Capturing the Magic of a Clearwell Castle Wedding Photography
Clearwell Castle wedding photography is pure cinematic contrast – grand stone rooms and soft window light, then fresh gardens and that legendary underground party energy later on.
We’re Marta May Photography – also known as The Mays (Marta + Artur) – and we photograph weddings in a DOCU-ART style: real, blink-and-you-miss-it moments first, then creative portraits that still feel like you. We’re TWIA National Winners (as The Mays) and now TWIA judges, so if the weather flips, the light drops, or the timeline runs wild… you’re in calm, experienced hands.
Clearwell Castle sits in the Forest of Dean, and it’s one of those venues where the day flows beautifully: emotional ceremony energy, big confetti moments on the steps, and then that brilliant “switch” into full celebration once everyone heads downstairs for the night.
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If you want Clearwell Castle wedding photography that feels real, cinematic, and full of the in-between moments, we’re Marta May Photography – also known as The Mays (Marta + Artur). We photograph Clearwell Castle in a DOCU-ART style: candid documentary storytelling, plus relaxed, cinematic portraits that never hijack your day. We’re TWIA National Winners (as The Mays) and now TWIA judges, so you’re in very safe hands, especially in the tricky indoor light that makes Clearwell so atmospheric.
If you’re planning a wedding here, this post will help you picture what it actually feels like, where the best light tends to be, how to keep portraits relaxed (and quick), and how to get photos that look stunning and bring back the vibe of the day when you open your gallery in ten years.
We’ve been lucky enough to photograph love stories at Clearwell Castle, and we know exactly how to make the most of its incredible backdrops in every season, lighting condition, and wedding style.
In this guide, we’ll share:
- Why Clearwell Castle is one of the UK’s most magical wedding venues
- How to get the most breathtaking wedding photos here
- Insider photography tips to make sure your photos are nothing short of spectacular
If you’re planning a Clearwell Castle wedding and want your photos to be natural, stunning, and full of real emotion, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!
Key facts about Clearwell Castle weddings
Location: Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Exclusive use: Yes – house and grounds are yours for the day
Day guests: Up to 150
Evening guests: Up to 250
Ceremony space: Ballroom (civil ceremonies)
Party spaces: Includes the vaulted Cellar Bar & Disco (iconic for dancing)
Accommodation: On-site rooms for around 95–100+ guests
Best for: Couples who want everything in one place (and love that moody-romantic castle atmosphere)
Why Clearwell Castle is the Perfect Wedding Venue
Let’s be honest – if you’ve ever dreamed of a fairytale wedding, Clearwell Castle is probably exactly what you imagined. Majestic stone walls, candlelit corridors, and a grand ballroom straight out of a movie – it’s the kind of place where love stories come to life. But what really makes this venue special isn’t just how stunning it looks, it’s how it feels.
Weddings at Clearwell Castle aren’t just elegant – they’re warm, intimate, and totally unforgettable. Here’s why so many couples (and photographers like us!) absolutely love this venue.
A Castle Wedding That Feels Like Yours
Some castles feel huge and impersonal – but not this one. Clearwell Castle is grand and impressive, but it still feels intimate and welcoming. And the best part? You get the entire place to yourself for the day!
Imagine: No tourists, no interruptions – just you, your favourite people, and the most magical setting to celebrate your love story.
Photography Tip: With exclusive access, we can explore all the best photography spots without distractions – from the iconic grand entrance to the secret garden corners!
Beautiful in Every Season
One of the reasons we love photographing weddings at Clearwell Castle is because it looks incredible year-round.
- Spring & Summer: Flowers in full bloom, golden sunshine, and lush greenery everywhere.
- Autumn: The trees surrounding the castle turn rich shades of red and gold, adding an extra touch of romance.
- Winter: Picture twinkling fairy lights, candlelit tables, and a roaring fire – cosy, magical, and perfect for an intimate wedding.
Dreaming of winter wedding photos that still feel bright and airy? Don’t worry – Clearwell Castle’s big windows and elegant interiors provide gorgeous natural light even on gloomy days.
Everything in One Place – No Stress, Just Fun!
One of the best things about Clearwell Castle is that everything happens in one location. You don’t need to worry about travel between venues, navigating country roads in wedding heels, or squeezing into a tight schedule. From getting ready to the last dance, you and your guests can just relax and enjoy every moment.
Photography Tip: When everything is in one place, we can capture more natural, storytelling moments – from morning excitement to late-night dance floor fun!
A Fairytale Setting That’s Actually Practical
Yes, it’s a castle, but it’s also a venue designed to give you a stress-free, unforgettable wedding experience.
- Bridal suites? Check. You can get ready on-site with zero rush.
- Gorgeous ceremony & reception spaces? Absolutely. The ballroom is perfect for both.
- Plenty of outdoor space? Yep! If the weather’s good, you can say your vows outside!
We always scout the best light and backdrops on your wedding morning, so you get the most incredible photos whether it’s sunny, cloudy, or raining!
Why We Love Clearwell Castle Weddings?
Clearwell Castle isn’t just a venue – it’s an experience. It’s a place where history meets romance, where every corner is picture-perfect, and where you can truly feel like royalty on your wedding day.
If you’re getting married here, you’re in for something magical. And as photographers who know this venue inside and out, we’re so excited to capture every moment for you.
A real wedding at Clearwell Castle (what it’s actually like)
Getting ready always feels like that calm-before-the-storm moment – zipped dresses, happy nerves, and someone inevitably losing a buttonhole at the exact worst time (don’t worry, we’ve seen it all).
Then you walk into the Ballroom and it hits you: the space, the light, the atmosphere – it’s a proper “this is happening” moment. Once you’re married, the whole day opens up. Guests spill outside, and the front steps become the perfect confetti funnel: everyone’s cheering, you’re laughing, and for about thirty seconds you forget where your hands even are because you’re just in it.
After that, we usually steal you for a quick portrait wander – nothing stiff, nothing perform-y. Just a little walk, a breather, and a few cinematic frames that still feel like real life.
And then… the shift. The lights drop, the energy rises, and everyone heads downstairs. The Cellar Bar is where the day stops being “wedding timeline” and turns into pure celebration. This is why we love staying later – because once the drinks flow and the nerves disappear, that’s when the most honest, joyful, unscripted dance-floor chaos shows up.
Next up: Getting Ready at Clearwell Castle – how to start your wedding morning relaxed, excited, and camera-ready! And… here’s another slideshow from one of the weddings we’ve photographed at this beautiful venue, have a look:
Getting Ready at Clearwell Castle – A Stress-Free, Magical Start to Your Day
The morning of your wedding is one of the most exciting parts of the day – the butterflies, the laughter, the quiet emotional moments before the big “I do.” And when you’re getting married at Clearwell Castle, you get to experience it all in a stunning, stress-free setting.
Whether you’re getting ready with your bridal party in the elegant suites or sharing a toast with your groomsmen, the castle provides the perfect backdrop for beautiful, relaxed photos. Here’s how to make the most of your wedding morning at Clearwell Castle.
The Bridal Suite – Where the Magic Begins
One of the biggest perks of Clearwell Castle is its spacious and beautifully designed bridal suite. With large windows flooding the room with natural light, this space is a dream for getting ready photos. It’s elegant, timeless, and gives you the perfect setting for those pre-wedding moments with your bridesmaids, parents, and loved ones.
Before getting dressed, we’ll capture detail shots of your wedding dress, shoes, jewellery, and flowers in the soft morning light – this adds a gorgeous storytelling element to your album!
Groom Prep – The Moments You Don’t Want to Miss
The groom’s morning deserves just as much attention as the bride’s! Clearwell Castle offers separate getting-ready spaces so both of you can prepare without seeing each other (unless you want a “first look” moment before the ceremony!).
From cufflink adjustments to that moment of quiet anticipation, the groom’s prep is full of great photo opportunities. And if you’re planning a whiskey toast or a heartfelt gift exchange, these candid, natural moments will become some of your favourite wedding memories.
Make sure to have your jacket, tie, and accessories ready so we can capture those stylish finishing touches before the ceremony!
How to Make Your Wedding Morning Relaxed & Photo-Ready
Here’s how to make sure your getting ready photos feel natural, stress-free, and stunning:
- Keep the room tidy – A clutter-free space means clean, elegant photos.
- Have your details ready – Dress, rings, shoes, perfume – so we can capture those perfect detail shots.
- Take a deep breath and enjoy it – This part of the day flies by, so soak it all in!
Plan to be ready 30 minutes before you need to leave for the ceremony. This gives you time to breathe, enjoy the moment, and capture some stunning portraits before walking down the aisle.
Next Up: The Ceremony – Saying ‘I Do’ in a Fairytale Castle Setting
Now that you’re ready and glowing, it’s time for the most unforgettable moment of the day – the ceremony! Let’s dive into how to capture the most breathtaking “I do” moments at Clearwell Castle.
The Ceremony – Saying ‘I Do’ in a Fairytale Castle Setting
This is it – the moment you’ve been waiting for. The doors open, your heart races, and you step into a room filled with love, excitement, and just the right amount of happy tears. Whether you’re having a grand, elegant ceremony in Clearwell Castle’s Great Hall or an intimate outdoor vow exchange in the gardens, one thing is certain – this moment will be one of the most emotional and magical parts of your wedding day.
Here’s how to make the most of your Clearwell Castle wedding ceremony, both in the experience and in your photos.
The Ceremony Room – A Timeless & Elegant Space
The Great Hall at Clearwell Castle is nothing short of breathtaking. With its high ceilings, chandeliers, and grand windows letting in beautiful natural light, it’s a dream setting for wedding photography. The layout means that no matter where your guests are seated, they have a perfect view of your big moment.
Photography Tip: The natural light streaming through the tall windows creates a soft, romantic glow. We position ourselves strategically to capture the emotion on your face, your partner’s reaction, and the tearful smiles of your guests.
Outdoor Ceremonies – A Dreamy Alternative
If you’re planning a spring or summer wedding, you might be tempted by an outdoor ceremony in Clearwell Castle’s stunning grounds. Picture this: surrounded by lush gardens, birds singing, and the castle as your backdrop – it doesn’t get more magical than that!
Outdoor weddings offer beautiful natural light, but we also make sure to adjust for shade and sunlight so that every detail – from your dress to your expressions – is perfectly captured.
Church Ceremonies
One of our favourite Clearwell days started with a church ceremony nearby (a Valentine’s wedding – candlelight, winter coats, and that proper emotional hush as the doors opened). Then everyone drove back to the castle and the whole day shifted into full celebration – best of both worlds: meaningful ceremony atmosphere, then Clearwell’s epic party energy.
Key Moments to Capture During the Ceremony
A great wedding photographer isn’t just snapping away randomly – we’re telling the full story of your ceremony. Here are some of the most important moments we focus on:
- The walk down the aisle – That first look, the excited anticipation, the tears in your partner’s eyes.
- The vows – The heartfelt words, the hand squeezes, the nervous giggles.
- The ring exchange – A symbolic moment full of love (and sometimes a little fumbling!).
- Guest reactions – Your family’s expressions, the best man wiping a tear, the little flower girl staring in awe.
- The first kiss – The moment you seal your forever!
If you want an epic first kiss photo, hold it for a few extra seconds – it gives us more time to capture the magic!
The Just-Married Moment – Pure Joy!
As you walk back up the aisle as newlyweds, your guests will be cheering, clapping, and showering you with love. Some couples choose to do a confetti throw at this moment, which makes for some of the most joyful and fun wedding photos.
Photography Tip: Biodegradable confetti or flower petals create a stunning effect in photos. If you’re up for something unique, bubbles also look amazing in the sunlight!
Next Up: Capturing the Perfect Couple Portraits at Clearwell Castle
The vows are exchanged, the rings are on, and the happy tears have been wiped away. Now, it’s time for some absolutely breathtaking wedding portraits – and trust us, Clearwell Castle has some of the most spectacular spots for them. Let’s explore the best locations next!
Couple Portraits – Capturing Fairytale Moments at Clearwell Castle
Now that you’ve officially tied the knot, it’s time to slow down for a moment and soak it all in – just the two of you. The couple portrait session is one of our favourite parts of the day because it gives you a chance to step away from the excitement, breathe, and truly connect while we capture stunning, intimate, and timeless images of your love.
And at Clearwell Castle, you’re absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to breathtaking backdrops. Here’s how we make the most of your wedding portrait session at this spectacular venue.
The Iconic Spots for Wedding Portraits
- The Grand Entrance – The perfect spot for an elegant, regal shot with the castle in the background. Imagine walking hand-in-hand or sharing a quiet embrace with the grandeur of the castle behind you.
- The Staircase – The castle’s beautiful, staircase is ideal for romantic, timeless portraits. The way the light filters through makes for truly cinematic shots.
- The Gardens & Woodlands – Just outside the castle, you’ll find lush greenery, and peaceful woodland – all perfect for dreamy outdoor shots.
- The Courtyard & Side Lawn – Whether it’s a soft golden-hour glow or moody overcast skies, this space offers versatile and dramatic backdrops for creative portraits.
- The Hidden Corners – Clearwell Castle is full of hidden gems that create intimate, one-of-a-kind shots. We love capturing moments in quiet corridors, or even in the candlelit interiors.
“We always scout out the best locations and adjust our shots based on the season, light, and weather – so no matter the conditions, your photos will look incredible.”
Golden Hour – The Magic Light for Your Wedding Portraits
If there’s one time of day that makes everything look extra dreamy, it’s golden hour – that brief window just before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and completely magical.
💡 Why Golden Hour Photos Are Worth It:
- The light is softer, making your skin glow beautifully.
- The castle and gardens take on a warm, golden hue.
- The atmosphere feels romantic, intimate, and cinematic.
“If possible, we’ll steal you away for just 15-20 minutes during golden hour – it’s 100% worth it for those dreamy, romantic portraits you’ll treasure forever!”
What If It Rains? No Problem!
It’s the UK, so let’s be honest – rain is always a possibility. But don’t worry, rainy wedding days can be just as magical!
How We Make Rainy-Day Photos Stunning:
- Use Clearwell Castle’s stunning interiors for elegant, cosy portraits.
- Embrace the rain with clear umbrellas for a stylish, romantic outdoor shot.
- Use creative lighting and reflections to make rainy photos feel cinematic and dramatic.
“Some of the most stunning wedding photos happen in the rain! A light drizzle, castle lighting, and a well-placed flash can create an epic, movie-like shot.”
Making Clearwell Castle Wedding Photography Feel Natural & Fun
We get it – not everyone loves being in front of the camera. But don’t worry, we’ll guide you every step of the way to make sure your portraits feel completely natural, relaxed, and 100% “you.”
Our approach to couple portraits:
- No awkward poses – just authentic, fun moments.
- We encourage movement – walking, laughing, twirling – so nothing feels forced.
- We capture both classic, timeless portraits and creative, storytelling moments.
Photography Tip: “Just be yourselves, and let us handle the rest! Some of the best portraits happen when you forget the camera is even there.”
Next Up: The Reception – Toasts, Laughter & Dance Floor Magic
It’s time to celebrate with your loved ones! Up next: how to capture incredible reception moments, the best angles for speeches, and how to make your first dance photos absolutely epic. Let’s go!
The Reception – Capturing the Celebration, Laughter & Dance Floor Magic
Now that the formalities are over, it’s time to relax, celebrate, and soak in every incredible moment with your family and friends. The reception is where the real fun begins – from the clinking of glasses during speeches to epic dance floor moves that no one saw coming!
At Clearwell Castle, the reception takes place in the beautifully transformed ballroom, where candlelight, elegant décor, and joyful energy set the perfect scene for storytelling wedding photography. Here’s how we capture all the best moments.
The Wedding Breakfast – A Feast to Remember
After the whirlwind of the ceremony and portraits, it’s time to sit down, breathe, and enjoy a delicious meal. The ballroom at Clearwell Castle is beautifully styled for a grand banquet, and we love capturing:
- The stunning table décor – Every little detail, from the centrepieces to the place settings.
- Guest interactions – Laughter, conversations, and those heartfelt toasts.
- The couple soaking it all in – Watching your guests smiling, chatting, and enjoying themselves is one of the most rewarding feelings of the day.
“We capture the moments in between – the quiet hand-holds, the glances across the room, the joy on your guests’ faces – because these are the images that tell the real story of your wedding.”
The Speeches – Laughter, Happy Tears & Unforgettable Moments
Whether it’s the best man cracking jokes, a heartfelt father-of-the-bride speech, or the couple sharing their love story, speeches are often one of the most emotional parts of the day.
How We Capture the Best Speech Photos:
- Focus on the storytelling – The speaker, the couple’s reaction, and guests wiping away happy tears.
- Anticipate big laughs and emotional moments – We position ourselves to capture every expression!
- Use discreet, natural photography – No harsh flashes, just the natural warmth of the room.
“If you’re giving a speech, try to look up and engage with the room! It helps us capture more expressive, natural moments.”
The First Dance – A Magical, Romantic Moment
The lights dim, the music starts, and you take that first spin on the dance floor as a married couple – this is a moment you’ll never forget. The Clearwell Castle ballroom – and their cellar too – creates the perfect romantic setting for a beautiful, cinematic first dance shot.
How We Capture Stunning First Dance Photos:
- Use the venue’s ambient lighting and a touch of creative flash for dramatic effect.
- Capture both wide-angle shots of the entire scene and close-ups of your emotions.
- Look for authentic moments – whether it’s a twirl, a laugh, or a forehead-to-forehead embrace.
“Even if you’re nervous about dancing, just have fun with it! The best first dance photos happen when you’re in the moment, not thinking about the steps.”
The Party – Dance Floor Magic & Candid Fun
Now it’s time for the party to go up a notch! The legendary Clearwell Castle cellar bar is where the celebrations truly take off. The mix of historic stone walls, moody lighting, and incredible energy makes for some of the best dance floor photos ever!
- Candid shots of guests letting loose – These are the photos that will make you laugh for years to come!
- Creative dance floor lighting – We use dynamic lighting techniques to make your dance shots look fun, colourful, and high-energy.
- Reaction shots – The people watching from the sidelines, the DJ in action, the hilarious dance-offs – these all add to the story!
“If you want your dance floor photos to feel lively, encourage your guests to get involved! The more energy, the better the photos.”
The Final Moments – A Magical End to Your Day
As the night winds down, there are a few last wedding photo opportunities that are worth capturing:
- Sparkler exit – A romantic, cinematic way to end the night!
- Nighttime couple portraits – The castle illuminated under the stars makes for an incredible closing shot.
- Candid goodbyes – The hugs, the laughter, the “I can’t believe it’s over” moments.
Photography Tip: “A nighttime shot outside the castle, backlit for a dramatic silhouette, makes for an unforgettable final wedding portrait.”
Next Up: How to Book Your Clearwell Castle Wedding Photographer
Your wedding day may come to an end, but the photos last forever. Up next, we’ll share everything you need to know about booking your Clearwell Castle wedding photographer, our approach, and how we can help you capture every magical moment.
Booking Your Clearwell Castle Wedding Photographer
Your wedding at Clearwell Castle will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and your photos will be the lasting memories that bring it all back to life. From the emotional ceremony to the wild dance floor celebrations, every moment deserves to be captured beautifully, naturally, and with a touch of creativity.
So, how do you make sure you have the perfect wedding photographer for your special day? Here’s what to consider when booking your Clearwell Castle wedding photographer.
What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer
Choosing a wedding photographer isn’t just about finding someone who takes beautiful pictures – it’s about finding the right photographer for YOU. Here’s what matters most:
- Experience at Clearwell Castle – A photographer who knows the venue can make the most of the best lighting, angles, and hidden photo spots.
- A Documentary Approach – You want a photographer who captures real, natural moments, not just posed shots.
- Ability to Work in Any Lighting Condition – From bright outdoor ceremonies to the moody cellar bar, Clearwell Castle has a variety of lighting scenarios, so experience matters!
- Personality & Connection – You’ll spend a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day – so make sure they make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and at ease.
“If you want your wedding photos to feel natural, fun, and full of life, book a photographer whose personality clicks with yours. You’ll feel more comfortable in front of the camera, and it will show in your photos!”
How Much Does a Wedding Photographer Cost?
Wedding photography is an investment – because when the music fades and the flowers wilt, your photos are what remain.
What Affects Wedding Photography Pricing?
- Coverage Time – Do you want just the ceremony, or full-day coverage from getting ready to the last dance?
- Second Photographer – Having a second shooter means more angles, more moments captured, and a richer storytelling experience.
- Editing & Delivery – High-quality, professionally edited images take time and expertise.
- Albums & Extras – Do you want a stunning wedding album or printed keepsakes?
“If you’re trying to stick to a budget, prioritise quality over quantity – it’s better to have a smaller number of amazing photos than thousands of average ones.”
Why Book With Us?
There are plenty of photographers out there, but if you want someone who truly understands Clearwell Castle, you’re in the right place.
- We’ve photographed weddings at Clearwell Castle – we know all the best locations, secret spots, and lighting tricks.
- Our style is relaxed, natural, and fun – no awkward posing, just real emotions and genuine joy.
- We believe your wedding photos should feel like YOU – authentic, beautiful, and full of personality.
- We capture the full story – from morning butterflies to crazy dance floor energy, we document every part of your day.
What Our Couples Say:
“We couldn’t have asked for a better photographer! You made us feel so relaxed, and our wedding photos are beyond perfect. Thank you for capturing the best day of our lives so beautifully!” – [Jess & Ferg]
Clearwell Castle wedding photography FAQ
We’re Marta May Photography – also known as The Mays (Marta + Artur) – and these are the questions couples ask us most when they’re planning a Clearwell Castle wedding.
Can we get married at Clearwell Castle, and where does the ceremony happen?
Yes. Most civil ceremonies happen in the Ballroom (it has that church-like feel with gorgeous light), and there’s also an outdoor ceremony option on the grounds for warmer days. We’ll help you choose based on the season, your guest numbers, and what kind of atmosphere you want.
Can we have a church ceremony and still have our reception at Clearwell Castle?
Absolutely, and it works beautifully. We photographed a Valentine’s wedding where the couple had a nearby church ceremony first, then everyone came back to Clearwell for drinks, confetti, dinner and a big party later. You get the meaningful church moment and the full “castle celebration” experience in one day.
Is Clearwell Castle exclusive use?
Yes – it’s an exclusive-use wedding venue, so it really does feel like it becomes your own place for the day. That’s a big part of the magic: your guests can relax, explore, and properly settle in.
How many guests can Clearwell Castle hold?
As a guide, Clearwell Castle can host up to 150 for the wedding breakfast and up to 250 for the evening reception. If your numbers are smaller, it still feels cosy and atmospheric – it doesn’t swallow you up.
Where does the party happen in the evening?
The Cellar Bar & Disco is the iconic one – it’s where Clearwell really turns into a proper party. If you’re into the “carefree joy / everyone finally letting go” part of the day, this is your moment. We love staying for this because it’s where the most honest, hilarious, joyful photos happen.
Where’s the best spot for confetti at Clearwell Castle?
We usually recommend the front steps / entrance area because it keeps everyone together and gives you that big, cinematic “just married” moment. If the weather is wild, we’ll pick an indoor-friendly alternative so you still get the energy (without soggy petals and sad faces).
What if it rains (or the light is low)?
Clearwell is brilliant for rain plans because the inside has so much character – you still get atmosphere, texture, and story. We’ll plan a simple “dry route” for portraits and group photos, and we’ll lean into documentary moments indoors (which is where Clearwell shines anyway).
How long do couple portraits take at Clearwell Castle?
Usually 10–20 minutes, often in short bursts so you’re not missing your own party. We keep it relaxed and natural – more like a little walk and a breather than a photoshoot – then you’re straight back to your people.
Can guests stay overnight at Clearwell Castle?
Yes – there’s on-site accommodation and it’s one of the reasons Clearwell weddings feel like a proper weekend escape. It also makes the morning after feel extra special (breakfast, stories, and everyone reliving the dance floor chaos).
Get in touch
If you’re planning your day at Clearwell Castle and you’re looking for Clearwell Castle wedding photography that feels natural, fun, and properly you, we’d love to hear what you’re planning.
We’re Marta May Photography – also known as The Mays (Marta + Artur) – and we’ll blend in when you want space, guide you when you need it, and capture the full story (including the carefree, chaotic dance floor… because that’s where the real day shows up).
- Check your date with us here
- Cotswolds planning next? Cotswolds wedding photographer and Cotswolds wedding photography GUIDE
- Similar venues (castle / historic vibes): Pauntley Court, Manor By The Lake, Hampton Court Castle
