Ballyseede Castle: A Fairytale Wedding Venue in the Heart of Kerry
A Fairytale Come to Life at Ballyseede Castle
If you’ve ever dreamed of getting married in a place that feels like it’s straight out of a fairytale, you’re going to want to hear about Ballyseede Castle. It's not just a wedding venue—it’s an experience, a gateway to a world where romance and history come alive. As you drive up the tree-lined path, you’ll be greeted by this 18th-century castle, nestled in the heart of County Kerry, surrounded by 30 acres of lush, private greenery and woodlands. Honestly, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another time, a time where stories of love and legends were written in the very stones of the castle walls.
As a Kerry wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing love stories at Ballyseede Castle, and let me tell you—it never fails to take my breath away. Each wedding feels as magical as the last, but there’s always something different, something uniquely special about this venue that makes it feel like a once-in-a-lifetime event, even for those of us lucky enough to return time and time again.
Why Ballyseede Castle Is a Photographer’s Dream
When it comes to wedding photography, certain venues stand out—and Ballyseede Castle is at the top of the list. From the moment you arrive, you know you're in for something special. The long, winding driveway that leads you to the castle is made for those stunning, cinematic entrance shots. The towering trees arch overhead, creating a natural tunnel that frames your couple beautifully as they arrive, building anticipation for the magical day ahead. It’s an incredible opening act to the fairytale that’s about to unfold.
The castle itself is an absolute showstopper. With its grand, ivy-covered walls and regal facade, every inch of the building oozes history, charm, and elegance. Whether you’re looking for intimate close-ups or sweeping landscape shots, Ballyseede Castle has it all. The castle's imposing structure stands proudly against the backdrop of Kerry’s stunning natural beauty, creating a perfect juxtaposition of the wild and the refined, the historic and the timeless.
The Friendly Irish Wolfhounds: Ballyseede’s Unique Stars
But what really sets Ballyseede Castle apart from other venues are its two permanent residents—Ballyseede’s Irish wolfhounds. These majestic creatures are not just part of the scenery; they add an extra touch of magic to the place. Gentle giants, they roam freely around the grounds, often lounging near the entrance or inside the castle itself, as if they, too, are welcoming guests to their home. I've lost count of the number of times I’ve stopped to pet them between shots. There’s something about these animals that just melts your heart, and if you're lucky, they’ll even pop into your photos, adding a truly authentic, Irish charm to the day.
Their presence adds something undeniably unique to any wedding, especially for couples who adore animals. Imagine your wedding photos with these gentle giants lazily lying in the background, or even posing quietly beside the couple—they are the perfect unexpected guests, blending seamlessly into the love and laughter of the day.
Capturing the Magic of the Grounds
One of the most wonderful things about Ballyseede Castle is its extensive grounds, which provide endless possibilities for wedding photography. The woodlands behind the castle are perfect for intimate, romantic shots. The dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves creates a warm, magical glow, especially during golden hour. There’s something so serene about taking a newly married couple on a quiet walk through the woods, away from the crowd, capturing those intimate moments where it’s just the two of them, surrounded by nature.
Then there’s the grand castle entrance. I've found that one of the most striking images you can capture is when the wedding car stops just before the castle, and the couple steps out. With the castle standing proud in the background and the couple bathed in the excitement and romance of the day, it’s a shot that never fails to stun. The contrast between the sleek elegance of the car and the rugged beauty of the ancient stone castle creates a timeless moment, one that feels almost cinematic.
Pathways to the Perfect Shot
For couples wanting something a little more intimate, the woodland pathways around Ballyseede offer endless opportunities. Imagine wandering down a quiet, leafy trail, the bride’s gown softly brushing the ground as the couple holds hands, stealing glances at one another. There’s a peace here that allows for natural, unposed moments to unfold—those fleeting glances, soft laughter, and quiet conversations that speak volumes in photos. As a photographer, these are the moments I live for—the ones that capture the true essence of love without the need for words.
Wedding Photography with an Irish Backdrop
Kerry itself is known for its jaw-dropping landscapes, and Ballyseede Castle is perfectly positioned to take full advantage of it. If you’re planning to elope in Kerry, this venue offers the best of both worlds—stunning architecture and dramatic natural scenery. From the castle’s sprawling lawns to the nearby mountains and woodlands, there’s no shortage of breathtaking backdrops. It’s truly a wedding photographer’s paradise.
The unpredictability of Irish weather often works in our favor, believe it or not. A soft mist or even a light drizzle can add an ethereal quality to the photographs, making them feel as though they’re straight out of a movie. Those moments when the sun breaks through the clouds and casts a golden light over the castle—those are the magic moments that every Kerry wedding photographer dreams of.
Kerry wedding photographer
Elopement photographer Kerry
The Warm Welcome at Ballyseede
And while the beauty of the castle and its grounds are undeniable, what really makes Ballyseede Castle stand out is the warmth and hospitality of the staff. They go above and beyond to ensure every wedding is not just successful, but truly unforgettable. From the moment you step inside, you’re treated like royalty. Whether it’s working behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly or lending a hand in those last-minute preparations, their attention to detail is second to none. The way they care for each couple is something you can feel in the atmosphere—it’s welcoming, it’s heartfelt, and it’s genuine.
I’ve seen it time and again in the laughter and joy of the couples I’ve photographed there. It’s more than just a venue—it’s a place where memories are made, where love is celebrated in its most beautiful form, and where the magic of Ireland’s history and natural beauty come together to create something truly special.
Why Ballyseede Castle Is the Perfect Choice for Your Kerry Wedding
So, if you’re dreaming of a fairytale wedding in Kerry, look no further than Ballyseede Castle. Whether you’re planning a grand affair with all your friends and family, or you're thinking about a more intimate elopement in Kerry, this venue has everything you could wish for. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, historical grandeur, friendly staff, and of course, the Irish wolfhounds, make Ballyseede Castle a place where love stories are written—and captured—forever.
As a photographer, I count myself incredibly lucky every time I have the chance to work at this magical venue. No matter how many weddings I’ve photographed here, each one feels like the first—exciting, romantic, and full of possibility. Whether it’s the castle, the woodlands, or those two friendly wolfhounds, Ballyseede Castle truly is a place like no other.
Thank you to the incredible staff and all the couples who’ve trusted me to capture their special day here. Every moment, every memory at Ballyseede is as unforgettable as the castle itself.