Now this wedding was something else and one I have dreamt of for ages. I’ve always enjoyed my visits to the Peak District as it’s just one of my local favourites and it’s so vast, I haven’t even scratched the surface on my explorations as of yet. So, what was so great about this wedding I hear you ask? Well to put it quite simply, it was the couple of course, that goes without saying but it did have a little something to do with their fabulous taste of wedding venues. Now I will get onto the fineries of this wedding shortly. If I were a bride looking for something a little different with full exclusivity, a gorgeous winding drive through a wooded landscape of trees and a brook, I would without a doubt be booking here. With countryside views across the vast Chatsworth Estate there isn’t anything not to dislike, unless you’re not a fan of marquees or tipis then that is a slight issue! Enough of that… I’ll chat about the day in brief.

The Venue

The bride and groom preps and the party celebrations were all taking place at Heathy Lea Bed & Breakfast located just outside Baslow village and is part of the Chatsworth Estate. I just thought I’d include a little snippet from the venue hosts…

“If you’re looking for an escape to the countryside we have the perfect place here at Heathy Lea. 

 A beautiful grade 2 listed building sitting within the picturesque grounds of Chatsworth Park. Being Located in the heart of Derbyshire’s Peak District National Park, Heathy Lea is a prime location for exploring the great outdoors right on your doorstep before retreating back to your accommodation at the end of the day and relaxing in the tranquil gardens, next to the babbling brook with a cup of tea or sat in our garden watching the deer grazing whilst the sun sets on the top lawn. 

Dating back to the 17th century Heathy Lea has seen many uses including gamekeepers cottage, small holding and more recently the home to the Duke of Devonshire's agent.  

These days Heathy Lea is known for being a luxury bed and breakfast with its wonderful hostess Sally who will be sure to greet you with a big smile, as well as offering a high standard of self catering cottages. But that is not all, Heathy Lea is also a unique wedding venue, offering you exclusive use of the whole place for your special occasion. 

 You really can't appreciate just how breathtaking Heathy Lea is and all it has to offer until you experience it for yourself. So don’t take our word for it, get in touch and pay us a visit. We look forward to welcoming you to our hidden gem.”

So I was tasked with photographing the bridal preps and little details and Rob was photographing the guys. All giggles, bucks fizz a flowing and loved Laura in her dress - she looked amazing. Laura also had great choice in selecting her wedding car which just happened to be a white, soft top convertible VW Beetle. Flipping awesome… loved it.

The Ceremony

A beautiful Church ceremony took place at St Michael’s & All Angels’ Church in Hathersage. Rumour has it that ‘Little John’ part of the legendary tale of Robin Hood and his Merry Men is buried here. There is a very large grave at the church dating back to around that time which has become a visitor attraction to those interested in Robin Hood & the Tales of Sherwood Forest.

Let’s Celebrate

After the ceremony and confetti shoot it was time to head back to Heathy Lea to celebrate and play lots of lawn games that had been provided for entertainment. It was the perfect weather for it too.

The speeches were fun, emotional and pretty darn good. I just loved everything about this wedding. So laid back, emotional, lots of stuff going on. Home Brew made by the groom was the tipple of the day which proved very popular with the guests. It was a truly amazing day and I was so happy to be apart of it.

So if you are planning on having a marriage celebration at Heathy Lea, please, please get in touch about your wedding photography as I’d love to chat! I love to chat anyway to lots of couples who are planning their weddings in places I’ve not yet explored. Being a Country girl and a part of Derbyshire - the Peak District is somewhere I just love. Just drop me an email at tracey@tmsphotography.co.uk

Thanks for reading and feel free to check out the photos xx