Ruins, Romance, and a Couple Who Couldn’t Stop Giggling
So here’s the story… Molly & Tommy legally tied the knot at Ampthill Registry Office (yay!). But teeny tiny room alert: it was at full capacity, and sadly, there was no space left for me and my trusty camera. I know, right? But am I one to let a little space issue ruin the fun? Absolutely not!
Instead, we packed up the good vibes, a sprinkle of mischief, and set off to one of my favourite ever places to shoot the epic and oh-so-mysterious Houghton House in Houghton Conquest, Bedfordshire. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/houghton-house/
Now, if you’ve followed me for even half a second, you’ll know I have a slight obsession with abandoned buildings, moody ruins, and places that whisper stories from the past. Houghton House? Oh, it ticks every box.
This Grade I-listed ruined mansion is perched like a boss on the Bedfordshire hillside, and trust me, the views are jaw-dropping. We’re talking panoramic countryside magic, golden light, and a vibe that’s straight out of a gothic romance novel (or a gritty period drama, depending on your mood).
A Little History, Because I Can’t Help Myself
Built between 1615 and 1621, this beauty once stood tall and proud with all its ceilings, walls, and fancy interiors. Rumour has it that it inspired the “House Beautiful” in The Pilgrim’s Progress -John Bunyan fans, you’re welcome. Fast forward to 1794, and the owner decided he fancied a bit of DIY… by selling off the actual roof and interiors. Cheers for that.
What’s left is a photographer’s playground. Shadowy corners, enormous stone arches, crumbling columns, and windows to… well, nowhere. I was in my element. Honestly, this place is haunted in the best way, not by ghosts (probably), but by history and charm.
Just the Three of Us – Ruin Goals
When we arrived, cue happy dance, we had the entire place to ourselves, which NEVER happens. Usually, Houghton House is crawling with fellow photographers, history nerds, and the odd drone whizzing overhead. But this time? Ours. All ours.
Molly & Tommy were an absolute dream. Total naturals in front of the lens, up for every idea I threw at them, even when I led them into some slightly spooky, shadowy bits. (To be fair, the place does make the hairs on your neck stand up… but I live for that.)
We made the most of every corner, the grand stone steps, the soaring window openings, the dramatic crumbling columns, and even those tucked-away little nooks that catch the light just so. And when Molly’s heels gave up the ghost (been there, girl), Tommy did what any top-tier husband would do: he gave her a piggyback. Honestly, the cutest moment of the day. 10/10 chivalry.
A Shoot to Remember
From golden hour glow to moody shadows, it was one of those shoots that just sings. They laughed the whole time, totally trusted me, and gave off such a joyful energy, the kind that makes you forget your memory cards are nearly full and your knees are covered in mud.
This was only Part One of their wedding story. Their big celebration with family and friends is coming up in August, and I am BUZZING to be shooting it. Being invited back to capture the full party vibes? That’s the dream. I’m genuinely so honoured to be part of it all, twice!
Love a Good Ruin Too?
If you’re planning a chilled couple shoot, engagement session, or even an elopement and fancy a backdrop that’s equal parts dramatic, romantic and a bit ghostly but in a good way, then Houghton House should be top of your list. And if you want a photographer who gets giddy over cracks in stone, rusty gates, and pockets of light between ancient brickwork – hi, I’m your girl.
Want to see more from Molly & Tommy’s wedding celebrations soon? Keep your eyes peeled, I’ll be sharing Part Two after their August do. Spoiler alert: it’s going to be epic.
