County Wicklow is known as the garden of Ireland, and it’s easy to see why. With rolling green hills and an abundance of woodlands, it’s a haven of natural beauty accented by the historic landmarks and beautiful coastlines. It’s undeniably one of the most picturesque places in Ireland to get married. Perfect if you’re planning an outdoor photoshoot or are hoping for an outdoor ceremony (weather permitting, of course!).
If an outdoor wedding is top of your wishlist, there’s plenty to choose from in County Wicklow. But, there are also plenty of gorgeous indoor options too. From elegant manor houses to cosy country lodges, you’ll find venues that are packed with character and charm, whatever your style.
What’s more, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to post-wedding adventures or a sweet mini-moon. Think cliff walks, forest trails, and gorgeous little villages to explore with your new husband or wife (and maybe a sneaky pint or two along the way).
In terms of cost, weddings in Ireland cost an average of £18,300. That’s over £2,500 less than the UK average of £20,822, meaning there’s a lot left in the budget for a few extra treats, a special honeymoon, or even a boost to your joint savings. Do what feels right for you.
Traditional Celtic influences remain a strong favourite for weddings in County Wicklow, with many couples choosing to weave in elements like handfasting ceremonies, Irish music, and locally inspired decor. If you’re Gaelic speakers, consider having part of your wedding conducted in your mother tongue or having Gaelic readings during your ceremony. It’s a beautiful and meaningful way to honour your heritage.
Similarly, Kelly Green and emerald colour palettes are becoming increasingly popular—a nod to the beautiful colours of the Emerald Isle. These vibrant tones work especially well for bridesmaid dresses, floral arrangements, or even a statement suit for the groom.
Take a look at some of our favourite wedding venues in County Wicklow. Whatever your style, you’re sure to find something that fits the bill.
Envisioning a luxe, ultra-glam special day and a wedding venue to match? Consider Powerscourt Hotel, Resort & Spa. Looking like something straight out of a Bridgerton set, the front of this hotel alone is enough to take your breath away. Plus, with the Great Sugar Loaf mountain as your backdrop and stunning interiors at every turn, it’s basically a photographer’s dream. It’s perfect if you want that mix of old-world elegance and five-star luxury.
If you’re looking for something fabulous but budget-friendly, consider Ballybeg House in Tinahely. Proud to offer affordable prices to their couples, their packages start at €115 per head, which is extremely reasonable for the size, beauty, and charm you’re getting. The whole place has that relaxed, rustic-luxury vibe, and with on-site wedding coordinators and a team of professional staff who really know their stuff, you’ll be in very safe hands. They’re all about making sure your day feels personal, easy, and full of good vibes.
Dreaming of your happily ever after? Check out Killruddery House and Gardens in Bray. With prices starting at €9,000 for up to 180 guests, this 17th-century estate is pure magic. Rebuilt in 1651 by the 2nd Earl of Meath, this grand stone house is everything you could hope for on your fairy tale day. From the genuine marble statues to the jaw-dropping gardens, every corner feels like it’s made for romantic moments (and seriously gorgeous photos!).
If you’re looking for a spot that specialises in LGBTQ+ weddings, Tinakilly Country House Hotel is a luxury venue that embraces love in all its forms. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a dedicated team that understands the importance of making every couple feel celebrated, Tinakilly offers a stunning blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Alternatively, Trudder Lodge near Newcastle and Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort are also stunning LGBTQ+ friendly wedding venues in County Wicklow.
With regards to cost, venues in County Wicklow tend to run between €5,000 and €19,000 for exclusive hire, depending on the particulars of your special day. Some venues offer per-head pricing instead, typically ranging from €89 to €170 per guest, and some venues only offer prices upon enquiry. The final cost of all weddings will depend on your headcount, logistics, and any add-ons like late-night food or signature cocktails. But compared to other parts of Ireland and the UK, County Wicklow offers some fantastic value for such breathtaking settings.
Did you know: Ireland was the first country in the world to legalise gay marriage. This was done through a referendum in 2015 where 62% of constituents voted for love!
We recommend a lead time of between 18 and 20 months for weddings in County Wicklow. This is longer than the average of between 12 and 18 months. However, County Wicklow’s rural location and popularity for destination weddings mean that venues, suppliers, and hotels get snapped up quickly. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment!
If you’re more flexible with dates or are happy to consider a mid-week wedding, you may get away with a shorter lead time of between 12 and 15 months. But, as we continuously say, planning earlier means you get to enjoy the process of planning your wedding, rather than everything feeling like a big rush.
It’s undeniable that Ireland is a stunning country, but it isn’t known for its sunshine. As a result, if you’re planning a wedding in County Wicklow, it’s a good idea to be prepared for a cloudy sky or a bit of rain here and there. But, from a photographer’s perspective, this can actually be a blessing in disguise! The soft, diffused light that comes with cloudy weather creates the perfect backdrop for dreamy, romantic wedding photos. Every cloud has a silver lining (literally!).
Spring (March-May) brings lows of 4°C and highs of 15°C, so it's still pretty cool, but the fresh blooms and lush greenery make it absolutely beautiful. You’ll get that crisp air and the promise of longer days, plus a stunning burst of colour as flowers start to bloom. If an outdoor wedding is at the top of your wishlist, spring is the time to do it.
Summer (June-August) in Ireland brings lows of 14°C and highs of 18°C, meaning the weather is starting to pick up but it’s not overly hot, making it ideal for those outdoor ceremonies and receptions. With long summer hours and bright blue skies, your photos will look fresh and beautiful. Plus, there’s ample time for those gorgeous, golden hour snapshots!
Autumn (September-November) is another beautiful time to get married in Ireland. With lows of 6°C and highs of 13°C, it’s definitely starting to get chillier. But, with the colder weather comes the beautiful autumn colours, so it’s a brilliant trade-off if you can handle a little chill. Outdoor venues like Rathsallagh House and its ivy-clad exterior will be in peak season in this weather; make the most of it with an outdoor photoshoot!
Winter (December-February) weddings aren’t for the faint-hearted. But, if you wrap up warm and incorporate some cosy touches like pillar candles, open fires, and seasonal tones, it can be just as beautiful as a spring or summer wedding. Temperatures start at 6°C and may rise to around 10°C as we move towards spring, so you’ll definitely want to plan for indoor spaces or have a good backup plan in place. A venue like Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort offers beautiful indoor options with sweeping views of the Wicklow countryside, so you can still enjoy the scenery without having to step outside to brave the chill.
Travelling around County Wicklow can be tricky due to its rural location. Although it’s only about an hour’s drive from Dublin, public transport options can be a bit limited, especially if you're heading to more remote venues. Hiring a car is usually the easiest way to get around and gives you the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace.
Guests travelling from further afield may want to consider flying. Dublin Airport (DUB) is the closest major airport and is really convenient, sitting just over an hour’s drive from most Wicklow wedding venues. With direct flights from both major and minor airports, it’s a no-brainer if you can find a cheap, last-minute trip!
Alternatively, there are also a range of ferry options that quickly transport you from the British Isles to Ireland’s east coast, with Dublin Port and Dun Laoghaire Port both within easy reach of Wicklow. Holyhead to Dublin is your best bet. However, you could also try sailing from Liverpool or Fishguard if the timings work better for you.
Guests will undoubtedly need somewhere to rest their heads, and there are a range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Some venues, like Glenview Hotel and Leisure Club, include the accommodation of the couple in the price, and more rooms can be booked for other guests at an additional cost.