Stunning Wedding Venues Close to Dublin (and a Few a Little Further!)

Picture-Perfect: Stunning Wedding Venues Less Than an Hour from Dublin

(Insert a captivating image of a beautiful wedding venue near Dublin – perhaps an iconic shot of a couple with Dublin city in the background)

Choosing the perfect backdrop for your wedding day is a big decision! As a Dublin wedding photographer, I’ve enjoyed capturing love stories in some truly incredible locations. If you’re dreaming of a celebration close to the city that offers a unique atmosphere, you’re in for a treat. Wedding Photography is my passion, and I would love to share some sample photos with you!

Wedding Venues Close to Dublin – A Wedding Photographer’s Guide

Here’s a guide to some of my favorite wedding venues, with approximate travel times from Dublin city centre:

Grand and Historic Venues close to Dublin:

• Luttrellstown Castle (Clonsilla, ~20 mins): This majestic castle is like something out of a fairytale, with stunning architecture, manicured gardens, and a breathtaking ballroom. I especially love the grand staircase, the ornate details, and the way the light streams through the windows.
• Killruddery House and Gardens (Wicklow, ~45 mins):
  Killruddery House, a 17th-century mansion, is surrounded by spectacular formal gardens, wild woodlands, and water features. The combination of elegant architecture and natural beauty makes it a magical backdrop for timeless and romantic wedding photography. Couples can enjoy sweeping garden vistas, stunning Orangery shots, and intimate moments in the historic house.
• Clontarf Castle Hotel (Clontarf, ~25 mins): This beautifully restored castle seamlessly blends historic charm with modern elegance. The dramatic interiors, with their rich colors and textures, make for incredibly captivating photos.
• Barberstown Castle (Kildare, ~40 mins): Stepping into this 13th-century castle is like stepping back in time. The romantic atmosphere, historic architecture, cozy fireplaces, and picturesque courtyard all add to its charm. The stone walls and ivy-covered exterior create a timeless and elegant backdrop.
• Leixlip Manor & Gardens (Kildare, ~30 mins): This elegant manor house is a hidden gem. The beautiful gardens, charming courtyard, and light-filled conservatory offer a variety of backdrops for photos. I love capturing those special moments amongst the manicured lawns and hidden pathways.
• Carton House (Kildare, ~40 mins): This grand estate offers a luxurious setting with so much to explore. The Palladian mansion, extensive parkland, and stunning boathouse provide endless possibilities for photos.

City Chic (In Dublin City Centre):

• The Dean Dublin: If you’re looking for a trendy and vibrant city wedding, The Dean is the perfect choice. The rooftop terrace offers panoramic city views, and the stylish interiors provide a cool, contemporary vibe. It’s a fantastic location for capturing unique wedding portraits with the city skyline as your backdrop.
• The Morrison Hotel: This stylish hotel offers a blend of modern design and historic charm. Its riverside location and vibrant atmosphere make it a photographer’s dream. The quirky interiors and the riverside setting offer endless opportunities for interesting and dynamic photos.
• 10. The Shelbourne Hotel (Dublin City Centre):
  An iconic 5-star venue in the heart of Dublin. From its grand staircase and opulent interiors to its proximity to St. Stephen’s Green, this historic hotel delivers timeless elegance and sophistication for wedding photography.

Elegant Estates close to Dublin:

• Tankardstown House (Meath, ~50 mins):
  An 18th-century manor offering grandeur and intimacy. Immaculate gardens, a beautiful orangery, and elegant interiors ensure breathtaking photography opportunities.
• Boyne Hill House (Meath, ~50 mins):
  A private estate overlooking the River Boyne. The walled garden, riverside views, and stately manor create a secluded, luxurious setting for photos.
• Clonabreany House (Meath, ~1 hour):
  This restored Georgian estate features private courtyards and sweeping countryside views. Its rustic charm combined with elegance provides a magical backdrop for photos.
• The K Club (Kildare, ~45 mins): An iconic venue with luxury and grandeur, offering picturesque riverside views and immaculate gardens that ensure every photo reflects opulence.
• Ballymagarvey Village (Meath, ~45 mins): Ballymagarvey Village exudes rustic charm with its fairy-lit courtyard and rolling green lawns, perfect for romantic and intimate photos.
• The Johnstown Estate (Meath, ~45 mins): This venue boasts elegant country charm with its lush gardens and stately architecture. It’s a versatile spot for both indoor and outdoor photography, offering a range of backdrops from manicured lawns to luxurious interiors.
• Bellinter House (Meath, ~45 mins): Known for its unique blend of modern luxury and Georgian charm, Bellinter House offers both beautiful interiors and expansive outdoor spaces. The estate’s gardens and the charming house make for timeless and elegant photos.

Coastal Charm:

• Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links (Portmarnock, ~30 mins): This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the Irish Sea, a championship golf course, and elegant event spaces. The coastal setting provides a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially at sunset.
• Tinakilly Country House (Wicklow, ~1 hour): This seaside manor house hotel offers old-world charm and a relaxed atmosphere. The beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Irish Sea make it a truly romantic setting. The coastal location and the elegant interiors create a timeless backdrop for wedding photos.

Unique and Modern Wedding Venues close to Dublin:

• The Millhouse (Slane, ~1 hour): This contemporary venue boasts sleek design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and panoramic views. The modern architecture and abundance of natural light make it a joy to photograph.
• Station House Hotel (Meath, ~45 mins): This beautifully restored railway station offers a unique and quirky setting with vintage charm and a relaxed atmosphere. The historic building and its unique décor provide a distinctive backdrop for photos.
• Poulaphouca House & Falls (Wicklow, ~1 hour):
  This hidden gem offers stunning countryside views and picturesque waterfalls, making it an ideal spot for natural, whimsical wedding photography.

A Little Further Afield (over 1 hour from Dublin):

• Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort (Wicklow, ~45 mins): This luxurious resort offers a stunning setting with a championship golf course, beautiful gardens, and a grand ballroom. The scenic views and elegant interiors are perfect for capturing those special wedding moments.
• Slane Castle (Meath, ~50 mins): This iconic castle offers a truly grand setting. With its historic ballroom, stunning views of the River Boyne, and rock-and-roll heritage, it’s a truly unique and memorable place to get married.
• Martinstown House (Kildare, ~47 mins): This unique gothic-style country house offers a romantic and intimate setting. The beautiful walled garden and stunning marquee, combined with the historic architecture, create a charming and elegant atmosphere.
• Hunters Hotel (Wicklow, ~48 mins): As Ireland’s oldest coaching inn, Hunters Hotel provides a historic and charming setting. The beautiful gardens and cozy atmosphere, along with the historic building and surrounding countryside, offer a unique and picturesque backdrop for photos.
• Tulfarris Hotel (Kildare, ~50 mins): This scenic hotel offers stunning views of Blessington Lakes and the Wicklow Mountains, providing a naturally beautiful backdrop for photos. The hotel’s elegant interiors and the surrounding natural beauty create a romantic and memorable setting.
• The Abbey (Kildare, ~56 mins): This iconic period building has been transformed into an exclusive-use wedding venue, offering a unique and elegant setting. The historic chapel and grand ballroom, along with the building’s historic charm and elegant décor, provide a stunning backdrop for photos.

For Those Willing to Go a Little Further (Over 1 Hour from Dublin):

• Virginia Park Lodge (Cavan, ~1 hour 2 mins): This luxurious estate offers a secluded and romantic setting. The beautiful gardens, stunning lake, and elegant accommodation make it a perfect backdrop for a fairytale wedding.
• Ballybeg House (Wicklow, ~1 hour 4 mins): This charming country house offers a relaxed and intimate setting. The beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Wicklow Mountains create a picturesque and romantic atmosphere.
• The Village Barn (Westmeath, ~1 hour 5 mins): This rustic barn offers a charming and relaxed setting for a country wedding. The barn’s exposed beams and rustic décor provide a unique and charming backdrop for photos.
• Ballykealey House (Carlow, ~1 hour 4 mins): This historic house offers a blend of old-world charm and modern elegance. The beautiful gardens and elegant interiors provide a variety of photographic opportunities.
• Marlfield House (Wexford, ~1 hour 12 mins): This elegant country house offers a luxurious and intimate setting. The beautifully decorated rooms and the surrounding countryside create a timeless and romantic atmosphere.
• Lisnavagh House and Gardens (Carlow, ~1 hour 14 mins): This historic estate offers a grand and romantic setting. The beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and stunning views provide a variety of photographic opportunities.
• BrookLodge & Macreddin Village (Wicklow, ~1 hour 16 mins): This eco-friendly hotel offers a unique and charming setting. The focus on sustainability, delicious organic food, and charming village atmosphere make it a truly special place to get married.
• Ballintubbert House & Gardens (Laois, ~1 hour 5 mins): This historic house offers a unique and charming setting. The beautiful gardens, historic architecture, and unique décor provide a variety of photographic opportunities.

Castle Venues in Ireland CLICK HERE

Capture Your Love Story:

No matter which venue you choose, remember that the most important thing is to find a place that feels right for you and your partner. And when you do, I’d be honored to capture the magic of your day with beautiful, timeless photos that you’ll cherish forever.

A final note: Remember to double-check the travel times to these venues, as traffic conditions can vary. It’s always best to allow a bit of extra time, especially on your wedding day!