About Us
Enchant guests with a fairytale wedding to remember, in a spellbinding venue
that speaks to your love story.
In a past lifetime, Royle Forest was a dairy farm, home to over 200 acres of grazing pastures. 30 years ago, we decided to give our 5th generation family farm back to nature, with the intuition this would lead to something special.
In 2020, our vision was realised after a couple rented the land to throw their wedding, setting up a tipi within the forest. We knew then that it was our mission to recreate that same magic for more couples for years to come.
Royle Forest was created by Fraser and Emma, and the venue was hand-built from a concept drawing Fraser created after that first celebration.
This young and fresh-thinking couple knew they could create an enchanting wedding experience like no other, tucked away in nature and personalised to every couple who called it theirs. Alongside a passionate and tight-knit team, Fraser and Emma found their fairytale ending so you can find yours.
As part of our vision to deliver the most magical day ever, we include a range of bespoke touches with every wedding, for a unique and unforgettable experience.
For each couple, we craft a personalised named wedding sign to direct guests on the day, as well as a handmade memory box to take those treasured moments home with you.
We have teamed up with Thornbridge Brewery! Each couple can head over to the Thornbridge taproom in Bakewell to savour some pizza and explore their fantastic range of beers. Couples can choose their favourite, and we can feature it as a special on the Forest Bar for their wedding day.
For every celebration at Royle Forest, we plant 30 trees in the name of each of our couples, helping to give back to the beautiful forest we are proud to call home.
Our History
June 2004
Forest Planted
In June 2004, we diversified from dairy farming, planting trees over 200 acres of previously used grazing land.
June 2020
The Idea Was Born
The idea for Royle Forest was born after a self-built tipi wedding on our farm revealed the land’s incredible potential for hosting unforgettable events.
May 2021
The Build
After that first tipi wedding ignited the idea, Fraser started building the business. It was on this journey that he met Emma, who quickly became his co-founder and shared his vision of creating something truly special.
April 2022
Grand Opening
In April 2022, Royle Forest welcomed its very first couples and had an incredibly successful debut season, with demand far exceeding expectations.
December 2023
Enchanting Enhancements
In line with our dedication to luxury, we have designed the most stunning toilets you could imagine finding in a forest. Crafted for both style and comfort, they have become an unexpected highlight of the experience.
April 2024
Charming Upgrades
We transformed an old grain silo into a one-of-a-kind outdoor bar, blending rustic charm with modern style. Now it serves up frozen cocktails on hot days and delightful drinks all season-round, offering guests a truly unique experience.
July 2024
A True Fairytale
After an incredible journey bringing their dream to life, Emma and Fraser poured their hearts into creating a truly special wedding venue. Fittingly, they celebrated the next chapter of their story by saying “I do” at the very place they built together — their own magical venue.
Today
Happily Ever After
Maintaining an impressive record of five-star reviews, we are looking forward to the many seasons to come. Our ethos to keep improving Royle Forest year on year to remain a truly magical place to get married will continue.
