If you’ve ever dreamed of a romantic, fairytale wedding, Hatley Castle might just be the perfect venue for you. Tucked away in Victoria, British Columbia, this historic castle on the grounds of Royal Roads University is one of the most iconic wedding venues on Vancouver Island. Whether you’re planning a small, elegant gathering or a large celebration with up to 230 guests, Hatley Castle offers a magical setting that feels straight out of a storybook.

As a Victoria wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of documenting weddings at this venue. And every time, it takes my breath away. With lush gardens, grand architecture, and stunning views of the West Coast, it’s no surprise that couples fall in love with this location.

Why Get Married at Hatley Castle?

From the moment you walk up the stone steps and through the ivy-covered archways, you’ll understand why Hatley Castle is one of the most sought-after venues in the area. The castle itself is over 100 years old. It has been featured in countless films and TV shows, including X-Men and Deadpool. But beyond the cinematic beauty, it’s a venue that offers flexibility, elegance, and a team of helpful coordinators to support your day.

Two Wedding Packages to Choose From

Hatley Castle offers two main wedding packages to suit different guest counts and wedding styles.

The Classic Hatley Castle Package accommodates up to 100 guests. It includes exclusive use of the entire first floor of the castle and the formal gardens. It’s ideal for couples who want an intimate indoor/outdoor experience with the grandeur of the castle as their backdrop. The peak season rate (May through October) is $13,225 + GST. Catering is not included in this price.

The Classic Hatley Castle + Quarterdeck Combo Package is designed for larger weddings of 100 to 230 guests. This option includes a ceremony in the Croquet Garden, pre-dinner reception on the Castle Terrace, and a seated dinner in the Grant Quarterdeck. The flow of the day is perfect for couples who want to give their guests a dynamic experience. The peak season rate is $16,000 + GST, not including catering.

For up to date pricing, visit the Hatley Castle Website.

Planning Your Day at Hatley Castle

While the team at Hatley Castle doesn’t offer full-service wedding planning, they do provide a helpful Recommended Supplier List. This includes local wedding planners, caterers, and other trusted vendors. Their on-site event coordinators are available for site visits and work closely with couples and planners to ensure everything runs smoothly.

It’s recommended that couples visit the venue in person before booking or spend time reviewing the information and FAQs on the Hatley Castle website. This helps to clarify expectations and gives you a full understanding of the space, timelines, and any restrictions that might apply to your wedding day.

Photography at Hatley Castle

Hatley Castle is a dream location for photography. From ivy-covered stone walls to manicured gardens and ocean views, there’s no shortage of gorgeous backdrops. As a photographer, I love the variety this venue offers. We can capture everything from elegant portraits on the castle steps to candid shots among the flowers or under the trees.

Some favorite photo spots include the Croquet Garden, castle terraces, tree-lined drives, and of course, the striking castle façade. It’s the kind of place that allows for both classic wedding portraits and relaxed, emotional candid moments. And this is all without needing to leave the grounds.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Catering is not included in either wedding package, so couples will need to book that separately. Because of the layout and logistics of the venue, it’s helpful to hire a wedding planner to help coordinate the flow of the day and vendor setup. Reviewing the wedding planning FAQs ahead of time will help ensure the venue is the right fit for your wedding style and expectations.

Getting Married at Hatley Castle: Is Hatley Castle the Right Wedding Venue for You?

If you’re searching for a wedding venue full of history, elegance, and natural beauty, Hatley Castle is worth a visit. It offers an unforgettable setting for your big day and the kind of ambiance you simply can’t replicate. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate garden wedding or a grand celebration, this venue is a true gem on Vancouver Island.

If you’re planning a Hatley Castle wedding and looking for a Vancouver Island photographer who can capture your love story candidly and artistically, I’d be honoured to be part of your vendor team. Let’s chat and see how we can bring your vision to life.

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