Journal
Top 20 Beach Wedding UK Locations – Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Beach Wedding Venues
Beach wedding venues have seen a huge surge in popularity over recent years, and with good reason too! Offering some of the most unique settings with beautiful surroundings and stunning views, there really isn’t a more idyllic place to tie the knot.
So, if you’re dreaming of a romantic wedding in a stunning location featuring golden sandy beaches and panoramic views of the sea, here’s our guide to finding the perfect coastal wedding venue for your dream wedding day.
Coastal Wedding Venues FAQs
When looking for beach wedding venues you’ll want to consider everything from the destination of the beach and how long it will take to get there, to who will take your wedding photographs, the type of wedding breakfast you prefer, and whether you also want evening celebrations.
Our FAQs have all the answers you need and our top 20 list of beach wedding destinations will give you an insight to some of the very best venues for your outdoor nuptials.
Read on to find the perfect beach backdrop for the wedding of your dreams.
Is it cheaper to have a beach wedding than to book a coastal wedding venue?
Beach weddings are without a doubt some of the most romantic and memorable occasions, and as long as you do your research, can be done on a fairly modest budget.
For example, cost-effective beach wedding venues such as the ceremony-only, DIY beach wedding venue Arches in Devon offer you a licenced beachside location to host your big day at, without breaking the bank.
Are outdoor weddings legal in the UK?
They are now! Originally just a temporary measure during the pandemic, as of this year, the law around getting married outdoors in England and Wales has permanently changed.
Couples are now able to have a legally binding outdoor ceremony at their chosen wedding venue, so long as the venue already holds a licence to legally conduct wedding ceremonies indoors.
Can you have a wedding at a private beach in the UK?
The answer is yes and no. Beach wedding venues with private beaches can be used for your special day if the venue has a licence to legally conduct wedding ceremonies within their property boundaries.
Alternatively, you can also find many outstanding wedding venues with stunning sea views along the miles of UK coastlines.
Are coastal wedding venues trending in the UK?
Over the last couple of years, and especially after the recent change in the law, outdoor wedding ceremonies in the UK have become increasingly popular.
With beach wedding venues becoming the go to choice for thousands of couples looking for a unique outdoor location for their special day. And why wouldn’t they be!
There is just something so enticing about walking barefoot across warm sand and enjoying your first dance to the sounds of crashing waves.
Can you have a wedding at a private beach in the UK?
The answer is yes and no. Beach wedding venues with private beaches can be used for your special day if the venue has a licence to legally conduct wedding ceremonies within their property boundaries.
Alternatively, you can also find many outstanding wedding venues with stunning sea views along the miles of UK coastlines.
Are coastal wedding venues trending in the UK?
Over the last couple of years, and especially after the recent change in the law, outdoor wedding ceremonies in the UK have become increasingly popular.
With beach wedding venues becoming the go to choice for thousands of couples looking for a unique outdoor location for their special day. And why wouldn’t they be!
There is just something so enticing about walking barefoot across warm sand and enjoying your first dance to the sounds of crashing waves.
What is the cheapest beach wedding destination?
Coastal wedding venue costs vary depending on many factors including the destination, the number of guests you invite, and whether you want a whole weekend celebration.
If you’re on a budget, instead of choosing a luxury wedding venue such as a luxury hotel where you are often tied into also hiring luxury accommodation, opting for wedding packages that allow you to DIY much of your wedding can be the more cost-effective option.
For one of the cheapest beach wedding venues, check out Arches, a ceremony-only, DIY wedding venue in the pretty Devon village of Combe Martin.
Which UK beach is best for weddings?
If you’re looking for a picture-perfect location for intimate celebrations to up to 120 guests, then look no further than Arches Beach Wedding Venue.
Located right on the beach, it boasts floor to ceiling windows and French doors leading to a top floor terrace that overlook the panoramic views of the North Devon coastline.
The mesmerising, uninterrupted views over the rolling North Devon coast make this stunning wedding venue the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Where is the most beautiful place to get married in the UK?
With miles of coastline providing spectacular views of outstanding natural beauty, the UK is the perfect destination for beach weddings.
Whether you want an intimate ceremony on the beach, or one with tons of guests and an unforgettable celebration for all to remember, the perfect wedding venue is waiting for you.
From rows of white cliffs and secluded sandy beaches, to rocky headlands and harbours, some of the world’s best coastal wedding venues can be found right here in the UK.
How much does a beach wedding cost in the UK?
The average cost of a coastal wedding in the UK varies greatly depending on the type of venue, where it is located, and how many people you expect to attend.
When it comes to coastal weddings, indoor and outdoor ceremonies just a short distance from the sandy beach can all have varied package pricing.
For example, a simple outdoor ceremony surrounded by a walled garden can start from as little as £1,000. Whilst a wedding in a grand hotel overlooking the sand dunes and with a beach view from your hotel suite could cost thousands more.
Can you have a wedding on the beach for free?
The cost of a wedding is made up of many things such as the venue, planning and organisation and also the food and drinks you choose.
Additionally, in the UK for a wedding to be legally binding, you need to have a wedding licence and use a wedding venue that has the correct insurance – therefore you cannot legally get married for free.
What is the best time to hold a beach wedding ceremony?
The best time to get married on the beach depends on the time of year and the tides at that time.
Typically, it’s best to get married when the weather is sunny and warm, and at a time when tides are low so that your guests can easily access the area.
You’ll want to consider if having a sunset or sunrise ceremony would be important, as it may affect when your guests can travel down.
No doubt, you’ll also want to capture your special day. Plan to take wedding photos before the sun dips below the horizon, as this light is the most flattering.
Make sure to check if there are any special events happening that day or weekend, as these may affect your wedding plans too.
How to plan a beach wedding?
Planning a wedding on the beach can be lots of fun, but it is also a lot of work as there are many things you need to consider when planning your wedding day.
From finding a unique beach wedding venue and choosing your dream beach wedding dress, to planning all your wedding photos and managing your wedding parties. There’s lots to consider when planning the beach wedding of your dreams.
To ensure that your day is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible take a look at our top tips in our latest post about planning a perfect beach wedding.
How to look for a beach wedding venue?
Whether you’re dreaming about intimate ceremonies in a secluded cove or taking advantage of the spectacular sea views in the impressive setting of a harbour hotel, the perfect venue is one that is personal to you as a couple.
When you are looking for wedding venues on the coast, it is important to decide early on what type of wedding you want, as some beach wedding venues have strict criteria.
For example, if you’re looking for a small elopement wedding, many grand hotel venues have a minimum number of guests.
What to ask a beach wedding venue?
When it comes to choosing the best coastal wedding venues, there are some important questions to ask.
One important question is whether your outdoor ceremony will be held on your own private beach or on an open beachfront. Because, if it’s the latter, you could find your wedding becoming a bit of a tourist attraction.
In this case, a harbour suite with a private terrace near a public beach has the best of both worlds since you will not need to pay the premiums of a private beach, but have privacy for the core ceremony.
If you are planning on hosting a do it yourself wedding, another important question to ask is whether there are any extra charges for using other areas of the venue, like reception halls and lounges.
How to book a beach wedding venue?
At Arches in Devon, we make it super easy and completely hassle-free to book your wedding with us!
Simply reserve your wedding date now and have the option to cancel up to 30 days in advance. And, if you live locally in the EX34 postcode area, you can even enjoy a 25% discount (Sunday to Friday).
Find out more about how to book your wedding at Arches Beach Wedding Venues.
Top 20 Beach Wedding Destinations in the UK
With its world-famous coastlines and historic buildings, the UK has a growing reputation for incredible beach weddings!
Whether you’re looking for quiet nuptials on a beach in Devon, or an extravagant affair in a Northumberland Castle, you’ll find the ideal location on our list of the top 20 beach wedding UK destinations.
Coastal Wedding Locations in the South of England
The Harbour Hotel, Cornwall
This stunning 1920s harbour hotel with its multi-award winning restaurant, is an idyllic Cornwall wedding venue. Featuring contemporary interiors and gorgeous views of postcard-perfect Padstow Harbour, it’s the perfect destination for an unforgettable special day.
Arches Beach Weddings, Devon
If you are looking for a beach wedding venue in Devon then this stunning beachside venue is the perfect spot for truly unique beach weddings, with the incredible Devon seascape as your backdrop. And the best part is that this pretty beachside venue allows you the flexibility of having a small scale intimate wedding through to a larger one with up to 120 guests. The specially chosen furniture finishes perfectly complement the natural beauty of the environment, giving your special day an elegant and luxury feel.
The Sandbanks Hotel, Dorset
The Sandbanks Hotel is one of the most luxurious beach wedding venues in Dorset, conveniently located along the world-famous sandbanks peninsula. The hotel offers stunning panoramic sea views from its panoramic sea-facing windows and can comfortably seat 100 guests for your wedding ceremony or wedding reception.
High House, Essex
High House, a unique barn wedding venue in Essex, is just a stone’s throw from the awe-inspiring coast of the Dengie National Nature Reserve and blends effortlessly into its rural surroundings. Its thatched gazebo makes it ideal for ceremonies, while the bride and groom can enjoy their wedding celebrations in the vintage elegance of its atmospheric dining room.
Dover Marina Hotel, Kent
Looking for a unique, unforgettable and beautiful wedding venue in Dover? Then look no further than The Dover Marina Hotel & Spa. With its stunning seafront location, beautiful bridal suite and sophisticated boutique feel, The Dover Marina Hotel & Spa is a fantastic, unique Kent wedding venue.
The Reading Room, Norfolk
The north Norfolk coastline has some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the UK thanks to its dramatic and rugged coastline. For a unique intimate wedding venue check out The Reading Room. A beautifully restored building in the heart of the North Norfolk countryside with stunning aesthetics and steeped in history.
St Audries Park, Somerset
St Audries Park wedding venue is a beautiful country manor that offers romance and luxury in abundance. Sited on the edge of Exmoor National Park and surrounded by sweeping countryside, this stunning wedding venue in Somerset offers all the charm you would expect from a truly special location.
The Gallivant, East Sussex
Surrounded by rugged cliffs and vast expanses of sea and sand, Camber Sands in East Sussex has been a favourite destination for beach lovers for decades. Its huge dunes providing an irresistible backdrop for timeless photographs. The Gallivant’s beautiful beach house, built right on the sand, means you can capture every moment of your special day.
Coastal Wedding Locations in the North of England
Silverholme, Cumbria
Cumbria’s stunning beach wedding venues include the intimate drawing room in Silverholme, overlooking Lake Windermere. Ideal for nature lovers who dream of getting hitched away from the bustling big city, it’s less than 20 minutes from stunning beaches and perfect for taking dramatic photographs.
Slaley Hall, Northumberland
With romantic castles, grand hotels and hidden away beaches Northumberland is an undiscovered gem for coastal weddings. Looking for the perfect setting for the rustic wedding day you’ve always dreamed of? Check out Slaley Hall, a stunning stately home with the services and luxury of a four-star hotel.
Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens, Lancashire
Bring a slice of tropical paradise to your special event in Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens. With pools, fountains and winding pathways along the coast, these 30 acres of stunning scenery make an ideal backdrop for your wedding photography. Its secluded gardens give way to a magical setting in which to take your vows.
Raven Hall Hotel, Yorkshire
The fantastic sea view wedding venue at Raven Hall Hotel, North Yorkshire is a truly spectacular wedding venue with cliff-top sea views. With three banqueting suites to accommodate up to 120 guests, you can also choose to have your ceremony outdoors in the grounds of this majestic venue.
Coastal Wedding Locations in Wales
Chateau Rhianfa, Anglesey
Chateau Rhianfa, a French-style Georgian castle that combines traditional glamour with French elegance, is the perfect location for a fairy tale wedding in the dramatic north coast of wales. Take advantage of the wonderful garden, stunning views of the beach and beautiful oak room.
The Beaches Hotel, Denbighshire
Bring your wedding plans to The Beaches Hotel, situated on the North Wales Coast. Offering all inclusive wedding packages, the charming Beaches Hotel is the perfect coastal wedding venue. From the moment you walk down the aisle to the moment you leave the following day, their on-site team is on hand to ensure your celebration is unforgettable.
Ty’r Graig Castle, Barmouth
Looking over the beautiful sea views, Ty’r Graig Castle is the perfect setting for your wedding. With its traditional features and elegant decor, this venue provides a traditional yet classy element to your day. But it doesn’t just provide the perfect location to host your wedding, this is a breath taking venue that makes each couple feel like royalty.
The Orangery, Port Talbot
For an exclusive, magical and romantic venue, The Orangery is the ideal location to host your special day. Surrounded by over 850 acres of beautiful parkland and located within our family-owned estate, The Orangery provides you with a truly unique venue full of history, culture and charm.
Coastal Wedding Locations in Scotland
The Ben Nevis Hotel & Leisure Club, Fort William
With its magnificent backdrop, highland charm and warm Scottish hospitality, The Ben Nevis Hotel provides a magical setting for your special and unforgettable wedding day. A wedding venue with style and character surrounded by rolling hills and deep blue waters, this hidden gem is the ideal place for you and your guests to relax without missing any of the fun.
The Harbour Chapel, Dunbar
For a wedding experience that’s far from ordinary, look not further than The Harbour Chapel. With its beautiful location, elegant reception bar, and stunning stained glass windows, this historical venue offers an intimate and personalised wedding for up to 120 guests and gives you total freedom over the creative elements.
Dornoch Castle Hotel, Dornoch
A spectacular location for the perfect Scottish Castle Wedding, this historic 15th Century Castle sits alongside the 13th Century Cathedral, providing a stunning location for your wedding photographs. It is also just five minutes away from the golden sands of Dornoch beach, making it the perfect wedding venue.
Corsewall Lighthouse Hotel, Stranraer
Corsewall Lighthouse, located on the coast of Scotland near Stranraer, is a striking waterside venue that’s ideal for small, intimate ceremonies. With stunning views out to the Kintyre Peninsula and coast of Ireland, it provides an unforgettable backdrop for an unforgettable experience.
