Hidden River Barn

Weekend Accommodation Onsite

Hidden River Restaurant

The Night Before

The Big Day

The Morning After

Our Wedding

So... how did we get here hey?

We first met when we were wee little 20-year-olds at Bangor University. It feels like a lifetime ago now, but from the very beginning, it was clear we shared a spark — a love for wildlife, fun and laughter, and all the little adventures life could throw at us. Alongside studying for our zoology degrees, we were both heavily involved in extra-curricular activities at Bangor University… we were limited to equestrian, dance, basketball and an unhealthy ability to go out and drink seen as there wasn’t much else to do in Bangor! Lucy was the horse-riding captain, and Jack, meanwhile, was the basketball captain. Between early-morning training sessions and all-nighter study marathons in the library, our relationship blossomed. Our studies at Bangor gave us the foundation we needed, but the real journey started when we took our first steps together beyond the Bangor gates. For the next ten years,&nbsp;we built a life full of travel, laughter and unforgettable experiences. Although distance often physically separated us whilst we both pursued our Masters in different cities, each new adventure made us stronger and reminded us how perfectly we fit together. Of course, our lives were not always in sync, Lucy dedicated herself to the Royal Veterinary College in London, whilst Jack headed off to Aberdeen to chase his PhD in ecology. 563 miles separated us and whilst it wasn’t easy being apart for those years, it taught us just how much we meant to each other. We have always supported each other to pursue the goals and dreams we have set independently and together, and that is something we cherish about one another. Throughout all our years together we've supported and been there for each other around the world, from holidays on the white sands of the Caribbean, to field research in the wilds of Africa and the rainforests of South America. When the time came 2 years ago, moving in together permanently in Aberdeen felt like a celebration — our first real home, just the two of us (and of course, Kyra, our ever-faithful and slightly disobedient four-legged friend). Now, after almost 11 years of love and laughter, we can’t wait to say “I do.” Thanks for being part of our story — it wouldn’t be the same without you. There's no better way to remind you of our journey together than some bad photos right?!

Our Story

Q & A

Directions to Hidden River

Please find directions to the site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hiddenrivercabins.co.uk/location/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a> The post code is CA6 5TU but will likely take you to a nearby farm! The best way to find the venue is to use the What 3 Words Location: ///grazed.resorting.washed Or we have dropped a pin on Google maps to the entrance!<a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/krRUApwYWjGpPTgW6?g_st=iw" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://maps.app.goo.gl/krRUApwYWjGpPTgW6?g_st=iw</a> For those coming from further afield, the nearest airport is Glasgow (1 hour), Edinburgh (2 hours) or Manchester (2.5 hours).

Transport

As you can probably already tell, the venue is in quite a rural location! For those not staying on site, the venue always recommend booking transport before you arrive. They have recommended the following local taxi companies:Potsy’s Cars –&nbsp;<a href="http://07833176850/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">07833176850</a>Central Cabs Gretna –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=central+cabs+gretna&amp;sca_esv=559959589&amp;sxsrf=AB5stBiHFt3Xx43U3GjwN_fnG5MEE1c7bg%3A1692965290294&amp;source=hp&amp;ei=qpnoZOXhDtmDhbIP6vay0Ak&amp;iflsig=AD69kcEAAAAAZOinugq30oC6sRAAzeLFPBst7s3VqahH&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjl3veV4_eAAxXZQUEAHWq7DJoQ4dUDCAo&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=central+cabs+gretna&amp;gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IhNjZW50cmFsIGNhYnMgZ3JldG5hMgsQLhiABBjHARivATIIEAAYigUYhgNIxR5QAFjXHXADeACQAQKYAbsCoAGdHaoBCDAuMTguNC4xuAEDyAEA-AEBwgIHECMYigUYJ8ICCBAAGIAEGLEDwgILEAAYgAQYsQMYgwHCAhEQLhiABBixAxiDARjHARjRA8ICCxAAGIoFGLEDGIMBwgILEC4YgAQYsQMYgwHCAggQLhiABBixA8ICCxAuGIMBGLEDGIAEwgILEC4YigUYsQMYgwHCAgUQABiABMICDhAAGIAEGLEDGIMBGMkDwgIIEAAYigUYkgPCAgUQLhiABMICDRAAGIAEGLEDGIMBGArCAgoQLhiABBixAxgKwgIHEAAYgAQYCsICEBAAGIAEGLEDGIMBGMkDGArCAgwQABiABBgKGEYY-QHCAg4QLhiABBixAxjHARivAcICERAuGIAEGLEDGIMBGMcBGK8BwgIIEC4YsQMYgATCAgsQLhiABBjHARjRA8ICDRAuGA0YrwEYxwEYgATCAgcQABgNGIAEwgILEC4YrwEYxwEYgATCAgYQABgWGB4&amp;sclient=gws-wiz#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">07717 363437</a>Graemes Taxis Gretna&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=graemes+gretna+taxis&amp;sxsrf=AB5stBiyMOQhGjremJeVnp_KTmGwRwr11w%3A1691589172121&amp;source=hp&amp;ei=NJrTZJOkBZKhhbIP_NG42Ac&amp;iflsig=AD69kcEAAAAAZNOoRNZrpZjDsrTcRJ5DtqUpUGzUaPH2&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiTjtXd3M-AAxWSUEEAHfwoDnsQ4dUDCAo&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=graemes+gretna+taxis&amp;gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IhRncmFlbWVzIGdyZXRuYSB0YXhpczIGEAAYFhgeMgYQABgWGB5I5fsCUMDFAljf-gJwA3gAkAEAmAHfAaAB-xiqAQYwLjE3LjO4AQPIAQD4AQGoAgrCAgcQIxjqAhgnwgILEAAYgAQYsQMYgwHCAhEQLhiABBixAxiDARjHARjRA8ICBRAAGIAEwgILEC4YgAQYsQMYgwHCAgsQLhiDARixAxiKBcICDhAuGIAEGLEDGMcBGNEDwgIFEC4YgATCAggQLhiABBixA8ICCxAuGIAEGMcBGK8BwgILEC4YgAQYxwEY0QPCAgsQLhiDARixAxiABMICERAuGIAEGLEDGIMBGMcBGK8BwgIIEC4YsQMYgATCAggQABiABBixA8ICERAuGK8BGMcBGIAEGJgFGJsFwgIHEC4YgAQYCsICDRAuGIAEGMcBGK8BGArCAgcQABiABBgKwgIIEAAYFhgeGArCAggQABiKBRiGA8ICBxAuGA0YgATCAgcQABgNGIAEwgIJEC4YDRiABBgK&amp;sclient=gws-wiz#" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">07900 254093</a>Goandang –&nbsp;<a href="http://07460592932/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">07460592932</a>Taxi Man Chris&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a href="http://61.179.107.106/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">07554665552</a>Metro Taxi&nbsp;–&nbsp;<a href="http://01228%20522088/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">01228 522088</a> We have a driver on the day who is there to help those who need it around the site however this should not be relied upon for any journeys further unless arranged in advance with Lucy &amp; Jack.

Travel

Hidden River

Nestled near Longtown in the peaceful northern fringes of the Lake District, Hidden River Barn offers a magical setting for Lucy &amp; Jack's wedding — complete with ancient woodland, riverside walks, and a warm, rustic charm.We have chosen a venue that we love and we feel represents our personalities and relationship well. We hope you can appreciate how magical Hidden River is once you get there!

Onsite Accommodation 

We have booked all available onsite accommodation for the wedding party weekend crew and immediate family. If you have been allocated a room on site, you will have received a message about this separately. If you are not on site, we can only apologise, we really would love to have everyone there! There is additional development ongoing at the venue and they are hoping to have this new accommodation open well before our wedding. Therefore, we recommend booking accommodation with FREE CANCELLATION so that should a room become available onsite, we can let you know and you can switch if preferred.

We have also booked Brackenhill Tower and the Jacobean Cottage which are adjacent to the Hidden River Courtyard properties.Hidden River: check in is from 4pm and check out is 10.30am. Please find more specifics and amenities here <a href="https://www.hiddenrivercabins.co.uk/checkininfo/#amenities-sec" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.hiddenrivercabins.co.uk/checkininfo/#amenities-sec</a>Brackenhill Tower &amp; Jacobean Cottage: check in from 4pm and check out by 10am. Please direct questions to Lucy and Jack if you need anything specific. All on site properties have access to hot tubs... don't forget your swim gear!

Alternative Accommodation

If you aren't in the onsite accommodation and are looking for options nearby, the nearest towns are:🌿 Around Longtown (approx 10 minutes away)🏰 Carlisle (approx. 25 minutes to the centre)💍 Gretna Green (approx. 15 minutes away) Please don't forget to book a taxi in advance (details on travel page). 🛌 Hotel Chain Options Premier Inn Carlisle (M6 Jct 44) – 17 minutes awayTravelodge Carlisle Todhills – 17 minutes awayPremier Inn Carlisle Central – 25 minutes away

The Venue & Accommodation

Hanny

Lauren

Molly

Remi

David 

Jayne

Tatenda

Charlie

Simon

Julian

Calum

Will

Kyra

Couver

Wedding Party

Hidden River is just a short drive from both Carlisle and Gretna Green, the area is brimming with history, culture, and cosy corners to discover. Whether you’re staying for the wedding weekend or extending your visit, here’s a guide to help you explore the best of the area, from romantic history to cosy pubs and outdoor adventures. 🌳 Hidden River Barn &amp; LongtownLongtownA charming border town of around 3,000 people, Longtown is set on the River Esk just south of the Scottish border. The town offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with independent shops and traditional pubs. Things to Do Nearby:Hidden River Estate: Woodland walks, riverside paths, wildlife spotting, and estate fishing.Arthuret Church (St Michael and All Angels): A historic church just southwest of Longtown, perfect for a peaceful visit.River Esk Walks: Small footpaths along the riverbank — scenic and tranquil.<a href="https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/cumbria/river-lyne-hidden-river" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/england/cumbria/river-lyne-hidden-river</a>Fishing &amp; Leisure: Estate-side river access for fishing enthusiasts. Please ask at reception if you would like to hire fishing equipment. 🌿 Outdoor AdventuresHadrian’s Wall: Step back into Roman times with accessible walks near Birdoswald and beyond.Northern Lakes: Bassenthwaite Lake and Ullswater are within easy reach for hiking, picnicking, or boating.

🏰 Carlisle (Approx. 25 Minutes South)This historic border city offers a lively mix of heritage and modern amenities:Carlisle Castle: A medieval fortress with Roman origins — climb the towers and explore the dungeons.Carlisle Cathedral: A beautiful example of Gothic architecture with a star-patterned ceiling.Tullie House Museum &amp; Art Gallery: Roman artefacts, local history, and contemporary exhibitions. Shops &amp; Cafés: Head to the Cathedral Quarter for independent shops, hidden courtyards, and a range of dining options like:The Thin White Duke: Stylish bar and restaurant with modern dishes.Foxes Café Lounge: Laid-back spot for brunch and cake.The Penny Blue: A lively bar with craft beers and small plates. 💕 Gretna Green (Approx. 15 Minutes North)A world-famous wedding destination brimming with romance and history:Famous Blacksmith’s Shop &amp; Museum: Discover the legend of anvil weddings and explore the museum.Courtship Maze: A heart-shaped maze symbolising the journey of love — perfect for photos.Old Toll Bar Wedding House Museum: Stories of border marriages housed in a former toll chapel.Sculpture Garden &amp; Story Exhibition: Romantic sculptures and tales of Gretna’s elopement heritage.Lochmaben Stone &amp; Sark Battlefield Walks: Historic sites and peaceful riverside trails.Devil’s Porridge Museum (Eastriggs): Learn about WWI munitions history just a short drive away.Gretna Gateway Outlet Village: Shops and bargains for a leisurely afternoon. Dining &amp; Drink:Blacksmith’s Food Hall: Casual Scottish dishes and whisky tasting.Smiths at Gretna Green: A modern restaurant and bar, plus spa facilities for a pampered treat. 🍻 Pubs &amp; Restaurants Further AfieldThe Plough Inn (Wreay): Country pub with Sunday roasts and real ales.The Graham Arms (Longtown): Traditional local pub with friendly atmosphere. 🛍 Local Shops &amp; EssentialsCarlisle Market Hall: Fresh produce, crafts, and local gifts.Longtown Co-op: Handy for essentials.Gretna Green Shops: Scottish crafts and wedding keepsakes. Hidden River Barn is the perfect base for a memorable wedding celebration and a wonderful few days exploring the best of Cumbria and the Scottish border. From woodland walks and riverside strolls to medieval castles and romantic Gretna Green, you will find plenty to see, do, and savour. Whether you fancy a quiet pint by the fire, a scenic adventure, or a slice of history, there’s something here for everyone.

Things to Do Locally 

Registry & Gifting

The biggest gift we could ask for is your presence and good vibes on our big day! All we really need is time with those we love and we cannot wait to celebrate with you all! However if you would like to, a contribution to our honeymoon or a gift would be greatly appreciated and there will be a space for cards and the like at the venue on the day. We have been asked for where you can help us on our Sri Lankan honeymoon digitally. Should you be thinking the same, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts in advance and our details are below.x Lucy WildbloodSort code 23-01-20Account number 32924857

Lucy & Jack

Lucy & Jack

Wedding Party