The Hunter Valley has been a wedding hotspot for years and like many of the wines that are produced here, it seems to get better with age. These days, the Hunter Valley is much more than a successful wine growing region - there's also an abundance of award-winning restaurants, luxury stays and most importantly, exceptional wedding venues (which we've mentioned below). But if you're still not entirely sold, here are a few more reasons to get married in the Hunter Valley.
Why get married in the Hunter Valley?
Stunning vineyard backdrops
The Hunter Valley is renowned for its lush vineyards and rolling hills, providing picture-perfect scenery for your big day. Imagine exchanging vows with rows of vines stretching into the distance, golden hour lighting up the landscape, and the serenity of nature all around. Your wedding photos? Absolutely next level.
Top-tier wine and cuisine
As Australia’s oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley is home to a range of award-winning wines (semillon in particular). What better way to celebrate your wedding than with local vintages that’ll have your guests talking for years? Pair your chosen wines (tips on how to do that here) with farm-to-table gourmet meals from the region's finest caterers, and you’ve got a wedding feast worth remembering.
Incredible wedding venues
From intimate garden settings to grand vineyard estates, the Hunter Valley is packed with gorgeous venues that can cater to weddings of all styles and sizes. Whether you want rustic-chic vibes, an elegant affair, or a relaxed countryside celebration, you’re sure to find a venue that ticks all the boxes.
An all-in-one destination
Why just celebrate on the big day when you can turn your wedding into a weekend (or week!) to remember? The Hunter Valley offers plenty for you and your guests to do before and after the wedding, from wine tasting tours and hot air balloon rides to luxury spa treatments and golf. It’s the perfect opportunity to blend your nuptials with a mini-holiday.
Accessible yet secluded
While the Hunter Valley feels like a peaceful escape, it’s just a two-hour drive from Sydney and Newcastle, making it a convenient destination for your guests without losing that sense of exclusivity. Easy access plus the beauty of a hidden gem? That’s a win-win!
Experienced wedding vendors
Hunter Valley is home to a talented array of wedding vendors, from photographers and florists to stylists and celebrants who know the region inside out. With their local expertise and creativity, your dream wedding will come to life with ease (and a lot less travel fees). Many of them even have fantastic connections with the local venues, making your planning process even smoother.
Gorgeous all year round
Whether you're planning an elopement or a cosy winter wedding, the Hunter Valley is breathtaking in every season. Spring and autumn bring mild weather and vibrant colours, while summer is perfect for outdoor ceremonies. Even in winter, the valley transforms into a dreamy, misty landscape and cosy fire pits welcome at most venues add a nice touch.
Romantic honeymoon destination
Who says you have to jet off after the wedding? The Hunter Valley doubles as an idyllic honeymoon destination. Spend your first days as a married couple enjoying vineyard picnics, private wine tastings, or just basking in the serenity of the countryside.
Perfect for all budgets
Whether you’re looking for a high-end luxury affair or a more budget-friendly wedding, the Hunter Valley has something for every couple. With a range of venues, accommodation, and vendor options, you can tailor your wedding to suit your style and budget without compromising on quality.
Capacity: 250+
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 12
Wedshed loves: This ones' for our aesthetic girlies. The mag-worthy design, the attention to detail, the European-style courtyard, the soaring roof of the conservatory... say less.
McGuigan House is a stunner. And soon, it will be even more beautiful, if you can believe it. From March 2025 it will be opening as a re-imagined space that can host intimate events for 25 people or large weddings for up to 250 guests. Think elegance, timeless luxury and country chic.
Set on 10 acres of manicured lawns and a private vineyard, the venue is designed for entertaining, with six master ensuite bedrooms, an alfresco dining area, pool and an abundance of landscaped surrounds. When you get married here, you've got a concierge service up your sleeve too to make the experience nothing but seamless.
And with multiple spaces including The Conservatory Bar and The Courtyard, plus the option to transform the tennis court area into a late night dance floor, it's the perfect place to celebrate love, right in the heart of the Hunter Valley.
McGuigan House is managed exclusively by Wedshed's expert team (which means you get some great perks when you wed here). Click here to send an enquiry or arrange a viewing.
Capacity: 90 (seated) 110 (standing)
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 38
Wedshed loves: Four houses and three pools in a private setting - this place is designed for a fun (loving) weekend.
La Vigna Estate is a stunning boutique wedding venue in the Hunter Valley. Known for its picturesque surroundings, this estate offers a lot (seriously) - including four houses (sleeping 38) and three pools (hello, poolside recovery session).
There's also a stunning chapel built from original convict sandstone blocks from 1917 which makes a beautiful ceremony or reception space, as well as an open-air alfresco area for those post-'we do' cocktails and canapés. Couple these things with the large, duck-filled pond and the rows of vines (La Vigna produce their own excellent wine) and you've got a very pretty picture on your hands.
It gets five-stars for its facilities but even better is this venue's laid-back, family-owned vibe that makes it perfect forcouples looking to host an exclusive weekend long celebration with all their favourite people.
La Vigna Estate is managed exclusively by Wedshed's expert team (which means you get some great perks when you wed here). Click here to send an enquiry or arrange a viewing.
Capacity: 150 (seated) 180 (standing)
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 24
Wedshed loves: Pet-friendly, BYO and with accommodation on-site - this venue has it all (including air-con).
With its breathtaking views of the Lower Hunter Valley's Brokenback Range, a charming reception barn and on-site accommodation Adams Peak Country Estate offers a rustic yet elegant place to wed. This venue is perfect for couples who want flexibility, as it’s a BYO and DIY-friendly space, meaning you can personalise every detail of your celebration.
The fully air-conditioned barn accommodates up to 180 guests, and the property sleeps 24 people across two houses, making it perfect for a weekend celebration where you can celebrate, relax, and stay with loved ones.
As a backup weather option, the Hay Shed is an undercover alternative that still offers amazing views and for anyone wanting to have their fur babies involved in the festivities, Adams Peak is proudly pet-friendly.
Capacity: 170 (seated) 200 (standing)
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 6
Wedshed loves: That this place looks good from every angle. A truly sexy space with everything you need.
For a venue that blends sophistication and rural charm, Dark Horse Vineyard stands out. With a modern barn-style reception space surrounded by manicured gardens and vineyard views, this Hunter Valley wedding venue accommodates up to 150 guests.
Dark Horse Vineyard is known for its picture-perfect backdrops, ideal for sunset ceremonies and photos. It also offers boutique accommodation onsite for six people, perfect for the bridal party or close family.
Capacity: 150
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 17
Wedshed loves: The unique design of the barn and ability to do everything in one stunning location.
The Woodhouse Wollombi is an architectural gem set in the heart of the Wollombi Valley. This timber and iron barn can host up to 150 guests for a chic country wedding. The venue’s floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flood the space, and the outdoor fire pit makes it a cosy spot for evening festivities.
The Woodhouse also offers stunning onsite accommodation for up to 16 guests, making it perfect for weekend weddings where guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the countryside and explore the historic town of Wollombi and nearby Laguna Trading Post.
Capacity: 120 (seated) 150 (standing)
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 28
Wedshed loves: 550 acres of farmland, vineyards, winding rivers and majestic mountains - this venue is for anyone who enjoys being surrounded by nature.
Located within a vineyard setting with century-old sandstone buildings, Stonehurst Cedar Creek is perfect for couples seeking a rustic and charming location brimming with natural beauty. This venue is BYO, providing flexibility for couples to create a custom wedding experience.
The property can host up to 150 guests and offers plenty of stunning outdoor spaces for your ceremony. With onsite accommodation for up to 28 guests across seven private, self-contained vineyard cottages, it’s ideal for couples wanting an extended stay with family and friends.
Capacity: 130
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 120
Wedshed loves: New luxe accommodation = ultimate adult sleepover.
With sprawling vineyards and gorgeous views of the Brokenback Ranges, Bimbadgen Palmers Lane is a prime choice for couples seeking a scenic outdoor wedding venue with plenty of options.
The venue offers flexibility for both indoor and outdoor receptions and can accommodate up to 130 guests either inside the purpose-built reception venue or outside under the stars and festoon lights.
Its onsite accommodation has been given an impressive makeover and can sleep 120 guests, making this Hunter Valley wedding venue a convenient choice for anyone wanting to do everything in one stunning location.
Capacity: 110
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 32
Wedshed loves: We give equal first place to the open air pavilion (stunning ceremony spot) and the pool (the perfect recovery session spot).
If luxury and exclusivity are at the top of your wedding checklist, Greystone Estate is a must-see. This elegant venue sleeps up to 32 guests across eight luxurious suites (a total of 15 bedrooms and 20 bathrooms!), making it perfect for a weekend wedding retreat with close family and friends.
Greystone Estate also features beautifully landscaped grounds, a pool (hello, recovery session!) and a brand new function centre and open air pavilion. Its capacity to host up to 110 guests as well as its flexibility, BYO policy, and luxurious amenities make it a top choice for sophisticated Hunter Valley weddings.
Capacity: 110
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 32
Wedshed loves: It's hard to beat 174 years of wine-making experience and the extensive refurbishments here are impressive.
A historic venue with a modern twist, Ben Ean combines the charm of its 19th-century buildings with a contemporary fit-out. Surrounded by 200 acres of vineyards, this versatile venue can host up to 110 guests.
It’s perfect for couples who love to be wined and dined, as Ben Ean has an onsite cellar door and award-winning restaurant and offers a unique catering experience for wedding receptions. The venue's spacious layout and multiple function areas means you can host your ceremony and reception in one convenient location.
Capacity: 100 (seated) 120 (standing)
Accommodation: No
Wedshed loves: The simple (but exceptional) offering here. Good food and wine in a stunning location.
Vines Restaurant is located on the rolling hills of Hollydene Estate and provides a relaxed yet elegant setting for weddings. The venue offers stunning views of the vineyards and a large outdoor deck for al fresco dining. Inside, the stunning rustic timbers and polished concrete floors make from an impressive canvas that requires little styling.
Vines Restaurant can host up to 100 seated guests, making it ideal for medium-sized weddings. With its in-house catering team, you’ll be treated to a gourmet feast featuring local produce and estate wines.
For on-site ceremonies, the gardens and vineyards provide a very nice backdrop (great for photos as well) but like any experienced venue, they have suitable wet-weather options too.
Capacity: 150
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 10
Wedshed loves: Being BYO (but not DIY) means this place offers plenty of flexibility without all the logistics .
For those dreaming of a romantic and intimate wedding, Moravia Park provides the ultimate secluded setting. Set on 30 acres, this BYO wedding venue offers panoramic views of the countryside and a giant barn that can comfortably fit 150 guests and that doubles as a stunning wet weather ceremony space (that said, there's also a purposefully built undercover space as well).
Moravia Park also has exclusive accommodation for up to 10 guests inside a newly-renovated five-bedroom home, making it an ideal spot for a private celebration in the Hunter Valley that can extend over an entire weekend.
Capacity: 140 (seated) 250 (standing)
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 8
Wedshed loves: The original 1845 homestead is mighty impressive but for us the biggest selling point is that it's all-inclusive (read: stress free).
If you’re after heritage charm, Tocal Homestead is a breathtaking location with its historical buildings and rural backdrop. This venue can host up to 140 seated guests and is surrounded by 2,200 acres of stunning farmland.
Its timeless barn is perfect for rustic receptions, and the picturesque surroundings provide countless photo opportunities. Tocal Estate also offers a range of on-site accommodate options that can sleep up to eight guests.
Perhaps the best thing about this place however, is the fact its run by Sprout Catering - a company founded by award-winning chef Jacqueline Brown, who is dedicated to providing food and beverage experiences of the highest quality.
Capacity: 150
Accommodation: No
Wedshed loves: That this place has been purposefully designed for weddings meaning it has everything you need and nothing you don't.
The White Barn Pokolbin is the epitome of countryside elegance. This purpose-built venue offers a chic white barn and immaculate gardens for up to 150 guests. The venue’s signature style blends country charm with modern sophistication, and it’s fully equipped for both indoor and outdoor weddings.
This all-inclusive venue sits on 30-acres and boasts its own vineyard and if you're comparing wedding packages, the offerings here are extensive. Lawn games, limousine transfers, furniture, neon signs and more and thrown in for free, and the barn itself doesn't require much given it's already got modern restrooms, air-conditioning and a licensed bar.
And while there's no accommodation on-site there are plenty of places within walking distance (big bonus!). Pets are allowed, too.
Capacity: 230 (seated) 400 (standing)
Accommodation: No
Wedshed loves: The undeniable historic charm that's hard to authentically replicate.
For those accustomed to a good glass of wine, Dalwood Estate is a welcome choice. The longest running vineyard in Australia, Dalwood Estate is regarded as the birthplace of Hunter Valley wine.
Its dedication to producing exceptional wine has remained unchanged since its inception in 1828 and when it comes to hosting weddings, the bar is equally as high.
Renowned for its timeless beauty, celebrations here usually happen outside (alfresco style) amongst the manicured gardens and expansive vineyards or inside the venue's century-old function room with its original cobblestoned structure and open beamed ceilings. And while this Hunter Valley wedding venue is suitable for small weddings and intimate elopements, it's particularly popular for larger celebrations with its ability to seat 230 guests.
Capacity: 110
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 12
Wedshed loves: The privacy, tranquility and ability to do everything on-site (ceremony, reception and sleep).
Mystwood is a secluded retreat in the Hunter Valley, offering couples the chance to elope or host an intimate NSW wedding in total privacy. Surrounded by bushland and lakes, Mystwood is perfect for couples seeking a peaceful and romantic setting with 140-acres and a unique ceremony and reception space alongside accommodation for 12 guests.
With everything on-site, including a rustic bar, DJ booth and marquee, Mystwood is a more affordable wedding venue with few additional costs outside of alcohol (which is BYO).
The five well-equipped cottages each feature outdoor spas, wood fires and king sized beds and for the rest of your guests, there are plenty of luxury Airbnb properties and Hunter Valley accommodation options nearby.
Capacity: 12
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 8
Wedshed loves: Here, it's all about quality over quantity. The guest list may be small but the experience is larger than life.
There are a few reasons why more couples are choosing to elope or host a small wedding, and Wallaringa Farm is no doubt one of them. Otherwise off-limits, Wallaringa Farm is exclusively available for small celebrations in the heart of the Hunter Valley.
Their NSW elopement packages cater to everything couples need, while also providing flexibility with BYO options and various add-ons (including couples massage, live acoustic music, and a private chef).
Surrounded by 750 acres of pristine countryside, this property is every photographer's dream and also feels incredibly exclusive and private.
Capacity: 120 (seated) 200 (standing)
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 12
Wedshed loves: A true home-away-from-home. Cosy, intimate and exclusively yours during your stay.
A comfortable distance from the Hunter Valley's main tourist hotspots (but still close to wineries, restaurants, historic pubs and walking trails), Russley Country Homestead is a quaint and intimate wedding venue, perfect for couples seeking a charming and peaceful location for their NSW wedding.
Its history dates back to c1894 and its enduring beauty and charm is felt from the moment you arrive. With its manicured gardens and classic homestead architecture, this 12 acre property provides beautiful photo opportunities and both indoor and outdoor ceremony options.
It's completely flexible (read: BYO) and couples have full access to the gardens, paddocks, pool etc. during their stay. Russley Country Homestead is also ideal for smaller weddings and elopements, with the Homestead dining room able to sit 16 guests.
Capacity: 80
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 35
Wedshed loves: How easy it is to get married here - basically all you have to do it show up.
Emma's Cottage is a boutique wedding venue nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley. With its stunning vineyard backdrop and cosy, intimate spaces, it’s a great choice for couples looking for a relaxed NSW wedding or elopement.
The venue’s charm lies in its all-inclusive offering that provides simplicity, and a peaceful setting for couples to celebrate their special day. Emma's Cottage takes care of catering, and also offers comfortable, self-contained accommodation for up to 35 guests.
With a swimming pool, cellar door, gift store and tranquil surrounds Emma's cottage is the ultimate stay for weekend-long weddings of up to 80 guests.
Capacity: 120 (seated) 150 (standing)
Accommodation: Yes - sleeps 30
Wedshed loves: The ability to marry here with confidence - everything is taken care of and they know how to create an unforgettable celebration.
The rumours are true - wedding planning can be stressful. But not at Squire's Vineyard. This luxurious and all-inclusive Hunter Valley wedding provides everything from catering and accommodation to styling and on-the-day event management.
They offer an extensive inventory of furniture items (think outdoor loungers, neon signs, outdoor rugs etc.), lawn games, bar service from a vintage caravan, a croquet pavilion and a marquee.
That's not even the full list (best to just send an enquiry) but another thing worth mentioning is that for couples seeking a romantic NSW celebration, they also offer elopement packages and micro wedding packages. Plus, it's BYO alcohol and pet-friendly. The views across this 100-acre property are special too.
CREDITS: McGuigan House supplied // Dark Dark Horse Vineyard Sarbo Studio (feature image) // La Vigna Estate Calla Lily Collective, FVM Photography // Adams Peak Country Estate Kendell Tyne Photography, Chevell Photography // Dark Horse Vineyard Hamilton Media, Blaise Bell, Jimmy Raper // The Woodhouse Wollombi Sarbo Studio, Euphoria Films // Stonehurst Cedar Creek The White Tree, Folk and Follow // Bimbadgen Palmers Lane Gillian Keough Photography, Hungry Hearts Co, Wildwood Weddings // Greystone Estate Modern Romantics, Storytellers Wedding Co, Caitlin Amy Photography // Ben Ean Lara Hotz // Vines Restaurant at Hollydene own images // Moravia Park Bryce Noone // The White Barn Nicole Butler Photography // Dalwood Estate Bryce Noone, Pink Ink Photography, Rope and Pulley // Mystwood Rope and Pulley // Tocal Homestead Benedict Sutton, Brooke Arte Studio // Wallaringa Farm Pauline Morrissey, House of Marz, Rogue Weddings // Russley Country Homestead own images // Emma's Cottage Bryce Noone, Candid Chaser // Squire's Vineyard Writing With Light, Rosebrook Imagery
