The Lakeside Hotel in Killaloe is a seriously fantastic wedding venue in a pretty perfect setting.
Perched on the banks of the Shannon as it winds its way lazily under Killaloe Bridge, The Lakeside feels like it is afloat. A private pontoon, unobstructed views of the water and the village, award-winning gardens for outdoor ceremonies — what more could a couple, or their wedding photographer, ask for?
The Lakeside have been doing weddings in Killaloe for almost 120 years — it's safe to say they've perfected the art over that time. You won't be their first wedding and you won't be their last, but they'll take care of you like you're their very own, and they pride themselves on their hospitality. Wedding photography at The Lakeside is a joy — everything just clicks (pardon the pun).
Catherine Lewis
If you talk to any couple that got married at The Lakeside, or any wedding supplier up and down the country, they'll all tell you about Catherine Lewis. She's 100% sound and takes amazing care of all her couples — her enthusiasm and energy are boundless. I was speaking to somebody about her only the other day and he summed it up perfectly.
"She REALLY cares, and you can't fake that."
Catherine is also a qualified and registered celebrant — so many strings to her bow.
Part of the Fabric of the Town
It has to be noted that The Lakeside and its management and staff are a huge part of the fabric of the town here in Killaloe, hugely supportive of anything happening in the community. I've seen them treat an entire school to a special occasion banquet, and I've lost count of the number of sports events that start and finish at The Lakeside, with lashings of hot drinks and sinfully good brownies. Genuine good eggs and people-people. We're so lucky to have them here.
As a Killaloe wedding photographer, I can also testify that the food is simply out of this world. Thankfully they opened their kitchen for collections during lockdown — our Sunday dinners were the highlight of the week, always perfect.
All in the Details
Wedding photography is all about the little details, and there are lots of little details at The Lakeside Hotel.
The Pontoon
Let's take a walk down to the private pontoon in The Lakeside Hotel. Cracking views of Killaloe, a little slice of paradise. Perfect for wedding photography.
Speeches & The Band
Speeches at The Lakeside always seem so relaxed and fun — just like my wedding photography. OK, I'll shut up now.
The stage is always in position for the wedding band at The Lakeside, which means a quick turnover — the band can start setting up before all the tables are cleared, so there's no lull. Plus the acoustics are fantastic (in a past life I fronted a rock band, so trust me on this one).
In summary — I flippin' love The Lakeside. Not just because the food is fantastic, not just because the staff are the greatest, not just because it's full of beautiful wedding photography locations, and not just because it's officially the only wedding venue I can see out my window here. It's because it's all of these things and so much more.
About the Venue
The Lakeside Hotel, Killaloe, Co. Clare
On the banks of the Shannon at Killaloe Bridge, with a private pontoon, award-winning gardens, and almost 120 years of hosting weddings. One of Stephen's preferred photography venues — and literally the view from his window.
Getting married at The Lakeside? Get in touch — I know this venue better than almost any other.