HIDDEN: Explore Canberra's lesser known ceremony spots

Needless to say, we’re hopeless Canberra tragics. We love everything about her - the lakes, the roundabouts, the foodie institutions, the historic institutions, and the way that everyone who lives in her politically-centric public-service-sneaker-wearing realm convinces their weekend interstate visitors that Canberra’s “actually not that bad”.

But the main thing about Canberra that we love, is the optimism that everyone thinks they’re the first one to have an idea. The crowds flock to the top of Mount Ainslie, because they think everyone else will be watching Skyfire at Regatta Point, and we dawdle to get to Aldi on a Wednesday morning because we think we’ll be the only ones interested in buying a whipper snipper. We’re surprised when there’s a line up for free gelato at the grand opening, and we’re gobsmacked that it takes us so long to find a park at Enlighten.

So just in case you’re starting to think that your classic Canberra ceremony venue will fall victim to a similar mindset, we’ve created a list of some lesser known spots around town.

Barrenjoey Peninsula

Situated in the far reaches of the West basin, Barrenjoey Peninsula overlooks Scrivener Dam and Government House. The trees create a number of natural hidey-holes, and the natural walking tracks will lead you to a clearing of your own with a magnificent water view. There’s a carpark close by, and an established path winding around Barrenjoey Drive, but keep your barbie heels in mind for a cross country walk down the aisle.

Palmerville Heritage Park

In the heart of suburban Belco, there’s a gem of history waiting to be enjoyed. Park opposite the Belconnen Soccer Club in Evatt, and meander across the bridge into a stunning avenue of trees hugged by CSIRO land. As one of the earliest settlements in the district (occupied from 1829 until 1959), Palmerville is home to archaeological remains of the Ginninderra Store and Post Office structures, as well as Ginninderra Cottage, and woolshed.

If you loop further into the area, there’s a second bridge covered with a lush canopy of acorn leaves, and an avenue that you’d expect Gilbert Blythe to ride his horse down. It’s a truly enchanting spot to say “I do”. Palmerville has a friendly and active community of dog lovers, so for those of you who prefer cats or a spot that comes with exclusive privacy, keep reading.

Palmerville Heritage Park is a completely flat walk, and an off-leash area surrounded by fence or river boundaries for your favourite fury friend.

Anne of Green Gables fans rejoice - this spot is for you.

Senate Rose Gardens

“Yeah, yeah…Old parliament House”, we hear you say. But we’re talking about the other spot you may not have considered yet. Wander to the other side of the House, and you’ll find the Senate Rose Gardens, and a place fondly known as “The Cricket Pitch”, and a gorgeous towering tree for some strategic Summer shade. To decrease the risk of having a twin wedding, you’re best to register with the National Capital Authority. For a small deposit, you can also have access to the kiosk, perfect for a BYO spread. Booking with the NCA doesn’t stop someone setting up a picnic next to your nuptials, but you’d be pretty unlucky to encounter unwanted visitors here.

The trees at the Senate Rose Garden offer refreshing shade in the warmer months! Photo by Plum Photography

Casuarina Sands @ the Cotter

Can you get more Canberra Summer than Casuarina Sands? This picnic spot is equipped with BBQ’s, public toilets and a great river view, and whether you turn left or right at the fork, you’ll have way too many ceremony spots than you’ll know what to do with.

Put out a few trestle tables, hang some bunting or fairy lights, and get Aunty Janice to whip up her famous potato salad in bulk. You’ll be in for a relaxed ceremony as the water flows by, and then kick back in a camping chair as soon as it’s over. Remember the mozzie spray if you stay into the afternoon.

Hall Pavilion

Not even 5 minutes from the closest suburban traffic light is the historic village of Hall. The Pavilion is located within the Hall Showground (the original home of the Canberra Show) and is nestled amongst gum tress and authentic country bliss. The building is the perfect backdrop for your outdoor ceremony, but also a great wet-weather backup. There are toilets and a kitchen, and trestle tables and chairs are included in the extremely reasonable cost to hire. Don’t feel like cooking? Order some pizzas from Hall’s own 1882, and Bombolinis from Kynefin for dessert.

The Hall Pavillion. Read more about hire rates facilities.

Noah Park, Isaacs Ridge

You’d be forgiven for thinking you were on the set of Twilight as you venture up onto Isaccs Ridge. Park on the unassuming Buntine Cresent and wander up into the pines of Noah Park, where you’ll find a few good clearings for you and your guests to gather. Don’t shy away from a winter wedding in this spot - the morning mist that sits low in the trees has a Southern Highland feel to it, and you’ll soon forget you’re only 10 minutes away from Woden Plaza.

Less than 50m from the street, this part of Isaacs Ridge will have you feeling like it’s closer to 50km.

Your place

And lastly, don’t forget about what you have available to you closer to home. We all know that the house looks its best when you’re expecting guests, so committing to having your ceremony at home could be a win-win when you get all those half-finished projects finished in time. From a petite legals only ceremony, through to a night that ends with half the family in the jacuzzi, the perfect ceremony venue could be right under your nose.