A Cotswolds manor where the gardens do half the work (and the Rock Bar does the other half).
Manor by the Lake wedding photography is pure Cotswolds magic – a Victorian manor in Cheltenham with Italianate gardens, a lakeside setting, and beautiful indoor spaces for every weather plan. We’re Marta May Photography – also known as The Mays (Marta + Artur) – and we photograph weddings in a DOCU-ART style: real, candid moments with cinematic portraits when it matters.
TWIA National Winners (as The Mays) and now TWIA judges – so you’re in very safe hands, on a day you only get once.
QUICK ANSWER
Manor by the Lake is an exclusive-use wedding venue in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, with indoor and outdoor ceremony options and gorgeous gardens for portraits. If you want photos that feel natural (not staged) but still look like a film, this venue is perfect: you get calm prep spaces, elegant rooms for ceremony light, and a golden-hour-friendly lake and gardens for couple portraits.
KEY FACTS
Location: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (Cotswolds edge)
Exclusive use: Yes
Ceremony + wedding breakfast: up to 180 guests
Evening reception: up to 250 guests
Ceremony spaces to know: Ballroom (indoor), Italian Pavilion (outdoor)
On-site bedrooms: 12 luxury rooms/suites (check availability/season)
Ceremony spaces at Manor by the Lake (what they feel like on camera)
One of the reasons Manor by the Lake photographs so beautifully is that it gives you genuinely different “looks” across the day – without you having to travel anywhere. So, whatever your plan (classic indoor ceremony, outdoor vows, or a timeline that needs a weather back-up), the story still flows.
- The Maximilian Room
If you want an indoor ceremony that feels intimate but still grand, the Maximilian Room is a favourite. It has that period elegance, soft natural light, and a calm energy that makes the whole thing feel more personal. For photos, it’s brilliant for capturing faces and reactions, not just the “big moment”, but the little moments in-between.
- The Ballroom
The Ballroom is where Manor by the Lake leans into that “proper celebration” feeling. It’s a great option when you want scale – the kind of room that makes entrances feel epic and speeches feel like a real event. It’s also the perfect space for a busy evening: first dance, dancing, and all the chaos you’ll want to remember.
- The Italian Pavilion and the gardens
If you love the idea of an outdoor ceremony, this is where Manor by the Lake goes full romance. The Italian Pavilion and gardens have that clean, elegant look that doesn’t fight your photos – it frames them. It also gives you an easy “portrait loop”: we can do a quick wander for relaxed couple shots without dragging you away from your guests for ages.
- Quick photo tip that matters here:
Plan portraits in pockets, not a long session. Ten minutes after the ceremony + ten minutes around golden hour is usually plenty, and it keeps your day feeling like a celebration, not a photoshoot.No matter if you envision a cozy and intimate affair or a grand marquee celebration with 300 of your closest friends and family, Manor By The Lake is the ultimate destination for a wedding that will leave everyone in awe. This venue is truly one of the most beautiful wedding locations you can find and Manor By The Lake wedding photography is amazing too!
Asian, Indian and multi-day celebrations (how we photograph them at Manor by the Lake)
Manor by the Lake is also an incredible setting for cultural weddings and multi-part celebrations because it has the space, flexibility and atmosphere to hold big, meaningful moments properly, while still feeling elegant and organised.
If you’re planning a Hindu / Indian celebration (or a wedding with multiple key moments across the day), our DOCU-ART approach is simple: we photograph the real emotion first, then we create a short window for portraits when the light is kind – without pulling you away from your guests for long.
A few practical things that make a huge difference:
- Build a clear “moment map” (not a rigid schedule): entrances, key rituals, family blessings, group photos, speeches, first dance. We’ll use it to be in the right place before things happen.
- Indoor light matters for ceremonies and rituals. We’ll position ourselves so faces stay readable and flattering, even when the room gets busy.
- Rain plan = still beautiful here. If the weather turns, we lean into the manor interiors and sheltered areas so the story stays rich, not compromised.
- Family photos work best when they happen in one planned window, with one person “calling names” – fast, calm, and you’re back to your day.
If you want your wedding to feel like it looked – vibrant, emotional, full of movement and meaning – Manor by the Lake is a brilliant match, and it’s one we know how to handle.
Wedding Morning
It is absolutely amazing when months of meticulous planning culminate in an extraordinary event that leaves a lasting impression. As I approached the magnificent Manor by the Lake, bathed in the warm morning sunlight, my heart skipped a beat.
The charming cottage nestled within the grounds was bustling with joy and anticipation. The bride and the bridesmaids were being lavishly pampered by talented hair stylists and makeup artists, creating an electrifying atmosphere that radiated positivity. How you feel on the morning of your wedding really sets the tone for the whole day and that morning set the tone for some truly amazing Manor by the Lake wedding photography.
Before the ceremony
A little while later, the groom and the groomsmen arrived at The Rock Bar, also known as the ultimate man cave. This place is seriously the perfect spot for the guys to get ready. It’s got everything you could possibly need – a fully stocked bar (obviously), TVs for game time, a pool table for some friendly competition, and even table football to add to the excitement. And let’s not forget about the amazing staff who are there to make sure your every need is met.
Just before the ceremony the girls moved to the breathtaking bridal suite for some final touches. Let me tell you, this room is an absolutely stunning backdrop for some amazing Manor By The Lake wedding photography. I’ve seen my fair share of incredible photography backdrops, but the bridal suite at Manor by the Lake is definitely up there with the best.
With the girls all dolled up, it was time for the ceremony.
The Wedding Ceremony
Wow, just look at the breathtaking setup for the ceremony in the Maximilian room! It is absolutely stunning. The vows were exchanged in a glorious sun-soaked room, and before we knew it, our bride and groom were joyfully strolling down the aisle as husband and wife. Their guests couldn’t contain their excitement and showered them with confetti, creating a magical moment.
Meanwhile, the Manor by the Lake team served delicious drinks and canapés, ensuring that everyone was well taken care of. The atmosphere was filled with hugs, kisses, and heartfelt congratulations for the newlyweds.
Rainy Hindu Ceremony at Manor By The Lake
Manor By The Lake Wedding Photography – Couple Portraits
And then, it was our turn as photographers to whisk the couple away from the crowd and capture those precious moments of pure bliss. The grounds of the Manor provided the perfect backdrop for stunning Manor By The Lake wedding photography. It was a true delight to capture the love and happiness radiating from them after their ceremony.
We had the perfect opportunity to capture some breathtaking pictures of the couple in front of the magnificent Manor House. It was a two day wedding and two different outfits, so as wedding photographers we were truly spoilt for time and choice of backdrops.
The Wedding Reception
Wow, let us tell you, the food at Manor by the Lake is absolutely outstanding! It’s seriously fantastic! Manor By The Lake knows how to deliver an incredible dining experience! They take pride in offering a menu that is incredibly versatile, ensuring that you and your guests are satisfied. Their award-winning chefs use fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a menu that will leave everyone in awe.
The wedding breakfast
The Party
After the first dance, the bride and her father took the dance floor by storm. And let me tell you, the party really got started! Everyone was showing off their best moves and having an absolute blast.
If you are looking for a venue for your wedding Manor by the Lake in Cheltenham is a must see.
Are you one of those people who have been dreaming of the perfect, fairytale wedding their whole life? Well, guess what? Planning and booking that dream wedding doesn’t have to be complicated at all! Whether you envision an intimate gathering with your nearest and dearest or a grand celebration with an extensive guest list, Manor By The Lake is the ultimate wedding venue that can fulfill all your dreams. Say goodbye to stress and hello to the wedding you’ve always imagined!
The Immaculate Reception
No matter what Mother Nature decides to bring on your special day, you can rest assured that you will have complete control over every single detail. Whether you choose the timeless elegance of the Maximilian room, the enchanting allure of the Italian Pavilion, or the romantic charm of the Lakeside Pavilion, your wedding day will be nothing short of extraordinary. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration that will leave you and your guests in awe.
Manor by the Lake wedding photography
Capturing the magic of your fairy tale ending at Manor By The Lake guarantees breathtakingly stunning memories that will forever hold a special place in your heart. With an array of enchanting spaces and picturesque backdrops, every single moment of your extraordinary day will be flawlessly captured.
Manor By The Lake wedding photography promises an unparalleled selection, leaving you absolutely spoiled for choice. So raise a glass of champagne, or indulge in your favorite beverage, and come together with your cherished ones to toast to this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
Manor by the Lake wedding photography FAQ
Where is Manor by the Lake?
Manor by the Lake is a Victorian manor wedding venue in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, set in landscaped gardens with a lake – it feels secluded, but it’s very easy for guests to reach.
Is Manor by the Lake exclusive use?
Yes – the venue describes weddings here as exclusive use, meaning the house, grounds and spaces are yours for the day.
Can we have an outdoor ceremony at Manor by the Lake?
Yes. Manor by the Lake offers licensed outdoor options, including the Italian Pavilion (and other outdoor ceremony spots depending on the day/setup).
What are the main ceremony spaces (and which photographs best)?
For indoor ceremonies, the Ballroom is the big, elegant option, and the Maximilian is often described as bright and photo-friendly. Outdoors, the Italian Pavilion is the classic choice.
Is Manor by the Lake good for all-weather weddings?
Yes – that’s one of its strengths. You’ve got strong indoor options (with atmosphere) plus gardens when the weather behaves, so the day still flows beautifully if it rains.
How many bedrooms are there on site?
The manor has 12 individually designed bedrooms.
Can Manor by the Lake host Asian / Indian weddings and multi-event celebrations?
Yes – they actively welcome Asian weddings (including Hindu, Islamic and Sikh celebrations), and the venue is set up for multi-part wedding events.
Do Manor by the Lake weddings include catering and drinks?
The venue’s wedding collections are described as including catering and drinks as part of the package.
How much time should we allow for couple portraits here?
You don’t need hours. Most couples get a gorgeous variety in 10–20 minutes, especially if we do it in little pockets (after the ceremony + a quick golden-hour wander), so you’re not away from your guests for long.
Who are “The Mays” – is that the same as Marta May Photography?
Yes – we’re Marta May Photography, also known as The Mays (Marta + Artur). If you’ve seen “The Mays” on TWIA, that’s us too.
GET IN TOUCH with us
If you’re planning a Manor by the Lake wedding and want natural, cinematic, story-first coverage, we’d love to chat.
Cotswolds wedding photographer
Cotswolds wedding photography GUIDE
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- Westonbirt School (historic / elegant)
- Clearwell Castle (historic / dramatic interiors)
- Kiftsgate Court (gardens / romantic outdoor feel)
