Alternative Manchester Wedding Venues: My Favourites
Are you planning your wedding in Manchester but looking for something a bit different? This guide to alternative Manchester wedding venues brings together some of my favourite unusual and quirky spaces that I’ve photographed at over the years.
I grew up spending most of my weekends in Manchester from an early age (anyone remember Urbis?). I’ve always loved the city’s wide range of creative, character-filled venue spaces. Since moving to South Manchester a couple of years ago, I’ve photographed more and more unique city-centre weddings, and I’m constantly discovering new venues that feel fresh, fun, and a little bit unexpected.
This list will definitely keep growing over time, but for now, here are a few of my favourite alternative Manchester wedding venues to inspire your planning. I hope it helps you find a venue that feels completely you!
Art Gallery Wedding Venue Manchester
The Whitworth Gallery
If you are looking for a contemporary-style wedding venue in Manchester, then it is well worth taking a look at The Whitworth Gallery Manchester if you’re drawn to creative, modern spaces. The Whitworth is one of my favourite alternative Manchester wedding venues for couples who want something a little different from the traditional hotel or barn setting.
Your wedding ceremony can be held in one of the wonderfully light gallery spaces, which feel calm, modern, and full of character. There is also a stunning Jacobean-style hall with a double-height ceiling for your wedding breakfast and reception. Both spaces are fairly large (I’d estimate they could comfortably fit around 100 wedding guests), making it a great choice if you’re looking for a slightly bigger city-centre venue. Overall, The Whitworth Gallery Manchester wedding experience is perfect for creative couples searching for a modern wedding venue in the heart of the city.
I love photographing at The Whitworth because it is such a naturally light venue, which is always a dream for photography. It’s also really fun to incorporate some of the artwork and installations on display into the photos for something a bit more unique. Outside, there are plenty of beautiful places for portraits too, including the recently built Art Garden, which is a lovely bonus for couple photos.
You can find more information on The Whitworth Gallery Manchester wedding hire options on their website:
https://www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk/visit/hire/
And click here to view a wedding I recently photographed at The Whitworth Gallery Manchester!
Library Wedding Venue Manchester
The Portico Library
If you’re looking for an intimate wedding venue in Manchester that’s perfect for small to medium-sized celebrations, then it’s definitely worth taking a look at The Portico Library Manchester. It’s one of my favourite alternative Manchester wedding venues, especially for couples who love character, history, and something a little bit different. And it goes without saying if you love books, you’re going to absolutely adore this venue!
The thing I love most about The Portico Library Manchester wedding experience is the private study at the back of the library. It’s filled with ceiling-high bookshelves and antique furniture. If you’re a bit of a book geek, you’ll be in heaven. It makes such a quirky backdrop for photographs. In the main part of the library, where wedding ceremonies take place, there’s also a stunning stained-glass domed ceiling. The whole venue is packed with history and charm, which makes it feel really special.
You can read more about The Portico Library Manchester wedding hire options here:
https://www.theportico.org.uk/venue-hire
And you can view some of my work from a The Portico Library Manchester wedding here.
Historical Manchester wedding venue
Elliot House, Deansgate
Elliot House is another Grade II listed wedding venue that has recently opened for weddings, and it’s quickly becoming one of my favourite alternative Manchester wedding venues. This beautiful historic building dates back to 1862 and is full of stunning period features, making it perfect for couples looking for a venue with lots of character.
One of the standout spaces is the Chamber Room, where wedding ceremonies can be held. It’s a gorgeous room with so much atmosphere and makes a lovely setting for saying your vows. There are also some brilliant backdrops for photographs just a short walk away, including Castlefield and St Peter’s Square, which are ideal if you’d like a mix of indoor and city-centre portraits during your Elliot House Manchester wedding.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll be happy to hear that Gusto restaurant is right next door and can provide catering for weddings at Elliot House, which makes planning really easy. One of my favourite parts of this venue has to be the beautiful wooden staircase with stained glass windows. It’s such a dreamy spot for couple portraits! If you’re looking for a historic wedding venue in Manchester city centre, I would definitely recommend considering a wedding at Elliot House.
You can visit their website for more information about hosting an Elliot House Manchester wedding here:
https://www.elliothouseweddings.co.uk/
And you can view some of my work from an Elliot House Manchester wedding here.
Urban wedding venue Manchester
The Castlefield Rooms
The Castlefield Rooms is perfect if you’re looking for a Manchester city-centre venue with a cool, urban feel. It’s one of my favourite alternative Manchester wedding venues for couples who want something relaxed but full of character. Close by, you’ll find cobbles, red brick, canals, and some amazing industrial architecture, which all give photos that quintessential “Manchester” feeling.
The Castlefield Rooms has a medium-sized ceremony room that’s wonderfully light and features beautiful wooden beams. You can also use the private balcony and bar at Dukes 92, which overlooks the canal and the Lock Keeper’s Cottage. I would highly recommend booking the Lock Keeper’s Cottage as part of your The Castlefield Rooms wedding. Not only is it a convenient place to stay, just over the road from the venue, but it’s also beautiful inside.
I’ve worked at The Castlefield Rooms many times now and enjoyed every single wedding there. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a wedding venue with an urban feel right in the heart of the city centre.
You can visit their website for more information about hosting a The Castlefield Rooms Manchester wedding here:
https://dukes92.com/
And you can view some of my work from a Castlefield Rooms wedding here.
Unique Wedding Venue in Manchester
Victoria Baths
Victoria Baths is one of the most unique wedding venues in Manchester, and honestly one of my favourite places to photograph! This Grade II listed building first opened in 1906 and is full of incredible history and character. It’s a brilliant choice for couples looking for an alternative Manchester wedding venue that feels completely different from anything else in the city.
One of the standout features of a Victoria Baths wedding is the light. Natural light pours in through the glass roof, which makes the space feel bright. It’s a dream for photography! And works beautifully throughout the day, whatever the weather so no worrying about the Manchester rain!
Your wedding ceremony takes place in one of the old swimming pools, which makes for such a memorable setting. The tiled walls, changing cubicles, and vintage signs also provide some really cool and creative backdrops for photographs. There are endless opportunities for unique portraits here. It’s a truly iconic Manchester space and one of my favourites!
You can read more about weddings at Victoria Baths on their website: https://victoriabaths.org.uk/venue-hire/occasions/
And you can view more of my work at Victoria Baths here: https://maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/victoria-baths-wedding-manchester/
Gig wedding Venue in Manchester
Band on the Wall
Many Manchester gig-goers will already be familiar with Band on the Wall. It’s one of the city’s most well-loved live music venues and has been hosting gigs since the 1930s. What some couples don’t realise is that you can also get married here! Making it a brilliant option for an alternative Manchester wedding venue with real character.
Band on the Wall has space for around 200 guests and works especially well if live music is a big part of your day. The venue has a built-in stage, great acoustics, and an energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for a lively evening celebration. If you’re planning a wedding that leans more towards a gig than a traditional reception, this venue is hard to beat.
It’s a funky, personality-filled space that feels relaxed. For couples who love music and want a big party at the heart of their wedding day, Band on the Wall is a really great choice.
You can read more about booking your wedding at Band on the Wall on their website: https://bandonthewall.org/about/event-venue-hire-manchester-band-on-the-wall/wedding-venue/
And you can view more of my work at Band on the Wall here: https://maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/band-on-the-wall-wedding/
DIY wedding venue in Manchester
Fairfield Social Club
Fairfield Social Club is a brilliant choice if you’re looking for a really untraditional wedding venue in Manchester. It’s perfect for DIY couples who want a relaxed day without any formalities. The space feels creative, laid-back, and very much focused on good times rather than rigid wedding rules!
It’s a fairly new venue run by the same team behind GRUB, so you can expect an excellent beer selection and some really great street food. Fairfield Social Club works especially well for couples planning a casual, party-first wedding with a festival-style feel. If you want your wedding to feel more like a big get-together with your favourite people, this venue is well worth considering.
Read more about hiring Fairfield Social Club for weddings here: https://fscmcr.co.uk/weddings
And you can see more of my work at Fairfield Social Club here: https://maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/fairfield-social-club-manchester/
Music lovers wedding venue Manchester
The Albert Hall, Peter St
If you’re a music lover, you’ll probably already be familiar with The Albert Hall in Manchester. Situated right next door to Albert’s Schloss, this iconic venue is best known for hosting some of the city’s most exciting gigs and events. What many people don’t realise is that you can also book The Albert Hall for weddings!
Originally a 19th-century chapel, The Albert Hall is an impressive space with high ceilings and beautiful stained-glass windows. It feels grand and perfect for a big celebration. If you love to throw a party, you’ll be pleased to hear that the venue has its own list of in-house entertainers available to hire.
With space for around 280 guests, The Albert Hall is one of the larger Manchester wedding venues. It’s a brilliant choice for couples who want a lively, music-led wedding in a truly iconic city-centre setting.
You can read more about booking your wedding at The Albert Hall here: https://www.alberthallmanchester.com/weddings/
And see some of my work at the venue here: https://www.maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/albert-hall-manchester-wedding
Modern wedding venue Manchester
Manchester Hall
Manchester Hall is a fairly new city-centre wedding venue with a glamorous yet modern feel. It offers a wide range of spaces for weddings, ranging from around 50 up to 500 guests. This makes it a great option for both intimate celebrations and much larger wedding days.
Each room at Manchester Hall feels unique and full of beautiful architectural details. My personal favourites are The Museum and The Gallery, both of which photograph beautifully. There’s also a rooftop terrace with impressive views across the Manchester skyline which is a lovely bonus for couple portraits or relaxed guest moments!
There’s genuinely something for everyone at this venue. I’d definitely recommend Manchester Hall for couples who are looking for a contemporary wedding venue with a luxe, polished vibe, right in the heart of the city.
You can read more about weddings at Manchester Hall here:
https://www.manchesterhall.co.uk
And you can view some of my work from a Manchester Hall wedding here:
https://www.maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/manchester-hall-wedding
Large capacity wedding venue in Manchester
Hallé St Peter’s
Halle St Peter’s is another great option if you’re planning a larger wedding and want a big party at the heart of the day. The space is beautiful and full of character, while still feeling bright and open. It photographs really well and works perfectly for couples who want a relaxed but impressive setting.
Originally built in the 19th century as a church school, Halle St Peter’s has since been carefully restored into an event space. It now sits right in the centre of Ancoats, which is ideal for wedding photography. There are loads of cool streets nearby, as well as some great industrial backdrops for portraits.
Some of my couples have chosen to hold their drinks reception at one of the bars in the square outside, which creates a really laid-back atmosphere. Guests can mingle and grab a drink before heading back inside. If you’re after a character-filled venue with space to celebrate properly, Halle St Peter’s is a brilliant choice!
You can read more about booking a wedding at Halle St Peters on their website: https://www.hallestpetersevents.co.uk/weddings/
Salford Wedding Venue
FiveFour Studios
FiveFour Studios is a brilliant option for couples looking for a modern wedding venue with a creative edge. It’s primarily used as a commercial photography studio, which means it photographs beautifully! The clean white walls and excellent natural light make the space feel bright throughout the day.
The venue works as a true blank canvas, which makes it perfect for DIY weddings. Bold, colourful décor really pops here. If you’re planning something fun and creative for your wedding, this space gives you total creative freedom.
One of my favourite parts of FiveFour Studios is the bar area. It’s full of character and feels completely different to the rest of the venue, which adds a nice contrast. Located just outside the city centre, it’s also ideal if you want to escape the busiest areas while still keeping a city feel.
You can read more about booking your wedding at FiveFour Studios on their website: https://www.fivefourstudios.com/events/weddings
Colourful wedding venue in Manchester
Whitworth Locke
Whitworth Locke is a brilliant choice for couples planning a relaxed city-centre wedding. The rooms are spacious, full of natural light, and fabulously pink! Which makes them ideal for getting ready photos. Your guests will love staying here, as it feels stylish but comfortable at the same time.
The venue sits right opposite Canal Street, which is great for fun, colourful portraits. Despite its central location, the function space at Whitworth Locke feels tucked away and private. It’s a lovely contrast and works well if you want a calm space to celebrate without feeling cut off from the city.
Food and drink options are another highlight. There’s plenty to choose from, and Foundation Coffee sits just off the foyer, which is perfect for a pre-ceremony caffeine fix. Overall, Whitworth Locke is an easy-going and modern option for a city-centre wedding with plenty of personality.
Art Gallery Wedding
Manchester Art Gallery
Manchester Art Gallery is such a special wedding venue for couples who love art and creativity. The building itself feels so romantic and full of atmosphere that suits intimate ceremonies perfectly.
One of the biggest highlights of a Manchester Art Gallery wedding is the chance to take portraits inside the gallery after the ceremony. Being able to wander through the exhibition spaces for photographs is just so cool and makes the experience feel unique. It’s an incredible opportunity for creative, editorial-style images that you simply can’t get anywhere else!
If you’re an art lover or someone who appreciates thoughtful, meaningful spaces, Manchester Art Gallery is a wonderful choice. It’s a romantic venue that feels timeless, inspiring, and perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel personal and creative.
You can read more about weddings at Manchester Art Gallery here: https://manchesterartgallery.org/hire/weddings-civil-ceremonies/
And see more of my work at Manchester Art Gallery here: https://maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/manchester-art-gallery-wedding/
Wedding Venues just outside of Manchester City Centre
If you love the idea of a city wedding but want something a little quieter, there are some beautiful wedding venue options just outside Manchester city centre. These venues are a great choice if you want the best of both worlds without feeling right in the middle of the busiest areas.
Stockport Town Hall
Stockport Town Hall is a stunning option if you’re looking for a beautiful town hall just outside of Manchester. As my local town hall, it’s always a pleasure to photograph weddings here!
One of the standout features is the marble staircase. It has such an elegant, editorial feel and works beautifully for couple portraits and group photos. Inside, there are several different ceremony rooms to choose from, which makes it a flexible option whether you’re planning something small or a little larger.
Stockport Town Hall is also a great choice while Manchester Town Hall remains closed for renovations. You’re still close enough to the city to head back into Manchester for your evening reception if you’d like. Alternatively, there are loads of great new bars and venues around the Underbank in Stockport, which makes it easy to keep the celebrations local.
You can book your wedding ceremony at Stockport Town Hall on their website: https://www.stockportevents.co.uk/weddings-at-stockport-town-hall/
And you can see more of my work at Stockport Town Hall here: https://maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/stockport-town-hall-wedding/
Didsbury Parsonage
Didsbury Parsonage is a beautiful and charming wedding venue with so much character. The building itself is full of lovely details, including stained-glass windows and warm, historic features that photograph beautifully. It feels intimate and welcoming, which makes it a great choice for smaller weddings.
One of the biggest highlights is the Parsonage Gardens. They’re especially stunning in the spring and autumn, when the flowers are in bloom or the leaves are turning. The gardens provide a peaceful backdrop for portraits and give you plenty of options for photos.
Didsbury also has a quieter, more relaxed pace than the city centre. If you’re looking for a wedding day that feels calm and unhurried, while still being close to Manchester, Didsbury Parsonage is a lovely option to consider.
If you’d like to book your wedding at the Didsbury Parsonage, you can view more information here: https://www.didsburyparsonagetrust.org.uk/weddings-and-occasions
And you can view more of my work at the Didsbury Parsonage here: https://maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/didsbury-parsonage-wedding/
Didsbury House Hotel
Didsbury House Hotel is a boutique wedding venue, perfect for couples planning a smaller and more intimate celebration. It has a warm, homely feel while still feeling elegant.
The hotel works beautifully for relaxed weddings with close friends and family. Everything flows easily from ceremony to reception, which keeps the day feeling calm. It’s a great choice if you want a wedding that feels personal and thoughtfully put together.
One of the things I love most about a Didsbury House Hotel wedding is the location. Didsbury has a quieter pace than the city centre, but there are still plenty of lovely spots nearby for photographs.
If you’re looking for a boutique Manchester wedding venue with charm and a welcoming feel, Didsbury House Hotel is a really lovely option.
You can read more about booking your wedding at Didsbury House Hotel here: https://didsburyhouse.co.uk/
And view more of my work at Didsbury House Hotel here: https://maddiefarrisphotography.co.uk/didsbury-house-hotel-wedding/
Unusual Manchester Wedding Venues
I’ve been lucky enough to have some of my work about unique Manchester wedding venues featured on these blogs, have a look for some more inspiration!:
https://urbanweddingcompany.co.uk/maddie-farris-manchester-venues/
https://www.manchestersfinest.com/articles/8-truly-beautiful-wedding-venues-manchester-city-centre/
https://www.visitmanchester.com/ideas-and-inspiration/blog/read/2019/11/top-alternative-wedding-venues-in-manchester-b1016
I hope this blog piece helps you in your wedding planning journey to find some of the more alternative and quirky wedding venues in Manchester. I’ll be sure to add to this list and update it often! So please bookmark this page and check back soon.
If you love my work and would like to chat more about booking your wedding photography with me, you can get in touch below!
