More and more I am finding that couples coming to me are looking to do something different when it comes to their Wedding Venue. They want guests to have a unique experience and really want to focus on the celebration that is their wedding day. This of course is what gets me excited and I have absolutely loved visiting so many different wedding venues in Ireland and seeing what they have to offer so that I can find the perfect venue for my couple.
Let me share my top 5 Alternative Wedding Venues with you. These are in no particular order because I feel that each one has its own uniqueness and they are all so different from each other.
Important to note… I have included the max capacity at each of these alternative wedding venues in ireland, however each venue also caters for smaller more intimate celebrations.
AnnaCarriga Estate
Photo by Mrs Redhead Photography
Located outside the beautiful village of Killaloe, AnnaCarriga is that venue you have always dreamed of, that literally could not be closer to the water’s edge. And that is what makes this place magical. Your guests can hear the small waves delicately splash off the shore as your ceremony takes place and then everyone can move over to the glass pavilion to dance the night away. Guests stay at the self-catering cottages onsite and can enjoy the fabulous food at the BoatHouse, and a leisurely stroll around beautiful Killaloe village.
- Max Capacity: 300 guests
- Location: Killaloe, Co. Clare
- Accommodation: A number of 3 and 4 bed cottages onsite
Coolbawn Quay
Photo by Katie Kavanagh Wedding Photographer
Did you ever dream of taking over an entire village for your wedding weekend? Maybe not because you didn’t know it could happen, but it can. And, Coolbawn Quay is that venue. This is the most picturesque lakeside village and it is completely private. It really reminded me of a traditional old Irish village, finished to the highest quality. The Lakeshore Pavillion at Coolbawn Quay is such a stunning wedding venue and for day two there are so many options for how you can celebrate with your closest friends and family. Walking around Coolbawn Quay there are certainly many surprises and elegant quirks.
- Max Capacity: 220 guests
- Location: Lough Derg, Co, Tipperary
- Accommodation: 120 guests, lots of nearby options
Cloughjordan House
Photo by Pawel Bebenca Wedding Photographer
Here is a place that knows how to do excellent food, and really stay on trend. I am amazed at how they have turned this venue into something so trendy that I feel they have thought of everything. From the blush linens, to the lighting overhead and the trendy Crossback chairs, I simply fell in love with the marquee. A bit sceptical about the glamping at first, I left impressed! This is luxury glamping and the facilities are very well thought out. A Laid back, relaxed feeling is the aim of Cloughjordan House, and they don’t compromise on anything to ensure your weekend is as laid back as you want it to be.
- Max Capacity: 180 guests
- Location: Cloughjordan, North Tipperary
- Accommodation: 85 guests, lots of nearby options
Gloster House & Gardens
Photo by Rita Slattery Photography
This is a real hidden gem, one that I was not prepared for. I knew Gloster House was special, but being there is very different to simply looking at photos. If you are looking for a luxury yet relaxed, elegant affair, this venue is a must see. Every door that opened had something very special hidden behind and Tom and Mary with their son Nigel continue to add valuable little extras to this real hidden Irish gem. I better not forget to mention the peacocks that roam freely around the gardens looking absolutely stunning, that really complement the look. If this is on your list of venues to see, move it to the top. Your guests will certainly be impressed; this is a unique find. When you book the house for your wedding day, it is completely private for you and your guests. You also get to choose your own caterer which means you can select your own style of affair for your guests to enjoy.
- Location: Birr, Co. Offaly
- Max Capacity: 180 guests
- Accommodation: 18 guests, lots of nearby options
Ballymaloe Country House
Photo by Sosac Photography
I wanted to end with a Cork venue, and Ballymaloe is one of my longstanding favourites. This is not just about the Wedding Venue, it is about the grounds, the Country House and everything within. Ballymaloe is located in beautiful East Cork, and there is so much to do onsite. What struck me most about my last visit to Ballymaloe is how the Allen family always get it right. Hard work is at the core of everything that happens here, and the homely feel you get when you arrive onsite is something unique and always present. The Grainstore is a wedding venue like no other and there are so many versatile options for your day. Each Wedding can be different and only your imagination will hold you back.
- Max Capacity: 250 guests
- Location: East Cork
- Accommodation: 30 Double Bedrooms, Cottages also onsite
I hope you enjoyed reading about my top 5 alternative wedding venues in Ireland and these options will help you find your perfect Wedding Venue. If you would like some assistance with the search, or have any questions about these venues, please contact me today and we can set up a consultation. If you feel you want to do something different for your Wedding Day… Do it. Do something unique and memorable.
Here is a snapshot of the services that I offer.