A Wedding at Knowle Manor, Exmoor: Everything You Need to Know

If you're looking for a wedding venue where you can gather everyone together for an entire weekend, make the place your own and celebrate without being rushed out the door at midnight, Knowle Manor is well worth a look.

Set within 150 acres on Exmoor, near Dunster, Knowle Manor is an exclusive-use country house with plenty of character, beautiful grounds and, importantly, lots of flexibility. It's grand enough to feel special, but it doesn't have the slightly intimidating, overly formal feel that some manor house wedding venues can have.

I recently photographed a wedding at Knowle Manor and, having spent the day wandering around the house and grounds with my camera, I can see why it works so well for a wedding.

Why choose Knowle Manor for your wedding?

One of the biggest appeals of Knowle Manor is that you're not just hiring a venue for the day.

The house can be hired for an entire weekend, with exclusive use from Friday afternoon until Sunday afternoon for a standard two-night weekend. That means you can turn your wedding into more of a proper gathering, rather than trying to squeeze everything into one day.

The house sleeps up to 50 guests across 20 bedrooms, so you can have your closest family and friends staying with you too.

That makes a huge difference to the feel of a wedding weekend. There's time for everyone to arrive, settle in and catch up on the Friday evening before the wedding itself. And, rather than everyone disappearing straight after the party, you're still together the following morning.

There are also plenty of spaces within the house to make use of throughout the weekend, including several reception rooms, a bar room, games room and an indoor swimming pool.

You have plenty of freedom to make the wedding your own

Knowle Manor will particularly appeal to couples who don't want a completely packaged wedding.

The venue has a large, well-equipped semi-commercial kitchen and welcomes outside caterers, giving you more freedom when choosing the food for your wedding.

This can be especially useful if food is an important part of your wedding plans. Rather than being limited to one in-house catering team and a set menu, you can find caterers that suit you and the kind of day you're planning.

Whether that's a formal wedding breakfast, sharing food, a feast-style meal or something a bit more relaxed, having the flexibility to choose your own suppliers gives you more control over the day.

It's worth checking the venue's current wedding information when planning, but this flexibility is one of the things that makes Knowle Manor particularly attractive for couples who want to create a wedding that feels like theirs.

Indoor and outdoor ceremony options

Another really useful thing about Knowle Manor is the choice of ceremony locations.

The Manor is licensed for civil ceremonies in the Drawing Room and the Palm House, with outdoor ceremony options in the grounds too. The Gazebo and gardens can also be used for ceremonies, while couples can choose a church wedding, blessing or humanist ceremony in the grounds.

So, whether you're imagining an elegant indoor ceremony or would prefer to get married outside surrounded by the Exmoor countryside, there are options.

The Drawing Room is licensed for up to 60 guests, while the Palm House can accommodate up to 120 for a ceremony.

And, because this is England and the weather likes to keep us on our toes, having a beautiful indoor option alongside the outdoor spaces is always reassuring.

The Palm House

For larger celebrations, the Palm House is available to hire in addition to the main house.

It provides a dedicated space for the wedding celebrations and can accommodate up to 120 guests.

It's a particularly useful addition to the Manor because it gives you a larger space for the main part of the celebration, while the house itself remains somewhere guests can relax, explore and spend time together.

One of the things I liked when photographing at Knowle Manor was that the wedding didn't feel as though everything had to happen in one room.

There are different spaces for different parts of the day, which helps the day naturally move along and gives guests somewhere to go and something to explore.

A wedding weekend, rather than just a wedding day

For me, this is probably one of the biggest reasons to consider Knowle Manor.

Having the venue for the weekend gives you the opportunity to make more of the time with the people you've invited.

You could have a relaxed meal on Friday night as everyone arrives, spend the Saturday celebrating your wedding and then wake up together the following morning.

The house itself is set up for groups, with accommodation for 50 guests and enough communal space for everyone to spend time together.

This makes Knowle Manor particularly good for couples who have guests travelling from different parts of the country, or for anyone who wants their wedding to feel more like a big house party than a traditional one-day event.

Knowle Manor from a wedding photographer's perspective

I've photographed at plenty of beautiful venues, but the thing that makes a venue particularly good for photography isn't always just how impressive it looks.

It's about light, variety and how easily you can move around during the day.

Knowle Manor has all three.

The Palm House has beautiful light

One of my favourite spaces at Knowle Manor is the Palm House conservatory.

It's bright and full of natural light, which makes it a brilliant space for photographs. Whether you're using it as part of the wedding celebrations or simply wandering through it during the day, it's one of those rooms that works beautifully on camera.

Natural light makes such a difference to photographs, particularly when you're indoors, and this is definitely one of those spaces I'd be happy to spend plenty of time photographing in.

There are lots of different spaces to photograph

Knowle Manor isn't a venue where you're limited to one obvious spot for photographs.

There are the grand rooms inside the house, the lighter conservatory Palm House, the gardens and the surrounding countryside.

This variety is great from a photography point of view because it means your photographs don't all look the same.

You can have a few portraits surrounded by the grandeur of the house and then walk outside for something completely different.

It also means that if the weather isn't playing ball, there are still plenty of interesting places to photograph indoors.

The rural surroundings are perfect for couple photos

Knowle Manor is surrounded by some seriously beautiful countryside.

The estate sits within Exmoor National Park, with lakes, woodland and views towards the surrounding forests and moors. The River Avill also runs through the grounds.

For couples who don't want to spend ages posing for photographs, this is ideal.

You don't need an elaborate photoshoot. We can simply take a short walk away from everyone for ten or fifteen minutes, have a breather and make the most of the surroundings.

The grounds give you plenty of options without needing to travel anywhere, which means you're not disappearing from your own wedding for hours.

And, as the light changes later in the day, there are even more opportunities for some relaxed couple photos.

Grand, but not stuffy

This is probably the best way I can describe Knowle Manor.

It's an impressive house. There are grand rooms, beautiful grounds and plenty of history and character.

But it doesn't feel like a venue where you have to have a particularly formal wedding to fit in.

You could have a beautifully styled, elegant celebration here, but you could also fill the house with friends and family, bring in your own caterers and make it feel like a very special version of a big weekend away.

That combination is what I really like about it.

You get the grandeur of a country house wedding without feeling as though your wedding has to be overly formal or follow a particular template.

Is Knowle Manor right for your wedding?

Knowle Manor could be a brilliant choice if you're looking for:

• An exclusive-use wedding venue

• A wedding weekend rather than just a one-day celebration

• Accommodation for your family and friends

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony options

• Flexibility with your wedding suppliers

• The option to use your own caterers

• A large country house with plenty of different spaces

• Beautiful rural surroundings for photographs

• A venue that feels grand but still relaxed and welcoming

It's especially suited to couples who want to spend proper time with their guests and create a wedding weekend that feels personal to them.

Planning a wedding at Knowle Manor?

I recently photographed a wedding at Knowle Manor and would love to go back.

It's a fantastic venue for natural, relaxed wedding photography, with loads of variety throughout the day — from the light-filled conservatory and characterful rooms inside to the beautiful Exmoor surroundings outside.

If you're planning your wedding at Knowle Manor and are looking for a photographer who'll capture the day as it actually happens, while making the most of all those brilliant spaces, I'd love to hear about your plans.

Choosing a Wedding Photographer: What You Really Need to Know

Let’s be honest – picking your wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for the day. After all, they’ll be there for some of your most intimate, joy-filled moments, and they’ll be the one capturing it all for you to relive for years to come. But how do you know if a photographer is the right fit for you? 

Here are some key things to consider when choosing your wedding photographer:

• Photography Style: Do you love candid, documentary-style photos that capture natural moments, or are you drawn to more posed, artistic images? Look through portfolios to see what resonates with you.

• Personality: Your photographer will be by your side all day, so it’s crucial to find someone whose presence you’ll enjoy. Are they calm, friendly, and adaptable?

• Location: Hiring a local photographer can make pre-wedding meetings easier and could save on travel costs. But if you’ve found someone you adore further afield, check their travel availability.

• Delivery Expectations: How long will it take to receive your photos? Will you get a preview first? Do they offer albums or prints? Make sure their timelines and offerings work for you.

• Experience: Have they worked at similar venues or weddings to yours? An experienced photographer will be able to adapt to different lighting, weather, and timings with ease.

• Backup Plans: Life happens – so it’s worth asking if they have contingency plans in place for emergencies, such as illness or equipment failure.

• Connection: Do you feel a connection when you speak with them? That gut feeling often tells you whether you’ll work well together.

• Budget: Make sure their pricing is clear and aligns with your budget. Remember, this is an investment in memories, so focus on value as well as cost.

• Post-Wedding Support: Will your photos be backed up? How long will they store your images? Do they provide assistance with prints or wall art?

Taking time to ask the right questions and get a feel for your photographer will help you make a confident decision. 

So, how do you know if I’m the right fit for you? Let me give you a little insight into how I approach things and what you can expect from me on your big day.

1. How will the photography process feel on the day?
   My approach is relaxed and natural. You won’t find me barking orders or forcing awkward poses – instead, I focus on capturing the genuine moments as they unfold. My goal is to blend into the background so you can fully enjoy your day while I document it all.

2. Will having a photographer around feel awkward?
   Not for long! It’s natural to feel a bit camera-shy at first, but soon enough, you’ll be caught up in the excitement of your day – the people, the atmosphere, and each other. Before you know it, I’ll feel like part of the scenery, capturing moments as they happen naturally.

3. What kind of presence will the photographer have at our wedding?
   A calm, friendly presence can make all the difference. I’ll blend in with your guests, join in on the fun, and know when to step back during more emotional or private moments. Weddings are a mix of humour, energy, and intimacy – and I’m there to capture it all with sensitivity.

4. Can the photographer relate to us?
   If you enjoy a balance of excitement and calm, we’ll probably get along! I’d describe myself as an introverted extrovert – I love connecting with people, but I also appreciate quiet moments. Outside of weddings, I’m often wild swimming, exploring the outdoors, or spending time with my family.

5. Can the photographer help with wedding planning?
   Absolutely! With years of experience and countless weddings under my belt, I’ve seen it all. Whether you need advice on your timeline, how to organise group photos, or ideas for a festival-style wedding, I’m happy to share tips. My blog also has plenty of helpful resources.

6. Has the photographer worked at our venue before?
   It’s very possible! I’ve photographed at a variety of stunning venues across Somerset, from popular locations to private gardens. If you’d like to see examples of my work in a specific setting, let me know – I’d be happy to share them.

7. What makes this photographer different?
   Chemistry matters. I’ll be with you throughout your day, so it’s important that we click. While my portfolio speaks for itself, what sets me apart is my ability to stay calm under pressure, adapt to the flow of your day, and connect with everyone – from your parents to the bridal party. With 20 years of experience, I’m confident in handling anything your wedding day throws my way.

8. How do we book?
   We’ll start with a Zoom call so we can chat and get to know each other. If it feels like a good match, I’ll send over a booking form and a link for the £400 deposit to secure your date. Simple and straightforward!

9. Do we have to do the engagement shoot?
   Not at all — it’s completely optional! I offer engagement shoots as a little bonus for couples local to me in Frome, Somerset. They’re a relaxed way for us to meet and take some photos before the big day. If you’d rather skip it, that’s absolutely fine — it just isn’t transferable or discounted against your wedding package.

10. When will we get our photos?
    I know you’ll be eager to see your photos! I’ll send a preview within a week of your wedding, and the full gallery will be ready in 2–6 weeks, depending on the season.

11. Are our photos safe?
    Yes, absolutely. I back up your photos in real time during the day and have a robust system in place at my office to ensure they’re stored securely. While I keep a physical archive indefinitely, I recommend downloading and backing up your photos, as the online gallery expires after two years.

12. What’s the emergency backup plan?
    In the rare case that I can’t make it, I have a trusted network of local photographers I can call on. They’d shoot your wedding while I edit the images to maintain consistency. If I couldn’t handle the editing, I’d make sure the backup photographer was fully briefed.

13. Do we need to provide a meal for the photographer?
    Yes, please! It’s a long day, and a warm meal helps keep me going. Whether I eat with the guests or in a quieter spot is up to you – just let me know. I’m vegetarian, so keep that in mind when planning.

14. Can we get albums or prints?
    Definitely. Your gallery will include a print shop where you can order everything from beautiful albums to thank-you cards. I believe strongly in the magic of printed photographs and would love to help you create something timeless.

“We booked Alice to photograph our wedding day and she was so great to work with right from the start. Alice made us both feel at ease in front of the camera and really captured the fun atmosphere of the day without anything ever feeling forced. We absolutely love our photos, thank you so much Alice! :)

”

— Catherine and Matt

Let’s chat about your unique wedding day

Get in touch and we can arrange a Zoom call

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Super Relaxed Micro Wedding at Valentines Mansion and Gardens

My first wedding back post-lockdown was this intimate micro wedding at Valentines Mansions in Ilford on a beautifully sunny day in May. The wedding date, like many others in 2020/21, had been changed numerous times due to the pandemic so it was extra special that the day had arrived and the wedding ceremony went ahead! 

Laura and Derwin were joined by their immediate families, and their daughter Joni. The intimate ceremony was held in the Morning Room on the ground floor with large bay windows overlooking the gardens, letting in an abundance of natural light. I was only allowed to photograph from one fixed place during the ceremony due to the venues photography rules. I usually like to quietly move around the room to get a variety of angles, but it felt good not to be a distraction, especially as it was such a small wedding.

Laura and Derwin didn’t want the ceremony to be too traditional and kept the day very relaxed which made it a joy to photograph. 

After the ceremony, we took a few group photos outside and let Joni run around.  I then took Laura and Derwin on a walk around the stunning walled garden to take relaxed and informal couple portraits. They were complete naturals and it was easy to capture the love between them. 

This was my first micro wedding after the pandemic and it just proved that an intimate and teenie wedding can feel just as special. 

Congratulations Laura and Derwin! x x x

Coastal Wedding, Cornwall // Hannah and Ben

It was a joy to photograph Hannah and Ben’s wedding in Cornwall this month, my first beachside wedding! (of many I hope!)

Their intimate ceremony was held at Truro Methodist Church. Hannah and Ben then clambered into a (very clean) Land Rover and we headed off to Porthcurnick, one of their favourite beaches for the couple portraits. I spend such a lot of time photographing couples in rural settings in Somerset, which I love, but it was a real treat to be on the windy beach and doing something a little different.

They then joined guests at the Gerrans Parish Memorial Hall for a relaxed buffet reception some cracking speeches, and so much love in the room for Hannah and Ben. As soon as the sun broke through again we were back down on the beach again for games in the evening sunlight. Heaven.

This was such a lovely wedding to capture, thank you for having me there xxx

Splotts Moor Farm Wedding, Somerset

In August I worked alongside the wonderful Emma Stoner as her second shooter for the beautiful wedding of Jenny and Gavin. They were married at the St John the Baptist’s Church in Pilton, and went on to celebrate at Splotts Moor Farm in Somerset.

Guests enjoyed a drinks reception in the shady orchard (it was a scorcher of a day!) with a view of Glastonbury Tor before moving through to the custom built timber marquee which they had colourfully decorated with lanterns, sunflowers and photos.

It is always a joy to second shoot and have the time (and slightly less pressure!) to find the special moments, different angles and creative shots. Here is a selection of my images from Jenny and Gavin’e wedding, and you can also view Emma’s website here

Cadhay House Wedding, Devon // Sara and Tom

Tom and Sara got married in the grounds of Cadhay House in Devon, in the most beautiful garden ceremony set beside a lake. Tom and Sara live in Singapore and had already had a small legal ceremony in Singapore, but they considered this to be their main event! The ceremony was conducted by the grooms brother in law, who being a vicar was a total pro!

Following the ceremony they enjoyed drinks and canapés on the lawn to the sounds of Skedaddle as the guests meandered around the lake and grounds. I also took this opportunity to explore the beautiful secret gardens with Tom and Sara.

The guests then moved through to a large marque in another part of the garden for a BBQ feast and hilarious speeches. As the light started to fade and the temperature dropped the fire pit them became a popular spot, especially when someone whipped out the marshmallows!

This was one of my favourite wedding of the summer, a gorgeous super chilled couple, fun and friendly family and friends and the most beautiful wedding venue to take pictures in! Magic combo!

Venue : http://cadhay.org.uk

Furniture and prop hire: www.virginiasvintagehire.co.uk 

Music: https://skedaddle1.bandcamp.com/releases

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If you are planning a country house wedding and would like natural and informal, documentary-style wedding photography then please get in touch! I would love to photograph your day,

For more country house wedding venue ideas check out Pennard House and Sparkford Hall on my wedding venue list.

Llyn Gwynant Wedding // Charlotte and Matt

Matt and Charlotte got married at Llyn Gwynant Barns which lies in the most beautiful valley in North Wales at the foot of Snowdon.

This was a full weekend affair and guests arrived the night before to camp, swim in the lake, set up and be merry!

The humanist ceremony, performed by Matt’s brother, was held outside in a magical spot overlooking the lake. It was so personal and creative with readings from close family and their own personal vows.

The ceremony was followed by a drinks reception and hilarious games by the lake. Guests then moved into the barns for a BBQ dinner and some fab speeches.

Shortly after dinner (and a dip in the lake), the tables were cleared and the dance floor filled, just in time for the big surprise of the night! A (welsh) Mariachi Band! Matt and Charlotte’s wedding seriously rocked!

If you are planning a humanist wedding and would like laid back, fun, documentary-style wedding photography then please get in touch! I would love to photograph your day.

And if you are looking for a barn wedding venue in The South West then check out Over Barn on my venue feature list.

Venue: Llyn Gwynant