Nestled in the heart of Shropshire, Ludlow Castle stands as a breathtaking relic of British history, with walls that have borne witness to centuries of ceremony and celebration. Today, it’s one of the most enchanting wedding venues in the region, offering couples a unique blend of medieval grandeur and intimate charm.
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Gillian, Ludlow Castle’s dedicated wedding coordinator, to discover what makes this historic site so special for modern-day romance…
What makes Ludlow Castle a unique venue for weddings compared to other historical sites?
Any Castle is a wonderful venue for a wedding, but The Round Chapel in Ludlow Castle is unique and there is nowhere else like it. Historically it’s very important, and beautiful in its simplicity. Even the walk across to the inner bailey from Castle House is atmospheric, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful setting for a wedding.
Could you tell us about the different ceremony spaces available for couples and what makes each one special?
We have several options for ceremony space for couples wishing to be married here. It’s great because we can offer spaces for different wedding sizes. Our Victorian library within the Beacon Rooms offers an intimate setting where a smaller wedding party will feel more private.
The recently refurbished Beacon Rooms, with beautiful high ceilings and chandeliers, lend themselves perfectly to a range of wedding sizes, and the rooms can be tailored to a small gathering of up to 16 or a large ceremony seating around 80 guests. Whichever, there is a sense of grandeur within the walls!
The Round Chapel in the inner bailey is perfect for smaller, intimate ceremonies but can be grown up to 80. As said before there is nowhere else to rival this unique space for a wedding ceremony. Simple, beautiful and very special.
How do you help couples ensure that every detail is covered for their special day?
From the first meeting when a couple has an appointment to view the spaces, I am available to guide them through each stage. I provide a list of recommended suppliers covering most services needed for couples to build their wedding day. We have a long-standing relationship with many of the suppliers which helps when it comes to liaising and co-ordinating the finer details for the ‘big day’. As we approach the day itself, both parties will be in touch via email and phone calls to address any concerns. There is a final planning meeting several weeks before the day and a rehearsal visit on the eve of the wedding.
Can you tell us a bit about the catering options available?
Chapter 66, our in-house catering partners will tailor a menu to suit the couple, be it canapes, afternoon tea or formal dining options.
What’s your favourite part of a wedding day here at Ludlow Castle – is there a moment that always feels particularly magical?
By the time ‘the day’ is here, I have usually built up a relationship with the couple, it makes it feel more personal. The hour before the ceremony is exciting when the registrars and guests start to arrive! There is a sense of anticipation which is lovely. I always feel a sense of pride when the time comes to introduce the couple to the registrars.
What is the experience like for couples and their wedding parties who stay on-site in the accommodation in Castle House?
Couples and the wider wedding party who choose to stay in the Castle House accommodation at the time of the wedding have a lovely experience. Not only is it a wonderful opportunity to stay at the castle together, but being on-site makes everything more relaxing. The accommodation sleeps twelve people, across three unique apartments. The bride can have her hair and make-up done in the Arthur & Catherine apartment, then make the short journey downstairs once she is ready for her wedding ceremony!
If you could give couples planning their wedding at Ludlow Castle one insider tip for the day, what would it be?
By the very nature of all the preparation and anticipation of the ‘big day’ I often say to couples that planning and lists are good but when it comes to the day, let things happen organically, focus on the moment and enjoy it as it will go very quickly!
If you’d like to experience the magic of a wedding at Ludlow Castle, we invite you to contact us to arrange a free, no-obligation visit. We’d be delighted to discuss how we can make your big day truly unforgettable.