This past year has been incredibly challenging for couples planning a big wedding, and so eloping has become a more popular option for many. During this time, big weddings can be complicated to organise, and due to the circumstances, many couples now realise that all they want is to actually get married and to rather enjoy a smaller, more intimate ceremony to celebrate their love. With travelling still being restricted at the current time, eloping is a fantastic option for couples looking to get married this year, so here’s a list of some of the most beautiful places to elope in the UK. Let’s go:

1.  Snowdonia, North Wales

For adventurous couples who love spending time outdoors, Snowdonia is one of the best places you could elope in the UK. If you’ve never visited this beautiful spot, you’ll be blown away by its epic scenery. After a simple ceremony in a local registry office, you’ll be able to enjoy time exploring the area and using the incredible lakes, beaches and hills as the backdrop for your wedding shots. It’s the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy quality time together as a couple after your elopement. Ok, I may be biased, because Snowdonia is actually my home base, but living here – especially in these times – has made me appreciate its beauty and diversity. You won’t regret getting married in Snowdonia. 

2.  The Isle of Skye, Scotland

For a truly magical location for your elopement, head to The Isle of Skye. With so many different backdrops to choose from, you can see why this would be the perfect place to elope or hold a wedding. The Quiraing is one of the most popular backdrops, and it’s located about thirty minutes from Portree. The panoramic scenery here will offer you the perfect venue for your elopement, and you can create artistic photographs and memories that you’ll treasure for years to come. Alternatively, Fairy Glen is another popular spot, and for anyone who is looking to escape reality for the day, you’ll feel like you are in another world altogether. We eloped to the Isle of Skye back in 2019 at a quieter spot in the very south of the island. We made a conscious decision to elope for various reasons and this was pre-Covid. So if you ever have any questions about what it means to elope and what to consider in your (much easier) planning process compared to a bigger wedding, please feel free to reach out any time.

3.  Portmeirion Village, Wales

Located in the North of Wales, you will feel like you’ve hopped on a plane to Italy when you visit Portmeirion. It’s a charming backdrop for any wedding, and you’ll feel like you are in the heart of the Mediterranean with its beaches, gardens and stunning buildings. You can stay right on site in the village for your honeymoon afterwards if you want to extend your time in this beautiful location. As a wedding videographer, I am looking forward to capture some wonderful weddings here again this year.

4.  Durdle Door, Dorset

Heading down to the south coast of England, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durdle Door on the Jurassic coast offers one of the best locations to elope in the UK. You’ll be able to capture incredible wedding shots in front of the iconic arches, and particularly during the offseason, you’ll find this to be a quiet and romantic spot to visit. Following the big day, you’ll find there’s plenty of accommodation available in the area, or if you are feeling more adventurous, consider spending a few days hiking the Jurassic Coast trail.

5. Millbrook Estate, North Devon

Located within the countryside of North Devon, Millbrook Estate can take care of everything for you when you are planning to elope in the UK. You’ll get to explore thirty-two acres of woodlands, meadows and countryside, offering you endless opportunities for photos and celebrations after the ceremony. You’ll enjoy five-star accommodation, and can invite up to four guests or have your ceremony witnessed by the team on-site if you prefer something a little more intimate.

The options for locations to elope in the UK are just endless, with so many stunning countryside and seaside areas to choose from. By choosing any of these locations listed above depending on your preferences, you are bound to have a memorable day together immersed in the incredible nature and scenery the UK has to offer without having to jump on a plane.