Throwing an intimate wedding in Northern Ireland doesn’t necessarily mean a small wedding. Instead, an intimate wedding in Northern Ireland is all about meaningful moments, personal touches, and celebrating with the people who matter most. The venue may be on the smaller side, but it’s more about who’s around the table, rather than the size of it.
And, there couldn't be anywhere more beautiful to get married than Northern Ireland. The rugged coastline, beautiful countryside, and warm, welcoming spirit make it a dream location for couples who want a celebration that’s both personal and breathtaking. With a ton of intimate venues that suit every aesthetic, Northern Ireland offers endless possibilities for a unique wedding day. It’s not just about the setting—it’s about the feeling. And here, every moment is made even more special by the beauty that surrounds you.
The best part? The cost. Weddings in Northern Ireland cost an average of £18,300. That’s over £2,500 less than the UK average of £20,822, leaving lots left over to spend on music, dinner, and dancing. You can treat your guests to a locally-sourced feast, hire that live band you’ve always dreamed of, or even stretch the celebrations across an entire weekend. Focus your budget on what feels right for you!
Looking for the perfect intimate wedding venue in Northern Ireland? Keep reading for some of our top picks.
With a maximum headcount of 130 guests, but ideal for intimate weddings with smaller guest numbers, Orange Tree House, set on the shores of Strangford Lough is a beautiful venue. With a stunning sea view, landscaped gardens, and a church within walking distance, it’s the perfect spot for couples looking to throw a laid-back, beachy wedding. Plus, it offers full disabled access and even has a bridal changing suite for brides who want to change into a reception dress.
If you’re looking for something slightly more traditional, Tullyglass House Hotel in Ballymena is a stunning, family-owned venue that prides itself on going the extra mile for you. With packages starting from £50 a head, this beautiful hotel is known for its abundance of windows that let in a ton of natural light. With conservatories, high ceilings, and beautifully manicured gardens, it’s ideal for couples who want a timeless, elegant feel without sacrificing warmth or personality. It’s also a great option for winter weddings, with its cosy interiors and grand, romantic atmosphere.
If you’re planning something on the smaller side, Runaway Irish Weddings is a beautiful and unusual intimate wedding venue located in Downpatrick. This gorgeous summer house comes complete with fairy pools, a Moroccan style courtyard, and two acres of country garden and woodland. It’s the perfect spot for a quirky couple who want a relaxed, whimsical wedding with tons of character. Specialising in elopements and micro weddings, Runaway Irish Weddings is all about creating a magical, stress-free experience with just your closest people around you. Packages are completely tailored to suit your needs.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one venue where you can celebrate and sleep, check out Ashbrooke House in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. With prices starting at £50 a head, Ashbrooke House can accommodate up to 50 day guests and 26 spaces for them to rest their heads. It’s perfect for couples who want an intimate country house wedding with all the comforts of home—just a lot fancier.
When it comes to cost, most intimate wedding venues in Northern Ireland fall between £2,500 and £6,000 for venue hire, with catering packages starting around £45–£60 per guest. The average Northern Ireland wedding venue costs £5,055 according to our 2025 Wedding Data Analysis, nearly £900 less than the UK average of £5,945.
Smaller and intimate wedding venues in Northern Ireland tend to not need as long a lead time as larger venues, especially if you're planning a weekday or off-season celebration. They often have more flexibility in terms of availability, and may not need to accommodate as many logistical or guest-related arrangements as larger venues. On average, couples book these venues around 12 months in advance, but it’s not uncommon to find a venue with availability with as little as 6 months notice. While we don’t recommend leaving things this late, it can work out perfectly if you’re flexible on your date or open to a midweek wedding.
That being said, booking earlier is always a good idea, especially for the most popular intimate wedding venues in the peak summer months. It means you can enjoy the process, secure your first-choice venue, and have your pick of the best suppliers.
Traditional Celtic touches are a beautiful way to honour Northern Ireland’s rich heritage while adding depth and meaning to your big day. Think handfasting ceremonies, Irish folk music, Claddagh ring symbolism, and locally foraged greenery woven into your decor. It’s a beautiful and understated way to honour your heritage while still keeping the wedding looking modern. This style pairs beautifully with the ever-trendy boho chic.
Micro weddings are also super popular in Northern Ireland. People are doing away with the maximalism of big, traditional weddings and opting for more intimate celebrations with just their closest family and friends. This trend embraces simplicity and personal connections, allowing couples to focus on the details that truly matter to them.
