Standing at the highest point of the city, within the old city walls, the castle has a history stretching back almost 1,000 years. The site became known as Rougemont Castle, taking its name from the distinctive red volcanic rock on which it stands. William the Conqueror chose the site for a much larger fortified castle in 1068, and the castle has played an important part in Exeter’s history ever since.
Today, the historic setting has been adapted for weddings and events, creating an unusual combination of medieval history and modern facilities right in the centre of Exeter.
Wedding spaces at Exeter Castle
There are several different spaces available, depending on the sort of wedding you’re planning.
The Castle Courtyard provides an impressive outdoor setting, surrounded by the historic castle buildings and with Northernhay Gardens as a backdrop. It’s a particularly atmospheric option for an outdoor wedding or reception.
For indoor celebrations, Exeter Castle has the newly renovated Courtroom and the magnificent Ballroom, as well as the Terrace Rooms. The combination of historic surroundings and lighter, more modern interiors means the spaces can work for everything from a smaller, intimate celebration to a much larger wedding.
And because you’re right in the centre of Exeter, your guests have the city’s restaurants, bars, hotels and transport links on the doorstep. Exeter Central railway station is only around 0.3 miles away.
A wedding with history all around you
Exeter Castle isn’t a purpose-built wedding venue that has been decorated to look historic. It is a genuine historic site that has been part of Exeter for centuries.
At the same time, you’re not giving up the practicalities of a modern wedding venue. There are dedicated event spaces, indoor and outdoor options and facilities for weddings and other celebrations.
Aimee and Daisy’s wedding
I had the pleasure of conducting Aimee and Daisy’s wedding at Exeter Castle. They weren’t taking any chances with the weather and chose to get married in the ballroom. But it wasn’t that room that had everyone talking – the toilets at Exeter Castle are located inside quirkily converted historic jail cells from its days as a county court!
It’s always interesting conducting a ceremony in a venue with this much character!
If you’re looking for a wedding venue in Exeter, and like the idea of getting married somewhere genuinely historic without leaving the city, Exeter Castle is a great option.
