Normanton Church wedding photography
Normanton Church... The place where classic church location meets intimate civil ceremony - and nature butts in for good measure.
If there’s a ‘25 most unusual wedding venues in the UK’ list (I’m pretty sure there will be, if you feel inclined to google it, unlike me) then Normanton Church must surely be on it. And if it’s not, then it jolly well should be!
Because it's a Rutland icon and a one-of-a-kind wedding venue in the UK. There’s nowhere else like it.
What makes it so unique?
The answer may surprise you. Got your “Woah!” emoji ready?
It goes something like this...
In the 1970s, two villages were flooded to make Rutland Water. Normanton Church was set to sink and be lost forever. But the locals fought to save it and instead of being completely flooded, it was only partially submerged - by filling the lower half of the building with rocks and rubble, and sealing it with concrete just below the windows. A narrow peninsula was added around the outside and a causeway was built for access. The end result is the illusion of a church that, depending on the water level, is either sinking or floating on the water.
It’s deconsecrated and a much-loved venue for civil wedding ceremonies now. Which means you can get married on the water with swans and boats floating by.
So if you’re dreaming of a relaxed ceremony in a natural setting by the water… this might just be your wedding venue.
Five reasons you’ll love Normanton Church for your wedding photography
My experience at Normanton Church
Weddings at Normanton Church are a regular fixture on my calendar.
And that makes me hApPy!
I’m a country girl at heart and adore being immersed in nature. So, for me, photographing a wedding at Normanton feeds two birds with one scone - soothing for the soul and a treat for the eyes.
From ancient oak trees overlooking proceedings to long grasses blowing in the breeze and ducks bobbing about on the waves… inspiration is everywhere.
(And the ice cream van en route back to the car is a win!)
True love stories
Hungry for more? Tuck into these weddings I’ve captured at Normanton Church.
Emily and Mark had a beautiful ceremony at Normanton Church, followed by a marquee wedding at Pipewell Hall with plenty of unique, DIY vintage touches. Not to be outdone by the weather, they had umbrellas at the ready and carried on regardless – love always wins!
After getting married at Normanton Church, Sophie and Luke travelled by red London bus to their reception at The William Cecil in Stamford. Nothing beats a good ol’ fashioned game of Mr and Mrs after the wedding breakfast, and Sophie and Luke got super competitive!
Natasha and Darren’s wedding photography at Normanton Church was all about capturing the chilled-out elegance of their day, surrounded by their closest friends and family. After getting married, they headed off with champagne in hand for a delicious meal at their favourite restaurant.