Tying the knot? Here are the best alternative wedding venues in which to say ‘I do’

Seeking something off-the-radar for your big day? Try one of these three alternative venues for a truly unique wedding experience…

Have you ever visited a city, a town, a room even, and felt utterly at home? For no reason that you can put your finger on, other than it just being you. It happens rarely but, when it does, it all fits. It’s no wonder we search for that certain something in our wedding venue. We want to marry in a place where our friends and family can share that feeling; somewhere that encapsulates how we want to remember this monumental shift in the course of our life.

The Civil Registration Amendment Act 2012 loosened marriage licensing restrictions significantly and means that venue-seekers have – literally – a whole world of nuptial possibilities, making the most unconventional settings a reality. The knot-tying setting of your dreams mightn’t involve a steeple, an aisle or even room enough for a dance floor. And all the better, we say. Here are three venues to check out if you’re looking for an extra punch of personality on your big day.

Medley, Fleet Street

Medley, Fleet Street

Medley, Fleet Street

Medley is a unique wedding venue housed in a renowned Dublin landmark: the Old Irish Times Building on Fleet Street. Located in one of the city’s most historic districts and surrounded by the impressive architecture of Fleet Street, College Green and Trinity College; the venue has been extensively refurbished to the most exacting standards while retaining its warmth and charm. Medley’s stunning mezzanine area can comfortably seat between 60 and 150 dinner guests, with space to seat a further 100 downstairs. The venue can accommodate up to 350 after-dinner guests in total, so nobody has to miss out on your big day. Medley’s experienced team of friendly and dedicated staff will work with you to plan your party and coordinate every detail on the day. The venue is holding an exclusive wedding showcase on Wednesday, September 12th from 6 pm to 9 pm, where guests will be treated to a refreshing drink and canapé reception followed by a main course tasting and dessert bar. To book your place and for more information, email [email protected].

The Station House Hotel, Kilmessan, County Meath

The Station House Hotel, Kilmessan

If you’re in search of a mystical and fairytale wedding venue, join the team at The Station House Hotel in Kilmessan, County Meath. As Oscar Wilde once said, “I have the simplest tastes. I am always satisfied with the best”. This philosophy has run through the heart and veins of The Station House Hotel for the last 35 years, since the Slattery family first opened their doors to guests in 1983. Once a busy railway junction, this country house hotel is nestled in the picturesque village of Kilmessan, in the heart of the Boyne Valley Drive and Ireland’s Ancient East. Having won numerous awards including Best Hotel Venue Leinster (Weddingsonline) and Best Hotel Restaurant Ireland 2017 (Food Awards), The Station House Hotel is perfect for weddings and destination dining experiences alike. Spread across 12 acres of manicured gardens on the Boyne Valley Garden Trail, the beautiful setting and much-loved charm of this family-run hotel provides a wonderful backdrop for couples in search of somewhere truly special, and for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Mart, Rathmines

Zeitgeisty go-to space for everything from art exhibitions and installations, to film screenings and parties, The Mart is a creative’s dream wedding venue. The Mart’s team ethos is to create a perfect space for you and 100 guests, using design, video and art performances to bring the space alive. You can wed in one of two large spaces, then party until late – BYOB and enjoy food from their fine-dining pals, Dux & Co. We love that it’s a blank canvas; just imagine it kitted out with your own blooms, lighting and furniture. They have everything figured out from the best creative decorators and dressers in the business and local eateries for catering services. This is an ideal venue for intimate parties or smaller weddings; check out this unique space in the video below.