If you’re looking for a wedding venue that marries wide‑open Cumbrian landscapes with luxurious modern comforts, Fairbank Wedding Barn near the village of Staveley might be exactly what you have in mind. Set on a working sheep and cattle farm between Kendal and Windermere, this lovingly converted Lakeland stone barn is an exclusive‑use venue that gives you space to breathe while still feeling intimate. From a photographer’s point of view it is one of the best barn venues in Cumbria thanks to its natural light, separate ceremony space and endless scenic backdrops. Here’s a closer look at what makes Fairbank Barn wedding photography so special.

A blank canvas with character

Fairbank Barn sits within 370 acres of countryside on Fairbank Farm. Approached along a winding farm driveway, the venue is made up of two distinct spaces. The main barn is a traditional Lakeland stone building full of character, with exposed beams, stone walls and large windows that let in plenty of light even on a rainy Lake District day. Next door is the Shippon, a smaller ceremony barn with a rustic feel; having a separate ceremony space means there’s no need for a quick turnaround and it also provides variety in the photographs. The barns have been finished to a very high standard, so even in poor weather you and your guests will be warm and cosy.

The venue can cater for up to 150 guests and offers luxury on‑site accommodation for ten people. Fairbank is dog‑friendly too, so your four‑legged family members can be part of the day – previous couples have even had their dogs carry the rings down the aisle. If you’re planning something more intimate, the elopement package includes two nights’ self‑catering accommodation, use of the gardens and a trip up to the venue’s private tarn.

Morning preparations

One of my favourite things about Fairbank barn wedding mornings is the spacious farmhouse where couples can get ready. The farmhouse has big windows and plenty of room for hair and makeup, but more importantly it feels like a home. You can share breakfast with family and friends around the farmhouse table and then slip upstairs to put on your dress without feeling cramped. It’s also the perfect place for candid photographs of the early nerves, the excited smiles and the moments of calm before the ceremony.

Saying “I do” in the Shippon or outside

Fairbank gives you the choice of an indoor ceremony in the Shippon or an outdoor ceremony on the lawn. The Shippon – once a cattle shed – has been transformed into a bright white ceremony barn with fairy lights and simple rustic decor. In bad weather it feels cosy and intimate; in good weather the large doorway can be opened to let in the view. For elopements or small weddings you can use the lawn in front of the farmhouse. Couples love the lawn because it offers a mountain backdrop while still being private. After the ceremony your guests can spill out into the courtyard for drinks and canapés, while we head off for portraits.

Portraits at the tarn and around the farm

Ask any photographer who has shot at Fairbank what their favourite spot is and they’ll probably mention the private tarn. A short drive or tractor ride up the fell leads to a small mountain lake with uninterrupted views over the Coniston Fells and Langdale Pikes. Whether you’re eloping or you have 150 guests, taking time out for portraits at the tarn is always worth it. The views are incredible and, because the tarn is on private land with no public footpaths, you don’t need to worry about tourists wandering into your photos. It also gives couples a few minutes of quiet together before rejoining their guests.

There are plenty of other photographic opportunities without leaving the farm. Wooded areas provide dappled shade on sunny days, and the long grass in the summer catches the evening light beautifully. Rustic stone walls, old farm gates and the barns themselves all add texture to the images. Fairbank Barn is designed as a blank canvas so that every wedding can look and feel unique. For me as a photographer, that means experimenting with different compositions and light on every visit.

Drinks, dinner and dancing

After the portraits we return to the courtyard and barn for dinner. Fairbank has no restrictions on suppliers and encourages couples to make the day their own – whether that means food vans on the lawn, street‑food style catering or classic three‑course dining. One wedding I shot had hand‑tied wildflower arrangements and Pieminster pies; another couple brought in a wood‑fired pizza van. The flexibility extends to entertainment too: you can have speeches outside in the sunshine, a live band or DJ in the main barn, or even a ceilidh – the dancefloor is big enough for everyone.

The barns flow into each other and into the covered courtyard, so even if the weather turns you’ll never feel cramped. Guests can wander between the bar, dancefloor and outdoor areas. At night the venue looks magical lit by fairy lights and candles; the stone walls and beams provide a warm, rustic backdrop for photographing the laughter and tears of the speeches and the energetic dance moves later on.

Tips for planning your Fairbank Wedding Barn photography

• Take advantage of the accommodation: Staying on site for two nights means you’re not rushing on the morning of your wedding. You’ll appreciate being able to retreat to the farmhouse for a breather or to freshen up.
• Plan time for portraits: Factor in travel to the tarn in your timeline. A 4×4 trip to the top of the fell takes about 10 minutes each way; allow another 20–30 minutes to explore the area and take photos. The tarn is beautiful in golden hour light.
• Think about the weather: The Lake District is known for its changeable climate. Fairbank’s barns are warm and dry whatever the weather, but it’s good to have umbrellas or wraps for outdoor photos. The covered courtyard means guests can still enjoy drinks outside if there’s rain.
• Use the separate ceremony space: Having a ceremony barn separate from the reception space makes the day feel relaxed and gives us more varied images.
• Bring your dog (or don’t!): If your dog is part of your family, Fairbank welcomes pets and many couples include them in the ceremony. Just let the team know so they can help with logistics.

Why I love Fairbank Wedding Barn

I’ve had the pleasure of photographing weddings all over the UK, but there’s something about Fairbank that keeps drawing me back. Maybe it’s the way the light filters through the barn doors on a summer evening, or the adventure of hopping in a Land Rover to chase the sunset at the tarn. Maybe it’s the warmth and flexibility of Clare and her team, who are genuinely invested in helping couples create a day that feels true to them. Or maybe it’s simply that every time I shoot there, I see something new – a different season, a different sky, a different story unfolding.

If you’re planning a Fairbank Barn wedding and are looking for relaxed, creative photography that tells the story of your day, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to check availability and let’s chat about how we can make the most of this stunning Lake District venue.