Your North West Wedding news and ideas from around the region

Tweedies Bar & Lodge is a rustic wedding venue in Grasmere, Cumbria

Tweedies Bar & Lodge is a rustic wedding venue in Grasmere. Nestled amongst some of the most famous Lake District fells, guests can enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, perfect for taking photographs. The venue's grounds play host to the Lake District's largest beer and music festival and have a great reputation for its food and drink.

There are three areas that are licensed for ceremonies. The Lodge features tweed made by local Herdwick sheep farmer Charlotte Harnby and is capable of holding 70 guests for the vows and sit-down meal.

Alternatively, the Lounge can be used by up to 25 loved ones for the service.

Data reveals staggering cost increases for stag and hen dos

New research by Adventure Connections, a leading provider of group adventure experiences, reveals a staggering increase in the cost of stag and hen weekends, with prices skyrocketing in recent years. The data, based on bookings between 2016 and 2024, highlights a significant financial burden for those celebrating upcoming nuptials. The average cost of a stag weekend has surged by 136% since 2016, rising from £2,018 to £4,759 in 2024. This represents a substantial increase of approximately 11.32% per year, far outpacing the rate of inflation during the same period. Similarly, hen do expenses have climbed by 130%, increasing from £1,752 to £4,022 over the same period, with an average annual increase of around 11%. This is based just on UK staycation trips alone.

Wild Shore Blackpool is now open

Wild Shore Blackpool is now open for unforgettable aqua adventures and wondrous water sports. There is fun to be had for all ages, with the site offering wakeboarding, paddle boarding, open water swimming, ringo rides, and an aqua park – perfect for hen or stag dos.

Callum Mark, the co-director of Wild Shore, said: "We are delighted to open Wild Shore Blackpool to the public and the effort shown by the whole team to ensure the sight is ready for all to enjoy has been outstanding. The location gives us an amazing opportunity to not only welcome locals but also those visiting the Lancashire area and we look forward to helping them create some unforgettable memories."

Brits say yes to dogs at weddings - but on your honeymoon?

As more Brits include their furry friends in significant life events like weddings, this trend is beginning to extend beyond the big day - many couples are now choosing to bring their dogs along on their honeymoons as well. With searches for 'minimoon destinations' rising 150% in the last 90 days, many are opting for UK-based getaways that include their canine companions, as highlighted in a recent viral TikTok. The recent TikTok video by Tasmin (@maybetamsin), which currently has over 70k views and 8k likes, shows her experience of traveling with her dog on her honeymoon. In the video, Tasmin shares how she brought her dog, Rhubarb, along on their UK staycation 'minimoon,' offering a glimpse into a dog-friendly getaway after their wedding, where Rhubarb also made a special appearance.

Kilhey Court Hotel is set within 11 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds

Set within 11 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Kilhey Court Hotel offers fabulous scenery and is conveniently located just a 30- minute drive from Manchester and Liverpool. Back in the Victorian era, this grand house was built as a wedding gift by a husband for his new bride. The fairytale continues today as the venue's luxurious accommodation provides a wonderful base for anyone seeking a Wigan wedding venue.

The Lakeside and Tennyson Suites feature spectacular views of the gardens and the lakes beyond. With a range of flexible wedding packages to choose from, the team can cater for both intimate weddings and lavish celebrations of up to 300 guests.