wedding photographY AT Normanton Church

Weddings at Normanton Church, Rutland Water: A Complete Venue Guide

If you are searching for a truly unforgettable backdrop for your special day, a Normanton Church wedding offers something genuinely magical. Seemingly floating on the tranquil waters of Rutland Water, this iconic landmark combines the breathtaking gravitas of traditional church architecture with the flexibility of a civil ceremony.

Here is everything you need to know about celebrating your marriage at one of Rutland’s most famous and spectacular wedding venues.

A Unique Waterside Setting with a Rich History

Normanton Church is a venue with a brilliant story. Originally a medieval church, it was beautifully rebuilt in a classical style during the 18th century as a private chapel for the local aristocracy.

When the Rutland Water reservoir was created in the 1970s, the valley was flooded, and the church was slated for demolition. However, following passionate local protests, the building was saved. The lower level was filled with rubble and concrete to raise the floor above the waterline, and a causeway was constructed to connect it to the shore. Today, it stands as a magnificent, semi-submerged architectural wonder, offering spectacular panoramic views across the water.

Civil Ceremonies with Traditional Charm

Many couples dream of a white wedding in a historic church, but prefer, or require, a civil marriage. Normanton Church is the perfect solution.

Deconsecrated Status

Because the church was deconsecrated when the reservoir was built, it exclusively hosts civil ceremonies.

The Best of Both Worlds

You get the stunning, fairy-tale aesthetic of a classic church wedding, complete with high ceilings and historical architecture, alongside a modern civil service.

The Legalities

Ceremonies are legally conducted by a Superintendent Registrar from the Rutland County Council. You will need to co-ordinate your date with both the Anglian Water wedding team and the local register office to ensure both are available.

Breathtaking Wedding Photography

From a photography perspective, Normanton Church is an absolute dream. The venue provides a distinctive, romantic canvas that guarantees a unique wedding album.

The Floating Illusion

The way the church reflects on the surrounding water provides spectacular, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities.

The Causeway

The scenic walk down the embankment offers beautiful, sweeping shots of the bridal party arriving.

Natural Serenity

The calming sound of lapping water and the gentle lake breeze create a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for capturing candid, natural moments with your guests.

Essential Logistics for Your Day

To ensure your day runs without a hitch, there are a few practical details to bear in mind when booking this venue:

Parking & Access

The main guest car park is a short distance away from the venue. Guests will need to leave their vehicles and enjoy a scenic walk down the causeway to reach the church. It is highly recommended to advise your guests to allow a little extra time for this on your invitations.

Bridal Transport

Only the official wedding car is permitted to park directly next to the church, ensuring a seamless arrival for the couple.

Expert Co-ordination

The venue is owned and operated by Anglian Water, who provide a dedicated team of wedding co-ordinators to help you organise the logistics and ensure everything flows perfectly on the day.

Why Choose Normanton Church?

A wedding at Normanton Church is more than just a ceremony; it is an experience. With its fascinating history, classical architecture, and a cooling breeze rolling off the reservoir, it offers a calming, romantic, and visually spectacular start to your married life.

Frequently Asked Questions: Normanton Church Weddings

Can you have a religious wedding at Normanton Church?

No. Because the building was deconsecrated prior to the creation of the Rutland Water reservoir, it is no longer an active religious building. It exclusively hosts civil wedding ceremonies, making it perfect for couples who want the historic, traditional look of a church without the religious service.

How do I book the registrar for a Normanton Church wedding?

Because it is a civil venue, the registrar is not directly connected to the church. You will need to contact the Register Office at Rutland County Council (based in Oakham) to ensure a Superintendent Registrar is available on your preferred date. You must co-ordinate this alongside your booking with the Anglian Water weddings team.

Where do guests park for a wedding at Normanton Church?

There is a car park situated on the south shore of Rutland Water, but it is a short distance from the church. Guests will need to park here and walk along the scenic causeway to reach the venue. Only the official wedding car is permitted to drive right up to the church doors. It is highly recommended that you advise guests to allow a little extra time for this walk.

Can we host our wedding reception at the church?

Normanton Church is primarily hired for the wedding ceremony itself. For the reception, many couples choose to arrange a marquee (often through local suppliers like the Rutland Marquee Company) at nearby designated spots, or they move on to one of the many beautiful hotels and reception venues dotted around the Rutland Water area.

Who manages the venue and co-ordinates the weddings?

The church and the surrounding water park are owned and operated by Anglian Water. They have a dedicated, experienced team of wedding co-ordinators who will assist you with the logistics and ensure your ceremony runs perfectly on the day.