West Tower Wedding Photographer. Venue Guide
A photographer’s guide to weddings at West Tower.
Researching wedding venues or planning your wedding at the stunning West Tower wedding venue in Lancashire? You’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about planning a wedding at this countryside wedding venue.
I’m Wes Simpson, a local Ormskirk wedding photographer and West Tower wedding venue photographer with years of experience capturing timeless love stories at this exclusive venue. Whether you’re exploring venues or searching for the perfect photographer, this guide will help you plan with confidence.
Your wedding day deserves to be remembered beautifully. From choosing the right photographer to understanding why West Tower is such a popular choice, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
Read on to see why The West Tower is a top choice for a wedding venue in Lancashire. I discuss everything from rooms, accommodation, food and photography hotspots to help you plan your special day.
Your Trusted West Tower Wedding Photographer
Hi, I’m Wes Simpson — a recommended, award-winning West Tower wedding photographer based just minutes away in Ormskirk, Lancashire.
Since photographing my first wedding at West Tower back in 2007, I’ve had the honour of capturing countless love stories at this incredible venue. My longstanding relationship with the team and deep familiarity with the venue’s best light, angles, and moments ensures your photos will be nothing short of extraordinary.
You might recognise the iconic sunset image below, taken during a summer wedding here. It’s been featured in County Brides Magazine and proudly used in West Tower’s own advertising — a testament to the timeless moments we create together.
Drawing from my experience, I’ve put together this photographer’s guide to getting married at The West Tower, filled with insights and tips to help you make the most of your day.
If you’re lucky enough to be getting married here, trust that you’re in for a breathtaking day — and a wedding album to match.
Book a call to chat about your wedding photography at West Tower.
About the West Tower Wedding Venue
Nestled in the rolling Lancashire countryside, West Tower is a romantic and exclusive-use wedding venue just outside Liverpool. With its elegant architecture and fairytale charm, the venue feels more like a private castle than a country house — making it a dream setting for couples seeking something truly special.
One of the major benefits of getting married at West Tower is its exclusivity. You and your guests have the entire venue to yourselves — no other weddings, no crossover with strangers, just a beautifully intimate atmosphere for your celebration.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed summer ceremony for 60 or a grand winter reception for 150, West Tower offers a flexible space and stunning surroundings, all year round. From crisp frosty mornings to golden-hour fields, this venue provides endless photo opportunities in every season.
Getting to West Tower
Conveniently located in Aughton, near Ormskirk, the venue is just a short drive from the M58 and M57, with easy access from Liverpool, Southport, Knowsley, and beyond. Guests travelling from Wigan or St Helens can reach the venue in under 30 minutes.
The nearest train stations are Ormskirk and Aughton Park, both with direct connections from Liverpool and Preston. If you’re flying in, Liverpool John Lennon Airport is just 30 minutes away by car.
📍 West Tower Address:
Mill Lane, Aughton, Ormskirk, Lancashire L39 7HJ
📞 Phone: 01695 423328
🌐 Visit the West Tower Website
As a West Tower wedding photographer, I especially appreciate how practical and accessible the venue is — yet it still manages to feel like a hidden gem. Every couple brings their own unique story here, and I love helping them tell it in a way that’s natural, elegant, and true to them.
West Tower – An All-Year-Round Wedding Venue
One of the best things about getting married at the West Tower is that it’s a year-round venue offering both indoor and outdoor ceremony options. Whether you envision a spring garden wedding or a winter celebration by the fire, this venue has the flexibility to suit every season.
Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Options
Couples can choose to say “I do” indoors in the light-filled Ballroom, or outdoors beneath the charming wooden Pagoda, open from April to September. Should the weather change, the venue’s experienced team will seamlessly move your ceremony indoors, ensuring a stress-free day.
See below for examples of The West Tower venue, location, front and back views, together with the best sports for photo opportunities (including the steps and iconic landscape) when getting married at this Lancashire wedding venue.
Civil & Church Ceremony Options
Civil ceremonies are held on-site, but if you’d prefer a religious service, St Michael’s Church is just minutes away. Many couples choose to marry in their local church, then host their reception at West Tower, with the staff coordinating timings, drinks, and canapés for your arrival.
Receptions at West Tower
Guests can relax on the patio and gardens post-ceremony, while the Cellar Bar and elegant lounges provide cozy alternatives. The Ballroom transforms into your dining and evening reception space, offering a romantic setting with panoramic views, neutral décor, and space for up to 145 guests.
A Dream for Wedding Photography
From the perfectly manicured lawns to the charming interior spaces, West Tower is a playground for natural, candid wedding photography — ideal for my relaxed, documentary-style approach.
Useful Links
To help with your planning, here are a few helpful resources:
Are you getting married at the West Tower? I’d love to help capture your story.
Contact me today to chat about your photography needs and see full wedding galleries from this stunning venue.
Bridal Preparations at West Tower
Your wedding story begins long before you walk down the aisle — and the bridal preparations are a beautiful, emotional part of the day that deserves to be captured.
At West Tower, the stunning Dom Perignon Bridal Suite offers the perfect setting for this special time. Located in the main house, it features a four-poster bed, a fireplace, elegant period décor, and scenic views across the landscaped grounds — a luxurious, light-filled space ideal for natural, candid photography.
As your West Tower wedding photographer, I’ll capture the quiet moments, joyful laughter, and heartfelt anticipation as you and your bridal party get ready. These photos are often some of the most treasured — from buttoning dresses to emotional first looks.
Bridal preparations can be easy to overlook in a busy wedding schedule, but they’re a vital part of your story — the final moments of “Miss” before becoming “Mrs.” Let’s preserve those memories forever.
Picture-Perfect Moments in the Bridal Suite
As a West Tower wedding photographer, I absolutely love capturing bridal prep photos — and the iconic Dom Perignon Bridal Suite offers the perfect setting.
From the moment you arrive at noon, the suite becomes your sanctuary for pampering, laughter, and those all-important final touches. With its elegant bay window flooding the room with natural light, it’s a dream for timeless, flattering portraits.
The full-length mirror, soft tones, and classic décor set the scene for fun shots with your bridesmaids and emotional moments like the first look with your father or loved one. And of course, that “back of the dress” photo by the window? A West Tower favourite!
These quiet, candid moments are full of emotion — and they set the tone for the rest of your story.
West Tower Accommodation for You and Your Guests
If you’re planning a West Tower wedding, accommodation is one less thing to worry about — the venue has you and your guests beautifully covered.
In addition to the Dom Perignon Bridal Suite, there are six luxurious bedrooms within the main house, ten stylish rooms in the Coach House, and two charming cottages — one of which is fully adapted for wheelchair users, ensuring accessibility for all.
New for Wedding Guests: The Stables & Cristal Suite
West Tower has expanded its offering with The Stables, providing overnight accommodation for up to 65 guests — so no one has to worry about travelling or booking hotels in Ormskirk or Liverpool.
For early-morning bridal preparations, the brand-new Cristal Suite is a game-changer. This light-filled, contemporary space doubles as a dressing room, complete with salon-style mirrors, elegant seating, and a flat-screen TV — perfect for relaxed, candid photos.
As your West Tower wedding photographer, I love working in the Cristal Suite. The natural light is perfect for capturing emotional pre-wedding moments, laughter with bridesmaids, and behind-the-scenes magic.
Photographer’s Tip:
Staying on-site means no travel stress, no hired cars, and more time to relax and enjoy your day — especially if you’re having your ceremony at the venue. It also gives me more freedom to document the full story of your morning in a relaxed, authentic way.
West Tower Wedding Photography: Capturing the Moments That Matter
While you’re finalising chair covers and cake flavours, don’t overlook one of the most important wedding investments you’ll make — your wedding photographer. After all, your photos are what remain once the day has flown by.
As a West Tower wedding photographer, I focus on storytelling — capturing honest, heartfelt moments without forced poses or interruptions. My approach is documentary-style: natural, timeless, and deeply personal.
Why Choose Wes Simpson Weddings?
Choosing me as your West Tower wedding photographer means you get to enjoy more time with your guests and less time posing for pictures. Every image is a genuine reflection of your day, filled with personality and emotion.
You’ll see the joy, laughter, and love unfold — and relive it all through beautiful photographs of the West Tower manor, captured in all its grandeur.
Top Locations for Photos at West Tower
This Lancashire wedding venue offers countless backdrops for stunning imagery:
- The rear stone steps — perfect for elegant group portraits.
- The main entrance and tower — iconic for those must-have newlywed shots (bonus: include your wedding car).
- The manicured grounds — ideal for a relaxed walk with your partner while I quietly capture those intimate, in-between moments.
If you’re looking for a calm, confident photographer who knows the venue inside out and will capture your day authentically, get in touch — I’d love to tell your story at the West Tower.
Formal Portraits at The West Tower
If you’re dreaming of timeless formal group photos, the rear stone steps of the West Tower provide the perfect stage. It’s a classic setting, often coordinated by the wedding photographer, venue staff, or master of ceremonies.
Alternatively, group photos can be taken from the lawn — your West Tower wedding photographer can use the natural elevation to ensure every smiling face is in frame.
Many couples choose a portrait in front of the tower itself for their wedding album cover or thank-you cards — a beautiful way to remember the day. Visit the Albums & Pricing page for examples.
Book a Call for the latest West Tower wedding photography packages.
Natural & Candid Photography at West Tower
West Tower is a dream for documentary wedding photographers like myself. With its landscaped terrace, rolling lawns, and panoramic countryside views, there are endless chances to capture candid, meaningful moments as the day unfolds.
There’s no need for awkward posing. I focus on natural storytelling, capturing relaxed images of you and your guests enjoying the celebration.
Sunset Sessions
One of my favourite times to photograph couples at West Tower is during sunset — the golden light over the countryside creates an ethereal, romantic glow that’s perfect for portraits. It’s also a lovely private moment before the evening party begins.
Request a free brochure or get in touch to start planning your West Tower wedding photography experience.
Capturing Your West Tower Wedding in Style
When you choose a breathtaking venue like West Tower, you’ll want a professional photographer who knows exactly how to capture its magic — and every unforgettable moment of your day.
At Wes Simpson Weddings, I offer full-day wedding photography collections tailored to your needs and budget. With my exclusive all-day service, you’ll never feel rushed — every smile, glance, and detail will be documented beautifully.
You’ll receive high-resolution digital images, and you can also choose from a selection of handcrafted storybook wedding albums to preserve your memories in print.
Visit the Albums & Pricing page for more details, or request your free West Tower wedding photography brochure.
Let’s create timeless memories together — contact me today and tell me all about your vision.
Wedding Breakfast at The West Tower
Food is such an important part of your wedding celebration — it sets the tone, brings people together, and creates moments you’ll never forget.
At West Tower, your wedding breakfast is served in the elegant Ballroom, offering panoramic views of the Lancashire countryside. Guests can mingle with drinks and canapés in the Cellar Bar, the Leather Lounge, or outside in the gardens, depending on the season.
West Tower Menu and Catering
Whether you’re dreaming of a traditional three-course meal, a relaxed buffet-style evening, or a summer barbecue on the terrace, the West Tower’s in-house catering team has you covered.
The customisable wedding menu features a variety of options like wild mushroom risotto, roast chicken crown, pork belly, and rack of English lamb. There’s something to delight every palate — including indulgent desserts that your guests will rave about!
As a regular West Tower wedding photographer, I can say firsthand that the food here never disappoints. It’s beautifully presented and makes for fantastic candid shots during the meal and speeches.
If food is a priority for your day (as it should be), you’ll be in excellent hands at West Tower.
West Tower Wedding Packages
Planning your dream day at West Tower is made easy with a range of tailored wedding packages. One of the most popular is The Classic Package, starting at £7,495.
This package typically includes:
- Welcome drinks and canapés
- A delicious three-course wedding breakfast
- Half a bottle of wine per guest
- An evening buffet
- A dedicated Master of Ceremonies
- Exclusive use of the luxurious Dom Perignon Bridal Suite
This package is based on 50 daytime and 80 evening guests, but West Tower also offers packages that can be tailored to suit weddings of all sizes and styles.
💡 Tip from a West Tower wedding photographer: Book early, especially for peak season dates, as availability can be limited at this highly sought-after venue.
For the most accurate pricing, seasonal offers, and custom packages, contact The West Tower directly or schedule a venue tour.
Choosing the Perfect Date for Your West Tower Wedding
One of the many reasons I love working at the West Tower is that it’s a magical venue all year round.
- Spring brings fresh blossoms and soft, natural light — perfect for romantic garden photos.
- Summer is ideal for outdoor ceremonies beneath the Pagoda with lawn games and golden hour portraits.
- Autumn showcases rich colours, sunsets, and cozy vibes — an underrated favourite!
- Winter weddings transform the venue into a festive wonderland, with roaring fires and twinkling lights.
Look through wedding galleries from each season to find the look and feel that best matches your vision. Whatever time of year you choose, your wedding will be unforgettable.
Why Choose Wes Simpson as Your West Tower Wedding Photographer?
Choosing Wes Simpson Weddings as your West Tower wedding photographer means you’ll capture every stunning detail of your special day, from the grandeur of the venue to the candid moments shared between loved ones.
Even though I am a recommended photographer at West Tower, I prefer personalised consultations over attending open evenings. This way, I can truly understand your vision for the day and tailor my approach to your needs. Whether we meet in person or via FaceTime, you’ll have the chance to view my custom-made albums and discuss how I can best serve you.
I believe your relationship with your wedding photographer is key to telling the story of your day. I aim not only to meet but exceed your expectations, capturing all the intimate moments — from the joyful smiles to the happy tears — and showing you details you may have missed.
With years of experience at West Tower, I know how to photograph this beautiful venue in all its splendour, whether you’re celebrating in spring, summer, autumn, or winter.
Style of photography
When you choose Wes Simpson Weddings as your West Tower wedding photographer, you can select from a range of styles tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re drawn to traditional posed shots or prefer the candid, natural style I specialise in, I’ll work closely with you to ensure your vision is captured beautifully.
I offer expert guidance to help you choose the style that suits you best, and rest assured, your photos will be timeless treasures you’ll cherish forever.
A West Tower wedding photographer for all seasons
As a leading Lancashire wedding photographer, I have had the pleasure of capturing weddings at West Tower in all seasons and conditions. Here are just a few of my favourites:
West Tower autumn wedding photography
A magical winter wedding at West Tower
Your Journey Starts Here
With a wealth of experience photographing at West Tower, Wes Simpson Weddings captures the natural beauty of your wedding day. As a two-time Wedding Photographer of the Year, my documentary-style photography guarantees timeless memories. Offering personalised service and attention to detail.
My goal is to ensure your West Tower wedding is beautifully documented from start to finish. Explore the Portfolio & Book Your Consultation.
