples are up for it, I’ve headed to Wastwater afterwards for portraits on a rock looking up to Great Gable. Worth the trip.
Lakeside & Waterfront Venues
For the quintessential Lake District wedding, get beside the water. These venues put the lakes front and centre.
Cragwood Hotel, Windermere
Cragwood is an impressive Edwardian mansion from 1910, standing in 20 acres of gardens that run right down to Windermere’s shore. I’ve photographed weddings here and it has a wonderful secluded feel.
With individually designed bedrooms, award-winning food and exclusive-use options, it’s a quintessential English country house experience.
The private jetty and 450 feet of lake frontage give you unrivalled access to the water, and the photos to prove it.
Fallbarrow Hall, Bowness-on-Windermere
Fallbarrow Hall is a Victorian Gothic mansion from 1889 on Windermere’s eastern shore, a Grade II listed building with plenty of original character.
Accommodating up to 110 guests for ceremonies and receptions, Fallbarrow offers both indoor and outdoor options including lakeside settings.
What makes it particularly appealing is the range of on-site accommodation available for guests, from luxury lodges to woodland cabins, allowing celebrations to extend across a full weekend in one of Windermere’s best locations.
Inn on the Lake, Glenridding
The Inn on the Lake occupies a privileged position on Ullswater’s shore, with 15 acres of grounds, lawns sweeping to the water and Helvellyn behind. Spectacular.
There are ceremony and reception spaces for up to 150, including a gazebo at the water’s edge and an Orangery with panoramic lake views.
With 47 stylish bedrooms and the hotel’s own jetty allowing incorporation of Ullswater’s historic steamers into the celebration, Inn on the Lake offers one of the region’s most spectacular settings for couples seeking a dramatic mountain-and-lake backdrop.
Lakeside Hotel & Spa, Newby Bridge
The Lakeside Hotel sits right on Windermere’s shore at its southernmost tip, a former 17th-century coaching inn turned elegant four-star hotel.
Several function spaces accommodate weddings of up to 80 guests, including the Windermere Suite with floor-to-ceiling lake views. With 75 bedrooms and award-winning spa facilities, Lakeside offers luxurious amenities in a unique location where lake meets river.
The venue offers the distinctive opportunity to incorporate Windermere’s historic steamers and the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway into wedding celebrations, providing unique transportation options and photography opportunities for couples who appreciate the region’s transportation heritage.
Low Wood Bay, Windermere
Dating back to 1825, Low Wood Bay was the first hotel built on Windermere’s shores, and after extensive renovation it now mixes that heritage with contemporary style. I know it well.
There are wedding spaces for up to 280 guests, including the Windermere Suite with its wall of glass and an outdoor Lakeview Gazebo. My favourite detail: I know exactly where the sun sets for the perfect night shot on the jetty.
Its capacity for bigger celebrations makes it unusual among Lakeland venues: ideal if you have a long guest list but still want that prime lakeside setting.
Rustic & Countryside Venues
For authentic Lakeland character, these rustic venues lean into the region’s farming heritage: relaxed, characterful and full of charm.
Rookin House, Troutbeck
Rookin House is a traditional 18th-century Lakeland farm in 200 acres near Ullswater, mixing agricultural heritage with contemporary facilities.
The Oak Barn accommodates up to 150 guests, with exclusive use of the surrounding courtyard and gardens. Rookin House’s unique activity center offering horseback riding, quad biking, and archery provides entertainment options for wedding weekends.
On-site cottages and glamping pods sleep up to 40 guests, creating a relaxed, activity-filled wedding experience reflecting the Lake District’s outdoor spirit and perfect for couples seeking a venue that offers more than just a beautiful backdrop.
The Wild Boar Inn, Crook
Named after a local legend, this historic 19th-century coaching inn sits in 72 acres of private woodland near Windermere, full of traditional Lakeland character.
It hosts intimate weddings of up to 80, with atmospheric spaces and a restaurant built around wood-fired cooking.
The unique touches, an on-site microbrewery, woodland activities like archery and axe-throwing, and characterful bedrooms, make it a properly memorable place for a wedding.
Yew Tree Farm, Coniston
Yew Tree Farm is a picturesque 17th-century farmhouse once owned by Beatrix Potter, in the beautiful Yewdale Valley. You might recognise it from the film Miss Potter.
Accommodating intimate weddings for up to 50 guests, Yew Tree Farm provides luxury accommodation for 10 in the farmhouse itself.
Its authentic connection to both Lakeland farming heritage and literary history—the property remains a working farm with Herdwick sheep, with many original items from Potter’s collection displayed throughout—creates a genuinely historic venue with literary connections and breathtaking views of Coniston Old Man mountain.
Exclusive-Use Estate Venues
Exclusive-use estates give you the extraordinary privilege of an entire historic property to yourselves: total privacy and total flexibility.
Askham Hall, Askham
Askham Hall is a magnificent Grade I listed country house dating to the 13th century, once home to the Earls of Lonsdale. I always get excited when a couple books it.
The 18-acre grounds include the Grade II listed Bank Barn, terraced gardens and the impressive Knot Garden. From a photographer’s view, it’s unbeatable: going across the main lawn at sunset makes for amazingly atmospheric images.
The award-winning restaurant builds menus around produce from the hall’s own gardens and the nearby Lowther Estate: a true farm-to-table experience.
Melmerby Hall, Melmerby
Melmerby Hall is a Grade II listed manor house from the 1600s, offering exclusive use of a historic family home in 20 acres of gardens, parkland and woodland in the Eden Valley.
Accommodating up to 50 guests indoors and 200 in marquees, with multiple ceremony locations including a beautiful walled garden, Melmerby Hall offers luxury accommodation for up to 45 guests across the estate.
Its self-catering exclusive-use approach provides exceptional flexibility for multi-day celebrations, with no corkage charges and freedom to choose preferred suppliers creating the relaxed atmosphere of a private country house party where couples truly become lord and lady of the manor for the duration of their stay.
Boutique & Intimate Wedding Venues
Quality over quantity: these boutique venues specialise in intimate celebrations with real attention to detail.
Gilpin Lake House, Windermere
Gilpin Lake House is an exclusive sanctuary in 100 acres of private grounds, beside its own private lake with wildflower meadows and ancient woodland.
Available for exclusive use only, Gilpin accommodates intimate weddings of up to 30 guests, with six sumptuous suites for 12 overnight guests.
What truly distinguishes this venue is its unparalleled luxury—spa facilities including indoor pool and boat house spa, private chefs creating bespoke menus, and meticulous attention to even the smallest details for couples seeking absolute privacy in refined elegance where quality far outweighs quantity.
The Forest Side, Grasmere
The Forest Side is a magnificent Victorian Gothic mansion from 1853, in 43 acres of gardens on the edge of Grasmere. I’ve photographed weddings here and the setting is glorious.
It hosts intimate weddings of up to 50, and it’s distinguished by exceptional Michelin-starred cuisine built around produce from the hotel’s own kitchen garden.
With 20 sumptuous bedrooms and exclusive use options, this venue offers a combination of historic architecture, contemporary luxury, and world-class dining in one of the Lake District’s most poetic settings, where Wordsworth once wandered among the daffodils.
Broadoaks Country House, Windermere
Broadoaks is an elegant Victorian country house from 1836: exclusive use, Grade II listed, in seven acres above the Windermere valley. One of my favourite smaller venues.
It’s licensed for ceremonies in several spots, including the Garden Gazebo, Music Room and Orangery, hosting everything from intimate gatherings to 130 guests. My tip: I know a local jetty on Lake Windermere, about 5 minutes away, that’s perfect for portraits.
With 20 individually designed bedrooms including four-poster suites, award-winning dining, and comprehensive wedding packages, Broadoaks appeals to couples seeking sophisticated yet relaxed celebrations in exclusive surroundings with the security of knowing the entire property is theirs alone for the duration of their celebration.
Lindeth Howe, Bowness-on-Windermere
Lindeth Howe is an enchanting country house from 1879 in six acres of tranquil gardens overlooking Windermere, once the cherished retreat of Beatrix Potter. I’ve photographed weddings here and it’s as romantic as it sounds.
It hosts intimate weddings of up to 120, and it was named Cumbria Tourism Wedding Venue of the Year 2023. Like Broadoaks, there’s a lovely jetty nearby for portraits.
With 34 sumptuous bedrooms including The Potter Room where Beatrix herself once stayed and The Westmorland Suite commanding panoramic views, this venue offers a combination of rich literary history, timeless architecture, and exceptional hospitality in one of the Lake District’s most romantic settings, where England’s most treasured storyteller once found inspiration among the fells and gardens.
Budget-Friendly Venues
You don’t need a huge budget to marry in this landscape. These venues offer authentic character at accessible prices.
The Borrowdale Institute, Borrowdale
The Borrowdale Institute is a charming stone-built hall from 1840, a characterful and affordable alternative to the hotels. I’ve photographed a wedding here and the setting, right in the heart of Borrowdale, is stunning.
It takes up to 150 guests, and the simple interior is a blank canvas you can make completely your own. The reasonable hire fee frees up budget for everything else.
Located in one of the Lake District’s most beautiful valleys surrounded by majestic mountains, the venue combines heritage charm, spectacular location, and exceptional value with hire rates significantly lower than commercial venues, offering authentic Lakeland character for couples with practical budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to get married in the Lake District?
Each season has its own charm here. Summer gives you the best chance of good weather and long evenings, but it’s the busiest time. Spring and autumn are my personal favourites for colour and light, and winter weddings by a fire are magical.
How far in advance should we book a Lake District wedding venue?
For peak season and weekend dates, book 12 to 18 months ahead for popular venues. Midweek and off-peak dates give you much more flexibility.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
Lake District venues are well prepared for the famously changeable weather, with beautiful indoor spaces as backup. And honestly, some of my favourite photographs have been taken in the rain: embrace it.
How do we arrange a legal ceremony in the Lake District?
You have two main options: a civil ceremony conducted by a Cumbria Registration Service registrar at a licensed venue, or a religious ceremony in a church or place of worship. Many venues also host celebrant-led ceremonies, which give you more freedom.
Are Lake District venues accessible for guests with mobility issues?
Accessibility varies a lot between venues. Historic properties can have limitations due to listed status, while modern hotels usually offer better access. Always ask directly.
What accommodation options are available for wedding guests?
The Lakes offer accommodation for every budget, from luxury hotels to cottages, B&Bs and glamping. Many venues offer preferential rates for wedding guests, so ask.
How much does a Lake District wedding typically cost?
Costs vary enormously depending on venue, guest numbers, season and day of the week. As a rough guide, premium venues in peak season can run from several thousand upwards for hire alone, while village halls and smaller venues cost far less.
Can we bring our own caterers to Lake District venues?
Most hotels and many country houses require in-house catering, while dry-hire venues like community halls, barns and some exclusive-use properties let you bring in your own.
Is it possible to have outdoor ceremonies in the Lake District?
Legal ceremonies must take place in a licensed permanent structure, but many Lake District venues have licensed outdoor structures like gazebos, so you can still marry with the lake behind you.
What’s the best way to help guests navigate to remote Lake District locations?
Give guests detailed directions and travel info: a wedding website works well. GPS can be unreliable in some valleys, so landmark-based directions help.
Are there any restrictions on photography at Lake District venues?
Most venues have no photography restrictions in their grounds, though some historic properties limit flash indoors. I always check with venues in advance so nothing is a surprise on the day.
Can we have fireworks or sky lanterns at our Lake District wedding?
Many venues restrict fireworks because of livestock, wildlife and fire risk, and sky lanterns are generally a no across the region. Sparklers are usually fine, and they photograph beautifully.
Wrapping Up
The Lake District’s remarkable variety of wedding venues reflects the character of the region itself. When you choose, think beyond the practical stuff: the best venue is the one that feels right.
Many venues book up well in advance, especially for summer weekends, so start early. Most offer viewings, and nothing beats standing in a place and imagining your day there.
Whatever venue you choose, a Lake District wedding gives you one of Britain’s most beautiful landscapes as your backdrop. And if you’d like a photographer who knows these venues inside out, I’d love to hear about your plans.
