Regardless of your personal wedding style, no one can deny that the thought of tying the knot inside a historic castle is wedding #goals. After all, who hasn't envisioned a fairy tale, Cinderella-esque wedding, at least in passing? Thankfully though, even if you weren't born in direct line for the throne or haven't come across the opportunity to wed a prince, you can still feel like royalty on your wedding day with a castle wedding venue.
We pulled together some real-life castles that you can tie the knot in, and lucky for us commoners across the pond, many of these gorgeous venues are right here in the U.S.
Château d'Esclimont, France
The Château d'Esclimont is a resort so stunning it might just put Harry and Meghan's royal wedding venue to shame. This 150-acre property includes 52 guest rooms and is less than an hour outside of Paris. Though the estate does not list wedding pricing on the site, couples interested in their services can contact the estate for more information.
Belvoir Castle, England
Looking to replicate Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's nuptials? Then Belvoir Castle is for you. These stunning English grounds are actually still home to royals, so you'll feel like you're in line for the throne just by being there. The castle includes a chapel for religious ceremonies and can accommodate up to 130 guests. Newlyweds-to-be can contact the property for price estimates and booking inquiries.
Boldt Castle, Canada
Sitting right at the Canada/U.S. border on the St. Lawrence River lies Boldt Castle, a 120-room property on picturesque Heart Island. In addition to its romantic design, the history of the building has a love story of its own: George Boldt, former owner of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, built the lavish home for his wife, Louise. Couples can book this wedding venue (ceremony only) for just $200.
Rosecliff, Rhode Island
Dreaming of a French château for your big day? This breathtaking Rosecliff mansion was originally modeled after the baroque Grand Trianon of Versailles—but is much more conveniently located in Rhode Island. Construction on the castle was finalized in 1902, and the venue has hosted countless weddings and social gatherings for A-listers since its completion. Couples can book a four-hour event at the Rosecliff for $7,500.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Once the home of Bavarian royalty, the grounds of Neuschwanstein Castle were opened to the public in 1886, and attract over one million visitors a year thanks to its majestic views overlooking the German countryside. The design is the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle—but totally beats tying the knot amongst thousands of amusement park goers. Couples that are interested can contact the grounds to learn more about their wedding ceremony options.
Oheka Castle, New York
If Cinderella was a real bride, she totally would have booked this venue. At first glance, you would never guess that Oheka Castle is actually located in Long Island, New York. The elegant estate has all the refinement of a château in France, and though the company doesn't offer prices online, we can imagine this is your closest bet to recreating your own fairy tale.
Hluboká Castle, Czech Republic
This Renaissance-era castle is a favorite among newlyweds. Located in Hluboká nad Vltavou, a region in South Bohemian Czech Republic, the castle overlooks breathtaking views of the Czech countryside and offers wedding packages starting at $1,780.
Biltmore House, North Carolina
George Vanderbilt, an heir to the wealthy Vanderbilt family, built the Biltmore House over 120 years ago, but the grounds have only gotten more popular with age. The estate can host weddings with up to 500 guests and boasts luxury amenities including a spa, horseback riding, and winery tours. And, much like an actual royal wedding budget, the venue will cost you a pretty penny: booking the estate for a wedding ceremony will set you back a cool $20,000.
Ashford Castle, Ireland
In the quiet village of Mayo, Ireland, lies Ashford Castle—an 83-room hotel that overlooks the peaceful countryside. First erected in 1228, guests will actually feel like royalty at this hotel, thanks to its medieval-style architecture and elegantly decorated rooms. In addition to being an incredible place to stay on your honeymoon, the hotel also offers wedding packages that can accommodate over 160 guests. More information about booking can be requested through Ashford Castle.
Gillette Castle, Connecticut
Turns out, you can pull off the royal treatment without breaking the bank. The Gillette Castle in East Haddam, Connecticut, can be booked for wedding ceremonies for only $285. This 184-acre estate, which was originally built in 1919, is accessible, historic, and would be the perfect moody backdrop to a fall wedding ceremony.
Glamis Castle, Scotland
Since Sir John Lyon tied the knot to his royal bride, Princess Johanna, at Glamis Castle in 1376, the royal grounds have been a favorite for couples searching for a unique location for their nuptials. Not only does the space offer dozens of picturesque rooms for ceremonies and receptions, but the grounds are also home to extensive gardens that make for the most romantic photos. To learn more, the site offers a brochure and contact information.