Bolton Abbey Tithe Barn Wedding Photographer - Kate and Rich

In the heart of the Yorkshire Dales lies the Devonshire Estate. The Yorkshire Seat of the 12th Duke of Devonshire, 30,000 acres of amazing countryside and, most importantly, where Kate and Rich said their vows to each other back in June.  We’re huge fans of Bolton Abbey and the Tithe Barn so we were over the moon when they booked us to photograph their wedding day there. 

Weddings at Bolton Priory

We joined Kate at the (wonderfully named!) Stank House Farm Holiday Cottage. This is also part of the Devonshire Estate and is a hidden gem that we had never heard of before. It’s beautiful! We’re definitely going to be making all our Bolton Priory couples aware of it as it’s perfect for morning preparations. 

Richard was getting ready at the Devonshire Arms Hotel and Spa, a country house hotel with incredible views over the estate. The beauty of having two photographers join you on your wedding day is that you get both morning preparations covered. So many couples tell us how much they enjoy seeing what the other got up to ahead of the ceremony. 

Over at Bolton Priory Church the guests were arriving and a suited and booted Richard waited patiently for his bride. Kate walked down the aisle with her lovely Mum, who was so proud of her daughter. Like everywhere else on the Devonshire Estate the Priory Church is a stunning historic building. We love the warm stone and peaceful interior. Originally the Priory Nave, it was saved from destruction during the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII. You can feel the history when you walk in there! It’s amazing to think of all the couples over the centuries who said their vows in the same spot as Kate and Richard. 

As they signed the marriage registrar the bridesmaid sang, accompanied by a friend on guitar. Moments like that always make a ceremony for us, they’re such special times for the couple to look back on. 

Tithe Barn wedding reception

After some family portraits amidst the ruins of the Abbey the guests went on ahead to the Tithe Barn. We strolled back with Kate and Richard, making sure we got plenty of portraits in the Abbey ruins. 

The 16th century Tithe Barn is tucked away near the River Wharfe. Inside the oak beams, stone walls and huge chandeliers sit alongside a modern, open plan kitchen. Glass walls allow the guests to watch their meal being prepared, always a fascinating process! 

Speaking of the meal, the Tithe Barn is known for its incredible food and Kate and Richard’s wedding was no exception. Kate opened up the speeches before her new husband stood up to say some heartfelt words. 

After a few more portraits against the gorgeous barn doors Kate and Richard took to the floor for their first dance before we said our goodbyes and left them to enjoy the rest of their evening with their loved ones.