With wild Atlantic views, towering cliffs, and more history than you’ll know what to do with, County Clare is West Ireland’s crown jewel. It’s the kind of place where the locals are ultra friendly, the scenery does half the decorating for you, and the weather—well, it’s a little unpredictable, but that’s half the charm, right?
The beauty of the rugged environment makes it a wedding backdrop like no other. From charming coastal villages like Doolin and Lahinch to historic spots like Bunratty or the Burren, you’ll find all sorts of settings that feel utterly magical without being over-the-top. Whether you’re dreaming of a clifftop elopement, a classic hotel wedding, or a good old-fashioned pub knees-up, you’re sure to find something that fits the bill.
All this at a fraction of the cost of a UK wedding! The average Irish wedding is some £2,500 (approximately €2,900) cheaper than the average UK wedding, coming in at £18,300 (approximately €21,600). The average UK wedding is £20,822 (approximately €24,000), meaning you can say “I do” with all the magic and a bit more money left over for the honeymoon (or the open bar everyone secretly hopes for).
County Clare’s westernmost location means its traditions and connections to nature run deep. Its sheer distance from the UK means it has a really strong connection to its Irish heritage and lore. As a result, handfasting, Claddagh rings, and Celtic blessings are all popular touches that couples are weaving into their ceremonies. It’s not just for show either—there’s a genuine love for the old traditions here, and they bring a real sense of meaning and heritage to the day.
You’ll also find weddings that blend the ancient and the modern. Try blending a barefoot walk down the aisle with a harpist playing in the background, followed by a knees-up with a traditional band in a cosy local pub. Or, couples saying their vows on the cliffs, then heading back to a beautifully restored barn lit with fairy lights and filled with wildflowers.
Of the same token, micro weddings with an authentic feel are popular in County Clare. Picture a chic registry office wedding followed by a delicious gastropub dinner with your nearest and dearest. It’s cheap, cheerful, and uber-trendy.
County Clare is packed with beautiful wedding venues. Whether you’re looking for a classic stately home, a low-key pub, or fancy mixing it up with a ruined castle, there’s something for everyone in this Munster county.
If you fancy something traditional, Hotel Doolin is the place for you. With prices starting at €119 per head, it offers a gorgeous mix of charm and comfort, just a stone’s throw from the Cliffs of Moher. It’s Ireland’s first certified carbon-neutral hotel too, so it’s a fab choice if you're eco-conscious but still want the full wedding experience.
On the other hand, if you want a showstopper, Dromoland Castle is the space for you. Prices start at €158 per head, so it’s definitely on the pricier side. But, for the sheer perfection that is a castle wedding, it’s hard to beat. Plus, with an on-site spa and an in-house wedding coordinator, it’s an absolute dream from start to finish. You can get ready in luxury, sneak off for a pre-ceremony massage, and rest easy knowing everything’s taken care of.
If quirky and unusual are top of the list, check out The Temple Gate Hotel in Miltown Malbay. Set on the site of a former convent, it has a real sense of history, with cosy interiors and a warm, welcoming vibe. Prices are generally more affordable too, making it the perfect choice if you’re after something a bit different without wanting to blow the budget.
Our favourite thing about Ireland is that, just like Bridebook, it loves love! In 2015, 62% of Irish voters said “yes!” to legalising gay marriage. As a result, there are a whole host of LGBTQ+ friendly venues. Sports like The Inn At Dromoland, Lady Gregory Hotel, or Lahinch Coast Hotel and Suites are known for their warm welcomes and inclusive approach, making sure every couple feels celebrated and supported from the get-go. These venues are great value for money, too. You can usually find packages for between €100 and €120 per head. But, you may find them even cheaper than this if you opt for a mid-week or off-season wedding.
Venue hire in County Clare can start at around €2,750 and go right up to €20,000 if you’re going all in with all the bells and whistles. Lots of venues also offer per-person packages, usually ranging from €45 to €150 a head, depending on what’s included (think food, drinks, decor, and extras). And of course, the smaller your guest list, the more manageable the costs, which is great news if you’re keeping things intimate or working with a tighter budget. Don’t be afraid to ask about off-peak pricing or opt for a mid-week wedding. You’ll be shocked at the price reduction, and it could mean you get your dream venue at a fraction of the price!
County Clare’s rural location means you may need a slightly longer than average lead time. We recommend anywhere between 12 to 18 months in advance to secure your dream venue, especially if you’ve got your heart set on a popular spot like Hotel Doolin or Dromoland Castle.
Summer weekends and bank holiday dates tend to book up fastest, so it’s worth getting in early if you’re aiming for peak season. That said, if you're flexible with your date (think midweek or off-season), you might be surprised at what’s still available.
As always, the earlier you start the search, the more choice you'll have, and the less stress you'll feel down the line. So, have a nose around and get the ball rolling. If you’re super flexible with dates, don’t be afraid to ask venues what dates they’ve got coming up. You never know what hidden gem you might uncover or what bargain you might nab!
Getting married in County Clare means embracing the rugged beauty of the west coast—weather and all! It’s no secret that the Irish climate can be a bit unpredictable, but that’s part of the charm. One minute it’s bright sunshine, the next it’s bracing Atlantic breezes. But, overcast weather and windy skies make for some of the most atmospheric, cinematic wedding photos you’ll ever see. Don’t knock it until you’ve seen it!
Spring (March-May) brings temperatures of between 4°C and 15°C in County Clare, meaning it’s cool without being chilly. An outdoor wedding is definitely on the cards if that’s something you’re passionate about. But, be sure to have a backup plan, because those April showers move in quickly on the Atlantic wind, and you wouldn’t want to be caught short.
Summer (June-August) is the most popular wedding season, with temperatures averaging between 14°C and 18°C. The temperate weather and wide open blue skies mean you’ve got the best chance of catching that perfect golden hour glow. Plus, the longer evenings are ideal for al fresco drinks receptions, garden games, or even a beach stroll before the dancing kicks off. Just bear in mind that venues tend to book up fast during these months, so get in early if you're eyeing a summer date.
Autumn (September-November) brings gorgeous golden light, fewer crowds, and a crisp freshness to the air. With average temperatures between 6°C and 13°C, it’s still mild enough for outdoor photos without the chill that winter brings. Lean into the season with jewel tone bridesmaid dresses, natural decor, and warming cocktail hour drinks. Mulled wine, anyone?
Winter (December-February) is true off-season, meaning more venue options and cheaper pricing. Temperatures range between 6°C and 10°C, so an outdoor wedding is likely off the table. However, you can still snap some frosty outdoor photos or bundle up for a windswept cliffside moment if you're feeling brave!
Getting around County Clare can be a little tricky. But, with proper planning and some help from Google Maps, it’s totally manageable.
Most guests fly into Shannon Airport (SNN), which is just a short drive from popular spots like Ennis, Lahinch, and Doolin. From there, it’s all country roads and coastal drives, so hiring a car is definitely the easiest (and most scenic) way to get around.
There is some public transport, but it’s irregular and won’t always get you where you need to be—especially if you’re heading out to more rural or coastal venues. So if you're planning a wedding in one of the more tucked-away spots, it’s a good idea to arrange group transport, like a minibus, or suggest your guests opt for car hire too.
Accommodation-wise, County Clare has heaps to offer. Whether you fancy a stylish hotel, cosy Airbnb, self-catering cottage, or even a quirky glamping spot, County Clare has your back. Popular areas like Doolin, Lahinch, and Spanish Point book up quickly in the summer months. If possible, try asking for a block-booking of rooms to host the wedding party and your family. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way in making them feel comfortable.
Some weddings venues also offer hotel provisions, meaning guests can dance the night away before stumbling up to their room. Check out spots like Hotel Doolin or Carrygerry Country House for that block-booking of rooms and the added bonus of keeping everyone in one place. No taxis, no late-night logistics, just good vibes and a short walk to bed.
