A Laid-Back, Sun-Drenched Micro Wedding at Coniston Coppermines... Anna & Jack

Coniston Coppermines, Lake District & The Crown Hotel, Wetheral
Photographer: Clare Gelderd Photography – Lake District wedding photographer for adventurous souls




If you’re dreaming of a relaxed Lake District wedding with breathtaking mountain views, golden sunshine, and feel-good vibes, let Anna and Jack’s two-day celebration be your guiding light. Their Coniston Coppermines wedding on Thursday 15th May was the epitome of a wild yet down-to-earth micro wedding in the Lake District – followed by a laughter-filled reception at The Crown Hotel Wetheral on Saturday 17th May. Taking the pressure off the 'expected' traditional wedding day and allowing them to enjoy every second.
This is adventure elopement photography meets full-hearted celebration – and if you're looking for relaxed wedding photography that captures real emotion, you’re in the right place.


Coniston Coppermines Wedding – Wild, Wholesome & Wonderfully You
Anna and Jack chose one of the most soul-stirring wedding venues in the Lake District – the remote, rugged, and utterly romantic Coniston Coppermines. With its dramatic mountain backdrop, this Lake District elopement location gave them the freedom to celebrate their love, their way.
Their intimate outdoor ceremony was earthy, personal, and joyful – stripped of tradition but full of meaning. Just a handful of loved ones, a sweeping landscape, and sunshine pouring over the fells.
It was a very hot Thursday in May!
The couple began their day with a first look ahead of their ceremony and family portraits, whilst enjoying the views and catching up. It was the most relaxed wedding vibe.
Anna was radiant in a sleek lace detailed gown that moved effortlessly with the wind (and the terrain). Jack looked sharp and mountain-ready in tweed and shades – like a man made for elopements. Together, they were naturals and allowed me to create pure magic.
No stiff poses. Just connection, laughter, and adventure. From climbing rocky paths to kissing under a waterfall, their Lake District micro wedding was raw, real, and beautifully unfiltered.
And the weather? Blue skies, full sun, and that once-in-a-year kind of heatwave. The Lakes don’t always serve this up – but when they do, it’s unforgettable.
Wild Ponies, Waterfall Kisses & Hero Lifts – A Photographer’s Dream
This wasn’t just a wedding – it was a series of golden, heart-melting moments. Exactly the kind of story I love to tell as a Lake District wedding photographer.
🧡 A kiss by the falls, within the Coppermines valley – joyful, spontaneous, and very them
🧡 Family Portraits with their parents with mountains as their backdrop
🧡 A private ceremony within the quirky barn at Coppermines Mountain weddings
Every second of this adventurous elopement was packed with connection. It was honest, windswept, and wild in the best way.
Their Saturday celebration also saw;
🧡 Anna giggling nose-to-nose with a white pony, that we crossed paths with, during out adventures from The Crown, Wetheral.
🧡 Jack scooping her up in a fireman’s lift, silhouetted by the sun
🧡 Endless dancing, confetti throwing and joy.




From Elopement to Celebration – The Crown Hotel, Wetheral
By Saturday, it was time to share the joy with a wider crowd. Anna and Jack brought their energy to The Crown Hotel Wetheral, just outside Carlisle, for a relaxed, sunny reception with friends and family.
The tone stayed casual – speeches flowed, glasses clinked, and a few shoes were definitely kicked off. There were lawn wanderings, big hugs, and all the warmth you could hope for.
This two-part format – a private Lake District elopement followed by a relaxed hotel reception – is the perfect combo for couples who want both intimacy and a great party. Allowing the couple to get married at ease without 'all eyes on them' pressure!
A sneak off for 'golden hour' had us cross paths with the cutest pony, and some wonderful soft lighting for Anna and Jack to really be at ease. This time away from the party for Anna and Jack was much appreciated and allowed them to re-set ahead of continuing their celebrations with all of their guests.
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