The Top 12 Wedding Venues in Bathurst & the Central West (Photographer Reviewed)

If you’re planning a wedding in Bathurst or across the Central West, you’re about to be spoilt for choice. This region has everything: rolling hills, golden sunsets, historic estates, vineyards, rustic woolsheds, lush gardens, forest elopement spots, architectural backdrops… everything a couple could dream of.

As a Bathurst wedding photographer, I’ve shot weddings all over the region — and every single one of these venues offers something incredibly unique. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement, a big party, a modern celebration, or a romantic countryside wedding, you’ll find your dream venue here.

Let’s dive into the top 12 venues I personally recommend — complete with insider notes, lighting tips, and what each location photographs like.

1. BoxGrove — Bathurst, NSW

Style: Modern, architectural, elegant countrysideBest For: Dreamy sunsets, high-end weddings, couples wanting a modern-but-romantic look

BoxGrove is easily one of the most photogenic wedding venues in Bathurst. With sweeping views, architecturally stunning buildings, stone walls, vineyards, gardens, and glass-walled reception spaces, it blends luxury with a relaxed countryside feel.

Photographer Notes:

• Golden hour here is INCREDIBLE — soft, glowing, and cinematic.

• The stone backdrops + modern architecture = editorial vibes.

• The ceremony lawn overlooks the valley, giving you epic wide-angle shots.

• Bridal portraits around the vineyards are perfection.

Why I Recommend It:

This venue has enough variety for your entire album to look like multiple locations — all in one place.

2. Mayfield Garden — Oberon (Near Bathurst)

Style: Dramatic, luxury, lush, European gardenBest For: Garden lovers, European aesthetic, romantic fairytale vibes

Mayfield is one of the largest privately-owned gardens in the Southern Hemisphere — and honestly, it FEELS like stepping into Europe.

Photographer Notes:

• Water features + stone bridges = chef’s kiss.

• Stunning in autumn and spring.

• So many hidden corners perfect for couple portraits.

• Works beautifully for larger weddings AND intimate elopements.

Why I Recommend It:

Every angle looks like a movie. You can’t take a bad photo here.

3. Abercrombie House — Bathurst

Style: Historic, moody, gothic, timelessBest For: Editorial weddings, couples who love architecture and history

This venue is pure magic. Grand, gothic, dramatic — and unbelievably photogenic.

Photographer Notes:

• The stone architecture photographs like a European manor.

• Amazing for black-and-white editorial shots.

• Indoor ceremony options are stunning.

• Works beautifully with flash photography at night.

Why I Recommend It:

It feels like stepping into a period film — perfect for dramatic, elegant weddings.

4. Clifton Woolshed — Bathurst, NSW

Style: Rustic, warm, intimate, earthyBest For: Relaxed couples who want a country wedding with heart

Clifton Woolshed has become a favourite for good reason. It’s warm, welcoming, and full of charm.

Photographer Notes:

• The ceremony lawn glows at golden hour.

• The woolshed is beautiful with fairy lights and rustic textures.

• There’s plenty of space for candid moments + dance floor flash photos.

• Perfect for couples who want a laid-back but BEAUTIFUL space.

Why I Recommend It:

It’s intimate without being small. Warm, natural, and feels like home.

5. Winburndale Estate — Bathurst Region

Style: Countryside, winery vibes, open landscapesBest For: Relaxed weddings with stunning natural scenery

This property offers beautiful views, open paddocks, vineyards, and a light-filled atmosphere.

Photographer Notes:

• Think: long grass, rolling hills, natural beauty.

• Sunsets hit the valley perfectly.

• A great venue for movement-based, natural images.

Why I Recommend It:

If you love the “golden field” aesthetic — this venue nails it.

6. Stoneville Reception Venue — Central West NSW

Style: Traditional, elegant, greenery-forwardBest For: Couples wanting classic photos and timeless venues

Stoneville is known for its gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

Photographer Notes:

• Great for bridal party photos.

• Lots of greenery = soft, romantic lighting.

• Very traditional ceremony spaces.

Why I Recommend It:

Beautiful, simple, timeless. Perfect for family-focused weddings.

7. Sunny Corner State Forest (Elopement Venue)

Style: Forest, moody, cinematicBest For: Elopements + adventurous couples

Not technically a venue — but an iconic location for elopements.

Photographer Notes:

• Trees create beautiful directional light.

• Works for couples who want intimate vows.

• Quiet, private, magical.

Why I Recommend It:

For couples who want something different — not a traditional venue.

8. Bathurst Courthouse (Elopements)

Style: Historic, minimal, cleanBest For: Small ceremonies + registry-style weddings

Beautiful sandstone architecture makes it a surprisingly stunning location.

Photographer Notes:

• Arched doorways = aesthetic portraits

• Steps + columns = editorial

• Perfect for “just us” weddings

Why I Recommend It:

Simple, chic, and very underrated.

9. Bathurst Showground / Pavilion Spaces

Style: Customisable, versatileBest For: DIY weddings, large guest lists

These spaces are GREAT if you want a blank canvas.

Photographer Notes:

• Works well with fairy lights and florals

• Can be styled rustic, modern, or romantic

• Great for large receptions

Why I Recommend It:

Affordable + completely customisable.

10. Local Farms & Private Properties (Across Central West NSW)

Style: Natural, authentic, warmBest For: Laid-back, emotional, family-oriented weddings

Some of the BEST weddings I’ve photographed have been on private land.

Photographer Notes:

• Zero crowds

• Sunset is always perfect

• Feels intimate and meaningful

• Works perfectly with your dogs, horses, trucks, or utes

• Allows for sparkler exits & party photos without restrictions

Why I Recommend It:

Because nothing beats a wedding on your own land — or a family property.

H2: 11. Orange Wineries (Near Bathurst)

Just a short drive from Bathurst, Orange offers:

• Vineyards

• Modern cellar doors

• Tuscan-style backdrops

• Rolling hills

Photographer Notes:

• Dreamy sunset shots

• Perfect for couples wanting destination vibes close to home

Why I Recommend It:

Orange venues photograph like European destinations.

12. The Tower Venue — Cowra

Style: Modern rustic, incredibly photogenicBest For: Couples who want a stylish venue with natural charm

Not Bathurst, but many Bathurst couples choose it.

Photographer Notes:

• Architectural timber + soft light

• Amazing for golden hour

• Perfect for editorial-style photos

Why I Recommend It:

It’s one of the most aesthetic venues in the Central West.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Bathurst Wedding Venue

Your venue sets the entire mood of your day.

The right venue will:✔ Feel like “you”✔ Photograph beautifully✔ Support your timeline✔ Create real, emotional moments✔ Give you variety for portraits

My biggest suggestion?

Choose a venue based on how you want your wedding photos to FEEL — not just look.

If you want a photographer who:

• keeps it fun

• keeps it real

• guides you naturally

• blends documentary moments with light posing

• feels like your third-wheel hype girl

— I’d love to capture your day.

Bookings are open for 2025–2026.