A photo of the front of a Castle wedding venue with manicured lawns

Why Clearwell Castle is the Perfect Wedding Venue

If you’re planning a wedding in the South West and you haven’t yet discovered Clearwell Castle in Gloucestershire, you’re in for a treat. This historic, romantic, and utterly charming venue should be on your shortlist, and as a South West wedding photographer, here are the reasons we love it (and what it means for your wedding photos).

A Little History to Inspire

Clearwell Castle is a truly special place. Built in 1727–28 for Thomas Wyndham and designed by architect Roger Morris, it is one of England’s earliest examples of Georgian Gothic Revival architecture. Located in the picturesque Forest of Dean, this Grade II* listed building sits within over 20 acres of grounds and offers a fairy-tale feel for your wedding day. Guides for Brides+1
From majestic turrets and Gothic arches to sweeping lawns and stately interiors, the venue simply oozes character and elegance.

The entrance to a castle wedding venue with stone walls and a road through the castle walls

A grand reception room at a gothic wedding venue with white walls and a crystal chandalier

The outside of a Castle wedding venue with sweeping mowed lawns and trees framing the photo

Top Reasons to Choose Clearwell Castle for Your Wedding

1. Incredible Architecture & Historic Charm
The castle’s grand façade, twin towers, and Gothic detailing make for stunning portraits that feel timeless. Whether you’re capturing your first look under the battlements or a candid moment in the grand hall, the setting elevates every shot.

2. Plenty of Outdoor Space + Versatile Ceremony Options
Want an outdoor ceremony? Clearwell allows for it, set your vows on the terrace with the castle as your backdrop. Prefer indoors? The Ballroom features a 75-foot aisle and leaded windows for dramatic entrances. Photographers love the flexibility, it means we can capture natural light outside and beautiful interior scenes too!

3. Fully Exclusive Use & On-Site Accommodation
When you book Clearwell Castle, you’re often getting a private estate feel. With on-site bedrooms and guest accommodation nearby, your wedding becomes a full experience, not just a day.
This is gold for photos, morning prep, relaxed bride & groom portraits, and party-until-late all in one place.

A white satin wedding dress hanging on a dark wood four poster bed in a grand bedroom with cream furnishings and a crystal chandalier

A white ceremony room with 3 large dome shaped windows lined with chairs covered in white sashes

The outside of a gothic castle wedding venue with manicured lawns and trees surrounding it

4. Scenic Grounds + Detail Opportunities
From manicured lawns and a croquet terrace to the castle’s stone architecture, every corner offers something picture-worthy. For couples who love detail, flowers, table styling, dress shots, these environments provide the perfect backdrops.

5. A Blank Canvas for Your Style
Whether you’re planning a dramatic fairytale-inspired soirée, a romantic English country wedding, or something fun and relaxed, Clearwell Castle adapts. As wedding photographers who specialise in natural, timeless images, we love that you’re not confined to one look. Choosing Clearwell Castle gives you more than just a wedding venue. It gives you atmosphere, story, elegance, and a landscape made for unforgettable photography.

A wedding breakfast table set up with a gold candelabra and sage green sashes on the chairs

A wooden bar at a wedding venue in a cream room with teal sofas and a wooden piano

Planning your wedding at Clearwell Castle and looking for natural, beautiful photography? We’d love to hear from you!

Much love, J&K x

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