The bustling province of Leinster is home to major Irish cities like Dublin, Kilkenny, Wicklow, and Drogheda, making it an exciting and dynamic place for your big day. Of course, if you'd prefer something a little more laid- back, there are also plenty of options. But, that's the beauty of Leinster—it’s got a bit of everything.
Want a lively city celebration with rooftop views and buzzing nightlife? Dublin’s got you covered. Dreaming of a cosy countryside ceremony with rolling green hills and charming stone cottages? Head out to Wicklow or Meath and you’ll find the perfect spot. Whatever the vibe, you’re bound to find a place that feels just right. And that’s before we start talking about the diversity of the landscape. From windswept beaches in Wexford to forested hideaways in Laois, and even grand manors tucked into the hills of Kilkenny, the range of settings in Leinster is incredible.
Plus, the average Irish wedding is £2,500 (approximately €2,900) cheaper than the average UK wedding. The average Irish wedding comes in at £18,300 (approximately €21,600), while the average UK wedding is £20,822 (approximately €24,000). That saving means there’s more room in the budget for the fun stuff. Think a live band, extra nibbles for the late-night crowd, or even a few days of post-wedding R&R somewhere scenic.
Micro weddings are a huge trend in Leinster right now. Major cities like Dublin have popularised the registry office weddings with short dresses, designer sunnies, and chic city-centre photo shoots that feel effortlessly cool. These smaller celebrations often move on to stylish restaurants or boutique venues for intimate dinners and cocktails. It’s modern, chic, and full of personality.
Outdoor and garden party weddings are another huge trend in Leinster. Although there isn’t always the weather for it, couples are leaning into the romantic charm of al fresco ceremonies and open-air receptions. Venues are getting creative too, offering marquees, tipis, and even heated outdoor spaces so you can keep the vibe going, rain or shine.
Looking for your dream Leinster venue? Check out the list below. We’ve rounded up our 6 favourite Leinster wedding venues to help get you started.
If a big white wedding isn’t really your style, The Village Barn near Tyrrellspass is a fab alternative. This unique and quirky venue is completely customisable to suit your personal style, meaning it’s perfect for couples with a specific vision. You can choose to have your venue in a private chapel, an orangery, in the gardens, or even in their beautifully restored barn, complete with fairy lights and vintage touches. Plus, with over 25 years’ combined wedding experience and prices starting at €72 a head, it’s the perfect balance of experience and affordability.
Those envisioning something more classic may want to consider Boyne Hill House Estate. This elegant manor house is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and offers a unique range of indoor spaces. Whether you’re planning something intimate or extravagant, there’s something for everyone at Boyne Hill House. Plus, the exclusive-use setup means you and your guests can really settle in and make the place your own for the day (or the whole weekend!).
If money is no object, consider Virginia Park Lodge in Cavan. This gorgeous stately home is straight out of a Bridgerton episode. With full permission to live your regency dreams, you can swan around manicured gardens, dine under chandeliers, and say your vows in seriously swoon-worthy surroundings. What’s more, it’s owned by Michelin-starred chef Richard Corrigan, so the food is top-tier. It’s definitely one for couples who want luxury, drama, and a little bit of old-world romance.
Those looking for a venue that specialises in inclusion need look no further than Leinster. Ireland loves love and, in 2015, 62% of constituents voted “yes” to legalising gay marriage. Now, Ireland is a hotspot for weddings of all kinds, proudly welcoming couples from every background and walk of life. Venues like Hen’s Teeth, The Glenside, and The Grayson all specialise in LGBTQ+ weddings with style and heart. Skilled in making you feel special and celebrated, it’s the perfect place for couples who want a day as unique as they are.
The beauty of Leinster is that there’s something to suit every budget. Prices start from €500 for venue hire alone, making it one of the cheapest places to get married in Ireland. Some venues prefer to charge per person for their packages, and these prices tend to start from €47. If you’re on a strict budget, it’s best to discuss this with your venue upfront.
Whether it’s trimming back on extras or suggesting clever ways to make your money go further, most places are more than happy to tailor things to suit your needs. They might even pull a couple of special deals out of the bag if you choose to get married in a shoulder season or midweek, so stay flexible and don’t be afraid to ask!
You can usually get away with a slightly shorter lead time for venues in Leinster. Although 18 months is ideal, you can get away with booking up to 12 months in advance—especially if you're flexible with your date, day of the week, or time of year. Midweek weddings and off-peak seasons (like late autumn or winter) often have more availability and can come with added perks or lower prices.
That said, if you’ve got your heart set on a popular venue or a prime summer weekend, it’s best to get in early to avoid disappointment. Some of the most in-demand spots can book out two years in advance! So, while there is a little more wiggle room, there’s still no harm in getting organised.
Although Ireland is a truly beautiful country, it isn’t renowned for its sunshine, and getting married in Leinster means you shouldn't a little drizzle on your big day. It’s nothing to worry about—in fact, it’s all part of the charm. But, it does mean being prepared is key. Many venues in Leinster are well set up for unpredictable weather, offering gorgeous indoor ceremony options that you can convert to at the drop of a hat.
Spring (March-May) brings blue skies, blooming flowers, and sometimes a little drizzle. With temperatures between 4°C and 15°C, you’ll want to have a few cosy layers on standby. But don’t let the cooler temperatures put you off—spring weddings in Leinster are full of beauty and charm. It’s the perfect time to start your new chapter as a married couple. After all, spring is all about new beginnings!
Summer (June-August) is the most popular time for weddings in Leinster, and it’s easy to see why. With temperatures between 14 and 18°C, the blue skies and long days mean you can make the most of every minute. However, that also means it’s the most expensive, and you’ll need to book well in advance to secure your dream venue and suppliers. Get in early to avoid disappointment!
Autumn (September-November) means temperatures of between 6°C and 13°C. It’s still a popular time of year for weddings, promising colourful trees, long golden hours, and just enough warmth in the air for an outdoor ceremony. But, you’ll want to have a solid Plan B in place just in case the weather turns. It’s also a great time to snag deals from venues winding down after the busy summer season.
Winter (December-February) in Leinster means temperatures can dip as low as 2°C. It’s definitely chilly, so an outdoor ceremony will unfortunately be off the table unless the venue has some seriously strong outdoor heaters. Having said that, winter is typically the most affordable time to tie the knot, with venues offering off-peak rates and more availability. If you’re dreaming of a festive feel or a New Year’s Eve celebration with a bit of sparkle, winter in Leinster might just be your perfect match.
Pro tip: If you’re keen to avoid the rain, there are a few superstitions you can follow that are said to prevent it. The first is buying an umbrella the day before your wedding, which is said to tempt fate just enough to keep the rain away. Another old favourite? Leaving a shot of Irish whiskey out in the garden for the Leprechauns. It’s said that they’ll shorten any rain spells and bring about a rainbow if you leave a drink out for them. It might sound crazy, but plenty of Irish couples swear by it. And, if you really want to cover all your bases, some say burying a cooked sausage in the garden the night before the wedding can bring good weather and good luck!
Leinster’s close proximity to Dublin makes it surprisingly easy to get around, in spite of its geographical size.
Getting into Dublin is a breeze. There are regular, daily ferries from Holyhead, Pembroke, and Birkenhead which are perfect for those coming from the UK. Those coming from further afield can take advantage of Dublin City Airport’s (DUB) excellent international connections, with direct flights from major cities across Europe, the US, and beyond. Once you’ve landed, getting out to the rest of Leinster is quick and simple thanks to solid road networks, regular trains, and plenty of car hire options.
Driving around Leinster is also pretty easy. Roads like the M50, M1, and M7 make getting around a breeze, and you can easily get from one end to the other in about an hour and a half. If you’d rather not drive, Irish Rail and Bus Éireann offer regular services to most towns and cities across Leinster, making public transport a doddle for those without cars.
If guests need a place to rest their head, there are a ton of options for hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, and self-catering stays dotted all across the province. What’s more, a bunch of wedding venues double up as hotels, meaning guests can roll off the dancefloor and into their beds after a night of celebrations. Consider spots like The Heritage or Castleknock Hotel for a great mix of comfort and convenience.
