How to plan a small wedding in Worcestershire, a wedding photographer’s guide

Planning a small or intimate wedding can be one of the most incredible ways to celebrate your love. You can also really make your wedding your own, when you’re not restricted by a set timeline or large guestlist. Worcester is a fantastic place for couples wanting a relaxed and personal day though you may have never considered it! It’s filled with history, character, and stunning backdrops and they change from street to street. You just need to know where to find them. As a Worcester wedding photographer, I’ve captured many weddings and other celebrations across the city, from grand ceremonies in hidden historic gems to cosy gatherings in private home rentals.

If you’re considering a city wedding in the UK, Worcester offers plenty of charming options. Here’s my guide to planning a beautiful, intimate celebration in the heart of the city.

The Guildhall, Worcester – A Historic, Elegant Venue

When it comes to Worcester wedding venues, few are as striking as The Guildhall. I actually used it for my daughter’s naming day I loved it SO much. This iconic 18th-century building sits right in the centre of the city and offers a stunning backdrop for ceremonies large or small as it has multiple rooms for hire.

Why The Guildhall is perfect for a wedding:

• Beautiful period interiors filled with character
• Suitable for small, medium, or larger ceremonies
• Situated just steps away from some of Worcester’s city centre
• Ideal for couples wanting a classic, Bridgerton vibe – but without the huge price tag

It’s one of my top recommendations for couples planning a wedding here because the atmosphere is warm, elegant, and incredibly photogenic. My favourite space is the Assembly Room, it’s just bathed in light and has the most incredible ceilings.

Florals by The Country Foxes – local florist/ stylist

Couple Portraits in The Shambles & Worcester Cathedral – Worcester’s Most Historic Street

After your ceremony, Worcester offers countless spots for photos but The Shambles remains one of the best places for relaxed, natural couple portraits. This historic street is not only one of the oldest in the city but also one of the most characterful.

Why The Shambles is perfect for photos:

• Cobbled streets and beautifully aged buildings
• Independent cafés and small shops that give a lively, urban feel. Stop for a cuppa and soak it all up!
• A hidden National Trust garden tucked just off the street which is ideal for quieter, intimate portraits with a gorgeous landscaped backdrop
• Close to The Guildhall, The Granary and Worcester Cathedral – making it incredibly convenient on the day

For couples wanting natural wedding photography in a unique setting, The Shambles is a dream location.

The Granary – perfect for couples who want an industrial look

If you’re looking for a Worcester wedding venue with a more modern, industrial feel, The Granary is a fantastic option, especially for couples planning a larger celebration. This converted warehouse-style space has exposed brick, open-plan layouts, and a blank-canvas vibe that lets you fully customise the look and feel of your day. Whether you’re dreaming of atmospheric lighting, bold florals, quirky décor, or a completely unique theme, The Granary is the kind of venue that invites creativity. It’s perfect for couples who want to put their own stamp on their wedding while still celebrating in the heart of the city, making it an excellent choice for those blending a city wedding in the UK with a personalised, design-led approach.

A Beautiful Airbnb for a Private Celebration — Tall Trees by The Big House Experience

If you’d prefer to be a little off the beaten track, or really want to use your wedding as a way to bring a small group of loved ones together in one gorgeous space, booking a rental property can be the perfect choice. One of the best options for a small wedding or UK city-meets-countryside celebration near Worcester is Tall Trees by The Big House Experience. This place took my breath away when I arrived!

Here’s why Tall Trees is such a special setting:

• Stunning grounds ideal for outdoor vows or relaxed portraits
• A sweeping staircase perfect for dramatic, elegant photos or a ceremony space
• Spacious, stylish interiors that photograph beautifully
• A peaceful, luxurious setting just outside Worcester
• Lots of bedrooms for your guests and an indoor swimming pool!

Whether you get ready there, host your ceremony, or simply use it as a base, Tall Trees offers endless opportunities for beautiful imagery and it’s such an incredible venue for a smaller wedding. Hire a celebrant to host your ceremony, or have your legal ceremony at Worcester registry office and head to Tall Trees after!

Bringing Your Worcester Small Wedding Together

Worcester is a wonderful city for couples planning a wedding. I’ll admit, I had no idea a lot of these wedding venues existed until I started working here. So I really wanted to share them as they really are hidden gems. You can begin your day in an iconic venue like The Guildhall, wander through The Shambles for relaxed portraits, and end your evening in the comfort of a gorgeous Airbnb such as Tall Trees. It gives you the option to make a wedding that’s entirely your own, to give time to the things that really matter to you.

As a Worcester wedding photographer, I love helping couples plan days that feel personal, relaxed, and full of meaning. If you’re dreaming of an intimate celebration and want natural wedding photography that captures every moment, I’d love to hear from you.