Frequently Asked Questions
You asked, we answered…
Q: Can we have a legal wedding ceremony at Swinney Wood Log Cabins?
A: Absolutely! Swinney Wood Log Cabins is fully licensed to host legally binding, non-religious civil ceremonies, as well as blessings and vow renewals.
Q: Can we just get married at Swinney Wood, or do we have to stay over?
A: All our wedding packages include a stay at Swinney Wood — it’s part of what makes the experience so special. Each package includes either three nights from a Friday or four nights from a Monday.
Take a look at our Wedding Packages page to view the options and find the one that’s right for you.
Q: What happens after I’ve confirmed my booking with the registrar?
A: Once you’ve confirmed your date and time with Amber Valley Registrars, simply let Katy, our senior wedding coordinator, know. She’ll then send you the details to arrange a bank transfer for your 25% deposit — and from there, the planning begins! Katy will be by your side to help shape every part of your special celebration.
Q: Can we have guests at our wedding?
A: Yes — you’re very welcome to have a wedding with up to six guests, it all depends on which of our four wedding packages you choose.
If you go for the Exclusively Yours package, which gives you private use of Swinney Wood, we’re happy to discuss the option of bringing your own children to the ceremony. Please note, children cannot stay overnight.
Take a look at our four package options on our Wedding Packages page.
Q: Can you accommodate our guests overnight?
A: Yes — we can accommodate your guests, and each of our four wedding packages includes between one and four log cabins for the full duration of your stay. Choose from a 3-night stay starting on a Friday or a 4-night stay beginning on a Monday.
• 1 cabin = just the two of you
• 2 cabins = up to 2 guests
• 3 cabins = up to 4 guests
• 4 cabins = up to 6 guests
Q: Can we have exclusive use of Swinney Wood for our wedding?
A: Yes — if you choose the Exclusively Yours package, you’ll have full private use of Swinney Wood, with no other guests on-site during your stay.
For more details on the Exclusively Yours package, have a look at our Wedding Packages page.
Q: What if it rains on our wedding day?
A: If the weather isn’t on your side, you can step inside the log cabin for an intimate inside-outside wedding. With the patio doors open, you’ll still have the breathtaking scenery as the perfect backdrop for your vows, ensuring your ceremony remains beautiful and immersed in nature—whatever the weather.
Q: Can we have our dining area styled like in the photos?
A: Absolutely. If you’d like your dining or picnic area styled as shown in our photos, your personal wedding coordinator can recreate these stunning setups.
Q: Who organises outside caterers and restaurants?
A: Whether you’d prefer to have your wedding breakfast off-site or stay within Swinney Wood, your personal wedding coordinator will take care of everything. They can arrange reservations at local restaurants, or organise beautiful on-site catering — from private chefs and grazing tables to picnics, afternoon tea, and more.
Q: What about suppliers for hair, makeup, flowers, and photography?
A: Your personal wedding coordinator has a trusted little black book filled with talented local suppliers for hair, makeup, flowers, photography, and more.
After getting to know your vision and preferences, they’ll help handpick and arrange the perfect team to bring your dream wedding to life.
Q: Are we able to use our own suppliers for hair, makeup, flowers, photography?
A: We always recommend using our trusted local suppliers, as our wedding coordinators work closely with them. However, if you wish to use your own, you’re more than welcome to — just let your coordinator know as soon as possible so they can ensure everything runs seamlessly on the day.
Q: Are LGBTQIA+ weddings welcome?
A: Absolutely! Swinney Wood Log Cabins is a celebratory venue for love in all its forms. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for every couple.
We are also proud sponsors of Pride in Belper and members of The Welcoming Project.
Q: Can our children join us?
A: If you choose the Exclusively Yours package, we’re happy to discuss the possibility of bringing your own children to the wedding.
Please note: children cannot stay overnight.
For more details on the Exclusively Yours package, have a look at our Wedding Packages page.
Q: Can I bring my dog to my wedding?
A: Swinney Wood is a pet-free venue, to help protect local wildlife, maintain our peaceful woodland setting, and keep our resident sheep safe.
If you’ve booked the Exclusively Yours package, we’re happy to discuss the option of your dog being present briefly for photos — with prior agreement and under supervision.
Please note: dogs are not allowed inside the log cabins, on the decking, or in any ceremony areas, and must leave Swinney Wood immediately after the photo session.
