A North Yorkshire Wedding at Bolton Abbey Tithe Barn, Skipton

It was a real pleasure to photograph this wedding at the Tithe Barn at Bolton Abbey, a wedding venue set in the stunning surroundings of Wharfdale, North Yorkshire. There’s a lot to love about this new Tithe Barn venue run by Cripps and Co. This is the second tithe barn venue I’ve been to run by Cripps, the first being Healey Barn in Northumberland. Both venues are so stunning, well looked after and well managed by the staff. It was a real pleasure to work with the team and shoot Lottie and Matt’s wedding in North Yorkshire.

A Stunner of a Barn Wedding Venue

It’s called the Tithe Barn, but it’s no barn. Well, if there was such a thing as a luxury barn, this is it. I was truly blown away when I first went to the barn on a reconnaissance mission ahead of the wedding. It’s a huge venue with a spectacular symmetrical timber structure. It was built around 1500 and is located in the grounds of the Duke of Devonshire’s Bolton Abbey Estate, on the banks of the River Wharfe. And as someone who loves the outdoors, I’ve been back a few times since this wedding with the kids to jump in and swim in the river. We love to wander around the area and have even taken a trip on the nearby steam railway.

Bolton Abbey Tithe Barn Wedding Photographer // North Yorkshire

It was one of those rainy summer days. It was warm, but in true Yorkshire style the rain didn’t wan’t to let up. It was that really fine stuff that gets you wet. Rain doesn’t bother me, and it certainly didn’t bother Lottie and Matt who were going to have an amazing day regardless of the weather.  As soon as they were ready, Lottie and her bridesmaids were out on in the garden of the cottage where they got ready. Sporting custom made umbrellas the bridal party looked great set against the dramatic landscape of the rolling hills and imposing rain clouds. As long as they got married and celebrated with their families and friends nothing else mattered. And quite right too. When you put your heart and soul into creating the perfect day, nothing can get in the way, especially not a little bit of water! By the end of the evening Lottie had tied a knot in her wedding dress so that it didn’t trip her up when dancing. A real sign that this was my kind of wedding.

Barn weddings are ace!

Why do barn weddings in the UK have everyone swooning? Well, they’re not just a hip aesthetic – they’re like a countryside hug with a side of timeless elegance and a dash of personal pizzazz. From cute converted farmhouses to fancy estates, these spots are like escape pods from the ordinary, sharing tales of history and nature’s awesomeness.

Rustic Vibes: No more boring ballrooms! Barn weddings are all about celebrating raw vibes and exposed beams. Imagine high ceilings decked out with fairy lights, giving off magical vibes under the stars. Stone walls spill the beans about days gone by, while wooden beams add that cozy touch. It’s a clean slate for couples to sprinkle with their style – be it rustic chic with wildflowers and burlap or whimsical elegance with greenery and crystal chandeliers.

Seasonal Shenanigans: Spring means blooming gardens and meadows made for sun-soaked ceremonies. Summer nights? Perfect for dining under twinkle lights. Autumn brings golden romance, and winter turns up the charm with barn fires and snowflakes. Every season paints a unique backdrop, making each wedding a standout memory.

Personal Party Zone: Unlike cookie-cutter venues, barn weddings are all about flexibility. From caterers to decor, couples can put their stamp on everything. Picture a ceremony among hay bales, a food truck fiesta in the courtyard, or live music bouncing off the walls. It’s a personal touch that turns the day into an unforgettable experience.

More than a Day: Many barn spots offer on-site digs, turning the wedding into a weekend bash. Imagine snug log cabins or glamping tents under a starry sky. It’s like a wedding sleepover, creating bonds that go beyond the big day.

Local Flavors and Green Vibes: Barn weddings love Mother Earth. With their focus on outdoor beauty, they champion local and sustainable practices. Think regionally sourced grub, support for local crafters, and eco-friendly decor. It’s a conscious celebration that feels good in every way.

Looking for more Tithe Barn Wedding Photography? Check out the wedding of Laura and Christian at Browsholme Hall and the Tithe Barn in Lancashire. Or Clair and Ben’s Humanist wedding at High Barn, Edenhall Estate in Cumbria.