WHAT A DAY! This was my first time shooting a wedding in Leamington Spa and it didn’t disappoint!
Jo & Jake’s favourites, dressed in as colourful outfits as you can imagine for a beautiful and bright summers day, all gathered together at the Royal Pump Rooms for their ceremony which took place in the light and airy Assembly Room. Once the formalities of the day were concluded here it was outside for more colour and flamboyance with the confetti run.
All the guests then made their way through Jephson Gardens towards the stunning Riverside Glasshouse, on the River Leam, and were even treated to a serenading trumpeter who was busking in the park, with a rendition of Here Comes The Bride.
At the Glasshouse, it was drinks outside, enjoying the sunshine and playing a game of Molkky, something which I’d never heard of before, but kept players and spectators entertained whilst they sipped the Prosecco.
The rest of the day was taken up with speeches, dinner and and an appearance from the brilliant Glos Magician, to entertain everyone before the evening kicked off and the dance floor really got going.
Riverside Glasshouse is truly a unique and very cool venue and well worth a visit if you’re looking for something a little bit different for you day.
Suppliers
Ceremony: Royal Pump Rooms
Reception: Riverside Glasshouse
Dress: Bridal Reloved Coventry
Suits: Next
Hair:
Makeup:
Magician: Glos Magician
Band: via Entertainment Nation
Riverside Glasshouse – Indoor botanical Garden Experience
Step into a lush indoor oasis and leave the outside world behind as you wander through our enclosed botanical garden, a sanctuary of green filled with exotic flora and rare plant species. This subtropical glasshouse showcases a rich tapestry of tropical and temperate plants, including striking Banana Leaf, vibrant Pink Powderpuff, and the iconic Bird of Paradise, all carefully curated for year-round display.
Meander along peaceful garden paths as the gentle sound of a cascading waterfall feature enhances the atmosphere, inviting visitors to fully immerse themselves in this living collection of horticultural wonders. Discover tranquil corners and biodiverse habitats, from our serene goldfish pond to the fascinating observation beehive — a celebration of pollinators in action. Sculptural elements, including hand-crafted stone art by garden artist David Wilson, offer artistic harmony amidst the foliage.
Whether you’re a plant enthusiast, garden lover, or simply seeking a moment of peace, our indoor conservatory garden offers a multi-sensory experience that celebrates the beauty and biodiversity of the natural world. Popular in every season, the warm microclimate and abundant greenery make this hidden greenhouse retreat a must-visit destination for all ages.
Royal Leamington Spa, commonly known as Leamington Spa or simply Leamington, is a vibrant town in Warwickshire, England. Famous for its Regency architecture, stunning parks, and historic spa heritage, Leamington has long been a popular destination for visitors seeking relaxation and culture. The town is located near Warwick, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Coventry, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.
A Brief History of Leamington Spa
Originally a small village known as Leamington Priors, it’s name came from the Anglo-Saxon Leman-Tun or Farm on the River Leam and it also mentioned in the Doomsday book in 1086 as Lamintone. The town’s transformation began in the late 18th century when its natural saline springs gained recognition for their therapeutic properties. The Royal Pump Rooms and Baths, built in 1814, became a fashionable retreat, attracting visitors, including Queen Victoria, who granted Leamington its “Royal” prefix in 1838.
The town flourished in the Regency period, with elegant white stuccoed buildings, such as those along The Parade and Lansdowne Crescent, defining its distinctive style. Jephson Gardens, named after Dr. Henry Jephson, a key advocate of the spa’s health benefits, remains one of the town’s most beloved landmarks. Other notable locations include the Town Hall, the Royal Spa Centre, and Victoria Park, which has hosted the Women’s Bowls World Championships.
Things to See and Do in Leamington Spa
Explore Beautiful Parks and Gardens
- Jephson Gardens – A beautifully landscaped park with fountains, exotic plants, and the Glasshouse, home to tropical flora.
- Pump Room Gardens – Once the center of spa activity, these gardens now host festivals, markets, and music events.
- Victoria Park – Ideal for sports enthusiasts, with bowling greens, a skate park, and scenic walking routes along the River Leam.
Discover Regency Architecture and Landmarks
- Royal Pump Rooms – Now a museum, art gallery, and library, showcasing the town’s spa history.
- All Saints’ Church – A magnificent Victorian Gothic church with stunning stained-glass windows.
- The Parade – The town’s main shopping street, lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and cafés.
Enjoy Shopping and Dining
- Regent Court and Royal Priors Shopping Centre – Home to high-street brands and independent stores.
- Warwick Street and Regent Street – A haven for independent boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops.
- Turtle Bay, The Drawing Board, and Hart & Co. – Popular eateries offering a mix of international and local cuisine.
Cultural and Entertainment Venues
- The Loft Theatre – A hub for drama lovers, offering high-quality performances year-round.
- Royal Spa Centre – A venue for comedy, theatre, and live music.
- The Assembly – A former 1920s cinema turned live music venue, hosting big-name acts and club nights.
Nearby Attractions
- Warwick Castle – A short drive away, this medieval fortress offers immersive experiences and stunning grounds. Built by William the Conqueror in 1068 on the site of an original wooden fort on the River Avon.
- Stratford-upon-Avon – The birthplace of William Shakespeare, featuring the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.
- Kenilworth Castle – A historic ruin with ties to Elizabethan England founded after the Norman Conquest of 1066 and significantly added to in the 1120’s
Events and Festivals
Leamington Spa hosts various annual events, including the Leamington Food and Drink Festival, the Art in the Park Festival, and the Peace Festival, attracting visitors from across the country. The town is also home to Leamington FC, known as “The Brakes,” and has a thriving gaming industry, with developers like Ubisoft Leamington and SEGA Hardlight based here.
Conclusion
With its rich history, stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and vibrant cultural scene, Royal Leamington Spa offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing getaway, a shopping spree, or an exploration of Warwickshire’s heritage, this charming town is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Warwickshire itself was once part of Roman Britain, with the Roman road known as Watling Street later serving as the boundary between the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Mercia and the Danelaw. Throughout the Middle Ages and the Early Modern period, the county remained relatively stable, with Coventry emerging as a key hub for the textile trade. In 1564, playwright William Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon, where he spent much of his life, and in 1605, the Gunpowder Plot was devised near Snitterfield. During the Industrial Revolution, the Warwickshire coalfield was heavily mined, while Coventry and the western part of the county became major manufacturing centers. Around the same time, Leamington Spa flourished as a tourist destination. In 1819, the renowned Victorian novelist Mary Ann Evans, known by her pen name George Eliot, was born near Nuneaton.
