Intimate Wedding Venues in County Kerry

Discover intimate wedding venues in Kerry, where the wild Atlantic coastline meets stunning landscapes. From charming country houses tucked away in rolling green hills to cosy coastal retreats, Co. Kerry offers a magical backdrop for a smaller, more personal celebration. The Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula provide breathtaking settings for your special day, promising unforgettable memories and incredible photographs with your closest guests.
Choosing a small wedding venue in Kerry allows for a uniquely warm atmosphere. These exclusive settings often provide bespoke packages for smaller guest lists, ensuring every detail is perfect. Imagine exchanging vows with views of dramatic cliffs or celebrating in a historic manor house, surrounded only by your nearest and dearest. The focus is on creating a meaningful experience in one of Ireland's most romantic counties.
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Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa

Killarney
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At Aghadoe Heights we understand that everyone’s special day is different and that is why we pride ourselves on creating truly bespoke weddings. Wedding couples can choose a venue in the hotel that will be just right for their special day.
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  • 140
  • 74 Bedrooms
  • From €165.00 pp
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Lansdowne Kenmare

Kenmare
Neidin is the Irish word for Kenmare and translates to Little Nest. A Little Nest is exactly what was envisaged in 1790 when The Lansdowne first opened its door.
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  • 28 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Killarney Park Hotel

Kenmare
The Killarney Park is an independent, family-owned five star hotel, devoted to our guests, to environmental sustainability, and to the local community we have loved all our lives.
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  • 120
  • Luxury ($$$)
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Park Hotel Kenmare

Kenmare
Long regarded as one of the world’s most revered and inspirational luxury hotels, Park Hotel Kenmare is set among established gardens which slope down to Kenmare Bay.
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  • 140
  • 46 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Milltown House Dingle

Dingle
Dingle is one of Ireland’s leading ‘Destination Wedding’ venues and Milltown House is the ideal location for bespoke and exclusive weddings catering for 20 – 40 guests.
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  • 40
  • 15 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Victoria

Killarney
The Victoria is a beautiful family run classic Contemporary 4 Star Boutique hotel set on the scenic Muckross Road of Killarney.
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  • 33 Bedrooms
  • Upon request
Everything you need to know about weddings in County Kerry

An intimate wedding in Kerry is all about atmosphere. The county, known as 'The Kingdom', offers a sense of escape and romance that's perfect for a smaller celebration. With fewer guests, you can focus on creating a deeply personal experience.

  • Exclusive Venues: Many of Kerry's most beautiful venues, from historic castles to boutique country houses, specialise in smaller weddings, offering exclusive use for you and your guests.
  • Stunning Backdrops: The dramatic scenery is a key feature. Imagine exchanging vows overlooking the Skellig Islands or celebrating in a cosy pub in Dingle.

The Legal Side

Getting married in Ireland involves a few key steps. You must be over 18 and give a minimum of three months' notice to a Registrar. This must be done in person, though arrangements can be made if you live abroad. You will need to provide documents like passports and birth certificates. Your ceremony must be performed by a legally registered solemniser to be valid.

A smaller guest list can give you more flexibility with your budget, allowing you to splurge on the details that matter most to you, such as gourmet food or unique entertainment.

Average Costs:

  • Venue Hire: For exclusive use of an intimate venue, expect to pay between €4,000 and €10,000.
  • Per Person Packages: Many venues offer packages for 20-60 guests, typically ranging from €120 to €200+ per person, including the meal, drinks, and service.

Saving Tips:

  • Off-Peak Perks: Consider a midweek or off-season (October-March) wedding. Venues often offer significant discounts during these times.
  • Local Suppliers: Kerry has a wealth of talented local suppliers, from florists to musicians. Using local talent can save on travel costs and supports the community.
  • All-Inclusive Packages: These can be very cost-effective for smaller weddings, bundling catering, drinks, and sometimes even accommodation.

Spring & Summer (April - August)

These months offer the best chance of mild weather and long, bright evenings. The Kerry landscape is lush and green, with wildflowers in bloom. It's the perfect time for outdoor ceremonies, garden receptions, and photoshoots against epic backdrops like the Gap of Dunloe or Rossbeigh Strand. Many smaller venues have beautiful gardens perfect for an intimate drinks reception.

Autumn & Winter (September - March)

Don't discount the cooler months. An autumn or winter wedding in Kerry can be incredibly romantic and atmospheric. Imagine a cosy ceremony in a historic manor with a roaring fireplace, followed by a candlelit dinner. The dramatic, moody skies can make for spectacular photos. Plus, you'll benefit from lower costs and better availability from venues and suppliers.

Getting to Kerry

Kerry is well-connected, making it accessible for travelling guests.

  • By Air: Kerry Airport (KIR) has connections to Dublin, London, and other European cities. Cork (ORK) and Shannon (SNN) airports are also within a 1.5-2 hour drive.
  • By Road: Renting a car is the best way to explore the county's stunning scenery. Major roads connect Kerry to cities like Dublin, Cork, and Limerick.

Where to Stay

Kerry offers a fantastic range of accommodation for smaller wedding parties.

  • Venue Accommodation: Many intimate venues offer a number of rooms on-site, perfect for the immediate family and wedding party.
  • Boutique Hotels & B&Bs: Towns like Killarney, Dingle, and Kenmare are filled with charming guesthouses and hotels.
  • Group Rentals: Consider renting a large self-catering house or a collection of cottages for your guests to stay together.
FAQ's

What makes Kerry ideal for a small or intimate wedding?

Kerry's dramatic landscapes, from the Ring of Kerry to the Dingle Peninsula, provide a stunningly romantic backdrop that feels personal and exclusive. The county is rich with charming country houses, boutique hotels, and unique retreats that specialise in creating bespoke experiences for smaller guest lists, ensuring a truly intimate atmosphere.

What is the average cost of an intimate wedding venue in Kerry?

While costs vary, smaller weddings can be more budget-friendly. Venue hire for an intimate celebration in Kerry might range from €3,000 to €8,000. Many venues offer all-inclusive packages for smaller guest numbers (e.g., 20-50 guests), often costing between €100 and €180 per person.

Are there unique photo opportunities for a small wedding in Kerry?

Absolutely. With a smaller wedding party, you have more flexibility to travel to iconic locations for photos. Imagine portraits at the Gap of Dunloe, on the shores of Killarney's lakes, or against the rugged cliffs of Slea Head Drive. The intimate scale allows for more adventurous and personal photography sessions.

Do I need a wedding planner for a small wedding in Kerry?

While not essential, a local wedding planner can be invaluable. They have strong relationships with the best local suppliers suited for intimate events and can manage logistics, which is especially helpful if you're planning from afar. For a smaller wedding, even a day-of coordinator can help everything run smoothly.

What's the legal process for getting married in Kerry, Ireland?

To legally marry in Ireland, you must give three months' notification in person to a registrar. If you live abroad, you can notify them by post and must meet the registrar at least five days before your wedding. You'll need documents like passports, birth certificates, and proof of address. All ceremonies must be performed by a registered solemniser.

What are the best months to host an intimate wedding in Kerry?

May, June, and September are popular for their milder weather and long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor photos. However, the autumn and winter months can be incredibly romantic for a cosy, intimate wedding. Imagine a fireside reception in a historic manor—the dramatic Kerry weather simply adds to the atmosphere.