Newstead Abbey Weddings | Historic Venue Guide & Photo Tips
Situated as an iconic landmark in Nottinghamshire, Newstead Abbey, nestled between Nottingham and Mansfield, offers a captivating wedding venue with a variety of ceremony locations, diverse buildings, enchanting lakes, and sprawling parkland spanning 300 acres.
Established around 1170 by King Henry II of England as The Priory of St Mary of Newstead, Newstead Abbey holds a rich history. It functioned as a priory, witnessing several extensions until the dissolution of the monasteries in 1539 during the reign of Henry VIII. Despite its name, Newstead Abbey was never technically an abbey but rather a priory or a country house.
Following the dissolution, numerous religious structures were destroyed, and the property transitioned to the Byron family. The transformation of the building into the present-day house commenced under their ownership. Notably, Lord Byron, the renowned poet, briefly held ownership of Newstead Abbey, although he did not reside there extensively. The house subsequently changed hands among various private owners before ultimately being acquired by Nottingham City Council. Presently, it serves as a museum while also offering its historical and picturesque setting as a venue for weddings.
The Orangery
The Orangery, originally named by the Byron family during its conversion into a space for growing citrus fruit, presents a splendid setting for wedding ceremonies. Boasting original features and expansive windows that provide panoramic views of the Spanish garden, The Orangery can accommodate a full wedding with up to 70 guests or a combined ceremony and reception for up to 100 guests.
The Chapel
For couples seeking a religious touch to their service, The Chapel, dating back to the year 1200, offers a historic backdrop. The Chapel can host wedding ceremonies with a capacity of up to 70 guests.
Accommodation options
the venue provides overnight stay options for the couple. However, for guests, convenient accommodation can be found in nearby locations such as hotels, pubs, or BnB’s in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Ravenshead, or Mansfield.
Newstead Abbey Weddings – FAQs
What are the ceremony options at Newstead Abbey?
There are two main ceremony spaces. The Orangery is bright, full of character and overlooks the Spanish Garden. It seats up to 70 for ceremonies or up to 100 for a combined ceremony and reception. If you prefer a religious setting, The Chapel dates back to the 1200s and offers a historic, atmospheric backdrop for smaller services.
What makes Newstead Abbey unique for wedding photography?
The grounds are incredibly varied. You’ve got lakes, forested areas, historic buildings and structured gardens all within one estate. The Orangery gives beautiful soft light for indoor ceremonies, while the Spanish Garden works well for portraits. I’ve also found great moments on the bridges, near the waterfall and along the tree-lined paths, especially in late afternoon.
What’s the best time of year to get married at Newstead Abbey?
Newstead Abbey is especially beautiful in spring, summer and early autumn. Spring brings fresh green foliage and colourful flowers across the gardens. Summer offers long evenings, warm light and great access to the lakes, woods and Spanish Garden. Early autumn brings golden tones in the trees and a softer quality of light, perfect for romantic portraits and rich, atmospheric backdrops.
Is there on-site accommodation at Newstead Abbey?
The couple can stay overnight at the venue, but guests will need to book nearby accommodation. There are several great options in Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Mansfield and Ravenshead, including hotels, pubs with rooms and local BnBs.
Do you offer full-day wedding coverage at Newstead Abbey?
Yes, I offer full-day coverage at Newstead Abbey, starting with prep and finishing with evening portraits or a final creative shot of the grounds at night. The venue offers so much variety that full-day coverage is the best way to capture it all. Whether you’re having an intimate Orangery ceremony or a larger celebration across the grounds, I’ll be there to document it naturally from start to finish.
Newstead Abbey Wedding Photography gallery
We knew that we wanted Matt to be our photographer from the start of our wedding planning journey! We saw some of his work online before we had properly started planning and instantly knew that we wanted him at our wedding!
The whole process was easy from meeting him in his studio to look at his work and make sure we were comfortable with him on the day, him and James were amazing! Our photos have just come back and they are stunning and everyone that we have showed so far have said that our photographers were amazing. Thank you so much and can’t wait to get our album!!
Thank you for taking the time to explore this post on Newstead Abbey Weddings. If you’re considering Newstead Abbey as your wedding venue, I wholeheartedly endorse it. Your special day at Newstead Abbey promises to be nothing short of enchanting and magical, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Website – https://newsteadabbey.org.uk/weddings
Phone – 01623 455900
WHY CHOOSE ME?
- A dedicated and trusted full time Nottingham wedding photographer with over 15 years experience.
- I don’t leave straight after the first dance. (You can’t beat a killer night shot!)
- Creative & unique photographs (no awkward posing or cheesy smiles!)
- Studio visits welcome (meet me in person & check out the sample albums)
- Lots of 5* reviews from happy customers.
If you’re getting married at Newstead Abbey and still looking for a wedding photographer, simply fill out the form below and lets arrange a chat about your big day!
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E: hello@mattselbyphotography.co.uk
3 Crown St, Hucknall,
Nottingham, NG15 7SW.
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