Devon & Cornwall Wedding Venues: What Makes a Great Spot for Your Photos
Choosing the perfect wedding venue in Devon or Cornwall is one of the most exciting (and important) decisions you'll make. The South West offers some of the UK's most photogenic locations - from dramatic coastlines and rugged cliffs to rolling countryside, historic estates, and charming barns. As a wedding photographer who has captured countless ceremonies and receptions here, Peter Cade shares his top tips to help you select a venue that looks stunning in photos and feels right for your day.
1. Prioritise Natural Light and Golden-Hour Opportunities
Devon and Cornwall's changeable weather can be a gift for photography. Look for venues with plenty of large windows, outdoor spaces, or sea-facing aspects that allow soft, diffused natural light - especially during the golden hour around sunset. Coastal spots like Polurrian on the Lizard or Tunnels Beaches in North Devon offer breathtaking backdrops with dramatic skies and ocean views, creating romantic, cinematic portraits without much extra effort.
2. Seek Variety in Backdrops for Diverse Shots
A great venue gives options throughout the day: intimate ceremony spaces, scenic areas for couple portraits, group shots, and evening reception lighting. Barn venues like Upton Barn & Walled Garden in Devon or rustic countryside settings such as The Green in Cornwall provide textured walls, wildflower meadows, and wooded edges for varied, interesting compositions. Historic houses or castles (think Powderham Castle or Pentillie Castle) add grandeur with lawns, lakes, and architecture that frame elegant group photos beautifully.
3. Consider Accessibility and Timing for Photos
Choose a venue with easy flow between ceremony, drinks reception, and portraits to avoid rushed shots or long gaps. Exclusive-use venues often allow more flexibility for golden-hour sessions or aerial drone perspectives (Peter can incorporate stunning overhead views if the location suits). Check for restrictions on confetti, confetti alternatives, or drone use early - many coastal and rural spots in the South West are ideal for Peter's discreet aerial photography to capture the full scale and beauty.
4. Think About Seasons and Weather Backup Plans
Spring and summer bring vibrant greens and wildflowers, while autumn offers rich colours and fewer crowds. Winter weddings can yield moody, atmospheric images with dramatic clouds. Always ask about indoor alternatives or covered areas - venues like Huntsham Court or Kingston Estate in Devon have beautiful interiors that photograph well in any weather.
5. Visit in Person and Visualise the Day
Photos online are helpful, but nothing beats a site visit. Walk the grounds at different times of day, imagine where key moments will happen, and picture how the light falls. If possible, chat with the venue about previous weddings - many share galleries that show real lighting and setup.
Devon and Cornwall's landscapes make almost any venue photogenic, but the best ones enhance your story naturally. Peter Cade specialises in capturing the magic of South West weddings with unobtrusive style and creative vision - whether coastal cliffs, countryside barns, or grand estates.
Ready to find your dream spot? Contact Peter for venue advice or to discuss how his wedding photography and videography can make your day unforgettable in Devon or Cornwall. Congratulations on your engagement!