If you’re a busy couple who wish for a simple wedding well a stately home is the perfect choice. You’re guaranteed a beautiful setting with minimum input – ideal if you don’t have much time to decorate and design a layout. Stately home wedding venues often come equipped with handcrafted staircases, glistening chandeliers, historical artwork and pristine landscaped gardens.

Ireland is home to some of the world’s most beautiful country homes and estates, we’ve picked 15 of our favourite to help narrow down your options…enjoy!

Belmont House Hotel

Set in nine acres of beautiful gardens, this charming four-star hotel has recently unveiled a complete refurbishment of its Linen & Iveagh Suites. Steeped in history, this 1800 Georgian mansion is an idyllic wedding venue; the perfect setting for your special day whether you choose to celebrate with 10 or 200 guests.

With the option of holding your ceremony in the hotel or indeed in its exquisite gardens, the Belmont has a one wedding per day policy and offers the undivided attention of their dedicated wedding co-ordinators. Let the charm of the Belmont contribute to perfecting your wedding day celebrations.

Parkanaur Manor House

This stately Tudor Revival house is surrounded by a dreamy forest that boasts a rare herd of white fallow deer. Indeed the whole area echoes a magical combination of great natural beauty and ancient history. If you are seeking a venue that’s a little different, then Parkanaur is perfect for you.

Every wedding is treated as a unique occasion here, as members of their staff work closely with each bride and groom to ensure that their wedding reflects their own individual style and taste.

Temple House

Set amidst a 1,000-acre private estate overlooking the picturesque castle of the Knights Templar, Co Sligo, Temple House is a magnificent country house wedding venue for your big day. It has been a family home since 1665, and has recently become popular to couples for it’s unique charm and relaxing atmosphere.

Temple House boasts rooms of enormous proportions and grandeur while keeping a real sense of intimacy as well. With luscious terraced gardens, the whole setting is simply breathtaking.We would suggest the wedding party have the house for more than just the day, allowing you to enjoy your stay even more. At Temple House, there is a special ambience and a love of celebration.

Mount Druid

This alternative wedding venue in Castletown Geoghegan, County Westmeath, was built overlooking the remains of an ancient castle, and currently operates as an organic sheep farm. Set in exquisite parkland with over 200,000 trees, Mount Druid has a quaint village vibe – their purpose-built Tin Chapel, Boathouse, barn and custom-made accommodation make this an ideal option for couples today.

Marriage ceremonies can be carried out in their Tin Chapel -an intimate and quaint gathering space nestled among their pine tree forest. This would be perfect for a simple blessing or a full ceremony, check it out!

BRIDE DIARIES: Searching For My Perfect Venue 

Beech Hill Country House

Hidden in the County Derry/Londonderry countryside, yet only two miles from the city, Beech Hill Country House is a wedding venue like no other.

Steeped in 400 years of history and surrounded by 32 acres of tranquil woodlands (perfect for photoshoots & Instagram lovers) take your pick from endless ceremony locations and beautiful reception options, all with the guidance of a dedicated wedding specialist at Beech Hill.

Nuremore Hotel & Country Club

The Nuremore Hotel, located in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan is a beautiful country house hotel set on vast mature grounds which includes a lake, 18-hole golf course and private wedding gardens. They offer a private arrival entrance and reception rooms for the wedding party to ensure privacy, exclusivity and a warm relaxed atmosphere.

The Grand Ballroom offers a neutral colour scheme with large crystal chandeliers. Meanwhile the ballroom opens out onto a terrific patio and gardens, to allow guests to enjoy the stunning views throughout the day. The hotel can also cater for outdoor weddings; don’t let out temperamental Irish weather put you off, the Nuremore Hotel has got you covered.

Bellinter House

Situated only 30 minutes from Dublin, Bellinter House is renowned as one of the most unique wedding venues in Ireland. With its unique character and rustic charm, this property is a must for any style-conscious couple.

This stunning 18th century Georgian manor is set on banks of the River Boyne. Nestled among sweeping lawns, ancient trees and with a labyrinth of secluded spots for you to explore, Bellinter House creates a distinctive romantic ambiance which cannot be replicated anywhere else. Not for the faint-hearted, Bellinter House tantalises the taste buds of the most stylish and trendy couples. It has a special energy that makes it one of the most desirable wedding venues in Ireland.

The Lodge At Ashford Castle

Designed originally in 1865 as the home for the Estate Manager of Ashford Castle Estate, today the original lodge building contains the hotel’s Quay Bar and Wilde’s at the Lodge Restaurant. The deluxe bedrooms and suites are divided between the main house and the new courtyard which it leads to.

Choose to host your guests in the atmospheric Lake View Junior Harbour Room with intimate dining for 30 or a larger celebration for up to 180 in the light-filled ballroom with its elegant chandeliers and panoramic views of Lough Corrib and Kinlough Woods. Beautiful views of Lough Corrib and the rugged landscape of the Ashford Estate provide a stunning backdrop for photography.

The Millhouse

A stunning fifteen-bedroom Georgian Manor House and heritage mill on the banks of the River Boyne is a romantic haven in a wonderful garden location, which you can make your own exclusive country home for your special day. Just 40 minutes from Dublin, this venue allows complete exclusivity for your wedding day.

The Millhouse combines old world charm and contemporary design to create a unique luxury wedding venue. Blessings & ceremonies are held in the Mill ceremony room, a unique setting full of character with original brick work, exposed beams, chandeliers and rustic charm.

Kilshane House

Dating back to 1822, the historic Kilshane House is set on 320 acres of private parkland in the beautiful heart of County Tipperary. The Orangerie is licenced to hold civil ceremonies and comfortably seats 220 guests, however if you would prefer a more intimate ceremony we suggest using their glass conservatory. The casual Billard Room is just the place to host an arrivals drinks reception – talk about an Instagram worthy wedding!

Kilshane House has four seasons wedding packages with varying décor and seasonal menus, complimentary items such as the bridal suite on the night of the wedding, menus, table plans and menu tasting are included in all packages.

TRENDING: Quirky Irish Wedding Venues You Gotta See

Palmerstown House Estate

Historic manor house Palmerstown House Estate nestles in the heart of the Kildare countryside, surrounded by meandering lakes, gardens and greenery as far as the eye can see. It’s deceptively rural location is actually only 30 minutes’ drive from Dublin City Centre, making it easily accessible.

The venue adheres to a strict ‘one wedding per day’ policy, whether you are having an intimate gathering or a large wedding party. With flexible packages to suit any couples’ needs Palmerstown House Estate will ensure that even the smallest details are attended to in the run up to your special wedding day.

Virginia Park Lodge

Virginia Park Lodge is the epitome of elegance, with a distinctly homely feel and luxury finishing touches. Whether intimate or extravagant, traditional or not so traditional, Virginia Park Lodge offers a dedicated events team to organise all the special details of your wedding.

The Exclusive pavilion with lake views can cater for up to 300 guests while indoors the 18th century banqueting room can hold a more intimate wedding for anything up to 90 guests. With a strong focus on food, Virginia Park Lodge are happy to design a bespoke menu compiled using only the finest natural produce. Just 50 minutes from Dublin or 90 minutes from Belfast, this historic house and stunning gardens overlooking the shores of Lough Ramor are exclusively yours to enjoy with your close friends and family amidst the beauty and privacy of the lodge.

Castle Durrow

From the elegant and atmospheric interiors to the beautiful gardens, the setting alone provides the perfect backdrop for your special day whatever the time of year. Add to that the famed Irish hospitality and exquisite food and you will have unforgettable experience on your wedding day.

Decorated with hand painted silk panels and glistening chandeliers it’s a spectacular wedding venue fit fit for Royalty. Offering stunning surroundings inside and out, you can travel back in time here to experience luxury just like a real princess!

Mount Falcon Estate

Steeped in charming history, the beautiful Mount Falcon will capture your heart. This exciting and gorgeous wedding venue can hold up to 200 guests, and they have just launched their intimate wedding packages suitable for up to 30 guests. So whether you’d like an intimate indoor ceremony or take proceedings outdoors to our lake, gardens or woodlands, we can accommodate you and tailor everything to your needs.

Their new Destination Wedding Package gives couples the option of adding a pre or post wedding celebration so you can make that special moment memorable for longer. Choices include a BBQ, buffet or a bubbly brunch with live music and drinks reception. So why not celebrate in style by extending your day to a full weekend.

ADVICE: How To Get Your Dream Venue On A Budget

Boyne Hill House Hotel

Seductively concealed on 38 acres of idyllic private parkland with woodland views overlooking the stunning River Boyne. Boyne Hill House Estate has been as described as a hidden gem and is one of the most romantic destinations in Ireland for weddings and civil partnerships. What makes Boyne Hill House Estate stand out is the attention to detail which is put into every event, together with the splendour and tranquillity of the location.

Catering for up to 170 guests, and with 42 guest rooms, the Estate is an excellent venue for your special day, offering you unforgettable memories and a day filled with beauty, love and laughter. The sweeping tree-lined driveway creates a unique setting for your wedding from the moment you arrive, and the secret garden has the perfect backdrop for your civil ceremony. The Boyne View Suite with exceptionally high standards in both food and service offers an intimate wedding reception.

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You can meet & chat to some of Ireland’s best wedding venues/wedding co-ordinators at our upcoming Wedding Journal Show. You can find discounted tickets via the link HERE!

Citywest Convention Centre, Dublin – 11th & 12th Jan 2020 | TEC Belfast – 1st & 2nd Feb 2020

The post 15 Country House Wedding Venues That WOW! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Imagine the sun beating down on you and your guests and fresh air filling your lungs as you say your ‘I dos’. Imagine sipping champagne on a crisp white lawn or on the beach with the sand between your toes before the sun sets and you have endless space to party with your guests. If this sounds nothing short of idyllic then an outdoor wedding venue might just be the one for you.

Despite our changeable weather, Ireland has an array of stunning outdoor wedding venues, from magical woodlands and stately lawns to natural amphitheatres and seaside beauty spots. They’re all beautiful venues that will look stunning in your photos.

You can find more information on each of these outdoor venues in our online directory. Happy venue shopping!

Top tip: always have a back-up plan for any type of outdoor wedding.

Dingle Skellig Hotel

Located overlooking the breathtaking Dingle Bay, the Dingle Skellig Hotel hosts only one wedding per day and their Skellig Suite where you will enjoy your meal and celebrations boasts panoramic views right across the Bay. With 32 amazing new guest rooms and suites newly opened, the hotel is the perfect location for you and your guests to celebrate your wedding weekend and their team will work with you on every detail.

Glenview Hotel

Voted Best Wedding Venue in Wicklow, the Glenview Hotel & Leisure Club is the perfect choice for couples wanting an outdoor wedding venue. Situated a short 10 minutes’ drive from Dublin, Glenview Hotel has been welcoming guests for over 100 years and is one of Ireland’s best loved wedding destinations. Catering for small intimate private ceremonies and traditional weddings, they have something to suit everyone. Wedding celebrations are held in the private gardens, overlooking the majestic Glen of the Downs, nestled amongst 30 acres of private woodland walks with exquisite landscape, creating the most magical backdrop for photographs that you will cherish forever. A stunning location combined with dedicated and experienced staff, exquisite cuisine with a sophisticated ambiance to create a truly magnificent experience.

Garryvoe Hotel

The picturesque Garryvoe Hotel by the golden, sandy, five-mile beach is the perfect place to say ‘I do’ in beautiful East Cork. The hotel boasts a stunning ballroom that can be transformed no matter your theme or colour scheme. Their delectable food will have your guests in awe and their staff will strive to make every second of your big day magical. Recently named Waterside Wedding Venue of the Year 2019 along with Ireland’s Wedding Co-ordinator of the Year 2019, the Garryvoe should be one of the first choices for your special day.

Mulranny Park Hotel

Have you dreamed of getting married by the beach? Mulranny Park Hotel is a fabulous outdoor wedding venue. Here, you can have a beachside wedding overlooking the sand and sea. With wonderful views of Clew Bay, this country retreat offers the warmest hospitality; award-winning food and the attention to detail that will make your day truly memorable. From the moment you arrive, it is clear that Mulranny Park is a sensational wedding venue with its open, light-filled rooms in which your guests can celebrate your special day.

Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa

Overlooking two magnificent stretches of Blue Flag beach, just outside the pretty heritage town of Clonakilty in West Cork, Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa is a warm, polished and welcoming seaside hotel with a unique and wonderful outdoor amphitheatre, perfect for outdoor wedding receptions and blessings. The scenic headland at Inchydoney is a newlywed’s dream that boasts incredible viewing platforms for incomparable wedding photographs with the dramatic backdrop of the ocean below.

Finnebrogue Woods

Experience the tranquil beauty of Finnebrogue Woods. For a wedding with the wow factor, this unique venue is comprised of four spectacular tipis set to an enchanted woodland backdrop. The tipis can accommodate up to 165 guests in a spacious and dry setting ensuring you don’t have to worry about the weather. Surrounded by a glistening lake, say ‘I do’ in the great outdoors where a jumping trout or gliding swan may even add to the magic of your big day.

Virginia Park Lodge

Whether you are looking for intimate or extravagant, traditional or unexpected, Virginia Park Lodge is a truly individual place to celebrate the most memorable day of your lives. Set in 100 acres of beautiful Cavan countryside overlooking Lough Ramor, the historic house and stunning gardens are exclusively yours to enjoy with your close friends and family amidst the beauty and privacy of the estate. Licensed to hold civil ceremonies and partnerships, these can be held in the house, lake view pavilion, the walled gardens or the parterre gardens, before enjoying dinner for up to 300 guests in the lake view pavilion or an intimate wedding for up to 90 in the 18th Century Marchioness banqueting room.

Ballyscullion Park

At Ballyscullion Park, your wedding ceremony, photography, reception and evening party can all take place at one venue, making a more relaxing and enjoyable experience for you and your guests. Close to all main routes, it is under 35 minutes from Belfast, an hour from Derry/Londonderry, and 30 minutes from Coleraine and Cookstown. Situated in quiet, unspoilt countryside, surrounded by ancient woodland and with breathtaking views over Lough Beg and Church Island, this is a very special place in which to celebrate your marriage. You have exclusive use of the venue on the day including beautiful gardens and historic coach house. The perfect complement to your special day at Ballyscullion Park is the luxurious marquee which is sumptuously draped and furnished and allows you and your guests to be within touching distance and full view of your beautiful surroundings all day!

Brigit’s Garden

Brigit’s Garden is a unique and special outdoor wedding venue. There are several wonderful spots in the four Celtic gardens that are ideal for a special ceremony or a blessing, particularly the Bealtaine and Lughnasa gardens. The Lughnasa garden stone circles are a unique outdoor location, and the Roundhouse, Hazel Room and Marquee are ideal for indoor receptions. Wedding dinners can be served in the Hazel Room, which accommodates up to 65 for dining. A further 40 can be accommodated if the Café dining area is included. Combined, the Hazel Room, Café dining area, patio and Marquee make a fabulous suite of rooms for your celebrations.

Headfort Arms Hotel Gardens

Promising only one wedding per day, this family run hotel has been looking after couples for generations, and is a beautiful outdoor wedding venue. It is the assurance of that personal touch and consistency of prime Irish cooking that has made so many choose the Headfort for their most important day. The Kenlis Suite was purposely built to accommodate weddings with its own private entrance and beautiful gardens to the rear, which are perfect for your ceremony and reception.

The post WJ’s Top Outdoor Wedding Venues In Ireland appeared first on Wedding Journal.

View Virginia Park Lodge dressed in elegant splendour, wander the stunning gardens and find your inspiration for a truly romantic and happy day. Our dedicated wedding co-ordinators will be delighted to talk through your ideas, and our in-house events team will be on hand with complimentary bubbly.

Whether you are looking for an intimate space or something more extravagant, traditional or unexpected, Virginia Park Lodge is a truly individual place to celebrate the most memorable day of your lives.

Set in 100 acres of beautiful Cavan countryside overlooking Lough Ramor. The historic house and stunning gardens are exclusively yours to enjoy with your close friends and family amidst the beauty and privacy of the estate.

Showcase visitors will have exclusive access to Virginia Park Lodge, allowing you time to stroll around the elegant Pavilion, look around our beautiful accommodation and imagine enjoying the peace and tranquillity of our hidden gem setting.

Whether you already have a very clear idea of how you’d like your day to be, or need a bit of inspiration, visit our award-winning wedding team and discover the beauty of Virginia Park Lodge.

Call +353 49 854 6100 or email info@virginiaparklodge.com for more information

The post Say ‘I Do’ At The Spectacular Virginia Park Lodge appeared first on Wedding Journal.