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Castle Howard, a gorgeous estate in York, England, not only is a stunning tourist destination but is also a spectacular historic wedding venue. Reaching York is quite simple by a two hour train ride from London. I actually visited the estate last May when I was in Europe for a few weeks and must say seeing the Castle Howard wedding venues was a highlight of the trip. With it being such an expansive property, the grounds and building provide a number of incredible locations for a wedding.
The Great Hall
Castle Howard’s Great Hall makes for a jaw-dropping ceremony location under the dome. While the tall ceilings leading to the dome make the setting feel expansive, it’s cozy fireplaces and wide columns create an intimate atmosphere for guests.
The Long Gallery
The Long Gallery features a lengthy hallway which passes through a small library with pink walls. If you’ve watched the show Victoria, then you might remember this hallway from the first episode! A long reception table can easily be centered down the hallway for a unique table arrangement for dinner. Alternatively, you could fill the spaces and hallway with multiple round tables.
The Antique Passage
A gorgeous spot for portraits, the Antique Passage was one of my favorite hallways inside Castle Howard. Because the lighting and sculptures photographed so exquisitely and while shooting, I couldn’t help but dream of photographing a chic bride in the passage.
The Grounds
Last but certainly not least, the gorgeous gardens and grounds of Castle Howard contain an abundance of portrait locations. There are so many that it would be easy to shoot two weddings at Castle Howard and not have any of the portraits look the same. You could easily spend a whole day taking bride and groom portraits on the property. There are infinite spots outside and inside Castle Howard!
Castle Howard Wedding Cost
For only photography, Castle Howard charges £1000, or a little over $1,300. All-inclusive castle and garden usage for a wedding or special event begins at £20,000, or just over $26,000. Honestly, that’s an insanely reasonable cost to get married at a historic estate like Castle Howard. I’d do it in a heartbeat!
