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.
Mount Druid
This wedding venue does alternative so well! From the really cool Tin Chapel, to the Boathouse and the Barn, your guests can experience so many different and quirky spaces throughout the day. The grounds are set across 100 acres and this venue will be completely exclusive for you and your guests. So laid back, relaxed, quirky, and Fun with a capital ‘F’. It is a truly unique Alternative Wedding Venue in Ireland.
- Max Capacity: 220 guests
- Location: Co. Westmeath
- Accommodation: 136 guests across their yurts, houses, huts and more!
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 skeptical 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 a 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
Being from Cork, I had to include 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
The Village Barn
Photo by Deirdre Brennan Weddings. Styling by me.
If you are reading this blog post, then you are definitely looking to do something different for your Wedding Day. The Village Barn is just that! It is a super rustic wedding venue that is done well. No airs and graces here, your guests can really relax and have a fun filled day. Lots of quirky added extra’s like The Orangery for the drinks reception and The Sanctuary for the ceremony. The gardens are so well maintained, it was truly stunning during the summer.
- Max Capacity: 180 guests
- Location: Tyrellspass, Co. Westmeath
- Accommodation: None onsite but they do have closeby Cottages and Houses with whom they work.