It’s time to say “I do", but the big question is, which venue is perfect for you?
Today we’re going to explore some of the best intimate wedding venues in The Lake District and discuss facilities, locations, budgets, and sizes.
When looking for your perfect wedding venue, I recommend you make a list of your non-negotiables; for example, do you want the venue to have accommodation on site? Do you need them to be able to meet a range of dietary requirements? Do you want the ceremony to be indoors or outdoors?
So, let’s waste no time and get into my favourite intimate wedding venues in The Lake District. I hope you love them as much as I do!
Intimate Wedding Venues in the Lake District
Gilpin Lake House
Holesfoot
Askham Hall
Silverholme
The Wild Boar
Low Hall The Lakes
Gilpin Lake House
This first location makes the number one spot on my list for the best intimate wedding locations in the Lake District, there really is nowhere like it.
The Gilpin Lake House is a luxury, Michelin-starred wedding venue that is perfect for intimate weddings. Set on 100 acres of private grounds with its very own private lake (meaning it will only be you and your guests there!) offering exclusive use where you can really get away from it all.
It currently has six bedrooms but will soon have nine, so it’s great for your closest friends and family to stay over before, during and after the big event!
Some other standout features of the Gilpin Lake House are, the romantic boat house, the iconic jetty and vintage rowing boats for the lake, the tranquil spa treatment room, the many hot tubs and saunas hidden around the mature gardens and of course the indoor heated pool. It really is a stunning private paradise.
It’s worth noting that with the use of marquees/tipis the Gilpin Lake House can cater for larger weddings, but it tops my list of intimate wedding venues as this is what I feel the space is PERFECT for.
Beautiful in any season, summer or winter, so you can enjoy this intimate wedding venue at any time of year. The staff throughout your stay leave you wanting for nothing and the wedding team always deliver the smoothest intimate weddings.
Holesfoot
Holesfoot is based in Eden Valley, and although this is quite a large venue, it still manages to feel like an intimate space, probably due to its seclusion and layout. You can hire the entire place exclusively and spread your celebrations out over a few days. Holesfoot has three different licensed wedding locations spread across 20 acres of private land, so you are truly spoiled for choice.
Holesfoot is one of my favourite wedding venues in the Lake District due to its versatility and the brilliant owners. Liv especially is a great host and has such a passion for Holesfoot that she loves to share. Whether you're looking for a small intimate wedding or something to larger, Holesfoot works amazing for both!
The Manor House property is full of character, while the Barn really brings the party. The gardens here are particularly beautiful, especially the Italian Garden for an outdoor ceremony.
If you’re a laid back couple looking for a party, whatever the size, this is the venue to book! Check out the incredible dance floor full of LED lights that really help get you and your guests in the dancing mood.
Askham Hall
Askham Hall is 1,000 years old and consists of two buildings: a house and a barn.
Askham Hall is a venue like no other. The main building is an old castle that gives off an ancient, whimsical vibe with a tower facing over the river and overlooking glorious parklands. While the barn is bright and spacious with a warm rustic feel. This venue has kept many of its original features, and complimented them with contrasting modern art, this juxtaposition makes the whole place feel even more unique.
With Michelin-starred food, award-winning wine, historic features, a heated outdoor pool and rooms full of character, you and your guests really are in for a treat! While this venue lends itself to any season, late summer weddings here are really something special.
I rate this venue as one of the best intimate venues in the Lake District because, even though it can accommodate larger parties, the layout of the rooms really lends itself to smaller groups. It's a place full of character and soul, which gives such an intimate, close energy for the couples that want that.
Silverholme
Get ready to be swept off your feet with Silverhome! This is a beautiful private Georgian Manor House right on the shores of Lake Windermere.
This makes the list of the best intimate wedding venues in the Lake District not only due to its facilities and beautiful architecture but also due to its unreal location. Around every corner, you will find the most scenic views, perfect for your wedding photos.
If you need a bigger venue, then get in touch with them, as they can accommodate bigger parties with marquees and tipis!
Side note: This venue is a 5-star luxury lakeside manor house with eight en-suite bedrooms as well as a private cottage for two, making it the perfect intimate wedding venue after the party. It’s great for the couple to enjoy their night here, along with accommodating their closest friends and family.
The Wild Boar
The Wild Boar, located within the beautiful Gilpin Valley, is one of my favourite intimate wedding venues in the Lake District offering a more budget friendly option.
The Wild Boar boasts sprawling private grounds and its own tarn. A quick ride in the Mad Pig Landrover Defender up a rocky track leads you to your own private wildlife paradise as the tarn and the surrounding area are kept natural and wild for your enjoyment.
The building itself works really well for smaller weddings with its layout and rooms. Open fires, low beams and original slate flooring. The food is incredible, the decor is beautiful and cosy, and the location is amazing!
This is a fully functioning hotel and restaurant, and while you can hire exclusively I recommend opting for the Undermillbeck room for your intimate wedding where you won’t need to go to this expense. It’s great value for money and would absolutely recommend looking at it if you’re looking for an intimate wedding venue in The Lake District.
Low Hall The Lakes
Image credit: Jo Greenfield : Lake District Wedding Photographer
Low Hall The Lakes, based in the northern part of The Lake District, is one of the most beautiful places to say "I do." This venue is known for being secluded and intimate, making it one of the best intimate wedding venues in the Lake District.
The way they set up for an intimate wedding feels like you’re in a family member's back garden, seated on decorated hay bales, and surrounded by woodland. It truly is such a beautiful venue. The entire venue is surrounded by nature, so it really gives off that garden wedding vibe that many dream of.
Conclusion
You are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to the best intimate wedding venues in the Lake District, from old to modern; indoor to outdoor; and budget-friendly. There is such a variety here, meaning there is something for everyone.
Once you have found the right venue, it’s time to find the right photographer who will know not only how to capture the beauty of your special day but also the beauty of your venue. If you’d like to work together on making memories that last forever, get in touch with me here! I’m looking forward to hearing from you!
Planning a last minute wedding in the Lake District and still need a photographer? Get in touch now, and let’s make it happen!