Claire & James' Unique & Vibrant Steampunk Wedding at Papplewick Pumping Station, Nottinghamshire

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s anything but ordinary, you’re going to love this one. Claire and James tied the knot in the most delightfully quirky way with a full-on steampunk-themed wedding at the stunning Papplewick Pumping Station in Nottinghamshire. As a relaxed wedding photographer based right here in Nottinghamshire, I’m so excited to share their incredible day with you.


Their celebration was a true blend of imagination, creativity, and romance and the whole day was an absolute pleasure to photograph. From corsets and canes to steam-powered details, this day had it all.


A Wedding Venue with Industrial Elegance: Papplewick Pumping Station


If you’ve never been to Papplewick Pumping Station, let me paint you a picture. This Grade II* listed Victorian pumping station is one of Britain’s finest and most ornate. With polished brass, wrought iron detailing, stained glass, and towering columns, it’s like stepping into a beautifully preserved time machine.

It’s the perfect setting for a steampunk wedding with all the amazing industrial architecture mixed with history and atmosphere. Claire and James made full use of its vintage charm to create an unforgettable celebration.


A Steampunk Dream Come to Life


Claire and James didn’t just throw a wedding, they created an immersive experience for everyone who attended. Their guests embraced the theme with full enthusiasm, arriving in top hats, goggles, brocade waistcoats, bustle skirts, feathers, canes, and all sorts of fabulous steampunk finery. It felt like walking into a theatrical set in the best possible way.


Claire looked phenomenal in a steampunk inspired corseted dress with layered skirts in rich hues of purple and copper. Her look was completed with intricate lace-up boots, bold jewellery, and a floral headpiece that added the perfect flair.


James absolutely looked the part of the steampunk gentleman dressed in a deep red frock coat, brass buttons gleaming, with a intricately designed gold and black waistcoat that matched the theme flawlessly. His top hat and cane tied everything together, and his smile never left his face all day.


The Engine House Ceremony


Their ceremony was held within the stunningly detailed engine house, framed by huge cast-iron columns and the intricate mechanisms of Victorian engineering. The setting was intimate, atmospheric, and steeped in history.


Surrounded by close friends and family, Claire and James exchanged heartfelt vows, and the whole room was filled with love (and a few happy tears). As a wedding photographer in Nottinghamshire, moments like these are why I adore what I do, catching the quiet glances, the big belly laughs, the love that buzzes in the air.


The Wedding Cake (Yes, it’s Discworld themed!)


One of my absolute favourite details of the day was the themed wedding cake, and trust me, you’ve never seen anything like it.

Claire and James are big fans of fantasy and literature, and their cake was a whimsical nod to Terry Pratchett’s Discworld — featuring the iconic Great A’Tuin (the giant turtle carrying the world on its back), with a layer decorate with painted elephants standing atop it. Surreal, detailed, and totally brilliant.


A Reception Filled with Character


The reception was held in a marquee dressed in rich purples and vintage whites, perfectly complementing the steampunk palette. Tables were decorated with old books, cogs, lanterns, and antique keys — a treasure trove of details for guests to enjoy.


The couple gave their guests the freedom to relax, be themselves, and enjoy the quirky atmosphere. That relaxed, inclusive vibe is something I always try to reflect in my photography with no forced poses, just real people, real moments, and real love.


What Made Their Wedding So Special?


So many things. But here are just a few:


  • A fully committed theme: Claire and James brought their vision to life with passion and authenticity. It wasn’t just costumes — it was storytelling.
  • A historic and unusual venue: Papplewick Pumping Station is a photographer’s dream and gives a wedding day real character.
  • A guest list that joined the fun: Everyone leaned into the theme, creating a sense of community and celebration.
  • Details that mattered: From the cake to the table decorations, everything told a story about the couple and their shared loves.


Capturing the Day: Relaxed, Unobtrusive Wedding Photography in Nottinghamshire


As a Nottinghamshire wedding photographer, my job is to blend in with the atmosphere and capture everything as it unfolds naturally especially at unique weddings like this one. Claire and James wanted their photos to be relaxed, fun, and full of personality just like their celebration.

From those atmospheric interior shots at the pumping station to the vibrant colour of their reception, I focused on storytelling with every frame. No stiff poses or awkward setups just the magic of the day, exactly as it was.


Planning a Steampunk or Alternative Wedding in Nottinghamshire?


Claire and James’s wedding is proof that your wedding should be 100% yours. Whether you're planning a traditional celebration or something truly outside the box like a steampunk-themed wedding, I’d love to help you tell your story.


I’m a relaxed and friendly wedding photographer based in Nottinghamshire, and I believe your day should be fun, low-stress, and unforgettable. From creative alternative weddings to elegant country venues, I bring the same passion and care to every couple I photograph.


Let's Make Your Wedding Memories Last Forever


If you’re planning a wedding at Papplewick Pumping Station or looking for a Nottinghamshire wedding photographer who can capture your big day in a natural and creative way, I’d love to hear from you.


Your wedding deserves more than just pretty pictures, it deserves images that feel like you. Whether you’re dancing in a top hat or reading vows in an engine room, I’ll be there to capture every meaningful moment.


Based in Mansfield, I cover weddings across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, South Yorkshire and beyond.


Want to know more? Head over to my Weddings Page or Contact Me to check availability and say hello!

Tall brick chimney tower viewed through red autumn leaves against pale sky.
Close-up view of a green turtle's face on a white plate with blue background and scattered pink petals.
Blue tablecloth decorated table with pink and blue orchids, vintage decor items, and an ornate metallic elephant holder.
Vintage-inspired wooden stand displaying round glass bulbs and steampunk goggles in black and white.
Historic orange brick building with ornate architectural details and cupola tower against cloudy sky surrounded by pine trees.
Vintage laboratory equipment setup with glass beakers, steampunk goggles and metal stands on a wooden table.
A vintage typewriter with a small bouquet of red and white dried flowers wrapped in paper resting on its keys.
A steampunk-inspired top hat in red and gold with gears and feather decorations atop a bright red outfit.
A steampunk enthusiast wearing a black top hat adorned with white feathers and round sunglasses at a formal event.
Hand holding an ornate walking cane with decorative silver skull handle against a purple background.
A steampunk-styled outfit featuring a black top hat and coat in an elegant white tent with purple decor.
A person in steampunk attire wearing a top hat with goggles and patterned vest smiles beneath autumn foliage.
A black and white portrait of someone in vintage attire with a wide-brimmed hat and patterned jacket.
A group dressed in steampunk and Renaissance faire attire gathers outdoors in a wooded area, wearing period costumes.
Two steampunk-styled figures in Victorian outfits with walking canes pose beneath a flowering tree in a garden setting.