When Charlotte and Matthew Harrison exchanged their vows in the magnificent Picture Gallery of Temple Newsam House, they became part of a romance that spanned more than a century.
Their historic wedding marked the first marriage ceremony held in the strikingly beautiful gallery in over 100 years. The Picture Gallery, initially designed centuries ago as an elegant ‘indoor garden’ for the home’s aristocratic inhabitants, offered a stunning floral setting perfectly suited for Charlotte and Matthew’s special day. The newlyweds, who first met five years ago, were instantly charmed by the gallery’s vibrant beauty and chose it as their wedding venue shortly after it became available for ceremonies.
Charlotte Harrison said: “We spend a lot of our time at Temple Newsam both together and with friends and when we heard they did weddings, we thought we’d check it out before making a decision.
“We love visiting stately homes and historic sites and when we saw the picture gallery we immediately fell in love and immediately knew it was just us. The room is absolutely stunning and steeped in history and was the perfect backdrop for our wedding.”
She added: “The wedding day was everything I have ever dreamed of and more. All of our guests commented on what a beautiful venue it was and how much they enjoyed the wedding. It was genuinely a dream come true.”
Charlotte and Matthew Harrison celebrated their wedding surrounded by family, friends, and their 20-month-old son, Blake. The couple first connected online during the Covid pandemic and shared their memorable first date at The Red Kite in Wakefield, highlighted by Matthew’s amusing parking difficulties and a sweet treat of takeaway donuts.
Nearly five years later, Matthew, 33, proposed to Charlotte on Christmas Eve at their home in Apperley Bridge, presenting a custom-designed ring alongside a specially crafted scratch card to mark the occasion. Charlotte and Matthew Harrison’s romantic journey has now become an enduring part of Leeds history, as they made record books by becoming the first couple to marry in the Picture Gallery at the 500-year-old Temple Newsam House since it became publicly owned in 1922.
Matthew Harrison said: “We’re honoured to be the first couple to be married there in over a century. We didn’t realise what a historic moment it was not just for us, but for Temple Newsam too and to be a part of that just made our day even more special. Temple Newsam has always held a fond place in our lives but the fact we can now be a part of its history is truly humbling.”
Charlotte Harrison added: “It’s our family Christmas tradition to get scratch cards so I didn’t think anything of it- it looked super realistic- and then it had three ring symbols and Matt got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. On a personal note, as a bit of a history nerd I’m genuinely thrilled that I can be a part of the history of the house.”
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“We’re absolutely thrilled to have played our part in this special and historic occasion and to have made Charlotte and Matthew’s special day so memorable. Our museums and galleries really are a beautiful setting for a wedding and it’s wonderful to see couples tying the knot there and becoming part of the story of these amazing sites.”
Temple Newsam House, a Grade I listed mansion, stands as one of Britain’s most remarkable historical properties, often compared to the prestigious Hampton Court. For much of its history, it served as a cherished family home. Since coming under the ownership of Leeds City Council in 1922, Temple Newsam has developed an outstanding decorative arts collection, now regarded as one of the finest in the United Kingdom.
Our venues are perfect for both intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations, providing breathtaking settings for unforgettable wedding photography. Outdoor weddings at Kirkstall Abbey offer a dramatic and romantic atmosphere, nestled within parkland along the River Aire. For a truly memorable day, choose the majestic Temple Newsam House — a stunning country mansion that makes every wedding feel extraordinary.
