A fun, colourful wedding at Darwin Lake Holiday Village

When you think of a wedding in the Peak District, this is what you imagine…

An intimate lakeside ceremony, stunning florals, and glorious sunshine. Prosecco on the lawn, a spectacular Peak District sunset, and a wild party to end the night. And I know, I know, it sounds too good to be true! But Elle and Henry’s wedding in Darwin Lake Holiday Village really was that perfect.

But what I loved most about this wedding was the people.

E&H are big music and festival lovers. And the whole day was filled with that relaxed, fun, anything-can-happen energy you find on the fields of Glasto.

The styling was colourful, and modern, the food was tasty, the atmosphere was incredible. And all of it was backdropped by the effortless beauty of Darwin Lake.

If you’re looking for summer wedding inspiration, you’re in the right place! Come take a little look.

Darwin Lake Holiday Village wedding venue

Darwin Lake is a beautiful place for a summer wedding. There’s sweeping lawns, and a picturesque lake (complete with babbling brook!) There’s 20 acres of natural woodland for you to explore. And if you fancy some epic photos, the Peak District is literally on your doorstep!

But the best thing about having your wedding in Darwin Lake Holiday Village?

It’s a holiday village! There’s 17 stone cottages for everyone to stay in (apparently they can accommodate up to 127 guests?!) So if you fancy, you can turn your wedding into a multi-day event.

Elle and Henry invited their guests for a hot-tub, firepit, pizza party the night before. And it gave their wedding that awesomely intimate, ‘destination wedding getaway’ vibe.

It’s such a great way to start your wedding weekend. AND! You get to spend more time with your guests! What’s not to love?!

Black-tie, buttonholes, and a stunning bouquet

The morning began with good memories of the night before, cold prosecco, and warm sun.

Elle and Henry were getting ready next door to each other. So- as a rare treat for a wedding photographer- I got to capture both of their mornings.

Henry and his boys, looking suave in their bow-ties, buttonholes, and classic black tuxes. Elle with her girls and her family (special mention to Elle’s dad in his personalised T-shirt! Cute human!)

And oh my, Elle’s bridal look was gorgeous. Natural makeup, a relaxed low bun; heels for now, Vans for later. And to complete the look, an absolutely stunning bouquet in violet, peach and white.

She looked beautiful- relaxed, and elegant. And perfect for a wedding in Darwin Lake Holiday Village.

A lakeside wedding ceremony at Darwin Lake Holiday Village

Elle and Henry had an outdoor ceremony on the banks of the lake. And it was *dreamy*.

E&H had told the ladies at Greystone Flowers that they wanted lilac…and then just let them run with it. And it just goes to show, you should always trust your suppliers. Because let me tell you, those florals stole the show!

Meadows of dahlias, roses, and daisies lined the aisle. And spectacular floral columns framed the altar, backdropped by the still waters of the lake.

The ceremony was idyllic; intimate and relaxed, as only an outdoor wedding can be.

E&H never stopped laughing, smiling, and holding hands. Live music played, the sun shone, birds chirped happily in the trees.

And as the registrar made it official, a huge cheer filled the grounds, and carried out across the sparkling water.

Funny hats, nibbles, and a VW Camper

A little while later, we were standing on the sunny lawns of Darwin Hall. The hall’s main entrance is a beautiful stone archway, and it gives you the perfect backdrop for your confetti shot!

The sun blazed, guests cheered, and confetti filled the air. There were hugs, congratulations, and tons more hugs! And then out came some truly banging canapes, and the drinks began to flow…

Elle and Henry’s friends had brought along their VW Camper, and decorated it up (a couple after my own heart having a camper there!)

There was bunting, and photo-frames. And a wildly popular dress-up box, filled with funny hats, masks, and glasses…it was just so cool, you know?! Super fun, super relaxed, and *just a little bit* special.

We had group photos on the banks of the lake, and took full advantage of that Camper! And as the guests fought over the last of the canapes, we headed inside for dinner.

Reception styling for your wedding in Darwin Lake Holiday Village

The dining room in Darwin Hall is a simple space- bright, clean, and stripped-back. It’s basically just a big blank canvas for your styling! And E&H had styled it to floral perfection.

Their stationery was elegant and modern- a floral theme, with flashes of violet and deep blue. The tables were filled with roses, hydrangeas and dahlias, in lilac, violet and peach.

And their cake- three tiers of oh-so-tasty buttercream, with a river of florals pouring down the tiers.

The food was delicious, the speeches were downright hilarious! And with the plates cleared, the sun shining, and the Peaks calling, I snuck away with Elle and Henry for a little adventure…

Sunset portraits at Ashover Rock

If you’re having your wedding at Darwin Lake Holiday Village, I beg you- I implore you!– take a little trip to Ashover Rock.

It’s only a short 10 minute drive from the venue, so you won’t need to be out for long (I think we were gone for about half an hour). And it is just *the most stunning place* to have your couples photos.

The hills glowed gold in the setting sun; the sky streaked with coral, peach, and pink. Birds sang from the trees; grasshoppers chirped happily in the heather. E&H kissed, cuddled, and talked about their day.

And as we watched the sun sink slowly behind the hills, for a little while it felt like we had the world to ourselves.

Looking for a wedding photographer in Darwin Lake Holiday Village?

The evening party was insane! E&H are big music lovers, and they’d chosen the most amazing band, The Four Kicks, to bring the energy!

Elle’s dad grabbed the mic, and sang a song for their first dance. And then everyone joined them on the dancefloor and the party well-and-truly kicked off!

I found someone’s polaroid camera lying about, so I kept it on the dancefloor and shot a load of photos for Elle & Henry. And some of those photos are soo fun! Ties loose; jackets lost in the frenzy. At one point someone was drinking out of a vase…

It was just the best way to end the most incredible day, with the most incredible people. And I’d do it all again in a heartbeat.

If you’re looking for someone to photograph your wedding in Darwin Lake Holiday Village, I’d be so excited to hear from you. Get in touch today for a chat, and let’s see if we’re a good fit.