Shireburn Arms
Wedding Photographer

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I’m Andy Wade, a documentary wedding photographer based in Lancashire. I’ve photographed over 10 weddings at the Shireburn Arms and I’m one of their recommended suppliers. It’s a 17th-century inn in the Ribble Valley with a few tricks up its sleeve, and after this many weddings here I know where all of them are. There’s a tucked-away spot in the grounds for portraits, and Cromwell’s Bridge just nearby for couples who fancy a short wander.

My approach is all about storytelling in a relaxed documentary style, focusing on the real emotions, and creative yet natural portraits. The weddings you see across Andy Wade Photography are all real days I’ve documented, so what you see here is exactly how I’d photograph yours.

If you’re getting married at the Shireburn Arms, this page is my photographer’s view of the place: the garden views, the confetti shot that always works, and how I photograph the day without taking you away from it. I usually ask for about 20 minutes for portraits: long enough to get the good stuff, short enough you’re not back late to your own party.

Wedding Photography at Shireburn Arms

Shireburn Arms Weddings

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

What the Shireburn Arms is like as a wedding venue

Inside the Shireburn Arms

The Shireburn Arms sits in Hurst Green, in the heart of the Ribble Valley, and it wears its 400 years well. It's a proper old coaching inn rather than a purpose-built wedding factory, with the beams, stone walls and fireplaces to prove it, but the function spaces are thoroughly modern.

The hotel is licensed for ceremonies, so the whole day can happen in one place, and with comfortable bedrooms for your guests, it's the definition of a relaxed Ribble Valley wedding. The James' Places team run it with their usual warmth.

Hurst Green's old coaching inn

Standing in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Shireburn Arms has a fabulous natural backdrop: the Ribble Valley rolling away, with Pendle Hill on the horizon. For portraits, Hurst Green's historic village and the valley views are lovely in every season.

The day flows with coaching-inn charm: ceremony in the hotel, drinks with the valley view, portraits around the village, then dinner and dancing as the fire crackles.

The gardens at the back have an amazing view, and there is a little tucked-away space I use for photos away from your guests. For adventurous couples, Cromwell’s Bridge nearby is a special spot I know well. The back doors of the game room work brilliantly for a confetti shot, and group shots can be taken from the balcony. I am a recommended supplier for The Shireburn Arms.

A sunny outdoor gathering at the Shireburn Arms in Lancashire features people sitting around tables, chatting and enjoying drinks in a garden. A woman in a lilac dress walks towards the group near a blossoming cherry blossom tree, while a black dog roams the grassy area. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A group of people standing in a room with chairs and a window, enjoying a gathering at the Shireburn Arms in Lancashire. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • Black and white image of an empty wedding aisle decorated with lanterns and flower petals at the Shireburn Arms in Lancashire. Cross-back wooden chairs line both sides of the aisle. A person is walking away from the camera at the end of the aisle. The floor is wooden. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
Two small black dogs play on a grass lawn in front of a stone building with large windows at the Shireburn Arms in Lancashire. A person in beige pants and brown shoes stands to the left, partially visible. Wicker chairs and tables are arranged on a patio area in the background. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • Black and white image of an empty wedding aisle decorated with lanterns and flower petals at the Shireburn Arms in Lancashire. Cross-back wooden chairs line both sides of the aisle. A person is walking away from the camera at the end of the aisle. The floor is wooden. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A picturesque landscape view at the Shireburn Arms in Lancashire, framed by blooming pink cherry blossoms in the foreground, with vibrant red bushes below. The background displays lush green fields and distant rolling hills under a clear, blue sky. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

The History of Shireburn Arms

Named for the Shireburns

The Shireburn Arms has welcomed travellers for more than 300 years, and parts of the building date back to the 17th century. It takes its name from the Shireburns, the old landowning family of this corner of the Ribble Valley, whose seat at Stonyhurst shaped the area's history.

Stonyhurst College, where Arthur Conan Doyle was educated and where Tolkien walked while writing, is just up the road, and the whole of Hurst Green is steeped in that history.

Tolkien and Conan Doyle country

Now part of the James' Places group, the Shireburn Arms is one of the Ribble Valley's most loved wedding venues: historic, relaxed and beautifully run, in one of Lancashire's most storied villages.

How To Get To Shireburn Arms

The Shireburn Arms is on Whalley Road in Hurst Green, near Clitheroe, postcode BB7 9QJ. From Clitheroe, follow the B6246 and B6243 towards Hurst Green; from the M6, junction 31 via the A59 to Clitheroe is the natural route.

Clitheroe station, with services from Manchester via Blackburn, is about 10 minutes away by taxi, and there's parking at the hotel.

My Style of Photography

I’m known for my documentary approach in wedding photography, capturing authentic, natural, and heartfelt moments. I aim to narrate each couple’s unique story through genuine, candid captures that resonate with real emotion. Having received numerous awards both in the UK and globally, my commitment and expertise in my field are well recognised. Offering my services throughout the UK and overseas, I cater to couples looking for a photographer who can document their day as it unfolds, ensuring a true representation of their special moments.

Why book Andy Wade Photography?

You’ve found your venue, and now you want the day photographed as it actually happens, not staged around the camera. My style is natural and documentary: genuine moments, real emotion, and the laughter, tears and everything in between, documented quietly while you get on with enjoying it.

I’ve photographed over 10 weddings at the Shireburn Arms and I’m a recommended supplier there. I know the rooms, the light, and the corners of the gardens that make the best photographs, and I know the team well enough that nothing on the day surprises any of us.

My approach is documentary: the real story of the day as it unfolds, with around 20 minutes of relaxed portraits when the light is kind. If you’re planning a Shireburn Arms wedding, tell me about it. You can see real Shireburn Arms weddings in my galleries from Cora & Shaun and Grace & Joe.

MORE ABOUT ME
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What my couples say

LOVELY WORDS FROM LOVELY PEOPLE

I am super grateful for the amazing reviews my previous Lancashire couples have left on my Google and Facebook profiles.

My Features & Awards

I’m an internationally recognised photographer, and I measure and challenge myself against the best in the world.

  • A badge with a black background shaped like a stylized "R." It reads "TOP 10 Photographers UK 2022" in white and silver text. Perfect for a wedding photographer, the bottom of the badge features the "This is Reportage" logo in white. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A black and white badge with the text "2022 TOP 30 PHOTOGRAPHERS IN THE WORLD" in bold white letters. Shaped like a stylized 'R,' the badge features "This is Reportage" at the bottom in smaller letters, celebrating excellence in Documentary Wedding Photography. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • Text in the image reads "Top 2 Wedding Photographer UK & IE 2023 - MASTERS of Wedding Photography" in black and gold text on a white background. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • Green text inside a rectangular frame reads "Fearless Award" with the words divided across three lines. A small, stylized ampersand connects the second and third lines. The frame and text are drawn in a simple, clean style. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A circular logo with a red center featuring a stylized white "M" and the text "MASTERS OF WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY" encircling the red center against a white background, followed by the words "AWARD WINNER" at the bottom. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • WPS Inspirational Wedding Photographers logo. The text features 'WPS' in bold black letters, with the 'S' in red, followed by 'INSPIRATIONAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS' in black. Below, it reads 'ABOUT ME: WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY SELECT' in smaller black font. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A logo featuring the text "ISPWP - International Society of Professional Wedding Photographers" on the left, and a mosaic pattern with the word "MEMBER" on the right, perfect for your About Me page. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A circular badge with a dotted border reads "Fearless Photographers." Inside, the text says "2023 World Top 50" with "Andy Wade" and "UK" beneath. Learn more about me and my journey in capturing moments that matter. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • Regional Wedding Industry Awards logos
  • Top 10 Keeping It Real 2025 Awards badge
  • 2026 Wedding Industry Awards Regional Winner Logo
MY AWARDS

From the blog

My Lancashire Wedding posts

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Your questions, answered

ABOUT ANDY WADE PHOTOGRAPHY

No. 90% of any day I shoot is completely candid. I can photograph all day without a single ‘posed’ photo. The portraits of you both, if you’d like some, are kept simple and as natural as possible; nothing cheesy and nothing awkward. Usually the portraits of you are created during a relaxing wander together for 20 minutes or so with me capturing shots as we go along – so not really posing. We may stop in a certain spot but most of that time you’ll forget I’m there and the portraits will feel and look perfectly natural. Just think of this as a bit of ‘you time’! There is the option to create a specific photo with flashes which I set up – but only if you want that. Even if I do it will be set up before we do it so that you can spend the maximum time with your guests. Otherwise I’ll just photograph the day as it happens.

Firstly I have to be available on your day but after that just say “Let’s do It!”. Just fill out the email form on my contact page or just send me a text, a message on Instagram or just give me a call. A small deposit then secures the day. That deposit is refundable up to one month after the agreement to go ahead. In the meantime, I will send you some paperwork and that will include a contract which has the terms and conditions, which we both sign when you’re 100% happy. You’ll also receive a summary of what is in your package.

Your photos will be delivered in a beautiful gallery that will work on any device. You can control the sharing of your photos from your gallery for family and friends or to social media. You can download your photos in full, high resolution or in a smaller version should you wish to share them. There are no watermarks on your photos and are free for your personal use. There is also the option to buy prints and wall art and you can create and order albums from the ‘Shop’ area of your gallery. If you have a slideshow made then it can be viewed from your gallery as well.

For a 9 hour wedding you get an edit of about 500+ photos. If it is a 12 hour day then around 700+. I work on your photos intensely after the wedding, lovingly crafting them so that they are perfectly colour balanced with a bright, fresh look. There’s probably a ratio of a third black and white and two thirds colour.

After more than 10 weddings there, I’ve got a confetti shot that always works, and I know exactly where to place everyone for it. It’s one of the little tricks up the venue’s sleeve that I’ve learned over the years.

Yes. I think it’s good to meet as you can ask all the questions you need to. I’ll be around you for almost all of your wedding day so meeting up before the day is a great way of getting to know each other. I’m a nice chap and very comfortable with people I’ve just met, so it’s not a problem if we don’t. A video call is a really good way of talking things through if we can’t arrange a meeting.

Yes. Most people like a few photos of mum, dad and their close family as well as the bridesmaids and groomsmen. I get that it is important and can be good fun, too. It takes about 10 minutes to organise a photo of everyone, for example, and then about 2-3 minutes for each one after that providing everyone is available. You decide what those photos are if you want them – I don’t have a ‘list’ of my own. If there is 1.5 – 2 hours between your ceremony and wedding breakfast then I’d suggest to have something like 20 mins with you portraits and then 20 mins of group photos dotted about, so between 6-10 group shots max. This way you spend more time just being with your guests, which I will capture naturally. I hear many stories of people who have been to weddings and were really bored and made to stand around for hours while the photographer goes through a repertoire of their own group photos. That’s not me!

Yes. There is an amazing choice of albums and wall art that will be available from your gallery and that I can send you information on. There is so much choice that I do not put albums in my packages unless on specific request. I do have three album packages that broadly cover the options so if you would like to include one I would be happy to chat and look at putting an album in your package.

Yes, but you can have another photographer if you wish – called a ‘2nd shooter’. If, for instance, you’d like the groomsmen preparation photos covered fully as well and they are over 15 mins away, I can employ a second photographer to cover that for £350/day and they will stay until the speeches – so about 6 hours. A second photographer is great to cover a specific span of time but does not necessarily mean a ‘better’ set of photos. I can be in and amongst a whole wedding party quite easily and capture the essence of the day without a 2nd shooter but it does enable us to do more portraits together – if that is what you’d like – and we can have more angles covered in the ceremony. If you would like a 2nd shooter then we’d book them about 3 months before the day. They are always 1st class, professional photographers like me and shoot in my style.

Standing in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the venue looks out over the Ribble Valley with Pendle Hill on the horizon. For portraits, Hurst Green’s historic village and those valley views are lovely in every season.

Yes, I’m one of their recommended suppliers, having photographed over 10 weddings there. That familiarity means I know how to photograph the day there without ever taking you away from your guests.

SEE MY FULL FAQS

Looking for other venues in Lancashire?

FIND YOUR PERFECT VENUE

I’ve shot all over Lancashire in Preston, Clitheroe, Ribble Valley & Burnley. There are so many gorgeous venues alongside Shireburn Arms! Check out my full list of stunning locations in Lancashire;

Ashfield House, Bartle Hall Hotel, Bashall Barn, Beeston Manor, Brockholes, Browsholme Hall and the Tithe Barn, Crow Wood, Eaves Hall, Foxfields Country Hotel, Haigh Hall, Hobbit Hill, Hurlston Hall, Knowsley Hall, Mitton Hall, Mytton Fold, The Mill at Conder Green, Ribby Hall, Rivington Hall Barn, Samlesbury Hall, Stables Country Club, Stanley House, Stirk House, The Fence Gate, The Fishermans Retreat, The Higher Trapp, The Inn At Whitewell, The Out Barn, The River Barn, The Villa Wrea Green, The Wellbeing Farm, The White Hart Inn at Lydgate, Tipis at Riley Green, Wennington Hall, West Tower, Wyresdale Park
  • A man with outstretched arms and his back to the camera faces a large group of people gathered on the steps of a grand stone building. The group is smiling and posing for a photo in what appears to be a celebratory event, possibly a wedding or gathering at West Tower in Lancashire. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A group of people gathered near The Tipis at Riley Green, large beige tipi tents set up on a grassy field in Lancashire under a clear blue sky. Some attendees stand in small clusters, while others are near an open-sided tent with visible tables and decorations inside. Trees are in the background. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A vintage silver car with a black soft top, adorned with white ribbons, is parked in front of The River Barn, a modern building with large glass windows and wooden siding. The backdrop features trees and a neatly trimmed hedge, capturing the charm of Lancashire and suggesting a special occasion, likely a wedding. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • The Out Barn in Lancashire is a modern, circular wooden building with large glass windows illuminated from within, contrasting against the dark evening sky. People are seated inside, with one person standing. The background features an expansive grassy area and silhouetted trees. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A newlywed couple, smiling and holding hands, walks down an aisle outside the picturesque Stanley House in Lancashire. Guests on either side cheer, and some throw confetti. The bride wears a white dress and holds a bouquet; the groom wears a dark suit and a checked vest. The scene is joyful and festive. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A group of people gathered outside the red brick building with white windows of the Stables Country Club in Lancashire, socializing on a grassy area with a paved path. Some are dressed in formal attire, including a woman in a wedding dress and others in suits and dresses, under a clear blue sky. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A joyful wedding couple exits Samlesbury Hall under a shower of colorful confetti. The bride, holding a vibrant bouquet, wears a white gown with lace sleeves, while the groom dons a green suit. Guests on either side cheer and throw confetti in celebration of their Lancashire wedding. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A rustic wedding reception at Lancashire's Rivington Hall Barn, a timber-framed, vaulted-ceiling venue. Tables are elegantly set with white cloths, floral centerpieces featuring white blooms, and neatly arranged silverware. Soft, warm lighting adds to the romantic ambiance. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A bride and groom stand closely together under a small pavilion at night at Mytton Fold in Lancashire. The scene is dimly lit, creating a romantic atmosphere. They are positioned at the end of a short, narrow bridge that is surrounded by greenery and pathways. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A grand room with dark wood paneling and ornate mirrors decorating the walls evokes the elegance of Mitton Hall in Lancashire. A large, elaborate chandelier with numerous lights hangs from the ceiling. In one of the mirrors, a couple can be seen embracing each other. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A bride and groom, smiling and holding hands, walk down an outdoor aisle at Hobbit Hill in Lancashire as guests throw confetti. The bride wears a light pink dress and carries a bouquet, while the groom sports a light blue suit. The ceremony setting includes a rustic wooden arch and scenic outdoors. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A joyful bride and groom in wedding attire walk out of the venue marked "Crow Wood" in Lancashire, with guests around them. The bride, holding a bouquet, laughs heartily, while the groom smiles warmly. Guests shower them with confetti, creating a celebratory atmosphere. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A bride and groom stand facing each other while holding hands in front of the historic Browsholme Hall and the Tithe Barn in Lancashire. The bride wears a white gown with a long train and holds a cascading bouquet of red, white, and green flowers, perfectly complementing the timeless setting. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A couple shares their first kiss as newlyweds in the rustic stone-walled Browsholme Hall and the Tithe Barn, adorned with string lights and floral arrangements. Guests, dressed in formal attire, sit in rows, witnessing the moment. Chandeliers hang from the wooden beams above, adding to the charm of this Lancashire venue. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

Say hello

I’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU

If you’re looking for a Shireburn Arms Wedding Photographer, it would be great to talk!

Whatever stage you’re at in your wedding planning, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a message to see if we’re a good fit or to check my calendar and we can go from there. I’d love to hear from you!

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