Some couples want grandeur, others want intimacy. A smaller wedding means more time with your guests, a relaxed pace, and often a unique location that wouldn’t suit 200+ people. Tipperary has plenty of hidden gems — from boutique hotels and country houses to charming estates where you can celebrate with just your closest circle.
Here’s a hand-picked selection of venues across the county that are perfect for intimate weddings and civil ceremonies. Each one offers something unique — whether it’s lakeside views, private dining rooms, or a full estate hire for just you and your guests.
Raheen House is one of Tipperary’s best-known boutique hotels for weddings. Set within private gardens and woodlands, it’s ideal for a smaller celebration. Their function rooms cater to intimate wedding parties, and the gardens provide a stunning backdrop for photos.
Licensed for civil ceremonies and partnerships.
Indoor and outdoor ceremony options.
Perfect for 40–120 guests, but they also offer private dining for smaller groups.
Looking for mountain views with a cosy, intimate setting? Aherlow House sits at the foot of the Galtee Mountains. It’s an incredible spot for couples who want breathtaking scenery without the need for a huge ballroom.
Civil ceremony licence.
Ideal for weddings of 30–80 guests.
Private function spaces designed for smaller weddings.
Kilshane House is a private estate that allows couples to hire the entire house and gardens for their wedding. While it’s capable of hosting larger events, its Orangery and private dining rooms make it perfect for boutique weddings too.
Exclusive hire available.
Civil ceremonies indoors or outdoors.
Romantic glass conservatory for intimate receptions.
If you’re looking for rustic charm with a foodie twist, Cloughjordan House is unbeatable. It’s an 800-year-old country house that doubles as an organic farm and cookery school — ideal for couples who love great food and a relaxed vibe.
Licensed for civil ceremonies.
Farm-to-table menus.
Small weddings from 20–80 guests.
Right in the heart of Cashel, Bailey’s Hotel is a boutique 18th-century townhouse hotel. Its private dining rooms are elegant and perfectly suited to intimate celebrations.
Boutique setting for 20–60 guests.
Civil ceremony licence.
A short stroll from the Rock of Cashel for wedding photos.
Set within parkland, Dundrum House is a stately yet warm venue that works beautifully for smaller weddings. With a history dating back to the 18th century, it gives couples a sense of grandeur without needing a large guest list.
Civil ceremonies catered for.
Elegant rooms suited to 30–70 guests.
Golf course and grounds for photo opportunities.
While known as a golf hotel, Ballykisteen is often chosen for intimate weddings. They offer tailored packages for smaller guest lists, with a modern ballroom that can be sectioned off to suit the size of your celebration.
Licensed for civil ceremonies.
Wedding packages available for 25+ guests.
Located near Limerick Junction, making it easy for guests.
Ashley Park House is a magical lakeside estate in North Tipperary. With private hire available, it’s perfect for couples who want total privacy for their intimate wedding.
Civil ceremony licence.
Lakeside marquee or intimate indoor spaces.
Perfect for 30–80 guests.
This guide is all about intimate celebrations, but if you’re still exploring bigger venues or want to compare options, check out our full feature:
Booking a small wedding venue in Tipperary is more than just picking a location. Here are a few tips to make it run smoothly:
Guest list: Decide early if you’re inviting under 30, under 50, or closer to 80 people. This will shape which venue suits best.
Ceremony style: Civil ceremony in a hotel? Outdoor blessing? Church with a private dinner after? Tipperary venues cater to all.
Photography: Smaller weddings allow more time for natural, documentary-style photos. Venues like Ashley Park or Aherlow House give stunning backdrops without leaving the property.
Food & drink: Smaller numbers let you splurge on better menus — farm-to-table at Cloughjordan House or gourmet dining at Bailey’s Cashel.
Accommodation: Many of these venues double as hotels or guesthouses, meaning guests can stay overnight, keeping the party relaxed.
When you’re planning a small wedding, you want a photographer who gets it. Someone who blends in, keeps things relaxed, and captures the little details. Here’s what real couples had to say about working with me:
“James was incredible from start to finish. We had just 40 people at our wedding, and he caught every smile, every laugh, every hug — without us ever feeling like we were posing. The photos feel alive.” – Sarah & Liam, Cashel
“We didn’t want a big fuss, just a genuine record of the day. James’ style is natural and honest. He put everyone at ease, even my dad who hates the camera. Couldn’t recommend him enough.” – Aoife & Mark, Nenagh
“Value for money was important to us. James gave us fair pricing with no hidden extras. What we got back was worth ten times the fee — our photos are incredible and tell the story perfectly.” – Emma & Ciarán, Clonmel
I keep things simple: no hidden fees, no gimmicks. Every couple — whether you’re planning a 20-guest ceremony at Bailey’s Hotel or a 70-guest lakeside wedding at Ashley Park — gets the same commitment from me.
Clear packages that suit different budgets.
Options for full day, half day, or elopement coverage.
Always high-resolution, print-ready images with online gallery delivery.
A small wedding doesn’t mean small memories. I’ll make sure your photos feel as big and meaningful as the day itself.
If you’re set on one of these beautiful small wedding venues in Tipperary, the next step is finding a photographer who fits the day. I’d love to chat with you, hear your plans, and show you how I work.
Q: What’s considered a small wedding in Tipperary?
A: Typically under 80 guests, though some venues cater for as little as 20.
Q: Can I have a civil ceremony at these venues?
A: Yes, most are licensed for civil ceremonies and partnerships. Always confirm directly.
Q: Do small wedding venues cost less?
A: Often yes — fewer guests mean less spend per head. But premium venues may have minimum hire fees.
Q: Are small weddings less formal?
A: Not necessarily. Many couples still opt for black tie dinners, while others keep it casual. The beauty is that you decide.
Q: Which is the most romantic venue in Tipperary?
A: Ashley Park for lakeside views, Cloughjordan House for rustic charm, or Kilshane House for historic grandeur.