Intimate Wedding Venues in Ulster

Ulster provides a stunning and historic backdrop for a small wedding. Choosing an intimate venue allows for a more personal experience, giving you quality time with every guest. Many venues specialise in smaller gatherings, offering tailored packages and dedicated service that larger venues can't match.

• Personal Touch: More budget for bespoke details.
• Flexibility: Easier to secure unique or non-traditional venues.
• Atmosphere: A warm, relaxed, and exclusive feel.

To marry legally in Ireland, you must give three months' notice to a Registrar, in person. This applies regardless of your nationality. You'll need to book an appointment and provide documents like passports and birth certificates.

Ceremony Options:

• Civil: Held at a Registry Office or an approved venue.
• Religious/Secular: Can take place almost anywhere with a registered solemniser.
• Humanist: A non-religious option popular for its personal focus.

The cost of an intimate wedding venue in Ulster can vary significantly. Exclusive-use hire for a small country house might range from €3,000 to €8,000 for the day. Boutique hotels and restaurants often work on a minimum spend basis, which can be more cost-effective for smaller guest lists.

Average Per-Person Package:

• Mid-Range: Expect to pay €80 - €150 per guest.
• Luxury: Prices can be €150+ per guest.

What packages typically include:

• Room hire for ceremony and reception.
• A set menu (e.g., 3-course meal).
• A drinks package (e.g., arrival drink, wine with meal, toast).
• Venue coordinator support.

Saving Tips for Small Weddings:

• Mid-week Dates: Venues often offer lower rates from Monday to Thursday.
• Off-Season: Consider dates between October and April for better value.

Spring (March-May): A beautiful time for an Ulster wedding, with blooming gardens and milder weather. It's perfect for intimate outdoor ceremonies in a country house garden or photos by a lough.

Summer (June-August): The warmest and most popular season. Long daylight hours are ideal for evening celebrations. Book venues with outdoor terraces or beautiful grounds well in advance.

Autumn (September-November): Offers stunning golden landscapes and a cosy atmosphere. Think roaring fires in a historic manor or a boutique hotel. This season provides a romantic, intimate setting.

Winter (December-February): The ultimate season for a cosy, candlelit celebration. Many intimate venues excel at creating a magical winter wonderland atmosphere, often with festive packages and discounted rates.

Ulster is well-connected, making it accessible for your guests. Belfast is the main hub, with two airports: Belfast International Airport (BFS) and George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD). City of Derry Airport (LDY) serves the northwest.

Transport Links:

• Rail: A reliable train network connects major towns.
• Road: The M1 and M2 motorways provide excellent access from Dublin and across the region.
• Car Hire: Widely available at all airports.

Many intimate wedding venues in Ulster offer on-site accommodation for a small number of guests, which is ideal for the wedding party and close family. This allows the celebration to continue over a full weekend.

For other guests, nearby towns and villages typically offer a range of options:

• Boutique hotels and guesthouses.
• Charming bed & breakfasts.
• Self-catering cottages for a more private stay.