Why our Jacobean Staircase is the Ultimate Wedding Photo Backdrop
An embrace on the mahogany Jacobean staircase at historic wedding venue Goldsborough Hall. Image by Peter Rollings
Step into 400 years of romance the moment you set foot on our Jacobean staircase - the grand centrepiece of Goldsborough Hall’s historic interior. Crafted from rich mahogany and sweeping gracefully through four stately flights, this staircase isn’t just a way to get from A to B… it’s a storybook in wood and light.
On your wedding day, it becomes a stage, a runway, and a work of art all in one.
The Bridal Descent - Your Cinematic Moment
Gliding down the 17th century staircase at North Yorkshire’s Goldsborough Hall. Image by Laura Calderwood
Whether you’re gliding down with a veil cascading behind you, arm in arm, or sharing a pre-ceremony laugh with your bridesmaids, the staircase makes every step feel like a scene from a period drama. There’s something about walking down centuries-old wood that makes the moment hit a little deeper - like all those who came before you are somehow part of the day.
The wedding party descend. Image by Barnaby Aldrick
Arm in arm. Image by Joel Skingle
A Gallery of Grandeur
Heading down the Jacobean staircase past oil paintings including the Byerley Turk. Image by Barnaby Aldrick
Unlike many historic staircases, the walls here aren’t plain or panelled - they’re adorned with large, beautiful paintings that add warmth and depth to every photograph. They give each image a timeless, painterly quality that feels instantly classic.
Mirror, Mirror on the Landing…
Halfway down each flight, enormous ornate mirrors catch the light - and your reflection. These mirrors are a photographer’s dream, offering a way to frame you twice: once in real life, and again in the soft gleam of glass. Couples often pause here for a quiet kiss, a cheeky glance, or a full wedding party shot with everyone’s faces perfectly framed.
The ornate mirrors on each half landing of the staircase are a photographer’s dream. Image by Peter Rollings
Not Just for the Couple
Bridesmaids in matching dresses on the historic staircase at Goldsborough Hall. Image by Laura Calderwood
The staircase is just as magical for the whole wedding party - from bridesmaids in matching dresses descending in formation to the father-of-the-bride moment that gets everyone misty-eyed. Solo bridal portraits here are particularly striking, with the mahogany glow and ornate surroundings making every dress, bouquet, and smile pop.
Why It Works So Well in Photos
Photographers love the Jacobean staircase because:
Historic interior wedding inspiration by Ginger Snaps Photos
The height and curves allow for creative angles.
Natural light from the windows blends with the Hall’s soft interior glow.
Layered backgrounds - wood, art, mirrors - create depth and interest.
In short: the Jacobean staircase isn’t just a backdrop. It’s a piece of Goldsborough Hall’s soul, and it has a way of turning fleeting wedding moments into timeless works of art.
Descending the historic staircase. Image by Chris Milner
Ornate mirror reflections by Lissa Alexandra
So when you’re planning your big day, make time for those staircase shots - because this isn’t just a staircase… it’s history beneath your feet.
The Staircase in History
The Jacobean staircase in Princess Mary’s era, the 1920s
The historic staircase in the 1960s
The Gallery
The historic staircase makes for fabulous indoor wedding photography ideas - especially if the weather isn’t playing ball! Portraits on the historic mahogany staircase are perfect - especially at Christmas time. Take a look at our Pinterest page for loads more images.
My thanks to Joel Skingle, Barnaby Aldrick, Peter Rollings, Chris Milner, Ben Cummings Ginger Snaps Photography, Lissa Alexandra, & Laura Calderwood
Planning Your Wedding in Yorkshire?
Our 17th-century stately home in the heart of the North Yorkshire countryside offers:
The staircase - great for historic interior wedding inspiration
Exclusive use for your entire day
Award-winning gardens and ceremony spaces
A team who’ll treat your story like it’s the only one in the world
If you’re ready to take the next step to see the Hall for yourselves, book a private tour here with Alison or Amanda. You can also call on 01423 867321 or email weddings@goldsboroughhall.com.