Planning a wedding in the Hunter Valley? First of all, great choice. Between the rolling vineyards, golden paddocks and ridiculously good wine, it’s honestly hard to go wrong here.
But if you’ve already done the “stare blankly at 37 open tabs of wedding venues” thing—I see you. I’ve photographed at heaps of them, and trust me, some are fine… and some are actually unforgettable.
Here are four Hunter Valley wedding venues that I keep coming back to. They’re stunning, they run smoothly, and the photos? Always amazing!
Check out this beautiful sandstone wall and light coming through the arch window at Peterson House.
Peterson House – Pokolbin
Vibe: Elegant, romantic and all about the bubbles
Capacity:
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Chapel: Up to 200
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Reception: Up to 250 (Vineyard Marquee), 140 (Restaurant Cuvée)
Let’s be real—if you’re the kind of couple who loves a little sparkle (literal and bubbly), Peterson House will feel like home. The sandstone chapel is insanely photogenic, there’s a jetty surrounded by greenery that hits just right at golden hour, and the whole space has this warm, old-world charm.
They’ve got indoor and outdoor ceremony options, incredible food, and some of the best sparkling wine in the Valley. Bonus points: their team knows weddings, which means you can relax and enjoy the day while everything flows smoothly behind the scenes.
La Pera Estate – Lovedale
Vibe: Modern luxe meets relaxed vineyard vibes
Capacity:
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Ceremony Chapel: ~120
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Reception Centre: ~100–120+ with a deck overlooking the vines
If you’re into clean lines, good light, and spaces that don’t need much styling to look amazing—La Pera is that venue. It’s super private, the views are wide and dreamy, and the whole estate just feels calm. You’ll find a modern chapel with full glass windows, a luxe reception space with wraparound deck, and cute cedar cottages onsite (so your VIPs can stay close).
I always love shooting here because every angle just works. And there’s no stress about timelines—the property is compact enough that you’re never rushing, but spacious enough to feel like a full-blown escape.
Riverwood Downs – Monkerai (Upper Hunter)
Vibe: Nature-heavy, peaceful and a little bit whimsical
Capacity:
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Ideal for 40–120+ guests
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Plenty of ceremony spots: by the river, under the trees, or on the lawns
Want to feel like you’ve escaped the world for the weekend? Riverwood Downs is nestled right on the banks of the Karuah River, surrounded by towering gums, paddocks, and fresh air for days. It’s one of those venues where you hear birds and water flowing during your vows—and where kangaroos sometimes casually show up in the background of your photos (they know a good wedding when they see one).
There’s accommodation on site, flexible packages, and lots of ceremony location options. It’s relaxed, a little bit wild, and honestly just feels like a deep breath in venue form.
Château Élan at The Vintage – Rothbury
Vibe: Fancy-but-chill resort energy
Capacity:
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Ceremony: Carriage House (~110), Rotunda & Lawns
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Reception: Up to 170 (Founders Room), up to 500 in a marquee
Château Élan brings the best of both worlds: five-star feel without being stuffy. They have spa treatments in the morning, golf buggies to sneak off for couple photos, cocktails on the terrace, and luxe accommodation for all your guests.
There are multiple ceremony spots depending on your style (hello, sandstone chapel OR outdoor rotunda), and everything is on-site. That means more time for champagne toasts and dancefloor moments—and less time in the back of a hire car.
As a photographer, it’s a dream. The landscaping is perfect, the light is golden, and there’s always a spot to escape for those just-married portraits.
So, Which One’s “The One”?
Whether you’re dreaming of sipping prosecco in a vineyard or walking down a tree-lined aisle in the bush, these four venues all have something special. They’re beautiful, well-run, and actually fun to be at because that should be the whole point, right?
If you’re stuck choosing (or want a few more options up my sleeve), I’m always up for a chat. I’ve worked at venues all over the Hunter, and I’ll happily help you match your vibe to the right place—no pressure, just real talk.