Home of the scenic Peak District, and shouldering iconic cities like Manchester, Sheffield, and Nottingham, Derbyshire is the hidden gem of the East Midlands. With stunning views, quaint villages, and a rich history, it’s the perfect wedding setting for a country lass, city-loving lad, or anyone who wants a mix of both.
In fact, our 2025 Wedding Report showed that 9% of all couples chose to get married in the East Midlands, and 83% of those that live in the East Midlands choose to get married there. With such natural beauty right on their doorstep, who can blame them?
The beauty of Derbyshire comes in its mix of rugged landscapes and fabulous country houses. Whatever your vibe, there’s a venue to match. Whether it’s a grand stately home dripping in history, a charming barn with fairy lights and rustic charm, or a wild, windswept ceremony spot in the heart of the Peaks (for those who fancy a bit of adventure!), you’re sure to find “the one” for you.
Another benefit of getting married in Derbyshire is that it’s one of the cheapest places to get married in the UK! With the average wedding now costing £16,788, you get all the dreamy backdrops, gorgeous venues, and top-tier suppliers—without the price tag of, say, London or the Cotswolds.
So, if your focus is beautiful but affordable, Derbyshire could be the place for you. Read on to learn a little more about travel and accommodation, popular wedding venues, and the most popular themes for this picturesque wedding location.
Derbyshire weddings are all about the country vibes. The rolling green hills, abundance of trees, and charming villages make it the perfect setting for rustic, nature-inspired weddings. Whether you’re looking for a full-blown country affair with Landrovers and Wellingtons, or you’d prefer something a little more subtle, there are themes and trends for every style.
Beyond soaking in the breathtaking countryside setting, incorporating farm animals is a definite trend for weddings in Derbyshire. Think on-site goats and alpacas that you and your guests can interact with for a bit of added fun and charm. Perfect for couples and guests who love animals or want to add some quirky photo opportunities to their big day!
Boho chic is also all the rage in Derbyshire, and about embracing laid-back elegance and natural beauty. Think flowing dresses, floral crowns, and earthy tones, all set against the backdrop of the countryside. This style pairs perfectly with the region’s rustic charm, offering a lovely blend of elegance and rustic charm.
Whatever your style and priorities, Derbyshire is home to a range of venues that will suit every budget and theme. Take The Fishpond, for example. Set on the edge of the river Derwent and nestled in the heart of Matlock Bath, this quirky venue offers a relaxed yet stylish setting for your big day. With exposed brick walls, a private bar, and a stunning outdoor terrace, it’s perfect for couples looking for a laid-back, intimate celebration. On the other hand, if you’re looking for all-out luxury, there are options like Callow Hall Wildhive and Upper House in Derbyshire, which offer a range of packages to suit a higher price point.
For stunning farm views across the Peak District, consider Lower Damgate Farm Weddings and Cottages. With an on-site pond, charming rustic buildings, and farm animals you can interact with, you can live your rural, country-bumpkin dream. If you prefer something more editorial, you can’t go wrong with the Riverside Glasshouse. This sleek, modern venue offers floor-to-ceiling windows and unmatched views of the Derbyshire countryside. Plus, with a wedding coordinator available on-site, you can relax knowing every detail is taken care of. For something in between, a refurbished barn like Stretton Manor Barn, set in 22 acres of Derbyshire countryside, offers the best of both worlds. With exclusive use of the venue and a capacity of up to 140, there’s no need to compromise on your guest list or your vision!
Overall, couples getting married in Derbyshire are paying an average of £16,788 for their big day. This is almost 20% less than the UK average of £20,822 and way below the London average of £28,629. Derbyshire weddings tend to come in a little cheaper due to the lower cost of living within this area, as well as the beauty of its rural venues, which don’t require too much additional decoration. Derbyshire wedding venues specifically come in at £4,319 on average, which is the cheapest average cost for wedding venues in the UK.
Of course, these prices are just indicative, and you can spend whatever you think is reasonable on your special day. We have a report of one couple spending £60,000 on their Derbyshire wedding! On the other hand, some couples get away with spending as little as £5,000. At the end of the day, it’s about who’s around the table, not how much you spend on it.
Rural weddings tend to need a slightly longer lead time because of all the logistical considerations—think marquee hire, transport for guests, and even accommodation if you're opting for a countryside retreat. In Derbyshire, popular venues can book up fast, especially during peak wedding season (May to September), so it’s best to start your search early.
For high-demand venues like The West Mill or Grangefields, couples often book 18 to 24 months in advance, particularly for prime summer weekends. If you're set on a specific date or a sought-after location, it's worth securing your venue as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
For more flexible or off-peak weddings—such as weekday celebrations, winter weddings, or intimate gatherings—you might only need 6 to 12 months' notice. Some venues even offer last-minute availability or discounted rates for short-notice bookings, making it a great option for couples who don’t want a long engagement.
If you're dreaming of a unique, DIY wedding at a blank-canvas venue (like a marquee, barn, or private estate), consider that suppliers, catering, and decor all require extra coordination. Allow at least 12 to 18 months to ensure everything comes together seamlessly.
Derbyshire is no stranger to the Great British weather. Although the temperature will go up and down with the changing seasons, you should always be prepared for rain at the drop of a hat and probably a bit of wind too! But then, that’s all part of the charm, right?
Spring (March-May) weddings are one of the most popular choices in Derbyshire, and it’s easy to see why. The countryside bursts into life with fresh greenery, blooming wildflowers, and (if you’re lucky) plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect time for a romantic garden wedding or a countryside manor affair, with cherry blossoms and daffodils providing a dreamy backdrop. Just keep a few umbrellas handy—April showers are no joke! You can expect temperatures of between 10°C in March to 15°C in May. So, while it’s certainly on the cooler side, it’s nothing a shawl or jacket won’t fix!
Summer (June-August) weddings offer the warmest weather, the brightest evenings, and the least chance of rain. But, don’t make the mistake of forgetting a plan B! There’s always the chance of a summer storm. With temperatures ranging from 18-20°C, venues like The Shottle Hall Estate in Belper are perfect for those long, golden evenings where you can sip cocktails on the lawn and dance under the stars. But, with gorgeous indoor spaces too, you’re covered if the weather decides to take a turn. Alternatively, consider somewhere like the Knockerdown Wedding Village in Ashbourne. With a range of options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed, festival-feel wedding, whatever the weather.
Autumn (September-November) weddings are perfect if you love the tones of autumn and want to show everyone what beautiful Derbyshire has to offer. Imagine getting married against a backdrop of colourful leaves in the crisp autumn air—stunning! Consider a venue like the romantic Hargate Hall in Buxton. Surrounded by foliage, it’s the perfect spot for capturing the rich autumnal colours in your photos, while also offering a cosy, intimate indoor space for your reception. The temperatures range from a comfortable 18°C in September to a crisp 10°C in November, which makes it ideal for layering up and enjoying the fresh air while still staying warm.
Winter (December-February) weddings understandably have the chilliest temperatures, ranging from 7°C in December to a chilly 5°C in February! Nevertheless, venues like Losehill House Hotel & Spa and Carr Bank Wedding Venue in Mansfield will help you create a cosy, intimate atmosphere. These venues offer a great range of spaces, allowing you to bundle up when it feels right, or venture outside for some stunning photographs. Plus, with the chance of a light dusting of snow, your wedding photos could be extra magical amidst the stunning winter wonderland of the Derbyshire landscape.
With great links to nearby cities, Derbyshire is a relative hop, skip, and a jump away for most people. Airports like Manchester International Airport (MCR), East Midland Airport (EMA), and Birmingham Airport (BHX) make it super easy for guests to travel in from all over the UK and beyond.
What’s more, major cities of Manchester, Nottingham, and Sheffield are all within an hour's drive, making it ideal for those who want to explore a bit of the city while enjoying the peace and tranquility of the countryside. All these cities benefit from an active and expansive network of trains, trams, and buses, as well great options for car rentals. However you prefer to travel, you’ll find that getting around in Derbyshire is a breeze.
If your guests want to make a holiday of their trip, there are a ton of hotel options to help them extend their trip. You can find budget options like Travel Lodge or Premier Inn in towns and cities, or explore more upmarket options that double as wedding venues, like The Cavendish Hotel, Bleaklow Farm or Stancliffe Hall. You can also find a range of quaint Air B&Bs and charming country cottages perfect for those who want a little more privacy and character.
