Do you + your love dream of a fairy tale-inspired day…perhaps one where you say your vows in a castle wedding venue?? Well, you’re in the for royal treatment as we’ve rounded up these gorgeous châteaus that double as wedding venues! Whether you want to invite all your friends and extended family, or keep it small and intimate—we’re pretty sure you won’t be able to resist their charm!
Oh, and for those that think all the cool castles are located in Europe and you *wish* you could find something in the States…don’t you fret! We even found a few U.S.-based beauties! Without further ado, we invite you the explore the grounds. Let’s take a look!
Castle Wedding Venues in Europe
1. Château d’Effiat – Auvergne, France
Built in the 17th century, Château d’Effiat is a pretty dreamy spot to say your vows. Your reception can take place inside (incredible interiors!), or for a more relaxed, yet regal feeling—outside on the lawn. This venue is great for big parties as it can host up to 300 guests. Can you imagine just how magical a portrait in front of the château would be? Talk about a keepsake!
2. Château de Carsix – Carsix, France
Château de Carsix is nestled within a beautifully landscaped estate in the village of St. Julien l’Ars—just south of the Loire Valley. Built in the 18th century, it combines the charm of rural location with the fine construction the nobility was known for.
3. Château de Frétoy – Morlet, Burgundy, France
Does the French countryside call your name? Do you imagine yourself road tripping through the Burgundy region and sampling all of their rich wines? Tucked away in a little town of Morlet in the Burgundy region is this darling gem. Château de Frétoy, which was built in the 1900s, was a gift to the French actress, Cecile Sorel, from her romantic partner at the time. Quite the gesture, no?
4. Château d’Esclimont – Saint-Symphorien, France
You may recognize these dreamy photos from the Margo & Me wedding! The grand 16th-century Château d’Esclimont is now a luxe hotel and isn’t too far from the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres.
The Best Castle Wedding Venues in Italy
5. La Badia di Orvieto – Orvieto, Italy
It’s said to be the oldest hotel in Italy, the historic La Badia di Orvieto is a former Benedictine Abbey and dates back to 1100. The classically furnished antique rooms will take you back to another time with their 14th-century frescos, and there is an on-site 12th-century Romanesque church and tower…which makes for the dreamiest location for a reception, in our opinion! If that’s not enough, the surrounding hills of the Umbria region are sure to stun while you cozy up in the ancient ruins under fairy lights.
6. Castello di Vincigliata – Florence, Italy
Castello di Vincigliata is a dreamy Tuscan castle in the hills overlooking Florence that dates back to around the 1000s—but don’t you worry, it’s been renovated since then! The walled courtyard can seat up to 120, and there is a formal garden and large terrance for dancing and drink. Alternatively, there is another structure that can seat up to 300 guests; however, the rooms in the castle and small and best suited for small, intimate weddings…but that just encourages your guests to get to explore the region, of course!
7. Manorbier Castle wedding venue – Tenby, Wales, UK
Manorbier Castle is a fairy tale with its romantic setting by the sea (within 100 years of the beach!). You can enjoy the gardens, the impressive Great Hall, and the old vaulted chapel. The location offers a variety of options for weddings depending on the number of guests.
Castle Wedding Venues in Scotland
8. Craigmillar Castle – Edinburgh, Scotland
Looking for a castle with some ruins? Craigmillar Castle in Scotland is pretty spectacular. Here’s a little fun history for you: Mary Queen of Scots is said to have slept there in the so-called Queen Mary’s Room! The majestic charm of the castle has lasted through the ages and the surrounding city of Edinburgh isn’t too bad either. ;)
9. Eilean Donan Castle – Highlands of Scotland
Eilean Donan Castle is a 13th century castle in the Highlands of Scotland. Situated at the point where three great sea lochs converge, and surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, Eilean Donan has become one of the most iconic images of Scotland and is recognized all over the world.
10. Craigievar Castle – Northern Scotland
Hello, pink dream! Craigievar Castle is what fairy tales are made of…don’t you think? Surrounded by extensive parks and open woodland, Craigievar is ideal for intimate weddings or up to 100 on their grounds. We can just imagine all the pretty pink blush colors for your wedding palette here!
11. Dunluce Castle – Northern Ireland
Easily one of the most dramatic places to exchange your wedding vows in Northern Ireland, these medieval castle ruins, located atop a craggy cliff is home to the mythical “Mermaid’s Cave,” is Dunluce Castle. Though the castle does not permit ceremonies to take place inside the ruins themselves, you CAN hold a ceremony in one of the surrounding farmer’s fields outside of the castle walls—for a small fee. Talk about a stunning backdrop! And, for GoT fans, this is the site that served as the home of Castle Greyjoy.
The Best Castle Wedding Venues in the U.S.
12. Lyndhurst Mansion – Tarrytown, New York
Lyndhurst Mansion is a Gothic Revival country house (that quite honestly looks more like a castle), built in 1838, and is *cozy* in its 67-acre park beside the Hudson River. You can take advantage Lyndhurst’s gorgeous grounds for numerous photo opportunities, from leaning up against old weeping Beech trees to taking private walks in the gardens. Note: It is closed during winter months…because nobody wants to deal with chilling temps!
13. Oheka Castle wedding venue – Huntington, New York
Calling all Taylor Swift fans! This is the castle from her Blank Space video!! Built in 1919 in the style of a French chateau, this mansion is straight out of a fairy tale. There are lots of different spaces to use for your wedding including the Grand Ballroom, Terraces, Formal Dinning Room, and four outdoor spaces.
14. Gillette Castle – East Haddam, Connecticut
Talk about balling on a budget—the Gillette Castle in East Haddam, Connecticut can be booked for outdoor ceremonies for $285! The 184-acre estate has a three-mile trail that loops around the grounds and a bunch of original oddities from when it was built as a home for the actor, William Hooker Gillette in 1919.
15. Hammond Castle Museum – Gloucester, MA
Like a real-life fairytale, Hammond Castle is a faithful replica of a medieval castle – complete with turrets and a drawbridge! This castle wedding venue is a true gem nestled on a gorgeous, manicured property overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
16. Biltmore Estate – Ashville, North Carolina
The Biltmore Estate is the former home of George Vanderbilt and is the largest privately-owned home in the United States. Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, this historic setting is a magnificent backdrop to host the fairytale wedding of your dreams. We love all the expansive lawns that are prepared to host your ceremony. Each of these spectacular venues offers lovely views of the epic Biltmore Mansion or the gorgeous lands beyond. You and your loved ones will feel like royalty as you celebrate your joyous wedding day together.
17. Castle Farms wedding venue – Michigan
Looking for a castle wedding venue in Michigan? Castle Farms is the perfect hidden gem. A gorgeous castle venue with stunning grounds, Castle Farms is in Northern Michigan – Charlevoix, Michigan to be exact. Visiting here seriously feels like stepping back in time – and they even have their own dragon on the grounds!
The Best Castle Wedding Venues in California
18. Hollywood Castle wedding venue – Los Angeles, California
Looking for something with an Old World sort of feeling in Los Angeles? The Hollywood Castle certainly fits the bill with its breathtaking views and unique stylings. It’s surrounded by gorgeous gardens and hidden away amongst the Hollywood Hills, yet it feels like a British castle! The outdoor reception space is a total fairytale dream!
19.Mission Inn Hotel and Spa – Riverside, California
With its breathtaking architecture and European charm, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa becomes a grand stage for weddings and other celebrations including wedding showers and rehearsal dinners. With two onsite chapels as well as numerous other options for your ceremony and reception, there is sure to be a spot perfect for your wedding day.
20. Kimberly Crest – Redlands, California
Who would’ve guessed that you can find a European-style castle in Southern California?! Kimberly Crest has over six acres of beautiful Italian-style gardens, the grounds include curved stairways, waterfalls, koi ponds, a rose garden, and terraces that are over a century old.
21. Thornewood Castle Wedding Venue – Lakewood, Washington
Thornewood Castle is a historic wedding venue with plenty of character to offer. Situated among four acres at American Lake, this destination comes with many charms, such as its old-growth fir trees and its Gothic Tudor style. Featuring sophisticated function rooms and neatly manicured gardens, the castle is sure to leave a lasting impression on all in attendance. A true fairy tale setting, this destination is perfect for those who love romantic ambiances.
Castles are gorgeous and amazing venues for photography. I would love to photograph a wedding at a castle in the future. Just remarkable venues!
Omg love the Scottish Castles! There are so many more!