Winter Weddings at Poulaphouca: Cosy, Romantic & Completely Magical
There’s something quietly special about a winter wedding in Ireland. The air feels fresher. The atmosphere feels warmer. The day feels more intimate.
At Poulaphouca House & Falls, our Winter Weddings offering is still a new one, but rapidly becoming a very popular option with dates now available in November, early December, February and March
If you’re currently searching for a winter wedding venue in Ireland, or considering an off-season wedding near Dublin, here’s why couples are increasingly choosing Poulaphouca during the colder months.
1. Real Fires, Real Atmosphere
Winter at Poulaphouca means one thing above all else: real fires in the Old Bar. Proper crackling fireplaces that instantly change the mood of a room.
Guests arrive from the crisp Wicklow air and are greeted by warmth, candlelight and that unmistakable smell of a fire burning. Coats come off. Drinks are poured. Conversations begin.
It creates an atmosphere that simply doesn’t exist in summer.
Winter weddings naturally feel:
More intimate
More relaxed
More connected
And those fires become the heart of it all.
2. The Living Room Comes Into Its Own
Our living room is one of the most underrated spaces here — and winter is when it truly shines.
In peak summer weddings, everyone spills outdoors. But in November, February or March, the living room becomes a hub of laughter and conversation.
It feels like hosting your wedding in a beautiful country home rather than a traditional venue.
3. No Weather Pressure: Just Crisp, Fresh Air
One of the biggest advantages of a winter wedding? No pressure for the “perfect sunny day.”!!
Summer weddings can sometimes carry unspoken expectations: blue skies, no rain, perfect heat. Winter removes that.
Instead, you get:
Crisp countryside air
Dramatic Wicklow skies
Misty hills as a backdrop
Golden sunsets in the late afternoon
Photographers love winter light — it’s softer, moodier and incredibly flattering.
And because ceremonies are typically indoors during these months, you can relax knowing the day isn’t dependent on sunshine.
4. Guinness, Candlelight & Cosy Corners
If you’ve ever had a proper pint in winter, you’ll understand. There’s something about a Guinness beside a fire that just feels right and our Poulaphouca Guinness is the best going aound
Our Old Man Bar becomes especially atmospheric during the colder months. Low lighting. Warm wood. Guests gathered in small groups.
It feels festive without trying.
Add:
Mulled wine at drinks reception
Hot whiskey or Irish coffee stations
Candlelit tables in The Barn
Seasonal floral styling (deep reds, forest greens, winter whites)
And suddenly your wedding feels like something out of a film — but in a very natural, Irish way.
5. A Smart Choice
Let’s talk honestly. Winter and early spring weddings often come with more flexibility and additional value.
Choosing November, December, February or March can mean:
Greater date availability
More choice with suppliers
Potential cost savings compared to peak summer Saturdays
For many couples, that saving can go towards:
An upgraded drinks package
Extra evening food
Extended accommodation
A live band they really love
It’s not about cutting corners.
It’s about being strategic — and getting more of what matters most.
Make sure to learn more about Poulaphouca House & Falls here in West Wicklow where you can explore more at poulaphouca.ie/weddings, or get in touch to check availability and plan your dream winter wedding with our team.