Wedding Venues in the Lake District & Cumbria

UPDATED FOR 2025.

About This Guide

If you’re looking for a list of Lake District Wedding Venues in Cumbria, look no further! Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and serene lakes, the Lake District (and the wider location of Cumbria) is a sought-after destination for couples seeking a picturesque backdrop for their wedding day. In this guide to the best wedding venues in Cumbria and The Lake District you’ll find:

  • A visual map for those couples that don’t know the area or perhaps have a particular part of the county in mind.
  • A list of some of my favourite wedding establishments in alphabetical order, which can be filtered by a variety of venue types as well as links to other venues.
  • Frequently Asked Questions and much more

Please note this guide does not include all venues or the the countless churches, or other religious ceremony locations. The available locations change regularly.

If you are a couple and have a specific type of wedding in mind or you are a business and want to include your venue please get in touch, and happily try to assist you.

The Lake District and Cumbria

The Lake District, also known as The Lakes, ‘Lakeland’ or The Lake District National Park, is in Cumbria in North West England. The area is split over the two new unitory authorities of Cumberland Council (covering the areas of Allerdale, Carlisle and Copeland) and Westmorland and Furness Council (covering areas surronding Barrow, Kendal and Penrith).

It is England’s largest national park and is a world heritage site and an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Lakes and the wider Cumbria boast some of the most beautiful landscapes and countryside there is in the UK and perhaps even the world. People genuinely can’t get enough of this picturesque part of the country. It’s therefore not surprising it is a favourite place for many couples to get married.

Choosing the Perfect Lake District Wedding Venue

As a Lake District Wedding Photographer and Videographer, I’m happy to tell you that you’re considering a fantastic part of the world in which to get married. There are a huge number and variety of wedding venues to suit your needs, but selecting the right establishment is crucial to creating a memorable experience.

From grand estates to rustic barns and lakeside hotels to quirky woodland retreats the Lake District boasts a diverse range of venues, each with its own distinct charm and style. Whatever you’re considering, the area has a wide selection of styles to choose from. To narrow down your search and choose the perfect wedding venue in the Lake District, think about what you want your wedding day to feel like. Once you envisage how you want your day to look and feel, start browsing through our guides and the different venue websites to narrow down your choices.

Historic Grand Estates & Manor Houses

For those dreaming of a fairytale style wedding, the Lake District offers a selection of historic grand estates and country manor houses. These venues exude elegance and provide a regal setting for couples to say their vows.

Rustic Barns & Farmhouses

Couples seeking a more rustic and down-to-earth ambiance can opt for one of the many charming barns or farmhouses scattered throughout the area in the many villages and towns such as Cockermouth, Ambleside and Grasmere. These venues often provide a more cosy and intimate setting, perfect for couples looking to celebrate their special day in a more relaxed way.

Modern & quirky

Whilst many of the sites suit more traditional weddings, those seeking something more modern, quirky or unusual fear not. There are still some wonderful choices in this part of the world for those those couples looking to think outside of the box and do something different.

Traditional Churches & Hotels

For those couples wanting a more traditional feel to their wedding day, there are countless churches (not covered in this guide) and traditional hotels, many of which sit on the shores of Lake Windermere, Lake Ullswater, and Derwentwater.


Map Of Wedding Venues

The map gives you an idea of some of my favourite cumbrian wedding locations suggested in this guide and their proximity to the local towns, cities as well as travel links. It can be esepcially useful for those couples that may not know the area very well.

Key to Colours

Red Pins = Westmorland & Furness Council District
Blue Pins = Cumberland Council District

Cumbria Wedding Venues List

The list below is presented in alphabetical order, but it allows you to filter by venue type. If you’re looking for a specific type of venue we’d suggest you check out our specific guides for more detailed considerations, which can be found further down the page. It is worth noting that some of the listings may feature in more than one catagory. For example it maybe a historic country house that also caters for marquee weddings. The list of approved licensed wedding venues changes frequently, so you may find the lists of Cumberland Councils Directory of Approved Premises and Westmorland and Furness Council’s Directory of Approved Premises useful.

  • Image of wedding floral arrangement in stately home

    Abbey House Hotel & Gardens

    Set in 14 acres of landscaped grounds and a short 20-minute drive from Windermere lies the grand-looking Abbey House Hotel. Perfect for those couples who want a traditional hotel wedding, but with a bit of historic grandeur, especially for those opting for an outdoor ceremony at the historic ruins of Furness Abbey.

    Venue Website
  • Another Place, The Lake

    This contemporary and relaxed hotel sits on 18 acres of grounds on the shores of Lake Ullswater in the Lake District. You can hire this hotel out as an exclusive use wedding venue. The hotel spaces bring people together, and couples often like it for its on-site accommodation and relaxed atmosphere.

    Venue Website
  • Appleby Castle

    Appleby Castle is a historic motte and bailey castle wedding venue in the stunningly beautiful Eden Valley. It provides a dramatic setting for a wedding day and is perfect for couples looking for a touch of grandeur to their day.

    Venue Website
  • Married couple kissing near Armathwaite Hall

    Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa

    Armathwaite Hall lies on the shoreline of Bassenthwaite Lake in 400 acres of deer park and woodland. With its well-manicured gardens and elegant interiors, it provides a romantic backdrop perfect for your special day.

    Venue Website
  • External Shot of Askham Hall in Cumbria

    Askham Hall & Bank Barn

    This Boutique Country House Hotel and Barn Wedding Venue are in the village of Askham, just outside Penrith. Set in beautifully maintained gardens and grounds with views of the River Lowther, it is a great venue for those couples looking for flexibility for their wedding day.

    Venue Website
  • Augill Castle

    Augill Castle Specialises in small and beautiful exclusive use weddings of up to sixty people. Priding themselves on total flexibility, they offer couples an all-inclusive set price for the castle. This covers venue hire, on-site accommodation, and food, making it popular with couples looking for a venue they can make their own.

    Venue Website
  • External view of Belmount Hall

    Belmount Hall

    A former home of Beatrix Potter, Belmount Hall is a Grade II listed Georgian House near Hawkshead Village.  Taking only a very limited number of 6 weddings each year this venue is perfect for those couples who want a country house wedding and an air of exclusivity on their wedding day.

    Venue Website
  • Couple leaving ceremony as guests clap

    Blaithwaite House

    Set in 250 acres of beautiful Cumbrian countryside on the edge of the Lake District Blaithwaite House is, for me, one of the hidden gems of Lake District Wedding Venues. A choice of ceremony locations from outdoor to a barn means you can really tailor your day to what you want from it.

    Venue Website
  • Exterior view of The Briery Wood Country House Hotel

    Briery Wood Country House Hotel

    Lying in 7 acres of landscaped grounds and woodland within a short distance of Lake Windermere lies Briery Wood Country House Hotel. A popular venue for couples wanting a more traditional hotel wedding.

    Venue Website
  • External Shot of Lake District Wedding Venue - Broadoaks Country House Hotel

    Broadoaks Country House Hotel

    A former Victorian Gentleman’s residence, Broadoaks is a traditional Lakeland Country House Hotel, and popular with people looking for a more traditional hotel style wedding to celebrate with family and friends.

    Venue Website
  • Castletown Woodland Weddings

    This tipi wedding venue lies in the heart of nature in a secluded woodland environment on the Castletown Estate.  It really comes alive at night with its twinkling fairy lights, uplit trees, and crackling firepits.  It’s perfect for couples wanting something a little quirky and unique that guests will remember.

    Venue Website
  • External shot of Cote How Wedding Venue

    Cote How

    As a recommended supplier for the award-winning Cote How I can’t tell you how perfect this unique house with a barn is for couples looking for a small and intimate wedding venue.

    Venue Guide
  • Dalston Hall

    Dalston Hall is a lovely Grade II listed stone building full of history set within beautiful gardens. It’s a great choice for those couples looking for a historical venue or Marquee wedding.

    Venue Website
  • Exterior image of the side of Eden Barn Wedding Venue

    Eden Barn

    This 200-year-old Westmorland stone barn is a popular boutique wedding venue packed to its rafters with charm. Couples seeking a rustic wedding will love the barn with its stone walls, limestone flooring and impressive vaulted ceilings with chandeliers.

    Venue Website
  • Ariel Shot of Fairbank Wedding Barn

    Fairbank Wedding Barn

    This venue leans itself to guests who really want to make their wedding venue their own, with no restrictions on suppliers or decorating. Renovated in 2020 Fairbank Wedding Barn is a traditional stone barn with exposed beams and white lime rendered walls, giving it a wonderfully rustic feel. This venue is a personal favourite and the private Tarn is worth a visit.

    Venue Website
  • Farlam Hall

    Refurbished to a high standard it is a secluded, elegent hidden gem perfect for couples who are wanting a more traditional hotel wedding venue

    Venue Website
  • Hidden River Barn & Cabins

    Hidden River Barn is a unique and quirky Cumbrian wedding venue and is also a favourite of mine. This venue is truly breathtaking. With its enormous picture window, crackling fires, rustic wood interior and amazing lighting, you can’t help but feel you’re somewhere special.

    Venue Website
  • High Barn & Eden Hall Estate

    Offering two different locations High Barn & Eden Hall itself, this venue has something for everyone. Up to 70 guests can be hosted in the traditional sandstone barn with 115 in the evening or a marquee/tipi wedding can accommodate up to 200 guests at Eden Hall itself.

    Venue Website
  • External View of Holbeck Ghyll

    Holbeck Ghyll

    This traditional country house with its views over Lake Windermere is a popular Lake District Wedding Venue.  Perfect for couples wanting either a medium-sized hotel wedding for up to 60 guests or a marquee wedding with up to 120, it offers something for everyone.

    Venue Website
  • LGBT Wedding at Inn on The Lake

    Inn on the Lake

    Lying in 15 acres of landscaped grounds on the shores of Ullswater lies Inn on the Lake. This lakeside venue is popular with couples who are looking to accommodate up to 100 of their family and friends at a more traditional hotel wedding venue.

    Venue Website
  • Historic ruins of wedding venue Kirklinton Hall exterior.

    Kirklinton Hall & Gardens

    New in 2023 with exciting future plans this stunning venue will suit those looking for something quirky and unique. From the Petal Pole Marquee in the gardens to a candlelit formal dinner in the old derelict hall ruins, you’ve some difficult choices to make.

    Venue Website
  • Langdale Chase Hotel View

    Langdale Chase Hotel

    Currently closed for refurbishment this venue is on the banks of Lake Windermere. This country house hotel appeals to couples wanting a more traditional hotel wedding. with onsite accommodation for friends and family.

    Venue Website
  • Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa

    Winner of Guides for Brides 2019 – Best Waterside Venue Lodore Falls is an exceptionally popular wedding venue in Cumbria. Situated on the shoreside of Lake Derwentwater, it provides a host of amazing backdrops for your wedding photos or film.

    Venue Website
  • Exterior of Low Hall, The Lakes surrounded by trees and blue sky.

    Low Hall, The Lakes

    Low Hall The Lakes is a wonderful farmhouse and Barn wedding venue in the Lake District. Owners Ben & Fran (Check out their carnival theme wedding) are amazing. This friendly couple is always on hand and go above and beyond to help couples make their wedding day truly spectacular. You can learn more about them and the venue in my guide to weddings at Low Hall The Lakes.

    Venue Guide
  • Couple in the grounds of Low house on their wedding day

    Low House, Armathwaite

    Situated within extensive and private grounds, Low House offers couples a variety of options in planning their wedding day. Up to 80 guests can be accommodated for ceremonies in the house or for those considering a marquee or tipi wedding you can opt for up to 200 guests at your ceremony in the garden under one of the licensed gazebos.

    Venue Website
  • MacDonald Leeming House

    On the shores of Lake Ullswater, this 4-star Georgian country house hotel lies in 22 acres of mature gardens which lead down to the shoreline. The venue has a classic finish to it making it ideal for those couples wanting a more traditional feel to their wedding.

    Venue Website
  • View from MacDonald Old England Hotel & Spa of Lake Windermere & Boat

    MacDonald Old England Hotel & Spa

    The Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa is in the heart of Bowness Village, on the shores of the beautiful Lake Windermere.. This historic Victorian mansion, formerly a Georgian residence, offers stunning views of the Lake District. Great for couples wanting a more traditional hotel wedding.

    Venue Website
  • External View of Merewood Country House Hotel in Windermere

    Merewood Country House Hotel

    The Merewood Country House Hotel dates back to 1812 and sits in an elevated position overlooking Lake Windermere. Recently renovated, this historic venue is popular with couples looking to host a larger traditional hotel wedding.

    Venue Website
  • Muncaster Castle

    Steeped in history this castle is a great option for those couples looking for a more historic and traditional wedding venue for their wedding day. Optionally you can hire a marquee for the castle lawns, giving couples plenty of choice.

    Venue Website
  • Lake Crummick near New House Farm

    New House Farm

    Located between the villages of Buttermere and Lorton New House Farm is a Grade II listed country house and associated Barn wedding venue. It dates back to 1650 and can cater for up to 130 guests in its stunning Hayloft Barn

    Venue Website
  • Ouitside of Lake District Wedding Venue - Paddock Barn

    Paddock Barn

    Paddock Barn is a beautiful, exclusive-use rustic barn wedding venue located just outside the Lake District.   It is the perfect venue for those couples wanting to really make their wedding day their own with a DIY, festival-styled, outdoor, or boho-style wedding.

    Venue Website
  • Inside of the Park House Barn

    Park House Barn

    This 16th-century barn with its stone walls, original wooden beams, and rustic feel can accommodate 200 seated guests or 230 for your evening celebrations. With the onsite camping/glamping facilities, it is perfect for those couples who want a festival or DIY wedding venue they can really make their own.

    Venue Website
  • Rose Castle

    This stunning castle wedding venue is perfect for those couples wanting a home away from home with an elegant and sophisticated feel to it. Optional Marquee’s can be set in the grounds for larger weddings.

    Venue Website
  • Bride & Groom Portrait outside of Silverholme Manor & Graythwaite Estate

    Silverholme Manor on the Graythwaite Estate

    Silverholme Manor sits on the Graythwaite Estate, nestled in some wonderful gardens and Cumbrian countryside. Seating 150 for the main dinner with a further 50 guest capacity for the later evening festivities, this stunning venue has it all. You can learn more about one of my favourite venues in my full guide to Silverholme Manor on the Graythwaite Estate.

    Venue Website
  • Storrs Hall

    Featuring in The Sunday Times 80 Best British Hotels of 2021 tells you all you need to know about this Lake District Wedding venue. The Grade II Georgian Mansion House sits on the shores of Lake Windermere in 17 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. A range of stunning accommodations for your guests and you have the perfect wedding venue for those wanting a hotel wedding with a contemporary feel.

    Venue Website
  • Inside the Belsfield Hotel

    The Belsfield Hotel

    The Belsfield Hotel in Windermere is a 4-star hotel on the banks of Lake Windermere within 6 acres of landscaped gardens. This venue is filled with luxurious furniture and has a traditional hotel feel to it. It is an extremely popular wedding venue in the Lake District.

    Venue Website
  • The Copper Mines & Lakes Cottages

    This exclusive use wedding venue is situated in a true mountain environment and is favoured by those looking for something unique for their wedding day. It offers a choice of the recently converted copper barn which can hold 110 seated guests, a room in sawyers cottage for 50 people or up to 300 people in a marquee.

    VENUE WEBSITE
  • The Forest Side Hotel

    Recently refurbished by acclaimed designer James Mackie, this former Victorian gentleman’s residence sits in 43 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland. This venue is near Grasmere in the heart of Wordsworth country and suits couples wanting a smaller intimate wedding with family and friends.

    Venue Website
  • The Garden at Eden

    This traditional marquee wedding venue lies on the grounds of Eden Golf Course. It is best suited to those couples who are opting for a larger venue with its truly massive 500-person capacity.

    Venue Website
  • The Wild Boar

    If you like the idea of a beautiful boutique hotel wedding full of character and charm like Jack + Rachel, then look no further than the Wild Boar in Windermere. One of the oldest and finest hotels in the area. The venue is known for its warm welcomes, log fires, impeccable hospitality, and excellent food.

    Venue Website
  • Singer at a Three Hills Barn Wedding

    Three Hills Barn

    On the grounds of the family-run Park House Farm in Torpenhow, Three Hills Barn is a stunning 19th-century stone threshing barn. Seating up to 150 guests, this barn is a blank canvas and can be decorated as you see fit. Lawns, Gardens, Bluebell Medows, Woodland to explore, stunning views, plus animals ensure this is the perfect backdrop for your wedding photography or wedding film.

    Venue Website
  • External View of The Townhead Estate in the Lake District

    Town Head Estate

    In 2019, the current owners, who have lovingly restored the venue, bought the Town Head Estate, ready for opening in 2021. With a choice of the Stone Bank Wedding Barn, Boathouse, or a Lakeside Marquee/Tipi on the grounds, couples will really be spoilt for choice.

    Venue Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

There really is no right or wrong way to choose your wedding venue. I’d always suggest speaking to the venues as they will help you maximise how to get the best from the different locations and your wedding day. If you haven’t already I’d suggest signing up for my wedding planning email series as well for more general advice, hints and tips. Lastly, I’ve included some FAQs below that I come across regularly in relation to couple who are considering booking a venue in The Lakes for their wedding day.

This might seem obvious, but your first step is to make contact with the venue and discuss the dates you’re considering.

I’d also advise that you make sure you visit any venue BEFORE booking to confirm it really is what you’re looking for.

You really can’t go wrong whichever season or venue you pick for that matter, but yes some Lake District wedding venues do excel in certain seasons.

If you’re restricted to a certain season or have your heart set on a particular time of year or venue and want my advice, please feel free to make contact.

Whilst all venues should be legally compliant, there are some venues where accessibility for elderly or disabled individuals can be problematic. This is especially prevelant in some of the more historic venues.

Examples include, but are not limited to

  • restricted access to certain areas due to stairs
  • narrow walkways, doors
  • low light.
  • no automatic doors or lifts
  • limited parking close to venue
  • areas that are slippery
  • areas made from gravel or cobbles or areas that are uneven.

You may want to enquire with any potential venues about ramps, lifts, accessible toilets, and other accommodations for any individuals attending your wedding that may encounter issues.

It’s advisable (as it is with myself) to book your preferred wedding venue as soon as possible to avoid any disapointment.

This is especially important if you’re considering a date during peak wedding season or key dates in the year such as Valentines Day, New Years Eve and so on.

If you’re flexible though on when you get married most locations and vendors in general can accomodate you at short notice.

Absolutely. Most of the venues welcome visits from potential couples.

Some venues have open days where you can have a wander round, but if you can’t make one of those I would 100% advise you to schedule a visit with any wedding venue you are considering before booking.

You really need to experience the venue’s ambiance first-hand and it lets you discuss in detail your vision for your wedding with the venue.

This will vary dramatically between different venues as there is no standardised practice. As a result when considering your venue you should factor in any additional costs that may affect your budget.

For example some venues may include a variety of things in their quote such as your wedding breakfast, staff, tables, chairs, and glassware, accomodation, where others will not and you will only be getting the venue itself.

It is therefore super important when comparing venues to make sure you understand what exactly is and isn’t included in the price.

No is the simple answer. Whilst the Lake District on the whole is dog friendly and a large proportion of the venues are, certain venues may have restrictions such as:

  • No dogs allowed at all.
  • Require special permission at the time of booking.
  • Limit the number of dogs.
  • Limit where dogs can go.

My advice is to mention this as soon as you enquire about a venue, just to see what if any restrictions might be in place. Feel free to reach out to me though if you want some suggestions.

Firstly you need to determine which local authority your wedding venue falls under (have a look at the map above) and then contact the relevent registrars office.

Cumberland Registrars Services
0300 373 3730
Website

Westmorland & Furness Registrars Services
0300 373 3300
Website

Yes, many venues offer exclusive use, meaning you and your guests have the entire venue to yourselves for the duration of your wedding celebration, providing a private and intimate experience.

When choosing your Lake District wedding venue consider the accessibility for guests traveling from afar, as some of the wedding venues can be remote and would be more difficult to get to without direct transport.

It’s worth working with local vendors and a wedding planner familiar with the area, who can advise you on issues you may not have considered, and help you select a wedding venue that might be accessible via public transport.

Eloping in the Lake District is certainly possible, with many venues offering elopement packages that include the ceremony, accommodation, and sometimes even a celebratory meal.

It’s best to contact venues directly to discuss your needs, but as a Lake District Elopement Photographer & videographer, I’m more than happy to advise you as to some of the venues that can accomodate this type of wedding.

Real Weddings in
THE LAKE DISTRICT & CUMBRIA

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MEET JONO

Jono Symonds is a Lake District Wedding Photographer & Videographer who describes himself as a visual storyteller. His goal is to create wedding imagery and film that stands the test of time and that is full of raw emotion and intimacy. He documents engagements, weddings and elopements, within The Lake District, Cumbria, while also journeying across the UK and the globe for destination weddings.

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External Shot of Cumbrian Wedding Venue The Townhead Estate

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WEDDING VENUES IN THE LAKE DISTRICT & CUMBRIA

If you feel Low Hall, The Lakes might not be the perfect wedding venue for you, check out our Lake District Wedding Venue Guide for a full range of wedding venues in the surrounding area.