If you want a quick and easy wedding ceremony at Cleethorpes Registry Office, but are wondering where we can go afterwards for your couples photos; then this is the post for you!
My hometown of Cleethorpes in North East Lincolnshire has been the backdrop for several beautiful, intimate weddings recently, and while each one had its own unique charm, they all shared a common thread – stunning locations and a relaxed, love-filled atmosphere. From golden beach sunsets to historic gardens and charming seafront landmarks, these smaller celebrations prove that a wedding doesn’t need to be grand to be unforgettable.
Normally, I’d dedicate a full post to each wedding, but since these were weekday weddings with shorter coverage, I wanted to showcase them together instead. This way, I can highlight not just the individual moments, but also the fantastic variety of photo spots Cleethorpes has to offer – perfect for couples planning their own intimate “I dos” by the sea.
Cleethorpes Weddings & Iconic Photo Spots
Buck Beck Marshes
For couples looking for a more secluded, natural setting, Buck Beck Marshes offer a beautifully wild and romantic backdrop. With winding waterways, tall grasses, and a peaceful atmosphere, this spot is perfect for dreamy, intimate wedding portraits away from the busier areas of Cleethorpes. The soft, muted tones of the marshes create a stunning contrast against wedding attire, and the reflections in the water can add an extra touch of magic to your photos. It’s an ideal location for couples who love the outdoors and want something a little different from the usual coastal shots.
Potential Setbacks: While the marshes are undeniably beautiful, they do come with a few practical challenges. The ground can be uneven and, depending on the weather, a little muddy – so sensible footwear (or a willingness to go barefoot!) might be needed. It’s also a more open, natural environment, meaning wind and unpredictable weather can play a role. Lastly, as with any marshland, there’s the possibility of a few unexpected guests… in the form of midges and even jellyfish, especially in the warmer months!
Cleethorpes Boating Lake
The Boating Lake in Cleethorpes offers a serene and picturesque setting, ideal for couples looking for a peaceful, nature-filled backdrop for their wedding photos. Surrounded by lush greenery, mature trees, and calm waters, this spot provides a tranquil escape from the busier parts of the town. The soft reflections in the water, combined with the vibrant, natural surroundings, create an almost dreamlike atmosphere for portraits. Whether you’re capturing quiet, intimate moments by the water or taking advantage of the scenic paths that wind through the area, the Boating Lake is perfect for couples seeking a more relaxed, romantic vibe.
Potential Setbacks: While the Boating Lake is beautiful and peaceful, it’s also a popular spot for visitors, especially during the warmer months. This means there’s a chance of encountering other people, so timing your shoot for quieter times is essential if you want a more private experience. The area can also be a little more secluded, so if you’re walking around with large wedding dresses or delicate accessories, you may need to keep an eye on the ground. The surrounding greenery adds to the beauty, but can sometimes mean a bit of extra upkeep for your outfits (think leaves and branches).
Cleethorpes Beach
Few places capture the essence of a seaside wedding quite like Cleethorpes Beach. With its wide stretches of golden sand, gentle waves, and breath-taking sunsets, it’s the perfect setting for natural, romantic wedding portraits. Whether you’re strolling barefoot along the shoreline, sharing a quiet moment with the sea behind you, or embracing in that soft golden-hour glow, the beach offers endless opportunities for stunning, timeless photos. It’s also a fantastic spot for more playful, candid shots – think laughter as the waves rush in or a spontaneous twirl on the sand.
Potential Setbacks: As beautiful as the beach is, it does come with a few challenges. Sand and wedding attire don’t always mix well, so if you’re wearing heels or a long dress, navigating the shoreline can be tricky. Wind is another factor – while a gentle sea breeze adds to the romance, stronger gusts can send hair and veils flying! And, of course, Cleethorpes Beach is a popular spot, especially in the summer, so getting those uninterrupted, intimate shots might require some strategic timing or careful positioning.
Cleethorpes Pier
Cleethorpes Pier is an iconic spot that instantly adds a timeless, seaside charm to wedding photos. Its elegant white railings, wooden boardwalk, and sweeping views over the Humber Estuary create a stunning backdrop, whether you’re going for classic romance or a more playful, windswept seaside vibe. The soft, natural light here—especially at sunset—can make for some truly magical portraits, with the sea stretching out behind you. If you want that classic coastal look, the Pier is a perfect choice.
Potential Setbacks: While the Pier offers incredible photo opportunities, it can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak holiday seasons. If you’re after intimate, people-free shots, timing is key – early mornings or weekdays tend to be quieter. The weather is another factor; being right over the water means it can be quite windy, which can be a challenge for veils, loose hairstyles, and even long dresses. But with a bit of planning (and some well-timed windswept shots!), these challenges can easily be turned into part of the charm.
Cleethorpes Promenade
The Cleethorpes Promenade (or Central Prom) is a classic choice for couples wanting that quintessential British seaside vibe. With its wide, smooth paths, iconic lampposts, and sweeping views of the beach and sea, it’s a fantastic setting for both elegant and relaxed wedding photos. The vintage-style architecture and coastal atmosphere offer a timeless backdrop for portraits, whether you’re walking hand-in-hand, sharing a kiss by the sea, or simply enjoying the views together. The Promenade is especially beautiful at sunset, when the warm light creates a soft glow on the surroundings.
Potential Setbacks: While the Promenade is a lovely spot for photos, it can get busy, particularly during summer weekends or on sunny days. If you’re after a more intimate, quiet setting, you might need to plan your shoot during less crowded times. The paved paths are great for walking, but if you’re wearing heels or a long train, you might need to be cautious of uneven patches. And, as with other coastal spots, the wind can sometimes be a factor – especially if you’re trying to keep everything in place for that perfect shot!
Ross Castle
Ross Castle is one of Cleethorpes’ most distinctive landmarks, offering a romantic, almost fairytale-like setting for wedding photos. Perched on a hill overlooking the beach, it provides a stunning elevated backdrop with panoramic views of the coastline—perfect for dramatic, windswept portraits or intimate moments framed by the rustic stonework. The mix of history and scenery makes it a fantastic choice for couples wanting something a little different from the usual seaside shots.
Potential Setbacks: While Ross Castle is a fantastic photo spot, it does come with a few challenges. The steps leading up can be a little steep, which isn’t ideal for brides in long dresses or heels. The open nature of the location also means it’s quite exposed to the wind – something to keep in mind for veils and hairstyles! And, as a popular spot, especially in summer, you might have to navigate around visitors to get those perfect, uninterrupted shots.
I really hope this helped!
Whether it’s the golden sands of Cleethorpes Beach, the iconic Pier, or the historic charm of Ross Castle, this seaside town offers no shortage of stunning backdrops for wedding photography. The Boating Lake brings a touch of tranquillity, while the Promenade and Naval Arch add that classic coastal character. Even tucked-away spots like Buck Beck provide a more private, nature-filled setting for those quiet, romantic moments.
These shorter wedding sessions may not have warranted full posts of their own, but together, they paint a beautiful picture of what Cleethorpes has to offer. If you’re planning an intimate wedding and wondering where to capture those unforgettable moments, this little town has something special waiting for you.
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