Huntsham Court
A Huntsham Court, Devon Wedding Photographer
Huntsham Court Wedding Photographer Devon | Documentary Wedding Photography
Huntsham Court Weddings: A Victorian Manor House All to Yourself
I've been photographing weddings at Huntsham Court for years now. This Victorian Gothic manor near Tiverton is properly special. You get exclusive use of the whole place. Your guests can all stay on site. It becomes your own private country house for the weekend.
The house sleeps up to 100 guests across 42 bedrooms. Many have four-poster beds and proper lounges. Some rooms connect for families with kids. The Gate House Lodge sleeps another 6 if you need extra space for getting ready.
Where to Get Married at Huntsham Court
Indoor Ceremony Spaces
The Great Hall is where most couples get married inside. It's got granite columns and carved wooden panels on the walls. There's a massive stone fireplace and a grand piano. Natural light pours in from the west-facing windows.
The Ballroom works great for bigger weddings. It's got French doors opening to the gardens. The walls have original 19th-century wallpaper and silk drapes. I love the light in here for photos.
The Library is perfect for smaller ceremonies. Dark walls, hundreds of old leather books, and those big windows looking south over the grounds. It's moody and atmospheric. Great for couple portraits too.
The Diamond Room has lighter colors if you want something brighter. Gold drapes, marble fireplace, and a huge old tapestry on the wall.
There's also the Oak Balcony on the sweeping staircase. You can have a balcony ceremony under the 1930s chandelier. Your guests line the stairs. The afternoon sun streams through the big windows.
Outdoor Ceremony Options
The Old Dovecote is popular for outdoor weddings. This Victorian dovecote sits in the gardens with a lovely walk across the lawns. It seats about 130 on rustic benches.
You can also get married under the ancient chestnut trees. Or anywhere in the grounds really. Some couples put up a tipi in the hidden garden. Others use the West Terrace by the huge oak doors.
What Makes Huntsham Court Special for Photos
The Light and Spaces
Every room flows from the Great Hall. This means your day flows naturally from space to space. No awkward transitions. No dead time waiting for room changes.
The Gothic windows let in amazing light all day. The gardens give us tons of options for portraits. We can always find somewhere quiet for couple shots while your guests enjoy drinks.
The Weekend Format
Because everyone stays together, the atmosphere is relaxed. Really relaxed. People aren't watching the clock for taxis. Kids can run around safely. Your nan can have a nap and come back for the party.
This creates so many genuine moments to photograph. Morning coffee in pajamas. Garden games all afternoon. Late-night kitchen raids. The stuff you actually want to remember.
Planning Your Huntsham Court Wedding
Getting There
Huntsham Court sits between Tiverton and Bampton in mid Devon. It's about 30 minutes from Exeter and the M5. Tiverton Parkway station is 15 minutes away with trains from London in about 2 hours.
Exeter Airport is 30 minutes for anyone flying in. Bristol Airport is about an hour. The Devon coast is 45 minutes if guests want to explore.
Food and Drink
You bring in your own caterers at Huntsham Court. They have a list of recommended ones who know the venue well. This means you can have exactly what you want. Local produce, family recipes, whatever matters to you.
No corkage fees either. Stock your own bar. Bring cases of whatever you like. This saves a fortune compared to most venues.
The Weekend Timeline
Friday afternoon: Guests start arriving. Set up the venue how you want it.
Friday evening: Welcome drinks, barbecue, or casual dinner. Maybe some lawn games if it's summer.
Saturday morning: Relaxed breakfast. Getting ready without rushing.
Saturday afternoon: Your ceremony, drinks reception, and wedding breakfast.
Saturday evening: Party time in the Great Hall or Ballroom.
Sunday: Recovery breakfast. More games. Slowly saying goodbye.
Some couples add a Thursday night for close family. Others keep the party going till Monday. It's your house for the weekend.
Photographing Huntsham Court Weddings
My Approach Here
I know this venue inside out. Where the best light falls at different times. Which spots work for group photos. Where to find quiet moments during the party.
I don't do formal posed stuff. I capture what actually happens. Your dad trying to figure out his cufflinks. Kids sliding down the banisters. Your best mate's speech that has everyone crying with laughter.
The weekend format is perfect for documentary photography. There's always something happening somewhere. Real moments, not staged ones.
Best Photo Spots at Huntsham Court
The main staircase under that chandelier works brilliantly for natural group shots. The Library gives us moody portraits with all those books. The terrace at sunset is perfect for couple photos with views over Devon.
The gardens have loads of different areas. The dovecote for romantic shots. The old trees for dramatic wide angles. Hidden corners for intimate moments.
But honestly, the best photos happen wherever your people are enjoying themselves. Could be breakfast in the dining room. Could be dancing at midnight. That's what I'm there to capture.
Practical Stuff About Huntsham Court
Costs
Venue hire varies through the year. Peak summer weekends cost more than November midweek. But remember you're getting accommodation for 100 people included. When you add up hotel costs at other venues, Huntsham often works out cheaper overall.
Most couples budget around £6,000 to £12,000 for venue hire depending on dates and how long you want the place.
Weather Backup
With five licensed indoor ceremony spaces, you're covered for rain. The Ballroom and Great Hall both work for big receptions. The whole ground floor flows together for drinks and mingling.
I've shot here in storms and heatwaves. The house always works. Though those summer evening gardens are pretty special when the weather plays along.
Accessibility
Ground floor bedrooms are available for anyone who needs them. The main reception rooms are all accessible. Some bedrooms are only reached by stairs. Best to check with the venue about specific needs.
Your Questions About Huntsham Court
How many guests can stay? 42 bedrooms sleeping up to 100 in the main house. The Gate House adds 6 more.
Can we bring our own alcohol? Yes, with no corkage charges at all.
What about parking? Plenty of space for all your guests' cars.
Can we have fireworks? Yes, and they look incredible against the Gothic manor.
Do we need wedding insurance? The venue requires it. Most couples spend about £100-200 on this.
Can we visit before booking? They do regular open days and private viewings.
Why Choose Me for Your Huntsham Court Wedding
I'm Alex, a documentary wedding photographer based in Devon. I've shot multiple weddings at Huntsham Court. I know the venue, the team, and how to make the most of your day there.
I capture real moments, not fake poses. The chaos, the quiet bits, the tears, the terrible dancing. The stuff that actually matters.
My style suits this venue perfectly. With everyone together for the weekend, there are stories everywhere. My job is to catch them without getting in the way.
Ready to Chat?
If you're planning a Huntsham Court wedding, let's talk. I usually book about 12 months ahead for this venue. Summer weekends go fastest.
Drop me a message with your date. We'll set up a video call. No sales pitch, just a chat about your plans.
If you are interested in seeing more of my Huntsham Court wedding photography or have any questions, please do get in contact, it would be fantastic to hear from you.
You can get more information direct from the Huntsham Court Website Here
