The Inn At Whitewell
Wedding Photographer

Are you looking for Wedding Photographer at The Inn At Whitewell?

I’m Andy Wade, an award winning photographer, and The Inn at Whitewell is one of the most magical places to get married in Lancashire: an ancient inn high above the River Hodder in the Forest of Bowland, where I’ve photographed a wedding. It feels wonderfully removed from the modern world, and that feeling soaks into every photograph.

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.

An ancient inn above the River Hodder, in the middle of Bowland. Let’s create something beautiful together at The Inn at Whitewell.

Wedding Photography at The Inn At Whitewell

The Inn At Whitewell Weddings

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

The Inn At Whitewell Wedding Venue

Inside the Inn at Whitewell

The Inn at Whitewell is one of the most magical places to get married in Lancashire: an ancient inn high above the River Hodder in the Forest of Bowland, and I've photographed a wedding here. It feels like stepping back in time, in the best possible way.

The rooms are full of antiques, open fires and quiet corners, and the inn hosts intimate weddings with the kind of understated quality that money usually can't buy. The food, much of it from the estate and the river, is legendary, and the bedrooms are some of the most characterful in England.

Antiques, fires and quiet corners

The inn perches high above the River Hodder, surrounded by breathtaking fells and beautiful scenery in the heart of the gorgeous Forest of Bowland. For portraits, the river, the woods and the inn's timeless interiors give you images of rare romance.

The day flows like something from another era: ceremony in the inn or the little church below, drinks with the fell views, portraits by the river, then dinner by firelight in one of England's most romantic inns.

A historic stone building with large bay windows and ivy-covered walls, The Inn at Whitewell in Lancashire proudly displays a flag of the United Kingdom near its entrance. The building features gabled roofs and multiple chimneys. The scene is overcast, and there are some small potted plants near the entrance. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A serene indoor setting at The Inn at Whitewell, Lancashire features two white lanterns with lit candles placed on a windowsill, surrounded by white flowers and green leaves. The soft light from the candles creates a warm and cozy atmosphere. A beige chair is partially visible in the foreground. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • Hanging sign for "The Inn at Whitewell" in Lancashire features a painted depiction of a man in country attire with two dogs, mounted on the white exterior of a building with two windows above. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
A black and white photo shows a lively group of people in formal attire at The Inn at Whitewell in Lancashire, sitting and standing in a cozy room with framed pictures on the walls. Three people are seated around a table with empty glasses, smiling and chatting, while others stand and engage in conversation. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • A peaceful outdoor patio at The Inn at Whitewell features wooden tables and chairs arranged on gravel, adjacent to a traditional stone house with ivy-covered walls. The setting overlooks a lush, green landscape in Lancashire, with a hill and trees in the background under a cloudy sky. Image by Andy Wade Photography.
  • At The Inn at Whitewell in Lancashire, a long dining table is elegantly set up in a dimly lit room for a formal dinner. The table is adorned with white tablecloths, candles, and floral centerpieces. Chairs are placed along both sides, and large windows with red curtains are in the background. Image by Andy Wade Photography.

The History of The Inn At Whitewell

An inn since the 1300s

There has been an inn at Whitewell since the 1300s, serving travellers through the Forest of Bowland from its perch high on the banks of the River Hodder. The inn sits within the Duchy of Lancaster's Whitewell Estate, land held by the Duchy for centuries, which makes the King technically the landlord.

The Forest of Bowland, once a royal hunting forest, remains one of the wildest and most beautiful corners of Lancashire, and the inn has been its beating heart for nearly 700 years.

The Forest of Bowland's beating heart

Run with quiet perfection by the Bowman family for decades, the Inn at Whitewell is regularly named among the most romantic places to stay and marry in Britain. It's a privilege to photograph there, and an even greater one to be married there.

How To Get To The Inn At Whitewell

The Inn at Whitewell is in the Forest of Bowland, above the River Hodder, postcode BB7 3AT. From Clitheroe, follow the B6478 through Waddington and over the fells to Whitewell; from the M6, junction 31 via the A59 to Clitheroe is the natural route. The last stretch is single-track in places, and worth every yard.

Clitheroe station is about 25 minutes away by taxi.

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.

As your The Inn At Whitewell wedding photographer, I’m committed to creating a collection that reflects the true emotion of your day, ensuring you have memories to cherish forever. Let’s tell your unique story together.

I couldn’t be more excited to join you on your wedding day at The Inn At Whitewell, document your day and capture all of the little moments that make it truly yours.

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
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Questions? I’ve got you

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.

Yes, the river and the surrounding woods give images of rare romance, and I’ve photographed a wedding here already. The setting feels wonderfully removed from the modern world, which really comes through in the photos.

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.

The rooms are full of antiques, open fires and quiet corners, all lovely for atmospheric, candid shots. If the weather’s against us, dinner by firelight here is one of the most romantic things I get to photograph.

It can be, some couples marry in the little church below before heading up to the inn to celebrate. I’m happy to cover both parts of the day if that’s the plan you’re going for.

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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 The Inn At Whitewell! 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, Shireburn Arms, Stables Country Club, Stanley House, Stirk House, The Fence Gate, The Fishermans Retreat, The Higher Trapp, 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 The Inn At Whitewell 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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