The Wild Boar at Crook Wedding Photographer

The Wild Boar at Crook is a rustic wedding venue near Windermere, Lake District (Cumbria, UK); a unique Lake District wedding venue tucked into the Gilpin Valley. Its characterful rustic spaces surrounded by woodland and open fields make it perfect for couples looking for a relaxed intimate wedding. I have photographed weddings here from small winter ceremonies to full summer celebrations and the venue works beautifully for natural documentary style photography.


It’s exactly the kind of day I enjoy photographing as a Lake District wedding photographer.


You can view full wedding photography pricing and coverage options, and my guide to Lake District wedding venues if you are still comparing options.

A series of flagpoles and memorial displays with historic photographs along a tree-lined path on a cloudy day.

Why I love Photographing at The Wild Boar

This is one of those rare venues that works whatever the weather. Inside, the rich textures and soft light lend themselves beautifully to natural documentary photography, while outside the surrounding woodland and tarn offer endless options for portraits.


Note: This is not a venue for an inexperienced photographer; the light can be very tricky to work with.

Rustic wine cellar interior with wooden barrels, stone walls, and warm lighting creating an intimate atmosphere.
Rustic stone wall dining setup with wooden trestle table decorated with elegant floral arrangements and candles near fireplace.
Rustic wine cellar with stone walls features wooden barrels, exposed beams, and warm lighting creating an intimate atmosphere.

Why the Wild Boar at Crook Works So Well for Weddings

  • Private woodland and tarn within walking distance for relaxed portraits or get chauffeured in the infamous Wild Boar Land Rover
  • Atmospheric interior with oak beams, fireplaces and warm light
  • Perfect for smaller weddings in the Undermillbeck Room for up to twenty two guests or larger celebrations for up to ninety for dining and one hundred and thirty for the evening
  • Lovely staff who always keep the day running smoothly
  • Just a short drive from Windermere and Kendal
  • Dog friendly
  • Even if it rains the indoor spaces and rustic charm still make for stunning photography


The Wild Boar really captures the spirit of the Lakes, unpretentious, characterful and surrounded by nature. Every wedding here is different and I aim to capture your day exactly as it unfolds without forced poses or artificial setups.

Real Wedding at Wild Boar at Crook

I've photographed many weddings at The Wild Boar. The venue’s rustic charm and Lake District surroundings create the perfect backdrop for natural relaxed photography. Sandra and Matt have kindly agreed to share some images from their wedding that I photographed back in 2025.

Photographing weddings at

The Wild Boar


At The Wild Boar, the woodland path and lake are perfect for a short wander while guests enjoy a drink or two. The lawn near the main entrance is ideal for group shots, close to the bar and quick to organise or alternatively, if it's wet the front of the building offers a nice backdrop .


If you are planning an evening celebration, the soft amber light from the bar and dining room windows creates a beautiful glow for later shots without needing to interrupt the party.


I approach each wedding as a Lake District wedding photographer, keeping things unobtrusive, natural and focused on real moments. At Wild Boar at Crook this means:


  • Moving around discreetly to catch real moments from the laughter of your guests to the emotional vows
  • Using light, shadows and the venue’s character to create atmospheric images
  • Advising on timing and locations to make the most of the space for portraits while keeping the day relaxed


Whether it is a short winter ceremony or a full summer celebration I will make sure every detail is documented beautifully.

Bride in white strapless wedding dress smiles warmly in elegant indoor portrait with soft lighting.
Close-up macro photograph of green rose leaves with water droplets and pink rose stems in soft focus.
A couple embraces in a scenic field with lush green trees and cloudy skies in the background.

Planning your day at The Wild Boar

The Wild Boar is as practical as it is beautiful. Everything is close together, which keeps the day flowing easily for guests and makes photography simple to plan. Below are a few useful details if you are thinking about getting married here.


  • Location - Crook Road, Windermere, Cumbria LA23 3NF, easy to reach from Kendal or Bowness
  • Ceremony licence - The venue is licensed for civil ceremonies
  • Capacity - Up to ninety seated guests for the wedding breakfast and one hundred and thirty for the evening
  • Accommodation - Thirty four en suite bedrooms on site
  • Atmosphere - Rustic and cosy with open fires, beams and stone walls
  • Outdoor features - Woodland walks, a private tarn and open space for portraits or group photos
  • Best time of year - Winter weddings are intimate and atmospheric, summer allows for more outdoor portraits
  • Portrait spots - Woodland edges, open fields and rustic corners of the venue create natural timeless images
  • Timeline tips - Allow a short window after the ceremony for relaxed couple portraits. I will advise on the best lighting times


These small planning details make a big difference in your final photos.

Wedding guests dance and celebrate under strings of outdoor lights during an evening reception celebration.

See More From My Lake District Wedding Photography Portfolio

See my Lake District Wedding Photography Gallery

Planning Your Wild Boar Wedding?

If you are planning your wedding at Wild Boar at Crook and want your day captured naturally beautifully and professionally get in touch. I will guide you through the whole process and make sure your photos are something you will treasure forever. If you are still shaping timings, this Lake District wedding timeline guide helps you structure the day around light and flow.