Thinking of eloping or having your wedding photos taken in Northern Ireland?
If you’re dreaming of something epic, cinematic, and just a touch eerie (in the most magical way possible), let me introduce you to one of the most famous elopement photo locations in Northern Ireland…
✨ The Dark Hedges — a tunnel of twisted beech trees where fairytales meet fantasy, and where couples from the U.S. and beyond come to live out their dream Ireland elopement (with maybe a dragon or two in the distance if you’re a Game of Thrones fan).
What Exactly Are the Dark Hedges?
The Dark Hedges are a naturally dramatic avenue of ancient beech trees lining Bregagh Road near Ballymoney, County Antrim. Originally planted in the 18th century by the Stuart family to wow guests as they approached Gracehill House, the trees have since transformed into something straight out of legend.
Over the centuries, their branches have twisted and tangled together, creating a moody, otherworldly tunnel that feels equal parts gothic fairytale and epic fantasy set. Today, the Dark Hedges aren’t just one of the most photographed spots in Northern Ireland — they’re also one of the most unforgettable backdrops for a wedding or elopement in Ireland.
Game of Thrones Fans, Assemble
If the trees look familiar, that’s because they are.
The Dark Hedges were famously featured in Game of Thrones Season 2, Episode 1, when Arya Stark escapes King’s Landing disguised as a boy. The scene shows Arya traveling north with Gendry and the Night’s Watch recruits — and the atmospheric stretch of road? That’s our beloved Dark Hedges, reimagined as the Kingsroad.
Since the episode aired, this location has become a bucket list stop for Game of Thrones fans, fantasy lovers, and couples looking to inject a bit of cinematic grandeur into their day.
And yes — I’ve definitely whispered “Winter is coming” during a photo session or two.
Why The Dark Hedges Are So Popular for Elopement & Wedding Photos
Now, let’s talk love.
As a Northern Ireland elopement photographer, I can tell you that The Dark Hedges are one of the most-requested photo locations in all of Antrim — and for good reason.
Here’s why elopement couples LOVE this spot:
- Instant drama — The trees bring mood, magic, and mystery to every shot.
- All-weather beauty — Whether it’s foggy, sunny, or raining sideways (hello, Irish weather), the scene looks epic.
- Fairytale energy — It feels like stepping into a secret realm. Eloping here = main character vibes.
- Close to other stunning spots — It’s just a short drive from Dunluce Castle, The Giant’s Causeway, and the Causeway Coast, making it perfect for adventure elopement routes.
- A mix of history and fantasy — It’s not just beautiful — it has roots, both literal and historical.
Where Is The Dark Hedges & How Do You Get There?
The Dark Hedges are located along Bregagh Road near Ballymoney, in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.
📍 GPS Coordinates: 55.1341° N, 6.3754° W
Closest town: Ballymoney (about 15 minutes away)
From Belfast: ~1 hour 15 minutes drive
From Dublin: ~3 hours drive
🚗 Pro Tip: You can’t drive down the road anymore — it’s been closed to traffic to preserve the trees. Park nearby at The Dark Hedges Hotel (yes, that’s a thing) and take a short stroll to the famous view.
Best Time for Elopement Photos at The Dark Hedges
Timing is everything, folks.
Best Months:
- April to October for lush greenery and softer light
- November to February for spooky, misty, moody vibes
Best Time of Day:
- Sunrise or golden hour — Trust me, it’s hauntingly beautiful with soft morning fog or warm, low sun peeking through the trees.
⚠️ Avoid mid-day tours: This spot is popular, and it gets busy. To keep your elopement or photo session intimate and free of busloads of selfie-sticks, let’s aim for off-peak hours. (I’ll help plan it — don’t worry.)
If you’re starting to feel a little overwhelmed reading through planning advice, you’re not alone. Most couples planning an elopement in Ireland from abroad reach this stage at some point. Alongside photographing elopements across Ireland and Northern Ireland, I also support couples with the full planning process through my sister site Ireland Elopements & Co, helping them feel confident, prepared, and present on the day itself.
Is It Legal to Get Married at The Dark Hedges?
Here’s the tea.
You can have a symbolic elopement ceremony at The Dark Hedges (vows, handfasting, readings — all the good stuff), but due to conservation efforts and tourism rules, legal ceremonies aren’t typically performed directly on the road.
BUT — I know a few scenic, quiet spots nearby where legal ceremonies are possible, and you can still head to The Dark Hedges for your stunning portraits before or after.
📄 Need help with paperwork? As your elopement photographer and planner in Northern Ireland, I guide you through all the legal bits and help you find a registrar or celebrant who’s flexible and awesome.
Fun (and Slightly Weird) Dark Hedges Legends
Because no Irish location is complete without a slightly spooky legend.
Locals say the ghost of a grey lady wanders through the trees at dusk. (Don’t worry, she’s said to be friendly — just a little floaty.) Some say she’s the spirit of a maid from Gracehill House, while others think she’s from a nearby abandoned graveyard.
Either way, she’s not photobombing your ceremony. Probably.
What It’s Like to Have Me Photograph Your Elopement at The Dark Hedges
Picture this:
You’re walking down a quiet, tree-lined road that feels like something out of a fantasy novel. The sun peeks through gnarled branches. There’s mist rising from the fields. Maybe there’s a raven cawing in the distance for cinematic effect.
You exchange vows, laugh nervously, maybe cry a little — and I’m right there, quietly capturing the moment in a way that feels natural, not staged.
I blend in like a mate you’ve known for years. I’ll fix your veil, hold your bouquet while you twirl, and shout “YESSSSSS” when the light hits just right. You’ll never feel rushed, posed, or awkward.
And after we wrap at the Hedges? We can head to the coast, castle ruins, or a pub for a celebratory pint. Sound good?
What to Bring for Your Dark Hedges Elopement or Photo Session
- ✔️ Comfortable shoes (it’s a short walk on gravel)
- ✔️ Clear umbrella (this is Ireland, after all)
- ✔️ Warm wrap or cloak for autumn/winter sessions
- ✔️ Vows (handwritten always hits different)
- ✔️ Snacks — bonus points if you share
- ✔️ A sense of adventure and a love for magical locations
Final Tips for Eloping at The Dark Hedges
- 🧭 Book early if you’re planning peak season — I help you lock in the best time & date
- 📸 Go for a weekday session to avoid crowds
- 🛑 Be mindful — it’s a protected site, so no confetti, loud music, or climbing trees
- 🚫 Drones are not allowed unless licensed
- 🎞️ Want more cinematic photos? I offer day-before adventure sessions to hit multiple locations with no pressure
Why You Should Hire Me for Your Northern Ireland Elopement at The Dark Hedges
I’m not just your Dark Hedges photographer — I’m your guide, planner, and right-hand adventurer.
When you hire me, you’re getting:
- 📸 Stunning, candid, cinematic photography
- ☘️I take care of all your elopement planning personally — from helping you choose the perfect location to connecting you with trusted celebrants, florists, stylists, and other local vendors. My goal is to make sure every detail is covered so you can relax, enjoy the moment, and focus on what really matters: celebrating your love in one of the most magical places on earth.
- 🗺️ Location knowledge from someone who’s been there a dozen times
- 💡 Creative ideas to make the most of light, angles, and timing
- 📄 Help with permits, timelines, and vendor connections
- ☘️ Craic, calm energy, and Irish charm — with zero awkwardness
Ready to Elope in Ireland? Let’s Plan Your Adventure Together
I’d love to hear from you! If you’re planning to elope in Ireland or Northern Ireland and looking for the right mix of photographer + planner, you’re in the right place. My Ireland elopement packages for U.S. couples start at $5,500 USD and include planning, photography, and all the guidance you need to make your adventure stress-free. Whether you’re dreaming of a Cliffs of Moher elopement, a castle ruin in Antrim, or a lakeside ceremony in Killarney, I’ll help you plan it, capture it, and make it unforgettable. 💌 Get in touch below — I love hearing your ideas and can’t wait to help you start planning your Ireland elopement adventure.
Planning an Elopement From Abroad?
By the time couples reach this stage, it’s usually clear that planning an elopement in Ireland involves more than choosing a beautiful location. Legal requirements, ceremony logistics, timelines, suppliers, and travel details all need to work together — especially when you’re planning from overseas.
Alongside photographing elopements across Ireland and Northern Ireland, I also look after the planning side through my sister site Ireland Elopements & Co. It’s where I help couples bring everything together calmly and intentionally, from choosing the right location and handling legalities to shaping a relaxed timeline and documenting the day in a natural, unforced way.
If you’d like some guidance or simply want to talk things through, you’re very welcome to get in touch with me over on Ireland Elopements & Co, and we can take it from there.
