Warrnambool Wedding Venues – [UPDATED 2024]
Warrnambool really does have something for everyone when it comes to wedding venues.
While spending the past decade as a wedding photographer I’ve been lucky enough to work at most of them so know exactly what makes them tick and why they are so special.
While I’ve broken the venues down into the stages of the day most if not all of the venues can pull double or even triple duty so you should have no problems if you’d like to do everything in one place.
If you’re interested in other parts of South West Victoria, please check out my dedicated Western District wedding venue guide, I also have a guide to Great Ocean Road Venues too.
If you have any questions about any of the venues listed, or don’t quite see the perfect one for you, please get in touch, I’m sure I’ll be able to help!
Contents
Getting Ready Locations
While most couples choose to get ready at home there is something to be said for hiring the perfect space to make sure that everything runs smoothly before your big day. Warrnambool has several really perfect houses which make the whole preparation stage of the day an absolute breeze.
While a quick search on AirBnB will turn up a bunch of good options (look for light airy spaces) I have a couple of personal favourites.
Warrnambool Retreat
Warrnmbool Retreat is a pair of apartments near the station, both impeccably styled inside and out.
Both sleeping four guests but with plenty of space for even the largest of parties to get ready they turn what can be a stressful part of the day into an absolute pleasure.
While I might have a slight preference for Henna’s clean but retro vibe, I’m just as excited to start out the day at Merri, just next door.
New England Lodge
In the very heart of Warrnambool, New England Lodge is another lovely property which suits the wedding day morning really well.
With a spacious lounge downstairs for the gang to hang out in and a light filled area upstairs for all the finishing touches to happen, New England lodge is definitely a winner.
Warrnambool Ceremony Venues
Finding the right space for your wedding ceremony is really important to making the day flow well. It’s also important to find somewhere that you both feel ‘at home’, just because these venues have worked well for other couples it does not mean that they will be a perfect fit for you and your vision.
If you are looking for somewhere unique or a little off kilter give a shout, I’d love to be part of your plans!
Arun Dell On The Hill
Arun Dell on the Hill is a picture perfect homestead tucked away at the western edge of Warrnambool.
Boasting a truly exceptional tree lined drive and formal gardens this property has everything you will need to get all of the peaceful charm of a country wedding without having to venture too far from the CBD.
Lisa and the rest of the team are experienced wedding hosts and will make sure that your day is a truly memorable one.
Blauvelt Park
Blauvelt Park in Terang, about 30 minutes east of Warrnambool is a wonderful venue steeped in history. A former Presbyterian manse it has been lovingly converted into a stunning venue with several acres of manicured grounds.
One huge highlight is the hedge maze which forms the centerpiece of the gardens and provides a lovely spot to disappear to when it’s time for some portraits.
The house itself is really awesome and provides plenty of accommodation if you have guests who would like to stay either before or after your big day, the entrance hall is large enough to host a (small) ceremony if doing things outside isn’t an option.
St Brigid’s in Crossly
St Brigid’s is definitely somewhere to consider if you’re looking to have a church wedding, without needing to have a religious ceremony. This former church is now part of the Irish/Australian cultural precinct and a really stunning venue for ceremonies.
The attached church hall is fully kitted out to host even the largest of wedding receptions too if you’d like everything to take place in one spot.
While there are plenty of reminders about the history of the Irish community’s history dotted around the venue, it’s not overwhelming and would be a great fit for any wedding.
Check out their website for hire options
The Koroit Stables
I’m not sure whether the highlight of the Koroit Stables is the amphitheater like space outside, or the absolutely stunning space inside (click the image to see more).
No matter how you use the space you are sure to love the modern yet rustic charm of this historic building. Definitely high on the list of venues for people who would like to do everything under one roof.
Get in touch with the team at https://www.gabfunctionhire.com.au/ for more information.
Quamby Homestead
Quamby Homestead is a tranquil historic homestead about 20 minutes north of Warrnambool. First built in 1888 the property boasts over three acres of gardens to explore to find just the perfect spot for your ceremony.
Quamby Homestead also has accommodation on site for up to 16 people meaning you can spend the whole day (and night) on site without having to waste a single moment traveling between venues.
Warrnambool Botanic Gardens
Self described as a “…serene and beautiful heritage landscape; a special place that encourages us to celebrate the past, enjoy the present and develop a sustainable future” Warrnambool’s Botanic Gardens are a really lovely venue, especially for smaller weddings.
It is worth noting that the gardens are public spaces, but in my experience people are pretty respectful of weddings and don’t cause much in the way of distraction.
Check out the permit application form for more information.
Your Backyard
One thing the Western District has is a lot of awesome properties. If you are lucky enough to have the use of one there really is nothing better than making use of one for your wedding.
There are plenty of local companies who can arrange marquee hire for your reception and most local caterers are comfortable working without a fully fitted kitchen.
An added bonus of having your wedding in your own back garden is you won’t have too far to travel at the end of the night when you are all danced out.
Reception Venues
Once the formal part of the day is wrapped up it’s time to relax and spend time with your loved ones. Whether you’re hoping for an elegant sit down meal in refined surroundings or hoping to party hard with all of your loved ones, Warrnambool is sure to have just the right place to make your dreams come true.
The Carmichael Room
Part of the Warrnambool bowls club, the Carmichael Rooms provide a modern space capable of hosting any kind of reception.
One of the larger reception spaces in Warrnambool the main room can accommodate over 250 guests without things feeling cramped.
With a fully staffed bar, on site catering and an experienced team the Carmichael Rooms will make any evening run like a dream.
Frolic and Company
As a relatively new venue I’ve not had chance to check out Frolic and Co. yet but I’m excited to do so soon!
From all reports it’s a super chic venue tucked away on Kepler Street with a killer pizza and cocktail menu to choose from.
The Pavilion Cafe/Bar
The Pavilion is a lovely modern cafe/restaurant with stunning views of the breakwater. With polished concrete floors and a spacious timber deck this fully licensed establishment makes an awesome venue for a relaxed reception or even an intimate wedding ceremony.
On top of being a great venue if you host your reception at The Pavilion you are right on the beachfront and it is only a short stroll to make use of all of the stunning coastline at the breakwater.
Check out https://www.pavilion.net.au/ for more details.
Proudfoots By the River
One of Warrnambool’s most elegant venues Proudfoots is a historic boathouse which sits on the banks of the Hopkins River with stunning views over the water.
Being a restaurant first and foremost, Proudfoots is definitely a venue for the foodies amongst us with the kitchen producing some really top notch food.
An added bonus of Proudfoots is the amazing waterfront jetty which is an amazing location for portraits.
Warrnambool Race Course
Warrnambool Racecourse has several reception spaces to choose from, the pick of which has to be the Moloney Room underneath the grandstand.
This long dining room is full of rustic charm and provides a wonderful blank slate for whatever styling you decide to bring to the party.
Upstairs in the grandstand is the Matilda Room which has awesome views out across the course but has made some compromises as a wedding venue to ensure it performs well in it’s primary role as a spot to watch horses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you recommend any local celebrants?
Absolutely, just give me an idea of what kind of person you’d like to be in charge of your ceremony and I’ll fire some names back your way.
We have other vendor questions?
I am more than happy to help. From bands to caterers, I’ve probably worked with someone awesome who would be a great addition to your team. Just get in touch and I’ll be more than happy to make some suggestions.
Do we need a permit to get married in the Botanic Gardens?
In order to minimise the impact on other residents the Council require a permit application for all weddings on their property. The process is relatively straightforward but takes about 6-8 weeks to complete so make sure you start early.
Application form
We’re not getting married in Warrnambool can you suggest a good spot for us?
If you’re planning to get married in the Western District, please check out my venue guide alternatively if you get in touch I’ll be happy to suggest some places that might be a perfect match for your plans.
What should we expect to pay for a wedding venue in Warrnambool?
There really is a massive range in pricing depending on what you would like to be included in your package. There are definitely some of the venues on the list that start at under $1,000 once you start adding catering and drinks that figure might be a fair bit higher.
How far is Warrnambool from Melbourne?
While it might look a long way, Warrnambool is only a three hour drive from Melbourne (and it’s super easy). Alternatively V-Line trains run several times a day for those who would prefer to take public transport.
Get in Touch!
I’d love to be involved in your Warrnambool wedding, with years of experience I’ll help make sure you look great and your day is one to remember!
Recent Warrnambool weddings
- Warrnambool Botanic Gardens Wedding – Jessica and DanielA truly stunning wedding at Warrnambool Botanic gardens and some of Warrnambool’s finest spots!
- Keayang Maar Engagement Party – Indi and DanA relaxed and intimate engagement party at one of the western district’s best vineyards.
- Warrnambool Racecourse Wedding – Jess and BlakeJess and Blake’s stunning country wedding featuring Quamby homestead and Warrnambool Racecourse.
- Koroit Stables Wedding – Hayley and MitchBetween Warrnambool and Koroit this stunning wedding really had it all.
- Koroit Wedding – Hannah and JackI knew that Hannah and Jack’s day would be a fun one and their wedding at St Brigid’s church did not disappoint.
- Arun Dell on the Hill Wedding – Melissa and ShiwaBlending the best bits of both western and Sri Lankan weddings into one perfect day in Warrnambool.
- Brucknell Wedding – Briarna and CraigBriarna and Craig’s amazing wedding with a ceremony in Brucknell and reception in Warrnambool.
- Terang Wedding – Casey and KyleWarrnambool Natives Casey and Kyle had a fun filled wedding at Blauvelt Park in Terang.
- Kirkstall Engagement Session – Casey and KyleA lovely engagement session in Kirkstall near Warrnambool