Best castle wedding venues UK: 11 places to make your fairytale a reality

It’s always nice to be treated like royalty, but on your wedding day it’s absolutely mandatory - and what better way to complete the look than by holding the occasion in one of the best castle wedding venues in the UK. Make your way into extensive grounds - whether that be via horse and carriage or a chic classic car - before marvelling at the grand stone buildings, each of which have their own unique charm. Think romantic turrets, grand dining halls, and immaculate grounds that go on for miles, plus plenty of original features within the castles themselves.

Each of these castles are steeped in history, from being a former Tudor palace used by Henry VIII, to a previous home of Anne Boleyn - they all have a story to tell. So why not make your own mark on these incredible spaces, by getting all of your nearest and dearest together for a day to remember. No matter your style or budget, you can choose between intimate spaces in a medieval fortress to expansive halls with a capacity of 250 people, and plenty of quirky options in between.

If you’re basing your decision around location instead, then you’ll be pleased to know that there are castles to get married in all across the country. Fancy a seaside escape in Cornwall? Or would you rather see what the north has to offer? No matter where you hail from, or where you have always dreamt of saying ‘I do’, there’s a castle wedding waiting for you.

So grab your partner, and make your fairytale wedding a reality with one of this lovely lot we’ve picked out for you. Simply click the link under each venue to find out more info, and take your first step to making your special day truly unforgettable.

Hever Castle, Kent

What: This breathtaking castle wedding venue in Kent is steeped in history, with the most notable fact being that it’s the former home of Anne Boleyn. Whether you’re planning your special day for summer or winter, Hever Castle is fully prepared to make your wedding one to remember. Take in the Italian gardens, then make your way to the ceremony in the lakeside ‘Loggia’ overlooking the crystal lake and surrounding forest, before finally going into the Guthrie Pavilion for the wedding breakfast and evening reception.
Where: Hever, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NG
Find out more: Hever Castle

Clearwell Castle, Gloucestershire

What: Clearwell Castle may not be the biggest option on this list, but that certainly doesn’t make it any less special. Surrounded by countryside for as far as the eye can see, this idyllic location in Gloucestershire is perfect for those looking to escape city life on their big day. Plus if you’re excited to make it all about you, you’ll make quite the entrance here, as there’s a 75ft aisle to walk down before you say ‘I do’.
Where: Clearwell, Gloucestershire, GL16 8LG
Find out more: Clearwell Castle

Leeds Castle, Kent

What: Leeds Castle is the picturesque lakeside venue that offers a variety of spaces for your big day depending on style and budget. Choose the main castle for a larger wedding with a capacity of 100 seated, or the Maiden’s Tower for a more affordable smaller option. Want to wow your guests? Hire the resident owl to fly down the aisle and present you with your wedding rings.
Where: Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL
Find out more: Leeds Castle

Pentillie Castle, Cornwall

What: Pentillie Castle sits tucked away in 1,500 acres of privately owned Cornish Estate, right by River Tamar. With so much space on offer, you’re spoiled for choice with indoor and outdoor ceremony options from the romantic wisteria-clad Pavilion to the intimate riverside Bathing Hut. So whether it’s a romantic elopement you’re after, or a grand event with 250 guests in tow, Pentillie Castle has you covered.
Where: Saltash, Cornwall, PL12 6QD
Find out more: Pentillie Castle

Highclere Castle, Berkshire

What: Highclere Castle may be best known as the residence of the Crawleys in Downton Abbey, but it’s also a totally breathtaking wedding venue. Perfect for large ceremonies with exclusive hire or something more intimate, the team here are on hand to turn all of your dreams into a reality.
Where: Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 9RN
Find out more: Highclere Castle

Hampton Court Palace, Surrey

What: It was once the home of King Henry VIII, and despite his questionable relationship with marriage, it’s since become one of the best wedding venues in the UK. Perched right on the River Thames, Hampton Court Palace is perfect for those looking to escape the city without travelling too far. With space for up to 220 guests, the Great Hall is just one option for a truly dreamy ceremony.
Where: East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU
Find out more: Hampton Court Palace

Strawberry Hill House, Middlesex

What: Strawberry Hill House could easily be the castle that all fairytales take inspiration from, with its gothic style, classic turrets, and immaculate grounds that surround it. It’s available for exclusive use, and despite its close proximity to London, it’s easy to feel like you’re a million miles away.
Where: Twickenham, Middlesex, TW1 4ST
Find out more: Strawberry Hill House

Chiddingstone Castle, Kent

What: Chiddingstone Castle in Kent is closed to the public when hosting weddings, meaning that you have exclusive use of the venue throughout the day. Couples are spoiled for choice on where to hold the ceremony, with options outside at the Victorian Orangery, in one of the castle’s historic rooms, or at a local church just a few minutes walk away.
Where: Chiddingstone, Kent, TN8 7AD
Find out more: Chiddingstone Castle

Elton Hall, Cambridgeshire

What: Elton Hall is an exclusive wedding venue, and parties have sole use of the space throughout the day. With so many rooms to choose from, it’s the perfect choice whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony of just 40 guests, or up to 110 of your nearest and dearest. Alternatively if you’re really struggling to whittle down the numbers, you can enjoy a drinks reception in the garden and a marquee can be erected in the Parkland adjacent to the Hall to make space for 250 guests.
Where: Elton, Cambridgeshire, PE8 6SH
Find out more: Elton Hall

Leez Priory, Essex

What: This beautiful tudor castle is tucked away in the heart of Essex, and has been a family-owned and run business for over 25 years. There are a variety of areas available, offering everything from wedding ceremonies inside The Tower which provides more of a church feel, to The Coach House that has a barn-style set up.
Where: Hartford End, Chelmsford, CM3 1JP
Find out more: Leez Priory

Lympne Castle, Kent

What: Pull up in a horse and carriage and immerse yourself in this medieval fairytale, with the Grade I listed castle as your backdrop. The team at Lympne Castle are on hand to make your day as enchanting as you deserve, whether you’re looking to hold a wedding celebration, civil partnership or reaffirmation of vows.
Where: Lympne, Kent, CT21 4LQ
Find out more: Lympne Castle

Still looking for something in the countryside but not sure that a castle venue is for you? How about taking a look at our pick of the best barn wedding venues in the UK, where you’ll find some equally tranquil spots to say ‘I do’. Each barn still comes with its own unique character, whether you’re after something rustic with exposed beams, one with a more industrial edge, or a traditional stone option, there’s plenty to choose from. One thing you can guarantee is that you’ll be surrounded by stunning countryside, to take you away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and into your own matrimonial haven. So check out our list of the best barn wedding venues in the UK to find out for yourself.