Photographing Tara and Darren’s wedding at Bellingham Castle was a genuine highlight of my year. Tara and Darren actually booked me after seeing my work at Aly and Naoise’s wedding at Cabra Castle, Bellingham’s sister venue, back in 2023 — and better still, Aly and Naoise were guests at Tara and Darren’s wedding too, so it was brilliant to catch up with them again on the day. There’s something really special about photographing within the same circle of friends more than once; it makes the whole day feel that bit more personal.
A Day of Joy and Sunshine
The day started with preparations at Tara and Darren’s respective family homes, with all the excitement and warmth you’d expect as family and friends gathered around the couple. Capturing those quieter, personal moments before the ceremony always adds something special to the story of the day.
The ceremony itself took place at St. Nicholas of Myra Church in Kinsealy, Dublin — a beautiful setting for Tara and Darren to exchange their vows, with warm sunshine adding to the occasion.
An Afternoon at Bellingham Castle
From the church, everyone made their way to Bellingham Castle to continue the celebrations. Castle Bellingham is genuinely one of my favourite venues to work in — not just for how stunning it is, but for the staff, who are brilliant to work with. Guests spent the afternoon enjoying the grounds, whether strolling by the river or relaxing on the lawn, while the castle’s attention to detail made sure nothing about the day felt anything less than first-class.
A Day to Remember
As evening drew in, the castle lit up with a warm glow, setting the scene for the night’s celebrations. Tara and Darren’s first dance under the stars was a beautiful moment — the kind that sums up everything great about a summer wedding at a venue like this.
Reflecting on the day, it’s clear the venue played a real part in making it so special, but it was Tara and Darren themselves — and the friends who’d already become familiar faces to me — that made it one to remember.
If you’re planning a wedding at Bellingham Castle, or anywhere in Ireland, and you’re looking for a photographer who captures the day as it naturally unfolds, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to check availability for 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bellingham Castle?
Bellingham Castle is in County Louth, Ireland, and is the sister venue to Cabra Castle — both known for their historic charm and beautiful grounds.
Do couples marry on-site at Bellingham Castle, or nearby?
Both are common. Tara and Darren held their ceremony at St. Nicholas of Myra Church in Kinsealy, Dublin, before travelling to Bellingham Castle for the reception.
What’s a Bellingham Castle wedding like?
Relaxed and genuinely special — guests can enjoy the grounds by the river or on the lawn between the ceremony and the evening celebrations, with the castle’s staff making sure every detail is looked after.
How far is Bellingham Castle from Dublin?
Bellingham Castle is in County Louth, around an hour’s drive from Dublin — close enough for city-based guests to travel comfortably, while still giving couples the feel of a proper countryside escape.
What photography style suits a Bellingham Castle wedding?
A natural, documentary approach works particularly well here, letting the genuine warmth of the day — family moments, golden light, the first dance under the stars — come through without anything feeling staged.
















































































































































































