A Rain-Kissed Wedding at The Priest’s House – Documentary-Style Photography in the Dales

Jane and Callum’s day at The Priest’s House was just beautiful — the kind of wedding that lingers in your memory. Barden Tower made a stunning backdrop, even with a little rain in the air (which honestly just added to the atmosphere). This historic spot in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales felt timeless.

Everything about the day was personal. Real smiles, warm hugs, and those quiet, in-between moments the two of them shared — the kind of story I love to capture. Nothing staged, nothing forced. Just two people in love, surrounded by their favourite people.

Weddings like this are why I feel lucky to be a Leeds & Yorkshire wedding photographer.

A Warm Welcome and a Rainy Yorkshire Walk to The Priest’s House

The day started with a warm welcome from the lovely team at The Priest’s House — one of the most beautiful spots in Yorkshire for a wedding. I began with a few relaxed detail shots and the ceremony room, looking elegant and ready.

The groom was full of smiles and quiet excitement before the bride arrived. After a quick chat with the registrars, it was time for one of my favourite moments — the short walk from the cottage to the venue. The bride, her sister, and their dad walked together under a big white umbrella, with the stone path shining in the soft August rain. A simple, lovely moment full of love and Yorkshire charm.

A Heartfelt Ceremony at The Priest’s House, Barden Tower

This was one of those ceremonies where the smiles start early — and don’t stop. The pageboy and young bridesmaid stole hearts as they led the way, proudly carrying the rings and flower petals. Moments later, the smiling bride entered on her father’s arm, lighting up the room as she walked down the aisle.

Guests in the front rows were full of personality, laughter, and love — their warmth setting the tone for what followed. As the groom read his vows, the bride’s expression said it all: emotion, pride, and connection. The pageboy held up the beautiful wooden ring box with all the seriousness of the moment, and the couple exchanged their rings with happiness and heartfelt smiles.

The first kiss was met with joyful applause — and followed by hugs, grins, and a sense that something truly special had just happened. A perfect Yorkshire ceremony in every way.

Signing the Register & A Joyful Exit

After the vows and the kiss, it was time to make it official. Jane and Callum signed the register, surrounded by quiet smiles and proud glances. The pageboy and best man had their own little moment too — both fascinated by the wooden ring box, full of curiosity and charm.

At the table, the couple shared another smile (and another kiss), while the pageboy jumped in with his cheeky grin. Guests smiled back, phones and cameras ready, capturing the joy in the room.

The registrar handed over the certificate with a proud smile, and just like that, Jane and Callum were married. Out they went into the soft Yorkshire rain — hand in hand, full of smiles, and ready for the rest of their day.

Confetti, Owls & Countryside Smiles

We stepped out into the soft drizzle and rolling Yorkshire hills. The weather was grey, but the smiles were anything but. Just outside the venue, I caught a lovely moment — the bride and her dad, sharing a quiet smile full of pride.

We gathered everyone quickly for a confetti toss by The Priest’s House. Petals flew, umbrellas popped up, and laughter filled the air as I grabbed the big group shot.

Then came something a bit special — the owl experience! These amazing birds were a real hit. Some guests held them with confidence, others a bit unsure — which made for even better photos. I kept things relaxed, capturing the reactions, the joy, and those little moments that made this Yorkshire wedding feel so unique.

Warmth, Music & Magical Moments

Back inside The Priest’s House, everything felt cosy and calm. The lights were soft and golden, and a live guitarist played gentle tunes that added to the atmosphere — it felt like something out of a fairytale. The room for the wedding breakfast looked beautiful. A themed table plan, elegant details, and a wedding cake styled like a stack of books, all tied up with blue icing — it was full of personal touches.

Just before guests sat down, I took Jane and Callum out for a few relaxed portraits. We wandered by the old ruins, through tall grass, and around Dad’s vintage wedding car. I caught some natural moments in that soft evening light — a mix of fun, romance, and the feel of the day.

Then it was time to head back inside, ready for food, stories, and more celebration.

Wedding Breakfast & Laughter-Filled Speeches

Inside for the wedding breakfast, the room was full of chatter and happy energy. Guests laughed, mingled, and admired the details — especially that brilliant cake, styled like a stack of books with a blue icing ribbon. Every time someone caught my lens, they smiled naturally, which made for some lovely, honest photos.

Jane and Callum wandered from table to table, sharing laughs and hugs with everyone — a perfect chance for relaxed, meaningful photos. I always suggest couples do this if they can.

The speeches were a real highlight. The father of the bride had the room quiet and smiling, ending with a warm hug that said it all. The groom’s dad and the groom both brought plenty of laughs, and a brilliant moment followed when the groom hugged his best man — pure, genuine friendship.

One of my favourite touches came when Jane showed me a handmade colouring book from her niece — such a personal little moment. The rest of the afternoon was full of easygoing group shots, stories, and proper Yorkshire laughter.

Cake-Cutting & a Beautiful First Dance

The evening kicked off with Jane and Callum cutting their beautiful book-themed wedding cake. It was tied with that soft blue ribbon — a sweet detail that matched the whole day. They laughed, shared a bite, and it made for a lovely, light-hearted moment to photograph.

Then came the first dance. The live band played, the lights stayed low, and I captured everything just as it felt — natural and full of feeling. No flashes, no fuss — just real moments in that soft, glowing light.

It was the perfect end to a day full of love, laughter, and quiet joy in the Yorkshire Dales. A relaxed celebration that felt true from start to finish — exactly the kind of wedding I love to photograph.

Evening Falls on a Yorkshire Love Story

The evening ended with live music and dancing as the wedding band filled The Priest’s House with energy and joy — the perfect finish to a day full of heart.

If you’re planning your own celebration and love the feel of this beautiful Yorkshire venue, you can find out more about The Priest’s House here.

To explore more real weddings I’ve photographed, take a wander through the gallery here, or head back to the home page. If you’d like to chat about your plans, you can get in touch here.