The Magic of Woodland Weddings

With the comfort of home

A stunning Lakeland venue with a 'woodland weddings' style

The romance of woodland weddings is seductive. Being immersed in nature on your wedding day is a beautiful experience. However, it takes a huge leap of faith to book an entirely outdoor wedding in the UK when even our summer weather is unpredictable. At Cote How, you can experience the magic of woodland weddings, but with the comforts of home.

A hidden gem

Our location is special. Cote How nestles between the fells and the shores of Rydal Water, yet only a stone’s throw from iconic towns like Ambleside and Grasmere. Undoubtedly you will struggle to find a more beautiful spot. Every window and terrace looks out onto glorious Lake District scenes, while remaining romantically secluded.

a safe haven

Cote How is a haven for wildlife. The ambiance of woodland weddings is created by acres of natural gardens surrounding the house, and red squirrels, deer, foxes, and badgers visit often. From time to time, buzzards cry overhead, and finches, nuthatches, siskins, and woodpeckers flit through the silver birch walk. Consequently, to feel close to nature is to step out of our front door.

A natural beauty

Our Lakeland wedding barn sits in the lee of Loughrigg Fell. Through the meadow, the canopy of Rydal woods stretches from the lake shore. In early summer, apple and cherry blossoms float on the breeze like nature’s confetti. In autumn, trees along the riverbank turn red, crimson, and gold. Fells and woodlands stretch out in layers from the barn terrace and you can sense the peace and wildness that defines the Lake District.

a natural sanctuary

The barn terrace is a natural outdoor ceremony space. Simple, authentic, and charming, yet peaceful and private. Once newly-married, open the five-bar gate, and follow the path along Rydal Beck toward the lakeshore and historic oak woodland. Dappled shade and shafts of sunlight create the ethereal setting of woodland weddings. Ferns and ivy hide secret pathways. Come spring, birdsong fills the air as the forest re-awakens. In summer, the sun filters through an emerald canopy. By autumn, the forest floor is carpeted in russet leaves. In winter, frost glistens on bare branches as mist rises from the lake. It’s a magical place.

a sense of wonder

Breathe deeply. Feel the spirit and energy from the ancient oaks. Twirl like a woodland sprite. Sit for a moment and enjoy the sense of connection, to nature and each other. Shifting patterns of light and shadow evoke a gentle sense of wonder. Rustic flower crowns, gossamer veils, and chiffon gowns embroidered with delicate motifs are the perfect attire for woodland wedding portraits. Timeless, romantic, and beautifully simple.

Close to nature, close to home....close to your heart

And of course, if the weather isn’t kind, outdoor ceremonies (April to October) are seamlessly moved into our Lakeland home. Subtle décor brings the outside in, with hand-painted decals of native ferns, foxgloves, and silver birch. Original wooden floors and soft furnishings in forest green continue the ‘woodland weddings’ style. Picture windows frame the trees in the garden, with ceremony tables and fireplaces adorned in ivy garlands. The house is part of the landscape; with understated elegance inspired by nature. For peace of mind, you can marry indoors, regardless of the weather, if home comforts suit your wedding party best. Then slip away to the woods for beautifully natural photographs. Savour precious time to be in the moment, just the two of you. A fairytale, once upon a time wedding experience, close to nature, yet with the warm welcome of home.

Thank you

Thank you to our wonderful couples and recommended photographers who’ve shared their beautiful wedding portraits: Jenna Carpenter, Tom Macnally, Tiree Dawson, Jo Bradbury, Jo Greenfield and Dean Hindmarsh. If you want to know more about getting married in Westmorland and Furness, contact the Registrar team here.

If you are a regular wedding supplier here at Cote How and would like to contribute to our wonderful wedding blog, please get in touch.