Hazel Gap Barn Wedding Photographer

I've been lucky enough to photograph several weddings at Hazel Gap Barn

Hazel Gap Barn is a dramatic red brick wedding and events venue set on the Welbeck Estate in Nottinghamshire. The venue is run by Cripps and Co who also run Thorpe Garden,Stone Barn, Grangefields and The Tithe Barn.

It is renowned for its picturesque surroundings and rustic charm, making it a beautiful venue for couples looking to tie the knot in a unique and romantic setting.

The barn itself is a beautifully restored 200-year-old building, boasting original oak beams and stone walls that add character and ambiance to any event. The venue offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing couples to customize their wedding or event to suit their preferences and the size of their guest list. The barn can cater for weddings of up to 150 guests. Outside features a courtyard with firepits and is a great place to hold a barbecue or hog roast.

The surrounding countryside provides a picturesque backdrop for wedding photos, with rolling hills, lush greenery, and tranquil ponds creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.

Bride Walks Down the Aisle at Hazel Gap Barn

The Light at Hazel Gap Barn

Let’s grab this nettle by the thorn

We should probably talk about this. The natural light in the ceremony room at Hazel Gap has it’s own unique character and challenges. It is very dark at the front of the venue, with tons of light streaming in through the huge windows at either side – usually onto the guests in the back rows.

Different wedding photographers will handle this in different ways – they may bring lighting to compensate or bounce flashes off the rear walls.

It’s somewhere like Hazel Gap where my unique style really shows (love it or hate it). I’m a huge believer that the light plays a huge part in the ambience of the day and it’s our job as photographers to lean into that and bring the character out in the photos.

This is where other photographers don’t really dare to tread though (see also my approach to the wedding dancefloor). So you are not going to see many photos that look like this from Hazel Gap.

Whether that’s a good or bad thing I’ll let you decide – but that sunflare between the couple above would be completely lost using more conventional methods. As would the dreamy, grainy atmosphere of the wedding photographs.

The reception and wedding breakfast rooms have more of a light and airy ambience.

Other Events At Hazel Gap Barn

In addition to wedding day celebrations, Hazel Gap Barn is also a popular choice for corporate events, private parties, and other special occasions. Its versatile spaces and idyllic location make it a sought-after venue for those looking to celebrate in style.

Hazel Gap offers a perfect blend of rustic charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities, making it a truly memorable setting for any event.

The Grounds At Hazel Gap Barn

Hazel Gap Barns makes a beautiful backdrop for some couple photos (it’s so symmetrical!)

As someone who likes to work with the light and ambience on the day I will mix it up with how and where I take some couple portraits.

There’s also the courtyard with its firepits – a wonderful location for playing with sparklers, toasting marshmallows or setting up a hog roast.

Places for guests to stay near Hazel Gap Barns

Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa: Situated in nearby Barnby Moor, this historic hotel offers elegant rooms, a spa, and fine dining options.
Thoresby Hall Hotel & Spa: Located in the heart of Sherwood Forest, this grand country house hotel offers luxurious accommodations, a spa, and beautiful surroundings.
The Bawtry Retreat: This boutique hotel in Bawtry offers stylish rooms, a restaurant, and easy access to local attractions.
Best Western Plus West Retford Hotel: This hotel in Retford provides comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and conference facilities, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers.
The Crown Hotel, Bawtry: Another option in Bawtry, this hotel offers cozy accommodations, a restaurant serving traditional British cuisine, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Elm Cottage Bed and Breakfast: If you prefer a more intimate setting, consider this charming bed and breakfast located in nearby Ranby. It offers cozy rooms and a hearty breakfast to start your day.
Airbnb: You may also find various private accommodations available for rent in the surrounding areas, providing you with options ranging from cottages to apartments, depending on your preferences and budget.

”The photos were exquisite, we didn’t find he was in our way at all but got all the right angles and photos. We wanted to capture the emotions and memories of our day and he did that so beautifully. And we bought the package with the albums which are so lovely and beautiful. Simon would take every detail I had about the pictures, colours and placement of photos. He is so dedicated to making his clients happy and truly has that raw artistic talent. Put those two together and you have a remarkable photographer. Thanks simon, you truly made our memories just as perfect as our day was. Wouldn’t want anyone else.
Thomas & Noor

Dancing the night away at hazel gap barns

Of course, no wedding venue is complete without a dancefloor for wedding entertainment. Hazel Gap can comfortably hold a DJ or band, but I’ve also seen the Barn used for Bollywood Dancing displays and wedding games.