DODDINGTON HALL WEDDINGS

INTRODUCTION

One of the benefits of travelling around the UK, particularly within my home county of Lincolnshire, is that I get to visit and photograph some truly amazing wedding venues (and I’ve been to a lot). It’s always exciting to discover new venues where I can apply my creative eye to a couple’s wedding day, creating something unique that reflects their choice of location. Every now and then, I photograph at a venue that truly excels, one that has historical and architectural significance, creates a special atmosphere, boasts beautiful grounds, and provides the perfect backdrop for an elegant, sophisticated, and natural wedding. Doddington Hall is definitely one of those venues.

As a wedding photographer based in Lincolnshire, living close to Lincoln and Doddington Hall, I’ve been fortunate enough to photograph weddings there for over 17 years, which means I know the place very well indeed and have lost count of the number of Doddington Hall weddings I have photographed. In fact, this year, while photographing Molly and Connor’s wedding, I discovered that I had photographed more weddings at the venue than any other photographer, a pretty amazing and humbling realisation.

With all this experience in hand, I thought I would take some time to share my insights as a wedding photographer, offering advice to couples who may be considering Doddington Hall for their big day. Doddington Hall weddings are in incredible thing to be part of and should definitely be high on the list of options for any couple planning their special day, and this is my guide to this incredible wedding venue gem.

VENUE OVERVIEW

The hall is surrounding by an array of characterful outbuildings and coach house which have now been converted into accommodation and additional wedding reception venue. It is perfect for your wedding guests (more on that later) along with some truly stunning wild and formal gardens.

Set within the five acres of the Doddington Estate the venue is surrounded by woodland and open area walks including their own Farm shop, cafe, restaurant. Everything you could need for a short or extended stay for you and your wedding guests when getting married there.

All in all, this really is the perfect venue to hold your wedding where you can be assured of some truly stunning wedding photographs.

GETTING READY AT DODDINGTON HALL

I love every part of a wedding day but the getting ready part for me can be one of the most memorable and intimate parts of the celebration. It’s the time when excitement builds, and the anticipation of the day ahead sets in. Whether you’re the bride or groom, choosing the right space to prepare can set the tone for the entire day. With Doddington Hall weddings, you have several elegant options: from the bridal suite of Deleval Room to the beautiful Shakespeare House all located within the grounds.

Each offers its own unique ambiance, providing the perfect backdrop for those special pre-ceremony moments, surrounded by your closest friends and family.

Getting Ready In The Stable Yard Delaval Rooms

The Delaval Rooms, named after a former owner of Doddington Hall, are part of the beautifully restored stable block, ideal for accommodating up to six adults. This elegant space features a spacious entrance hall, a kitchen/diner, and a cozy sitting room. Upstairs, you’ll find three double en-suite bedrooms, each offering serene views of the parkland.

The main suite, with its luxurious en-suite bathroom, exudes sophistication. Blending original features like wooden beams with both antique and modern furnishings, the Delaval Rooms provide a stylish and memorable place to get ready and is one of my favourite locations to capture the bridal prep on the day.

Getting Ready In The Stable Yard Tailor Rooms

When I photograph any wedding I am always looking to tell the story of the day from both partners perspective. One off the advantages of both couples getting ready at the same wedding venue is the ability for me to go between each group on the day and capture those stories. With the Tailor Rooms located next door to the Delaval Rooms this offers a great opportunity to do just that.

The Tailor Rooms, named after another former owner of Doddington Hall offer a peaceful countryside retreat with picturesque views. The ground floor features a spacious, light-filled family room with an en-suite bathroom, accommodating up to four guests. Upstairs, you’ll find three uniquely decorated double rooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, providing comfort and charm for your stay. This is often used for groom prep on the day of the wedding.

Getting Ready In Holly Farm

Holly Farm is a charming Georgian residence that can host up to 10 guests, making it a perfect haven for those wanting to immerse themselves in the tranquil countryside whilst preparing themselves for the wedding day ahead. The property has a range of accommodations, including a luxurious master bedroom, a cozy double room, two comfortable twin rooms, and a playful bunk room located downstairs. Each room is equipped with its own unique ensuite bathroom. On the ground floor, you’ll find a spacious, fully-equipped kitchen and dining area, a separate utility room, and a snug living room with a log fire. Holly Farm also allows pets.

Getting Ready In The Brewhouse

Located beneath the watchful presence of Doddington Hall, the Elizabethan Brewhouse stands with distinctive features such as exposed oak beams, low ceilings, and a welcoming open log fireplace.

This historic cottage harmoniously blends its original character with modern, stylish furnishings and can accommodate up to 12 guests. The Brewhouse includes two double rooms, a master bedroom with expansive views over the grounds, and three twin rooms. The property is designed with dual staircases leading to separate lounge areas, and a spacious, well-equipped kitchen and dining area.

Only about a minutes walk away from Doddington Hall and the Coach House this is a popular place for getting ready that has great background features for your wedding photographs and within easy reach of the ceremony.

Getting Ready In The Shakespeare Cottage

Shakespeare Cottage is a beautifully converted barn and is one of the most modern properties on the Estate.  This property is renovated to a high standard and has every modern convenience whilst retaining all the character and charm of the original building. Situated just a 4-minute walk from the Elizabethan Hall itself with private gardens overlooking the Doddington parkland, it’s conviently located.

This stylish newly renovated barn provides lots of space for large groups and is very comfortable for families. There is a very spacious, light and airy well-equipped kitchen and dining room area where you can relax and get ready. There are four rooms in total sleeping up to eight guests, comprising of two double bedrooms and one twin all with ensuites on the upper floor, plus a ground floor twin bedroom with ensuite wet room.

Getting Ready In The Bungalow

Located close to the Stable Yard and opposite the Tailor Rooms this little cottage has stunning views of the nearby lake. It’s a unique and inviting two-bedroom, one-bath bungalow providing space stay for up to four visitors. Inside, the bungalow features a cozy double bedroom and a twin room. The bathroom is conveniently located, and the kitchen is fully equipped, seamlessly flowing into a spacious dining area. Additionally, a separate, snug living room provides a perfect spot to prep on the big day.

DODDINGTON HALL WEDDINGS

Wedding Ceremony Options

Having photographed many Doddington Hall weddings they really are memorable and remarkable experiences. The historic charm and picturesque beauty of this Elizabethan mansion and the rest of the buildings on the estate create the perfect backdrop for a wedding. The magnificent gardens, manicured lawns, and elegant architecture provide a romantic ambiance that will make your special day even more special. 

Doddington Hall offers a range of wedding ceremony locations within its grounds, from intimate indoor spaces to stunning outdoor locations. Whether you prefer a grand ceremony in the Long Gallery or a charming outdoor affair in the walled gardens, Doddington Hall provides a unique setting that reflects both sophistication and natural beauty. The is also the added bonus of including the option of a traditional church ceremony which is also located next to the estate. Having personally photographed in each it is difficult to pick a favourite but I am confident there is an option that will resonate with you.

The Long Gallery

This is a stunning room located on the top floor of the hall. Accommodating up to 180 guests it really has the wow factor surrounded by amazing painting with a stunning view out the windows of the hall’s gardens.

The Long Gallery is a fantastic backdrop for some truly amazing wedding ceremony photographs that your friends will be jealous of.

The Coach House

The Coach House, located just a short distance from Doddington Hall, has been thoughtfully refurbished to create a charming and versatile wedding venue. It combines a light, airy, and modern interior with a striking Elizabethan exterior. The venue can accommodate up to 120 guests for formal dining and up to 150 for an evening reception. With its own secluded walled garden, the Coach House perfectly blends historic charm with contemporary comfort, offering an exclusive and intimate setting for weddings.

Coach House itself has two main rooms, firstly the Garden Room where you can hold your ceremony & the Green Wing used for your wedding breakfast.

It is the perfect place for a self-contained wedding with access to a gorgeous garden right next to the dining area. This is ideal for a drinks reception and evening celebrations.

The Coach House: Garden Room

The Garden room, located just as you walk into the Coach House, is a beautiful space that can accommodate up to 70 guests. If the good old British weather is not on your side on the day of your wedding this provides the perfect space for an intimate ceremony. In the evening this area gets converted into the dance floor with space for a DJ or band and is a great backdrop to cut those funky dance moves.

The Coach House: Walled Garden

This is a relatively new addition for Doddington Hall and I had the privilege of being the first wedding photographer to photograph a wedding ceremony there when it was first created. Surrounded by mature planting and an amazing wisteria attached to the side of the Coach House this is a fab setting for an outdoor wedding with class and style and provides the option for couples and guests to enjoy the great outdoors in an exclusive setting.

This area is not only used for ceremonies but doubles up as an area for a drinks reception and outdoor games to entertain your guests. I often use this area to capture informal portraits of guests after the ceremony of after the wedding breakfast when they are taking a break from the indoor setting.

The Garden Pavilion

Located within the gardens of Doddington Hall is the garden pavilion. This structure was created by the owners of the estate as a lasting memory of their parents. Set within the wild gardens it has fantastic views of the stunning parkland beyond. Getting married at this location is perfect for smaller weddings of around 20 guests and for those who enjoy the outdoors.

A Church Wedding

If you are looking for something a little more traditional there is the option of a religious ceremony at St Peters Church which is only a short walk away from the Hall itself.

Generally, you can only get married at this church if you have a local connection either yourselves of through family, however, one option would be to have a civil ceremony at the Hall along with a blessing at the church. This really does give you the best of both worlds.

GROUP PHOTOGRAPHS & CONFETTI

Group photos are always a must on the wedding day and there are lots of options available for where you can take them.

When I capture photographs for couples I usually ensure the sun is behind them and this is no different for group shots. This helps avoid you and your guest squinting into the sun and can make for really clean pictures.

As the sun sets at the back of the Hall during a wedding day this makes it ideal for group photographs in front of the Hall or set against the gardens.

What about Confetti?

This always makes for fun dramatic images on a wedding and I always recommend to brides to purchase some for their guests before the day to ensure everyone can join in the fun.

The backdrop of the hall entrance can make for a great location for your confetti photographs as it gives the ability to stagger your guests behind you as they shower you with petals making for some fantastic images. If something on a little less grander scale is the right thing for your Doddington Hall wedding then simply gathering your guests outside the coach house entrance is they way to go.

It is always best to follow the advice of the venue on this too as they may have restrictions in place. At the time of writing Doddington Hall request that only flower petal confetti be used as any other types can have a detrimental effect on the ground.

COUPLES WEDDING PORTRAITS

My approach to a Doddington Hall weddings, especially when it comes to couples’ portraits, is to keep things simple, relaxed, and natural. The day should focus on you spending time with your guests, and I always keep this in mind when working with clients. A few short sessions away from your guests to capture images around the grounds provide both variety and a welcome break for you to enjoy some quiet moments together.

I find that once the group photographs are completed, it’s the perfect time to start creating some stunning portraits of the couple. The grounds and the interior of the hall offer countless opportunities for this. From the ornate formal gardens, orchards, and private alcoves to the grand architecture, there is always a backdrop that will offer something unique, making your images truly spectacular and the envy of your guests.

I often take my clients on a walking tour of the venue to explore what it has to offer and to capture a diverse range of beautiful portraits. Doddington Hall has it all, from elegant, sophisticated interiors and private gardens to woodland and park paths, each providing something special for your photographs.

WEDDING BREAKFAST & CAKE CUTTING

The Wedding Breakfast & Speeches

Located in the Coach House next to the Garden Room is the place to dine. It’s an impressive high vaulted and light filled room with elegant greenery touches that will compliment any colour theme staff at Doddington Hall really do above and beyond to ensure your day goes without a hitch. Both Justine and Andrew who manage the events and weddings have years of experience behind them and are both passionate about ensuring your day goes without a hitch. The chef here also produces outstanding quality food much of which is sourced locally.

Cutting The Wedding Cake

There are so many fab cake makers in and around Lincoln offering a whole host of options to meet your theme. Having the cake cutting captured by your photographer at the Hall is a great way to remember it before it all gets eaten.

THE EVENING RECEPTION & CELEBRATIONS

You have got through the anticipation of the morning preparations, the emotion of the ceremony and the impact of those wedding speeches, now is the time to let our hair down. When the evening guests arrive and the dance floor opens up and the sparklers and fireworks are out this becomes another one of my favourite moments of the day.

Not only does the celebrations themselves present picture perfect moments this can often be that time of the day when the sun starts to set, with beautiful golden hours light and the opportunity for some last minute silhouette images against the sun for some EPIC wedding portraits.

Rocking the Dance Floor

The evening celebrations at Doddington Hall weddings usually take place on the Coach House, Garden Room. This is the place where the DJ sets up or the band get the crowd on their feet.

Sparklers & Fireworks

If you get the opportunity cracking open the sparklers and fireworks can be a real spectacle for guests and make for some iconic wedding images that can tell the story of your day right to the very end.

Capturing The Sunset

I have been to many Doddington Hall weddings where, at the right time of the year and with luck on your side there are some fantastic places to capture the beautiful golden light and the sun setting. Images captured in this light can add a real touch of romance and class that can elevate your wedding photographs and album from the average to the WOW factor.

DODDINGTON HALL WEDDINGS: PRICES & BROCHURES

Doddington Hall Weddings: The Prices

Doddington Hall wedding prices and wedding packages are tailored to different preferences and budgets. Packages are designed to accommodate a range of guest numbers and include exclusive use of the venue, catering options, and more. Prices vary based on the season, day of the week, and the specific spaces you choose for your ceremony and reception. Options range from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, with add-ons available for personalised experiences.

Doddington Hall offers a wedding package priced at £150 per person, which includes a drinks reception, three-course wedding breakfast, wine, evening food, and entertainment. Venue hire fees vary by season, with off-peak packages starting at £11,000 a minimum of 60 guests. Peak season venue hire ranges from £2,000 to £4,000 depending on the day of the week, with an additional £500 for using the Long Gallery for the ceremony.

Wedding Brochures

Wedding brochures and prices for Doddington Hall are available by contacting them directly and speaking to their events team. Both Justine and Andrew are fab at answering your questions and helping you with your planning journey.

For detailed pricing and package options, please refer to the Doddington Hall Wedding Prices 2025 or Doddington Hall Wedding Prices 2026

REVIEWS

When looking at any wedding venue it is always wise to check out the reviews from other couples and guests who have had first-hand experience getting married at the hall.

To help you choose whether Doddington Hall is right for you I have compiled a list of trusted sites that offer the insight you are looking for from real couples.

• HITCHED
• BRIDEBOOK
• TRIPADVISER