Tunnels Beaches Wedding Venue in Devon

We are SO blessed to have one of the most unique wedding venues in the UK right on our doorstep (or more specifically cliff face) here in beautiful Devon.

Tunnels Beaches has hosted many stunning weddings since becoming one of the UK’s most sought after wedding venues, and I have been lucky enough to photograph a decent percentage of them since I first visited and photographed a wedding here in 2012

To reach this North Devon beach wedding venue you must first navigate through the first of four (of the six original) hand-carved Victorian tunnels (hence the name). Carved in 1823 by a team of hundreds of Welsh miners, your guests will unlikely have been to a wedding where the walkway is adorned in the original pick axe marks of miners, the first of many wow factors of the unfolding day.

Next, hidden from public view behind a large wooden gated fence your wedding guests will be treated to the most breathtaking view of the cliffs, private beach and Bristol Channel, looking out towards Lundy as if it’s very own treasure island.

With super friendly staff, modern, onsite accommodation for up to 54 adults and 10 children, two bars over three levels including a fabulous open- roof terrace you and up to 120 day and an extra 40 evening guests can party the day and night away with a top quality in and outdoor sound system. Tunnels Beaches ticks a lot of wedding venue boxes, and having worked there at many fantastic weddings I can see why it attracts couples looking for a relaxed vibe wedding from all over the world.

As a local Devon wedding photographer I have the benefit of insight into some of the distinct characteristics of a Tunnels Beaches wedding that a photographer from out of the area, or one who hasn’t worked at the venue before most likely won’t think about. Knowing what time and where to do photos is crucial so not to miss those beach, tidal pool reflection or sunset shots. Working with nature, time and tide is a must at this Devon beach wedding venue.

What could be more romantic than marrying the one you love surrounded by your friends and family with the relaxing sound of the waves, Seagulls and Oyster Catchers to accompany your vows.

Once you have committed to each other for life it’s time to drink cold beer and listen to your favourite tunes under the warm North Devon sunshine & catch up with your guests as they begin to explore the venue and private beach.

Once you are all congratulated, kissed and hugged out your guests will be seated to enjoy Tunnels Beaches legendary (certainly among wedding photographers!) BBQ, and writing from experience this is yet another wow factor for your guests to enjoy, I cannot think of a better BBQ I have ever had the pleasure of eating.

Speeches, toasts and thank-you’s out the way what better way to end the meal than heading back down to enjoy ice creams served from a vintage style ice cream tricycle and sit, relax and watch the waves lap and the sun sink.

Finally, just before the second wind of partying begins the biggest wow of all, if you are blessed with a sunny day (as so many are here in Devon) the North Devon sunset takes some beating. Personally I have watched the sun set in Bali, Mauritius, The Maldives & Cottesloe Beach in Perth but none of them beats watching the sun disappear into the sea behind Lundy Island and the magnificent multi-coloured illumination of the sky shortly after, it really is the perfect end to a perfect day and a photographers dream.

I have had many of my wedding couples combine this natural show with their first dance, having the music played on the terrace, surrounded by their guests, creates an emotional moment to remember, it’s like a scene from “The restaurant at the end of the universe.” (one for the Douglas Adams fans). Something you & your guests will talk about for years to come.

And for that final WOW, why not have a sparkler tunnel and smores by the open fire, whilst watching the stars and planets above. (continued below)

If all this sounds just perfect to you and your fiance then don’t delay, Tunnels Beaches gets booked for prime dates very far in advance. And don’t forget you will need a fantastic photographer & videographer to capture everything for you, so you and your guests don’t have to worry, you can all just relax, enjoy the day and look forward to reliving it all through our beautiful photos and film.

Evolve Photography can provide you with a full-day narrative of your Tunnels Beaches wedding from the getting ready fun in the morning to the antics of the evening party in either stunning natural photographs from a very experienced and skilled professional photographer (Mark) or with an extra, full-length film accompanied by drone footage, filmed and edited by Tristan. We only offer video as an add-on to photography.

We highly recommend these other experienced Tunnels Beaches suppliers

Pumpkin and Pye for beautiful flowers and floral arches

The Wedding Spinner a fantastic DJ to get your Tunnels Beaches wedding party started!

The Updo Girl providing fabulous wedding hair

Wedding make-up from the amazing Changing Faces