Have you ever dreamt of the perfect wedding venue? Does it have a Castle nestled in lush green gardens, beside a charming seaside village, 20 mins from Dublin city? You may be in for a treat! A rare and relatively unknown venue on the Irish wedding scene sits in one of Dublin's most picturesque villages in Howth, Co Dublin.
Perched on the wild and beautiful Howth Peninsula, Howth Castle is one of Irelands most extraordinary settings in which to begin a marriage! The home of the St. Lawrence family since 1177, it is one of the longest continuously inhabited private residences in Europe. A 12th century grand estate with timeless stone walls and sprawling gardens. This Castle could be your dream wedding venue for an intimate gathering on Ireland's enchanting coastline.
Weddings in Howth Castle
Couples across the world are trading grand ballrooms and large parties for smaller, more intimate, "micro weddings". With fewer guests, couples can focus on meaningful interactions ensuring that every person feels like part of the story of their day. Free from the pressure of extravagant productions, financially more friendly and undoubtedly less stressful, you can see the appeal. With a venue like Howth Castle, you prioritise connection over the extravagant.
The growing popularity of intimate weddings reflects a cultural shift towards more mindful and meaningful celebrations. In Ireland, community and heritage hold great importance and couples are drawn to venues like Howth Castle which blends historic charm with modern day intimacy. So if you fancy the cozy elegance of a smaller wedding venue, you may be in the right place.
The oldest part of the current building dates from the 1450's. It's walls have welcomed queens and pirates alike. In 1576 the famous legend and pirate Queen, Grace O Malley visited but was refused entry at the gates. In retaliation, she kidnapped the earls grandson. He was returned and condition that the gate is always remain open to visitors and an extra place is set at every meal at the table.
A tradition supposedly upheld for centuries.The Gaisford-St Lawrence family sold the Castle in 2019, which ended over 840 years of family ownership. The Castle is undergoing conservation for future use but is currently open for historical public and private tours as well as small wedding celebrations.
An Outdoor Wedding - The Gardens
From the grounds, The Irish Sea stretches to the horizon, with cliffs and coastal paths as well as the picturesque harbour of Howth village. The grounds are noted for their wild wild rhododendron gardens, which blaze with colour in season, and some of the oldest beech hedges in Ireland, planted in 1710. The Castle itself has multiple conservation projects underway to restore and improve the site, gardens and the outer turret buildings.
You will have access to the beautiful walled gardens, which sits beside a small lake overlooking the west side of the property, as well as the main front castle steps, courtyard and beautiful walkways.The walled garden at Howth Castle is an idyllic spot for a quiet, intimate wedding. Tucked up behind ancient stone walls, it feels like a secret world. So peaceful and private, sheltering you from the harsh sea breeze.
On a summers day you will get that unmistakeable fresh sea air drifting in from the Irish Sea. Lush, perfectly mowed lawns, wisteria drooping down over the steps and the rich scent of roses in the garden, you wont find a more pleasant spot.
Howth's Coastal Magic : Perfect Spots for Romantic Wedding Photos
While Howth Castle is magical, the surrounding hills of Howth peninsula also offer endless coastal beauty for your wedding photography or video. Having spent many years living in Howth myself, I've found some of the most iconic locations for dramatic coastal backdrops and rugged sea views that will take your breath away.
At certain times during the year, Howth Cliff path becomes laced in yellow and purple heather. This stunning flower blooms in bright purples and yellows from January through to spring. Looking particularly wild and vibrant in April and May.
Howth Castle Cookery School
Another bonus of choosing Howth Castle for your intimate wedding is the historic Georgian kitchen is home to the highly regarded hotel Castle cookery school. Couples who are celebrating a relaxed multi day wedding will love the idea of adding a fun, hands-on cooking experience the day before the wedding.
Imagine gathering with your closest friends and family for a private class, learning to make fresh Irish soda bread, handmade pizza with local ingredients, or simple seafood dishes using the best of Howth harbour's seafood catch. It's the perfect way to turn your small wedding into a mini getaway filled with shared experiences. To find out more about Howth Castle's cookery school and offers, click here.
A Setting Steeped in History
To wed at Howth Castle is to step into a love story that stretches back across eight centuries. Wild gardens, the picturesque Howth village and Dublin Bay laid out beneath a wide open sky!
