Unusual Wedding Ideas: Unique Venues & Planning Tips
Looking to tie the knot somewhere a little different? While traditional venues like churches, stately homes and country barns remain ever-popular, more couples than ever are opting for truly unique locations that reflect their personalities and create unforgettable memories. From vintage train carriages in the Scottish Highlands to icy ceremonies in central London, the UK is full of quirky, characterful venues that offer something a little out of the ordinary. Whether you're dreaming of a wedding by the sea, surrounded by garlic fields, or inside the halls of Parliament, here are some of the most unusual — and inspiring — wedding venues to consider for your big day.
All Aboard: Say “I Do” on the Royal Deeside Railway
For couples seeking a blend of history, charm, and scenic beauty, the Royal Deeside Railway in Aberdeenshire offers a truly unique wedding venue. Located at Milton of Crathes, this heritage railway line, once frequented by the Royal Family en route to Balmoral Castle, now hosts intimate wedding ceremonies aboard its restored carriages. The line currently operates over a mile of track, providing a picturesque backdrop of the River Dee and surrounding hills for your special day.
Tunnels Beaches, North Devon
Nestled in the cliffs of Ilfracombe, Tunnels Beaches offers a secluded coastal setting accessible through hand-carved tunnels dating back to the 1820s. This unique venue boasts a private beach, a thatched gazebo for ceremonies, and stunning sea views, making it perfect for couples dreaming of a beachside wedding with a touch of history.
The Garlic Farm, Isle of Wight
For a rustic and aromatic experience, The Garlic Farm in the Arreton Valley provides a charming countryside venue surrounded by fields and woodlands. Known for its gourmet garlic products, the farm offers a distinctive setting for food-loving couples seeking a relaxed yet memorable celebration.
Cairngorm Mountain, Scottish Highlands
Elevate your wedding—literally—by exchanging vows at the Ptarmigan Restaurant atop Cairngorm Mountain. Accessible via the Cairngorm Mountain Railway, this venue offers panoramic views of the Highlands, combining natural beauty with fine dining for an unforgettable experience.
Palace of Westminster, London
For those desiring a wedding steeped in political history, the Palace of Westminster now allows civil ceremonies in select rooms, including the Jubilee Room and the Members' Dining Room. This prestigious venue offers a grand setting for couples looking to tie the knot in one of the UK's most iconic buildings.
Icebar London
Embrace the chill at Icebar London, where you can hold your ceremony in a bar made entirely of ice, maintained at -5°C year-round. After saying "I do," warm up in the adjacent restaurant and lounge, offering a unique contrast and a memorable experience for you and your guests.
Tips for Planning an Unusual Wedding
1. Choose a Unique Venue That Reflects You
Think about locations that mean something to you both—maybe it's where you first met, a favourite holiday spot, or a place that aligns with your shared hobbies or values. Couples are exploring everything from botanical greenhouses and glamping sites to art galleries and boutique cinemas. If it feels special to you, it’s the right choice.
2. Make Sure the Venue is Licensed (or Have a Plan B)
Not all unusual venues are licensed for legal wedding ceremonies. If your dream venue isn’t, consider holding a legal ceremony at a registry office beforehand, then hosting your symbolic or celebratory event at your chosen location. This gives you full freedom to personalise your day without limitations.
3. Give Guests Plenty of Notice
Unusual locations often require more preparation on the part of your guests—especially if they're in remote or unexpected places. Be sure to send out save-the-dates and wedding invitations well in advance, with clear information about transport, accommodation, and dress codes. A dedicated wedding website can also be really helpful.
4. Think Logistics First
Check with your venue about practicalities like electricity, toilets, heating or cooling, catering restrictions, and even phone signal. If it’s an outdoor venue or in a non-traditional space, you may need to hire additional infrastructure such as generators, marquees, or portable loos.
5. Consider Guest Comfort
Make your guests feel looked after, especially if your venue is unconventional. Offer blankets for cooler settings, water and shade for outdoor summer weddings, or heel protectors for grassy areas. Thoughtful details like these show your guests that you’ve thought of everything.
6. Embrace the Theme
Let your venue inspire the style of your whole day. A forest wedding can take on a romantic fairy-tale vibe, while a brewery might call for industrial chic. Carry your theme through your invites, outfits, décor, food and even entertainment to create a consistent, immersive experience.
7. Check Venue Experience
Some unusual venues may not be used to hosting weddings, so make sure to ask the right questions. Is there a coordinator on-site? Do they provide tables and chairs? Do they know how to manage suppliers? Hiring a wedding planner experienced in unique settings can help things run smoothly.
8. Add Personal Touches
Unusual venues offer the perfect opportunity to get creative. Incorporate elements of your story as a couple—maybe a playlist of songs you love, a family recipe on the menu, or a signature cocktail named after your pets. It’s these personal details that make your wedding one-of-a-kind.
9. Be Flexible with the Formalities
If you’re planning a non-traditional ceremony, think about how you want it to run. You might walk down the aisle together, have a friend officiate, or skip the seating plan entirely. As long as it feels right to you, there are no rules.
10. Order Your Stationery Early
With an unusual venue, your invitations do more than announce your date—they guide your guests. Include maps, helpful tips, dress codes and nearby hotel info. If you're looking for custom designs that reflect your one-of-a-kind venue, consider using a stationery provider that offers personalisation options.
