Rose + Alex's Wedding

You're invited! Join us for our ceremony and celebrations on Saturday the 4th of July at Thirlmere Recreation Hall.We'd love you to read through everything we've written before you RSVP, so please work your way through the Timings and FAQ's and then let us know at the end!

    Timings

    12:00 Arrive at Venue
    12:30 Ceremony Begins
    13:30 Confetti Throw
    13:45 Lunch & The HaPpeNInG
    14:45 Games & Merriment
    17:30 Ceilidh
    19:30 Fish & Chips
    20:30 Boogie Nights
    21:30 Camp Out

    FAQ's

    Where am I going?

    To Thirlmere Recreation Hall in the Lake District, not too far from Keswick. We’re there all day, for all the different bits, so you don’t need to worry about travelling between the ceremony and the reception.The post code for the hall is CA124TH and it is very close to the junction of A591 and B5322. Look out for a white rectangular building with bunting outside it!What3Words

    What do I wear?

    Anything that you feel comfortable in, whether that’s fancy, funny, or casual.

    Okay… but surely you don’t mean I can actually wear anything?

    We really do! We can’t stress enough that this is not a trick. Examples of acceptable clothes: Running/cycling gear, fancy dress costumes, traditional wedding guest outfits, trackies, shorts, pyjamas, cloaks/capes, extravagant hats, the list goes on… but be comfy, it will probably be hot and there is no air-con! Plan for unexpected lake district downpours. Any colour, any vibe, (the groom will be in shorts and the bride won’t be in white).

    Where do I stay?

    There are plenty of BnBs, hotels, and self-catering options nearby (get in touch if you’re struggling to find something!). However, if you want to stay over for free then we have a bunch of options for you...

    I want to camp in the hall…

    Our venue is also an indoor “camping” barn, so in the evening, once things wind down, we’ll be turning it into a sleeping space. Rose and Alex will be staying here and we’d love for you to stay over with us. We’re hoping to have a fire pit outside (weather permitting), and nice chilled vibes heading into the night. Kids are welcome to stay over too. There are toilets, showers, and there will be some breakfast in the morning for campers. You’ll need to bring something to sleep on and a sleeping bag/some blankets to get comfy. If you don’t have the kit, get in touch and we’ll probably be able to lend you something.

    I want to bring my tent...

    If you’d prefer to camp outdoors there is room outside the hall to pitch up. There are also local campsites but if you camp at the hall it’s free!

    Can I stay in my campervan?

    Several guests who are lucky enough to have campervans are doing this! There are motorhome pitches with hook ups available nearby at both adult only and family friendly sites, let us know and we can help you find a spot!

    I want to stay over but don’t want to sleep on the floor…

    We have several options for you, all for free, at Stybeck Farm which is next door to the venue (sorry, adult only and no dogs allowed for these options):
    - Stay in the Stone Tent: Up to 10 spaces available in a smaller traditional Lakeland camping barn with bunkbeds, mattresses, and pillows provided (you’ll still need blankets/a sleeping bag) complete with log burner, shower, toilet, and gas cooker.
    - Stay in a Shepherds Hut: Want something a bit more private? We have five Shepherd’s Hut style options that are perfect for one or two people (all bedding provided).

    But surely I can’t take one of these free spaces?

    If you’re invited to the wedding (which hopefully you are, otherwise why are you reading this?!) then you are welcome and encouraged to take up any of these free options, just let us know and we’ll put your name down. We’ve already booked and paid for these sleeping spaces so please do use them!

    Is the venue accessible?

    Reasonably... there is an accessible loo and shower, and ramp access, however the car park is gravel which can be tricky for pram and chair wheels. Once you’re inside everything is on one level. If you have specific questions about the space/ seating/ plan for the day/ anything else just get in touch and we can send details.

    Can I bring my dog?

    Yes! Well behaved dogs are welcome at the venue, they must be on leads at all times when outside because of local farms and livestock. Dogs are also welcome to sleep over in our hall.

    What time should I get there?

    The ceremony starts at 12:30, so please ensure you arrive in plenty of time (you’re better being too early than late!).You’ll be able to go into the venue and get seated, or grab a coffee at the Lodge in the Vale Cafe nextdoor.

    Do I need to bring money?

    No. You can rock up penniless! Food and drinks provided for free throughout the day and there won’t be a bar. However, we don’t plan to provide any hot drinks or ice cream, so if you can’t last an afternoon without them then bring your wallet for the cafe nextdoor. Bring anything else you need with you as there’s no nearby shop. (i.e. if you smoke/vape then you need to bring your own stash!)

    Can I drive to the venue?

    There is very limited parking at the hall as we need to reserve space for guests with accessibility needs, those travelling from out of town on the day, as well as our band and caterers.

    Travel Info:

    Don't panic! If you need to drive to the venue for accessibility reasons please let us know and we’ll make sure you have a space.If you are staying at the hall and travelling from out of town we’ll try to prioritise you for parking (please car share where possible!) and please let us know so we can manage numbers.If you are staying in the Stone Tent/ a Shepherd’s Hut at Stybeck Farm next door there is free parking for you on their site.Otherwise, if you live locally, consider cycling, hiking, or getting the bus (the 555 stops right outside the venue!) or a taxi.555 Bus timetable: The Stagecoach 555 is a regular service running between Kendal and Keswick, there is a stop just outside the venue (ask for the Legburthwaite/Back Lane stop).
    If you're travelling from Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside, Grasmere, or Keswick this is a great option. If you're doing a train then a bus, you can pick up the 555 from Lancaster Bus Station, Carnforth Railway Station, and Windermere Bus/Rail Interchange.    If you’re staying nearby at a hotel/BnB please try and remain parked there and get to the venue by taxi, bus, or do a drop off. Taxis are limited in the area so book well ahead.There are some laybys nearby where you can park, but it is summer in the Lakes so these will likely fill up very early.IMPORTANT: please do not abandon your car on a road/ park over driveways/ in permit holder only spots. Thirlmere is small, and our venue is run by local volunteers who have been lovely and helpful. Please treat the area and neighbours respectfully.Priority for car parking at the venue will be given to anyone who is willing to be a designated driver who might do a couple of trips in the morning and evening to pick up groups of guests/drop them off (let us know in your RSVP if this is something you’d be happy to do!).There will be a prize for the most interesting/novel mode of transport to the wedding (so you might want to dust off your roller blades...). Our venue is at the western edge of the Helvellyn Massif so there are some lovely fell walks that end there; maybe park at Glenridding and take Sticks Pass West anyone?If you’re worried about transport, or need a GPX file, get in touch and we’ll help!

    What will I be doing all day?

    Having a blast! There will be a ceremony, food, games (wrestling?? a kids fell race???), drinks, happenings, a ceilidh, more food, and a campfire if it’s dry.

    Hang on, what??

    Don’t worry, participation in sport is optional, spectatorship is encouraged. You might want to wear/bring trainers for you and any kids if you’re feeling adventurous.

    I’ve heard rumours about a HaPpeNInG?

    Yes! Rather than speeches we’re having a half an hour Happening in the afternoon where we will invite guests to participate in any way creative, weird, and wacky way they wish (Rose bloody loves an open mic!). We’re giving up control for this portion of the day, and handing the reigns over to you, our lovely guests! Songs, dances, words, music, poems, magic, skits, and improvisations all welcome and encouraged. If you have an idea and would like a slot please let us know in your RSVP (you don’t need to tell us what you’re planning, but we can help if you have questions about the space etc…!). Our only request is that you keep it clean enough for the kids, and short enough for the grandparents. No restrictions on who can participate, if you’re at the wedding we’d love you to have a slot.

    Wait a minute, what is a HaPpeNInG?

    Erm… you know those scary people who stand in city centres and yell things about hell at you as you walk by?
    It’s basically that but with artists.

    I’m stressed and hungry, what will I eat?

    Veggie Chilli followed by cake, and something from the chippie van in the evening (full menu available on request, veggie/vegan options available). If you have a dietary requirement/allergy please let us know and we’ll try our best to ensure you have something to eat. If you just don’t like the sound of the food available feel free to come with a packed lunch (seriously, we won’t judge!).

    What will I drink?

    There will be some soft and alcoholic drinks available throughout the day, and unlimited Cumbrian water. But if you have a favourite kombucha that you can’t do without, prefer your wine on the fancier side, or you plan on getting a tad tipsy, we encourage you to bring a bottle or two along. (There isn't a bar so you won't be able to buy extra at the venue).

    I'm going to be late!

    We’d love for you to be there for the whole day but understand that you might not be able to. Please consider your travel and parking (see guidance above). If you are arriving late we kindly request that you come after 1:30pm to avoid arriving mid-ceremony. There is still plenty of fun to join in with after that and we’d love to see you when you get there!

    Can I bring my kids?

    Yes, if you’re invited then your kids are also invited.

    Even my illegitimate ones?

    Sure, just RSVP.

    What about my baby?

    Absolutely! (sadly changing facilities at the hall are limited but we’ll try to make sure there’s a table set up in the accessible bathroom!)

    And my illegitimate baby?

    No.

    Do I bring a gift?

    No thanks! We’ve been together for nine years and have everything we need. We’re not big into “stuff” so there’s no registry. Your presence is our present, keep hold of your money.

    When can I leave?

    If you’re parked at the venue you might be blocked in between 7:30 and 8:30pm (roughly) while the Chippie van serves out food. Other than that you’re free to leave when you like, if it’s late please leave quietly for the sake of local residents. If you’re staying over, we all need to be out by midday on Sunday (don’t worry, we’ll wake you up with breakfast!).

    I have a burning question that you have not answered!

    Just get in touch and ask away! :)

    RSVP

    Please RSVP by the 24th of MayNow you've read our FAQ's I bet you can't wait to let us know you're coming! We need to know about the following things in your RSVP message:

    Attendance:
    - I am coming/ we are all coming
    - I am missing out/ don’t really like you guys
    - Some of us can come
    - I can come but will be getting there late

    The Big Sleepover:
    - I would like to join you indoor camping in the main hall
    - I would like to camp outside the hall in my tent
    - I would like a bunk in the Stone Tent next door (adult only)
    - I would like to stay in a private Shepherds Hut next door (adult only)
    - I would like more info about nearby campervan/motorhome pitches
    - I’ve arranged my own accommodation

    The HaPpeNInG
    - I would like a 3 min slot in The HaPpeNInG
    - Dear god no

    Parking:
    - I would like to request a parking space at the venue (please consider alternative transport first)
    - I would be happy to provide some lifts in the morning/evening for other guests

    If you are worried about anything/have any questions please just ask! We want everyone to have a good time and feel like they can join in so please don’t hesitate to drop us a message.