Durham: a city of history, charm, and ancient stone that glows gold in the sun. Home to one of the UK’s most breathtaking cathedrals, cobbled streets steeped in centuries of story, and — as of now — one of the most unforgettable weddings I’ve had the pleasure of photographing.

Natalie and Richie’s wedding at St Chad’s College was my first visit to this incredible venue, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction. Nestled quietly in the shadow of Durham Cathedral, this tucked-away gem has the elegance of a fairytale location without any of the pretentiousness. Think Harry Potter architecture meets heartfelt modern love story, and you’re halfway there.

There’s something magical about a midweek wedding. Maybe it’s the laid-back vibe. Maybe it’s the surprise sunshine on a Thursday. Or maybe it’s just Lisa and Andy — two people so obviously in love that they turned a simple day into something utterly unforgettable.

From The Story in Durham to the grand backdrop of Lumley Castle, this wedding had everything — elegance, emotion, bubbles, black dress brilliance, and even a tiny touch of royalty.

Welcome to Bowburn Hall: Where Rain Meets Romance

First, a little about the venue. ‘Bowburn Hall’, located just a few miles from Durham city centre, is a charming country house hotel that’s become a firm favourite for North East weddings — and for good reason. Built in the early 20th century and originally a private house, it now boasts:

* 20 stylish bedrooms

* Stunning landscaped gardens (yes, they’re even gorgeous in the rain!)

* A dedicated Garden Room for ceremonies and receptions

* A fab bar with comfy seating (which came in handy for our group shots!)

It’s a hidden gem for couples looking for something elegant yet relaxed — and it was the perfect setting for Rebecca and Dan’s big day, even if the weather wasn’t playing nice.

As a wedding photographer, you get to witness a lot of special days—but some weddings just have that little extra sparkle. Simone and Anthony’s wedding at The Story in Durham was absolutely one of those magical days. With the sun shining, emotions flowing, and even a special guest on four legs, this wedding had everything I love about what I do: fun, family, and a fair bit of fabulousness.

Let me take you through the story (pun intended!) of this warm, love-filled day at one of my favourite venues in the North East.

Saturday 21st June was one of those glorious North East summer days where the sun blazed down from a cloudless sky and the world just felt that little bit more magical. It was the perfect setting for Georgina and Daniel’s wedding at the luxurious Grand Hotel, Gosforth Park – a day that turned out to be intimate, full of love, laughter, and more than a little bit of sunshine (and Prosecco!).

If you're looking for a wedding that was bursting with sunshine, laughter, love, and some of the biggest Yorkshire puddings I’ve ever seen in my life, then allow me to take you on a whirlwind journey through Nicola and Paul's incredible wedding blessing at The New Sundial in South Shields.

This one had it all: glorious weather, a scenic coastal backdrop, stylish surroundings, a heartfelt ceremony, and a feast to end all feasts. But beyond all that, it was the people who made the day truly magical — a bride and groom so clearly in love, a group of guests brimming with joy, and a venue team that made everything look effortless.

Weddings don’t come much more joyous, unique, or bubbly (literally) than Kay and Gareth’s! If you're ready for a story filled with sunshine, three dogs in formalwear, a surprise ring bearer, bubble guns, balloons, and some truly beautiful moments of love and laughter—then buckle up. You’re in for a good one.

I photograph a lot of weddings at The Story in Durham—it’s one of my absolute favourite venues for a reason. The staff are always incredible, the building is stunning, and the couples I meet there always bring their own unique twist to the day. But Kay and Gareth’s celebration? This one had more twists than a balloon animal convention. And more bubbles than a champagne tasting. I still think I’m sneezing bubbles.

There’s something incredibly moving about a small wedding — just the people who matter most, a perfect day, and love shining through in every quiet moment. Jamie and James’ wedding at The Story in Durham was a heartfelt reminder that less can absolutely be more. With just the couple, Jamie’s adult daughter Tyler, James’ mam and dad, and his brother and sister-in-law present, this was a relaxed, no-fuss wedding that overflowed with warmth and joy.

As a photographer who works regularly at The Story, I can confidently say it’s one of the finest wedding venues in the North East. From its elegant interiors to its unbeatable Durham city location, this place has everything — and it’s always a pleasure to shoot there. But it’s the people that make each wedding unique, and Jamie and James made this sunny spring day one I won’t forget.

When you’re a wedding photographer, you learn to expect the unexpected — but every now and again, you get a day that runs so perfectly, it feels like the universe lined everything up just right. That was exactly how it felt photographing Abigail and Cameron’s wedding at The Story in Durham — a gorgeous spring day full of sunshine, emotion, laughter, and one baby in a bow tie who stole the show.

The weather? Spot on. Not too hot, not too chilly — just that ideal kind of day where you can feel summer whispering through the air, but without any of the squinting, sweating, or wind-wrecked hairstyles that can send couples into panic. It was one of those days where everything clicked — and that includes the camera.

Some weddings are calm. Some are joyful. Some are emotional. And some — like Stephanie and Jason’s — are all three, wrapped up in one unforgettable day across two of the North East’s most iconic venues: Redworth Hall and The Story in Durham.

From the moment I arrived at Redworth Hall at 1pm, I knew it was going to be a special one. Bridal prep was in full swing, and the vibe was exactly what any photographer hopes for — relaxed, upbeat, and filled with laughter. Stephanie was joined by her three bridesmaids in the grand surroundings of one of Redworth Hall’s beautifully styled rooms. There was a steady flow of prosecco, a soundtrack of calm giggles, and that electric, happy tension that only a wedding day can bring.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again — I absolutely adore working at The Story. It's not just the stunning decor, the immaculate rooms, or the thoughtful layout. It’s the staff. The wonderful people who run this place are kind, welcoming, professional, and always go the extra mile. It really does feel like home when I walk through those doors. Jean, Darren, and I were welcomed with warm smiles and genuine care, as always — and that tone carried beautifully throughout their no-fuss wedding day.

When I arrived at West Auckland Manor House Hotel on a gloriously warm spring afternoon, I had a feeling this day was going to be something special. And it was. From start to finish, Chrissie and John’s wedding was full of sunshine, laughter, and love – the kind of wedding every photographer hopes to be part of.

As a North East wedding photographer, I’ve been fortunate enough to capture some incredible days – but this one was truly something else. Set against the picturesque backdrop of one of County Durham’s most charming venues, the day was relaxed, elegant, emotional, and brimming with joy. Let me take you through it, one magical moment at a time.

West Auckland Manor House, nestled in the heart of the North East of England, stands as one of the region’s most exquisite wedding venues. Combining historical charm with modern luxury, this stunning manor house offers a perfect setting for couples looking to create unforgettable memories on their special day. Whether you are planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, West Auckland Manor House provides an ideal space for every type of wedding.

If you’ve chosen The Story as your wedding venue, congratulations! 🎉 You’ve picked one of Durham’s most elegant and stylish registry offices for your big day. With its modern yet classic aesthetic, intimate ceremony rooms, and a stunning grand staircase, it’s the perfect place to say "I do."

But here’s the thing: Your wedding photos are one of the most important keepsakes from your big day. You need a photographer who knows The Story inside and out, someone who understands how the light changes throughout the day, the best angles for timeless portraits, and—most importantly—someone who can work seamlessly with the staff to ensure a stress-free experience.

While it’s tempting to save money by hiring a friend with a camera or an inexperienced photographer, it can lead to costly regrets. Here’s why: You Only Get One Chance. A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event—there are no re-dos. If an inexperienced photographer misses key moments, overexposes images, or fails to capture the emotion of the day, there’s no way to fix it afterward.

When it comes to kicking off a new year of wedding photography, there’s no better place to begin than The Story in Durham. It’s no secret that this elegant venue holds a special place in my heart. From its sophisticated charm to its seamless adaptability for weddings of all sizes, The Story offers an idyllic setting that I’ve come to love capturing. And what a pleasure it was to document Liz and Chris’s unforgettable day here as my first wedding of the year.

The new wedding season is just around the corner! If you’re planning your Dream Wedding in 2025, now’s the time to secure your photographer. John Alderson Wedding Photography offers a relaxed, personalized approach to capture every special moment beautifully.

Are you planning your dream wedding in 2025? Don’t let the chance to capture every magical moment slip away! John Alderson Wedding Photography still has availability for 2025, but dates are filling up fast.

If you’re planning your wedding at Walworth Castle and looking for a photographer who knows the venue’s intricacies, I’d love to be part of your special day. My passion for Walworth Castle and wedding photography will ensure your photos capture every bit of magic this venue has to offer.
So, why wait? Get in touch today to learn more about my wedding photography services at Walworth Castle and to book your free consultation. Together, we’ll make sure your wedding memories are beautifully preserved in one of North East England’s most historic and romantic venues.
Walworth Castle is more than just a wedding venue; it’s a timeless setting where history and romance come together. With my experience and love for this remarkable castle, I can promise photography that does justice to both your love story and the castle’s charm. Let’s capture your fairy-tale day in the heart of North East England—complete with all the history, beauty, and yes, even a visit to the dungeon!