Manchester is a place rich in history, culture and arts, and has been commonly referred to as England’s second city since the industrial revolution. It offers a vibrant atmosphere full of character, and as a Manchester wedding photographer, I can tell you that we are not short of stunning wedding venues! From historic buildings to grand hotels and unique spaces, we have it all. Today, I’m going to talk about 3 of my current favourite Manchester wedding venues, so if you’ve been on the hunt for one, you’re at the right place 🙂

1. Victoria baths

So let’s dive in. We’re starting off strong with Victoria Baths, one of the most unique Manchester wedding venues I’ve ever come across! I haven’t seen anything else like it. If you want a wedding that will be remembered by everyone, this one’s for you. I mean… you can get married in a pool! How cool is that? This venue is an old bath house with lots of character that is being lovingly restored. They’re licensed both, for ceremonies and receptions with 5 dramatic, quirky spaces for you to choose from. This includes the 3 empty swimming pools, as well as the Turkish Baths Rest Room with its Angel of Purity stained glass window. If you have a thing for old tiles, I promise you’ll absolutely love this venue. I’ve also performed here a few times with my choir and can confirm the acoustics are fantastic. The only downside is that it’s a little chilly in the winter, so I would definitely look at this Manchester wedding venue for a summer wedding.

2. Grub

This Manchester wedding venue is perfect for laidback couples who want a fun, well-organised, relaxed wedding in the city. It’s a very exciting space that works with a variety of street food traders and independent chefs specialising in a range of cuisines and dietary requirements. There’s an outside terrace with extra space for a food truck or an ice cream van, a hall that offers the perfect space for your wedding breakfast and their darkened cinema room is an ideal space for a great party which is wonderful if your crowd loves a dance. Then the rest it up to you, there’s so much autonomy on how you can use the space to make it your very own wedding. As they are an experienced wedding host, they’ll be super helpful with making recommendations on what has worked best in the past in terms of catering and decor. You can check out Seraphina and Simon’s wedding for some Grub wedding inspo.

3. Five Four Studios

If you are a creative soul and looking for a Manchester wedding venue that will allow you to fully express your personality as a couple, look no further. Five Four Studios is a 1970’s warehouse that has been renovated into a 600 sqm light filled blank canvas for you to put your stamp on. This means that you can turn your dream wedding into reality, and create a personalised, one of a kind theme! Boho, botanical, festive… you name it, it’s possible. I’ve never seen a Manchester wedding venue as versatile, sleek and stylish as this one!

Now, here’s some general advice when having a Manchester wedding. One thing to note is that Manchester weather can often be quite rainy. There’s nothing to lose in having a rainy weather plan and buying/hiring some clear umbrellas for nicer wedding photographs! If you’re wearing a dress, consider getting one without a train if you’re concerned about keeping it clean.

Also, Routemaster buses aren’t just for London weddings! Consider hiring one to transport your wedding guests from your ceremony to reception, or if you’re in the right location, go via canal.

Lastly, if you are looking for a Manchester wedding photographer, get in touch here! I’d love to hear more about your wedding plans over a cup of tea 🙂