THE BEST NORTH EAST WEDDING VENUES (UPDATED FOR 2024)

The best wedding venues in the North East (in my opinion of course)

The North East has some of the most diverse wedding venues anywhere in the UK. From quirky city venues in Newcastle to grand country estates in Northumberland. I am very lucky to photograph weddings in the North East, each week I travel from tipis and marquees to stately homes and everything in between. Below I have shared a list of my current favourite wedding venues. No matter what type of wedding you are planning there is a venue for you in the North East. *This list is always growing and being updated*

Browse the categories that interest you or just the full list. If there is a venue you think should be added to my list drop a comment below or GET IN TOUCH and let me know.

Whether you want a tea sipping affair with 10 of your closest friends or the wildest weekend with everyone you have ever met, there will be a venue for you.

This is not EVERY venue in the North East (of course) but it has my current favourites, and you know, there are only so many venues anyone can look through at one time! Enjoy.

If, like me, you live close to the North East / Yorkshire border or you are looking at any venue in the North, then check out my Top 10 Wedding Venues in North Yorkshire post.

North East Tipi / Marquee Wedding Venues

If you are looking for a relaxed, outdoor, tent feel to your wedding. Think festival vibes, wellies and all the summer feelings. From party tipi to grand marquee, these venues provide a huge range of options for your wedding. I photograph more festival style weddings than any other type of wedding and I love them. As well as venues, I often find that couples hire Tipis / Marquees for private land and go the whole DIY wedding route. If that sounds like you, here is some content that might help with planning;

Top DIY Wedding Planning Tips with Hannah Rachael Weddings

My Wedding Planning Tips from a Documentary Wedding Photographer

All Things Outdoor Weddings Podcast Episode

Bradbury Glade

Bradbury Glade is a relatively new venue, part of the Wonderland Wedding Group. Located in Sedgefield, County Durham it features a tree lined walk that opens up to three tipis. A solid wood walkway saves any sinking of high hells and the setup is stunning.

• Great transport links to the A1 and A19.
• Local accommodation from the quirky Impeccable pig, budget options like the Travel Lodge and close to shops and pubs in Sedgefield. A great location for access.
• Space for 150 guests including breakout spaces and dance floor.
• Acres of green space to explore for photos, including the surrounding woods.

Black Horse Beamish (Red Row Estate)

Black Horse Beamish I have included this in the marquee category, as it is a huge marquee. Although it’s permanent and huge it still has that marquee feeling. Together with the pub and accommodation onsite it’s the perfect venue for an all in one day. Close to Beamish you are surrounded by stunning scenery and plenty of green space for photos. It is worth noting you can also get married in the smaller space in the pub itself.

• Large marquee with exclusive use on your wedding day.
• Lovely scenic area of County Durham including a heather field.
• Blank canvas to style with your personal touches.

Brinkburn Priory

Brinkburn Northumberland I have included this venue as they have a tipi as part of their wedding setup, although they also have the priory and manor house plus stables and cottages (it’s a stunning venue with loads of possibilities). Brinkburn offers exclusive hire for full weekends and two/three day weddings. Perfect if you want to spend longer on your celebrations and can include accommodation. They offer different packages, including small winter options.

• Two day mid week option includes accommodation for 28 and you can have up to 120 guests.
• Three day weekend options include use of the tipi after the ceremony and the white room for the evening party.
• Fantastic getting ready space and a very secluded location.
• Beautiful setting with loads of options.

North East Barn Wedding Venues

It’s easy to see why barns are so popular for weddings, their rustic charms and often large space provide the perfect party setting. There has been a large increase in barn venues recently, including plenty across the North East. Whether you are looking for a DIY down and dirty ‘sweep the hay’ before the ceremony option or a stylish fully renovated barn, you are sure to find something that works for your wedding day.

Whinstone View

Located in Teesside and surrounded by green space, Wrays barn at Whinstone View boasts a large modern barn, hot tub cabin accommodation and plenty of open areas for games. A Tipi is also available as a break out space which is very cosy. One of my favourite venues in Teesside, it’s well worth a look if you are planning a barn wedding in the North East.

• Rustic barn venue with exclusive use, including Tipi and private terrace area. Great for lawn games and relaxed weddings.
• Plenty of space (120 guests for ceremonies and 150 seated for your wedding breakfast.
• Close to stunning scenery including local landmark Roseberry Topping.

Doxford Barns

Doxford barns is located near Alnwick along the Northumberland coast and sits in 550 acres of country estate. A stunning barn with high ceilings and stone walls. This is very much what you imagine when you think barn wedding. Perfect for ceremonies and receptions, the grounds have endless photo possibilities and is a great venue for that relaxed feeling wedding. Specialising in weekend long weddings they have accommodation options and stunning food to keep you entertained. Doxford have recently renovated a new getting ready space which leads directly onto the ceremony stairs, perfect for that grand entrance. The self catering cottage accommodation is fantastic for staying over and also if you have smaller children who need to go to bed as they are separate from the main barn area.

• Perfect for weekend long weddings with all your guests in one place.
• Rustic, charming barn with plenty of character features.
• Fantastic countryside location in one of the most beautiful locations in the North East.

Vallum Weddings

Vallum Farm Weddings is a unique barn wedding venue in the heart of Northumberland. The barn provides a space for larger weddings up to 160 seated guests, with the option of outdoor or indoor ceremonies. The Tipi provides space for intimate ceremonies of 2-36 people. This venue is great for any couples looking for that outdoor setting, they can provide large games (think giant Jenga etc) and a fully stocked bar. There is even a lake within walking distance for photos.

• Stunning location along Hadrians Wall. Great location only 15 minutes from Newcastle City Centre.
• Exclusive use of the wedding venue and lawn area.
• Use the day before to decorate and add your personal touches.

Ceremony costs (excluding registrar fees) indoor ceremony £300, outdoor ceremony £450.

Venue hire costs between £1800 and £4500 depending on month and day.

Max 150 guests (you can ask about bigger weddings).

Danby Castle

Located on the edge of the North York Moors, surrounded by nothing but green countryside, Danby Castle has to be viewed if you are considering a barn wedding. You can host your ceremony in the 14th century court room full of history and amazing views before using the outside areas and other buildings (snug and Threshing barn). You could even hold your speeches outside surrounded by the ruins and walls of the old castle. A charming venue in a remote location. Danby Castle has new owners and has seen a lot of renovations recently which is worth checking out.

• Picturesque location close to Whitby and the North Yorks Moors.
• Several local accommodation options, although you can’t stay at the venue itself.
• History dating back to the 14th century, great for anyone looking to get married at an exclusive use old venue.

Healey Barn

Healey barn is an 18th century stone barn is one of the most stunning wedding barns in the North East. Set around a private courtyard Located in Northumberland close to Hexham and Newcastle. Part of the Cripps & Co group who run several amazing wedding venues across the UK they are experts at helping you plan the perfect wedding day.

• Huge ceilings and wooden beams for that amazing barn feeling. Historic and stunning ceremony venue for up to 144 people and 200 for your reception.
• Located in stunning Northumberland with transport links to Newcastle.
• Open flame cooking options for amazing BBQ and food options. You are required to use food supplied by the venue.

Barn on the Bay

Barn on the Bay offers a large barn with seating up to 200 of your closest friends and family. Located on the Northumberland coast near Druridge Bay, this coastal venue has plenty of options for your special day. If the weather allows you can hold your ceremony outside in a lovely beachside ceremony, overlooking the sea. For smaller more intimate weddings you can use the smaller Calico barn for up to 30 guests, the same stunning barn feeling in a more intimate setting. If you have always dreamed of a barn / beachside combo complete with sunset beach photos then the Barn on the Bay is probably for you. There is a large field and green space with options for glamping style yurt accommodation and camping pods for guests. It’s the perfect festival style wedding setup and one of my favourite North East wedding venues.

• Beach weddings complete with barns for all weddings. Small and intimate or much bigger! Up to 200 guest ceremonies.
• Beach portraits, beers on the sand and a barn decorated to fit your style. The dream barn wedding venue.
• Personal touches as the venue was born from a family wedding and is family run. Together with an expert team of wedding coordinators.

South Causey Inn

The South Causey Inn makes an intro to the ‘barns’ section with their new wedding barn. Although the venue also has wedding options within the hotel itself. The wedding barn is standalone and allows for exclusive use on your wedding day. Located near Consett, North Durham, South Causey is a popular wedding venue and benefits from a team who are used to handling hundreds of weddings each year. Recently added is the Farmhouse, a smaller seperate venue within the grounds.

• Large wedding barn with exclusive use. Plenty of parking and accommodation options on site.
• Two different barns, the Old barn for up to 200 guests and The Beamish Barn for up to 45 guests. Plenty of options for every wedding style.
• Large array of packages to suit all wedding budgets.

Runa Farm

Runa Farm is a newer venue and one I am very excited about. Located in County Durham, this rustic inspired wedding venue states ‘Balearic vibes’ and looks like it is going to be an amazing edition to the wedding venues in the North East. Think barn, glamping and of course plenty of fields for photos. Close to Barnard Castle you get the benefit of transport links and other accommodation options for anyone not staying at the venue itself.

• New venue with weddings considered from the start (aka amazing for weddings!).
• Glamping options for you and your guests to keep with the full outdoor vibes, I couldn’t think of anything better.
• Amazing for festival weddings / weekend long celebrations. (One of my favourite types of wedding).

Yorkshire Wedding Barn

Ok, ok, I know this is strictly in Yorkshire and not the North East but it’s very close and not a very long drive so I think it counts. Yorkshire Wedding Barn is a purpose built wedding venue, think less small , dark barn and more big beams and stunning modern light filled venue. You have a choice of barns from the Lake barn to the wedding barn, for all your wedding day needs. The getting ready space also leads directly onto the stairs at the back of the ceremony space so offers an incredible entrance moment.

• Space for up to 280 guests in a modern lakeside setting, heated floors and floor to ceiling windows.
• Plenty of accommodation options from a shepherds hut to large barns and cottages, plenty of space for all your guests.
• Great transport links from the A1 and close to the lovely village of Richmond.

Quirky North East Wedding Venues

From brewery’s to museums, the North East has some fantastic quirky venues to help you say ‘I do’ in your own unique way. Weddings have come a long way and are no longer restricted to the standard venues and hotels. With more venues looking to move into weddings you really can find something for everyone. How about hiring a cinema and playing your own life movie trailer? Pretty cool right?

Summerhill Bowling Club

This DIY feeling local bowling club (garden bowls not ten pin) is a wonderful wedding venue just outside of Newcaslte City Centre. Summerhill Bowling Club offers parking, green space and the club hall for your ceremony, reception or dancing. You can also add a marquee in the grounds for your wedding breakfast if you need more space or prefer the marquee feeling. It’s a unique space perfect for adding DIY touches.

• DIY options and very affordable
• Onsite bar and green space with marquee available
• Quirky setting with plenty of space for games

Wylam Brewery

Get married amongst beer sounds pretty good to me! Wylam Brewery is a unique but fantastic wedding venue located in Newcastle, close to the centre with great travel links and an even better atmosphere. Your ceremony takes place under the gorgeous dome with plenty of natural light as you walk down the aisle. Surrounded by Exhibition Park, the brewery benefits from countryside surroundings and allows for a great mix of photos on your day.

• Unique setting for your wedding day, and as you would expect comes with 3 bars and a gin palace for you and your guests to enjoy.
• Craft beer brewed on site.

Charlton Hall

As you approach Charlton Hall you might be confused as to why I have added it to the ‘unique’ wedding venues list. From the outside it looks like a (very nice) but standard manor house. However as soon as you enter you will notice exactly where the quirky angle comes in. The extremely unique interior makes this a standout venue for your wedding day. From the patterned floor to the eye catching funky wallpaper and giraffe! This eccentric stately home mixes tradition with modern eccentricity. It has to be seen to be believed but mixes classic stately home with a modern glass fronted space. The newly opened Tempest hotel on site offers even more accommodation options and is just a 1 minute walk from Charlton Hall.

• Ceremony capacity for 140 surrounded by the fantastic unique character of the hall.
• 18th Century Hall located in 150 acres of stunning Northumberland countryside.
• Modern ‘looking glass’ room hosts your reception with stunning views, unique character and my favourite venue feature of a bar in the same room so everybody stays together.
• After party basement bar space

Spanish City

Spanish City is a unique wedding venue in Whitley Bay, looking out across the beach, most recognisable for the large dome in the centre. Originally built in 1910 the venue features several period features mixed with impressive modern touches. It’s a fantastic venue for couples looking for a beachside setting and unique venue.

• Beachside setting, perfect for beach photos. Iconic venue, beautifully restored.
• Unique dome and styling, gives a feeling of being abroad. Huge ceilings and open, light space.

St Chads Durham

Located in the very centre of Durham City, just a stones throw from Durham Cathedral is the college of St Chads. Used during term time as a working college part of Durham University, outside of term it is available to hire for weddings. A unique space then opens up to a glass covered courtyard and offers green space and accommodation. A wonderful venue steeped in history.

• Unique setting in the centre of Durham
• Plenty of transport and accommodation links within walking distance
• Stunning courtyard and green space. Walking distance of the Cathedral for photos

Tyneside Cinema

If you love movies (like me) and have always dreamed of getting married in a classic cinema then the Tyneside Cinema could be the perfect venue. This fun, stylish and original wedding venue consists of three different screen options and of course a bar! Popcorn is essential (in my opinion). From 1930s art deco to small and intimate, you have options to cover all your wedding needs.

• Wow your guests with a private cinema for your big day. If you don’t get married here why not just hire it for a private screening the night before?
• Central Newcastle location perfect for travel and accommodation options.
• Quirky venue perfect for theatre / cinema lovers and anybody looking for something different.
• A great city centre urban setting for your photos if you are looking for that.

North East Grand Hotels / Manor Houses

The more classic wedding venue, perfect for impressive grand weddings or intimate private affairs. These hotels and manors have held weddings for years and if you are looking for traditional and grand then these are for you. The North East boasts some of the most incredible manor houses situated in fantastic grounds.

Wynyard Hall

Wynyard Hall boasts a 12th century chapel, various state rooms and luxurious accommodation for all your guests. Located near Sedgefield and with great routes to the A19 and A1 this is a really easy venue to reach for all your guests. Stunning grounds and plenty of space for whatever size wedding you are planning. Stunning venue for any wedding and a grand view as you drive down the long drive.

• Chapel on site including stained glass windows and 19th century working organ. 120 guest capacity.
• several rooms available with capacity for up to 650 guests! Accommodation options including a lodge and large suites.
• Salon is available on site for ease of getting ready.

Matfen Hall

Located in Matfen, north of Newcastle, Matfen Hall is a stunning and grand wedding venue. The Grand Hall is where your ceremony would be and has a fantastic winding staircase which leads to the high ceilings and stone walls, a very grand setting for your ceremony. Depending on the weather you have real fires indoors or the private Dutch garden for your drinks before exploring some of the other rooms from the cocktail bar to the cloisters.

• One of the grandest wedding venues in the North East. Full of period features and character for your grand manor wedding.
• Exclusive use for your wedding (only one wedding per day).
• Private gardens and grounds or open fires, whatever time of the year your special day is Matfen Hall will shine.

Eshott Hall

A fine country house in the heart of Northumberland, Eshott Hall sits in it’s own private grounds and although close to main roads it is far and away from anything else. Nestled in the quiet village of Eshott, the hall offers escapism and gives your wedding day the surroundings it deserves. There is plenty to discover from the coastline to starry skies.

• Amazing Georgian mansion house featured in the Telegraphs guide to the best UK wedding venues.
• Exclusive use wedding venue so it’s just you and your guests amongst the fantastic scenery.
• Spaces for weddings of all sizes from intimate to over 100 guests.

Doxford Hall

Another Georgian mansion house complete with sweeping lawns and fantastic gardens. Space for up to 200 guests but also smaller more intimate rooms like the 40 person library, Doxford Hall can host weddings of all sizes. You can even hold your ceremony outside on the terrace. Located in Northumberland, Doxford Hall has been lovingly restored, think leather armchairs, fireplaces and elegant sitting rooms.

• Grand interior set amongst the stunning Northumberland countryside.
• A lot of options for your ceremony and reception depending on your numbers from intimate to 200.
• Plenty of photo options in the grounds and inside if the weather is well, typically British!

Dalton Old Pump House

Another new venue to the North East, Dalton Old Pump House is an old victorian pump house located in Seaham, County Durham. An imposing grade 2 listed building, newly renovated but in keeping with the original features it promises to be one of the finest wedding venues in the North East.

• New wedding venue with stunning victorian features. From the elegance of the pump room to the glam of the engine room.
• Various wedding packages to suit different sizes and budgets.

Real Weddings Photographed at North East Wedding Venues

If you are planning a North East wedding and you are looking for a photographer then get in touch today. I can’t wait to hear all about your wedding plans.