As a wedding photographer covering Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire and Swansea, I’ve photographed weddings at some incredible South Wales venues — and Hensol Castle is always one that leaves a lasting impression.
Imagine this. You arrive beneath towering turrets, step onto a red carpet, and for one unforgettable day a real castle becomes yours. Just outside Cardiff and surrounded by 650 acres of countryside, Hensol Castle blends historic grandeur with a genuinely welcoming atmosphere. It makes you feel like royalty while still keeping the day relaxed and full of joy.
Although located in the Vale of Glamorgan, Hensol Castle is a popular choice for couples planning weddings across Carmarthenshire, Llandeilo and Swansea who want something dramatic and unforgettable.
Why Choose Hensol Castle for a Carmarthenshire Wedding
Hensol Castle is a Grade I listed Gothic Revival mansion with sweeping staircases, original wood panelling and centuries of history in its walls. Parts of the castle date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, and every room carries a real sense of occasion.
From a Carmarthenshire wedding photographer’s perspective, this venue offers:
Exclusive use of the entire castle and grounds with only one wedding per day A stunning 15 acre lake with a wooden pontoon for portraits Grand interiors including the beautiful Oak Room overlooking the lake Manicured lawns, hidden courtyards and elegant ceremony options indoors or outdoors
Couples from Llandeilo and Swansea are drawn here because it delivers scale and atmosphere without feeling overwhelming. You truly get the castle to yourselves.
Wedding Photography at Hensol Castle
From a photography point of view, Hensol Castle is magic.
The Oak Room is an unforgettable setting for your vows, with rich wood panelling and views across the lake. Outdoor ceremonies are equally impressive, with the castle façade or charming bandstand creating a stunning backdrop.
As a Llandeilo and Carmarthenshire wedding photographer, I love venues that offer variety without needing to travel off site. At Hensol you have:
A dramatic oak staircase perfect for elegant portraits Reflections across the lake at golden hour Courtyards that feel private and romantic Expansive lawns ideal for champagne toasts and relaxed group photos
Golden hour here is something special. The light across the lake combined with the castle architecture creates images that feel cinematic but still natural.
A South Wales Wedding Venue with Character
For couples planning weddings in Carmarthenshire or Swansea, Hensol Castle offers grandeur balanced with organisation and ease.
The team are experienced and supportive, and each couple is assigned a dedicated wedding coordinator. Packages often include red carpet arrival, thoughtful styling details, and accommodation options nearby at the Vale Resort.
The fact that only one wedding is hosted per day makes a huge difference. The atmosphere feels calm and personal rather than rushed, which always results in more relaxed photography.
Perfect for Swansea Wedding Couples
Although Hensol Castle is located near Cardiff, it is a popular choice for couples travelling from Swansea who want a dramatic countryside venue that still feels accessible for guests.
As a Swansea wedding photographer, I often work with couples who choose Hensol because:
It feels like a destination wedding without leaving Wales The grounds provide endless portrait locations There is space for large guest lists without losing intimacy Overnight accommodation allows the celebrations to continue
With 23 bespoke bedrooms on site, couples and guests can stay overnight and enjoy breakfast in the orangery overlooking the courtyard. It is the perfect way to wind down after a big day.
Planning Your Wedding at Hensol Castle
If you are planning a wedding at Hensol Castle, I recommend building time into your schedule to explore the grounds. The lake, staircase, courtyards and lawns all offer something different, and allowing space in your timeline helps capture a wide variety of images.
From a Carmarthenshire and Llandeilo wedding photographer’s perspective, some of the best moments happen away from the crowd. A quiet walk by the lake, a few minutes together on the staircase or sunset portraits on the lawn can create some of the most meaningful photographs of the day.
Looking for a Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire or Swansea Wedding Photographer?
If you are getting married at Hensol Castle, or planning your wedding anywhere across Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire or Swansea, I would love to hear about your plans.
I photograph weddings in a natural, documentary style that focuses on genuine moments, timeless images and the atmosphere that makes your day unique. Hensol Castle offers drama, romance and elegance in equal measure, and it is always a pleasure to photograph weddings there.
Let’s make sure your wedding day looks as magical in your photographs as it feels in real life.
Dan Houghton Photography
Dan Houghton Photography 