Why Choose the Woodlands at Hazlewood Castle?
Whenever I photograph a wedding at the Woodlands at Hazlewood Castle, I can’t help but think there’s something properly magical about it. Tucked beside the main building, it feels like stepping into a private fairytale (gotta keep an eye out for those fae!) without having to trek miles into the wilderness. I’ve photographed both indoor and outdoor ceremonies at Hazlewood over the years, and honestly, for spring-to-autumn weddings, the woods win every time.
The dense tree canopy gives the kind of soft, even light photographers dream of (even at midday, the grounds stay beautifully shaded), and there’s a real sense of intimacy, whether it’s a small gathering of 20 or a full wedding party of 100+. The space has this calm, rustic atmosphere that suits everything from barefoot boho to full-on floral romantic. Just take a little peek at Anna & Jack’s summertime wedding and you’ll see how the wooded backdrop turned Anna into a perfect wood nymph in her blush pink floral gown.
And the practical side’s just as good. You’re only a short walk from the castle itself, so guests get the fresh air without losing the comfort.
Planning Tips for a Woodland Wedding at Hazlewood
If you’re planning a woodland wedding at Hazlewood, a little extra planning to accommodate the outdoor location will go a long way.
Shoes! The woodland floor is a natural environment full of leaf litter, grass, soil and sometimes mud. I always recommend comfy block heels or a second pair of flats for after the ceremony. If you are dead set on expensive heels, invest in high-quality heel caps that will help you avoid damaging the fabric or leather, as sinking into the soil is a near inevitability. Guests will thank you for a heads-up too.
The best months for woodland weddings are May through early October. Earlier in spring, the light is lovely, but the ground can still be soft from winter rains and the evenings can set in early and be a bit chilly. Summer days are long, offering the most flexibility for any outdoor venue. If you get a spot of rain during your planned photo time, we can always move a bit later to accommodate. In the autumn, the leaves turn and… wow. Lush isn’t even the word.
But make sure to consider the seasons when planning. Spring and autumn weddings will get cold. No two ways about it. Wedding cardies, cute coats, pashminas and even gloves are a must. In the summer, the sun can get intense. Whilst the shade will help, consider getting a cute little wedding fan you can carry with you to keep cool.
Fortunately, Hazlewood does have a solid backup plan for rain. You can move the ceremony into the tipi or the main castle if needed, and the denseness of the tree cover means that you may be able to go ahead with even just a few brollies if the rain is light.
Your Wedding Photography at Hazelwood Castle Woodland
Group Photos at Hazelwood Castle Woodland
While there are definitely a huge variety of options for your group wedding photos at Hazelwood Castle, I’m not going to lie – our favourite spot is just next to the reception tent pitch under the beautiful mature trees. There is some fluffy meadow grass for texture and the trees provide the perfect shade so your guests aren’t staring into the sun. The other great thing about this location is how close it is to your guests. You are only a few metres away from the action so you don’t miss those canapé trays as they go by!
Couples Photos at Hazelwood Castle Woodland
There are a huge amount of options for your couples photos at Hazelwood Castle. The woodland wedding ceremony space is an ideal location for a few photos because it provides protection from light rain and overly bright sunlight. The lane next to the woodlands is also beautiful and of course, there is also a structured garden location but that is farther away and you will want to chat with the Estate management staff for permission to use it. In the afternoon/evening the sun can sit low over the fields which is perfect for some golden hour magic!
Hazelwood Castle Woodlands Photography Portfolio
Step into Jack and Anna’s sun-drenched woodland wedding at Hazlewood Castle with plenty of laughter, light and a little mystical forest magic.
Please feel free to have a little look around and then get in touch so we can chat about how we can help you get some relaxed and creative wedding photographs with minimum fuss.
Hazelwood Castle Venue & Amenities
The Woodlands Wedding Ceremony Space
The woodlands wedding ceremony space is by far one of my favourite outdoor ceremony locations. According to the Hazelwood Castle website, they are able to accommodate registrar or celebrant ceremonies (we love a good celebrant!) and the space can accomodate large and small weddings. Because the trees surrounding the space are so mature, you don’t need to fear a little rain as the natural canopy (plus some well spaced brollies) will see you right. You can even have your ceremony in this space without renting the field for your reception – how cool is that?
Reception Spaces at Hazelwood Castle
Hazlewood Castle offers a woodland tipi set-up that brings just the right mix of rustic and romantic to your day. Unlike dry-hire field sites, the tipi is already in place. It has space for dining, dancing, and everything in between. You can make it your own with fairy lights, fire pits, long tables, or cosy lounge corners. The surrounding space is ideal for outdoor drinks receptions, and there’s plenty of room to add extras like garden games or a food van if that’s your vibe. It’s all the charm of an outdoor wedding without having to build it all from scratch.
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Important Info About Hazelwood Castle
Hazelwood Castle Address
Paradise Ln,
Leeds,
Tadcaster
LS24 9NJ
phn: 01937535353
Hazelwood Castle Parking
Hazelwood Castle has plentiful parking onsite very close to the woodland area.
Accommodation
Hazlewood Castle has a fully equipped hotel including bars and restaurants on site. Perfect for keeping all your guests in one place and within easy stumbling distance!
Hazelwood Castle Online
Hazelwood Castle Website
Hazelwood Castle Facebook
Hazelwood Castle Instagram
How to Find Hazelwood Castle Woodlands
Hazelwood Castle is easy to find. Going north on the A1, exit at the A64 heading towards York. Exit onto Paradise Lane and follow the signs to the castle.
Get in Touch!
If you you think that our special brand of relaxed and fun York wedding photography is what you are looking for – why not drop us an email and have a chat?