My Top 5 Favorite Wedding Venues in Charlottesville VA

As a wedding photographer since 2019, I’ve had the privilege of capturing many love stories in the picturesque backdrop of Charlottesville, Virginia. With its rolling vineyards, historic estates, and charming countryside, this region offers a treasure trove of enchanting wedding venues. It is no wonder that Charlottesville has become a destination wedding mecca that couples choose from all over the east coast. With so many exceptional choices, it was tough to narrow down the list to my top 5 Charlottesville wedding venues that have consistently left couples and guests spellbound. Each of these venues boasts a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and elegance, ensuring that your special day will be extraordinary. Join me on this journey as we explore the best that Charlottesville has to offer for the wedding celebration of your dreams.

Clifton Inn

The Clifton Inn is one of my all-time favorite venues in the Charlottesville area. It is iconic, timeless, and enchanting for small and large wedding celebrations alike. From an intimate affair in their Secret Garden beneath a willow tree to a grand celebration with 200 guests beneath the beautiful sailcloth tent, the Clifton offers custom and diverse wedding experiences for all couples. 

What sets the Clifton part is that it offers exclusive use of the property and can booked from Thursday to Sunday, so that precious time with your closest family and friends don’t just start and end on the wedding day, but can be extended to an entire weekend together of relaxation at the infinity pool, fine dining in their 1799 Restaurant, and walking the picturesque grounds and gardens. This type of quality time with loved ones is priceless. If saying your vows at an elegant historic inn with timeless beauty and extended time with family and friends is what you desire, look no further than The Clifton.

Keswick Hall

Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Keswick Hall is the epitome of Southern charm and elegance. This idyllic venue, steeped in history, offers a magnificent backdrop for your wedding, accommodating both intimate gatherings and lavish affairs ranging from 50 to 400 guests. The historic Keswick Hall itself was built as an Italianate mansion in 1912 and enjoyed by esteemed families for many years before becoming a classic Virginia hotel. In 2022, now owners Molly and Robert Hardie re-designed and re-opened the property with luxurious, modern designs and spaces while giving a nod to the treasured history of this mansion.

The property offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, setting the stage for unforgettable moments. The meticulously manicured gardens, an inviting infinity pool, and world-class golf facilities add to the charm. Last but not least, all weddings also include farm to table dining by renowned French Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Needless to say, there is a lot to love.  If you are looking for a wedding venue with history, scenery, gourmet food, and exceptional service, Keswick Hall may be the perfect spot for you!

Keswick Vineyards

With rolling hills and vineyard vines on one side and the elegant Edgewood Estate House and ornate white fountain on the other, I find Keswick Vineyards to be one of the most beautiful backdrops for wedding photographs in the Charlottesville area. This charming vineyard has beautiful getting ready suites for the bride and groom in the mansion, and can accommodate up to 200 guests in their elegant Aurora sailcloth tent. There are multiple ceremony location options so you’ll have the flexibility to craft the wedding of your dreams.

The vineyard’s rolling hills and pristine landscapes create a picturesque backdrop, while their award-winning wines add a touch of class to your celebration. What sets Keswick Vineyards apart is that their wedding venue space is separate from their tasting room, so that you can enjoy the property in complete privacy. Moreover, couples have shared that owners Cindy and Al Schoernberg treat them like family and their service and experience was outstanding. With its remarkable blend of natural beauty, privacy, and fine wines, Keswick Vineyards promises a day you and your guests will cherish forever.

Castle Hill Cider

Castle Hill is a spectacular venue with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Its 11,000 square foot climate-controlled Cidery Barn accommodates up to 250 guests, making it the largest indoor reception space in the Charlottesville area. There are both indoor and outdoor ceremony location options in the barn loft and picturesque Linden Grove. With miles of beautiful white fencing, pebble paths, a quaint lake, and picturesque orchards and rolling vineyards create a captivating atmosphere, there are few other venues that look so grand and beautiful. The wine-like dry ciders offer a unique touch amidst the myriad wineries in the area and will please cider and wine lovers alike. If you are looking for an enchanting venue that offers ample space for many family and friends, as well as scenic blend of history, beauty, and love, Castle Hill Cidery promises to make your wedding day a masterpiece.

Pippin Hill

Last but certainly not least and listed among the Top 10 Destination Wedding Venues in the US by Martha Stewart, Pippin Hill is one of the most exquisite venues in the Charlottesville area. Its picturesque vineyard views atop a hillside are second to none, and its award-winning wines and exquisite cuisine only add to the experience, making the planning process easier for busy couples looking for a full service venue. Pippin Hill can accommodate up to 200 guests for a ceremony on the Main Lawn and reception in the climate-controlled Granary, and the gorgeous Veranda is weather protected in case of inclement weather or colder months, giving couples peace of mind.

What sets Pippin Hill apart are the owners’ personal touch and dedication to their craft by founders Lynn Easton and Dean Andrews. As a former wedding planner, Lynn designed the venue with utmost attention to what makes a great experience for couples and guests on their wedding day. Their passion for creating a haven of natural beauty and impeccable service ensures unforgettable moments for you and your loved ones. 

So there you have it! My top 5 best wedding venues in the Charlottesville, Virginia area. If you’d like to learn about more wedding venues in the Charlottesville area, you can check out my full guide of favorite venues here.

I’m Lucy Jalin, a Charlottesville wedding photographer passionate about capturing candid moments in artful ways and helping couples build stronger marriages. If you are currently wedding planning, here are some tips on how to strengthen your relationship with your partner in this season!