Leinster whispers of many pasts and ancient histories. Sitting alongside the Ango-Irish heritage of the Pale are the Gaelic lands of the midlands, where famous chieftains, monks and scholars once lived. Choose a reception in one of Dublin's Georgian classical hotels or a celebratory gathering amidst the rolling green hills of Wicklow. In Leinster you have the choice of some of Ireland's finest country houses, hotels and castles.

To start you on your way, WeddingsOnline.ie has picked the most noteworthy.

Mount Juliet, Co. Kilkenny (Tel. 056-73000)

Surrounded in woodlands, meadows and rivers, the five star Mount Juliet estate encapsulates all that is old-style country living. Best known as being a paradise for golfers and horse lovers, this hotel is renowned for its fine food and splendid 18th century interiors. Your wedding party can choose between staying in the graciousness of the "Big House" and the courtyard rooms outside. You could even rent one of the pretty Rose Garden Lodges, which are also on the estate. Just watch out for the price tag. Mount Juliet is not an inexpensive option for weddings.

The Shelbourne Hotel, Co. Dublin (Tel. 01-676-6471)

First opened in 1824 as a small city centre hotel, The Shelbourne has grown to become one of Dublin's best-loved places to come and watch the world go by. It has also always been a popular spot for weddings. With its Edwardian tea-rooms, old-style marble fireplaces and fine stuccoed ceilings, The Shelbourne Hotel is a lovely piece of Dublin - past and present. Enjoy the ambience and atmosphere, and when it's all over just relax into one of the sumptuous upstairs suites.

The Royal Hospital, Co. Dublin (Tel. 01-612-9900)

Little did they think that when the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham was built as a home for retired soldiers in 1680 it would ever mature into one of the city's most exclusive wedding reception venues. But that is exactly what it has become. Since the Great Hall and dining room became available for wedding parties of up to 380 people, there has been a great response from brides-to-be with notions of having a Georgian Dublin-style affair. With its open courtyards and interiors of carved oak, it is not hard to imagine why it is now one of the most sought after wedding venues.

Darver Castle, Co. Louth (Tel. 1-561-533-0505 or 1-800-770-8049)

If you feel ambitious and brave enough to rent your own castle and call in the caterers, Darver Castle would be a wonderful place to consider. Sitting majestically atop landscaped lawns and walled gardens and overlooking the sleepy Louth countryside, this property would be an awesome place to realise your own dream. Transformed into two luxury wings, and including nine stately bedrooms, you can rent the whole property for either a day or a week.

Tinakilly House, Co. Wicklow (Tel. 0404-69274)

"Tinakilly is a beacon to restore hope to the traveler's heart," a journalist recently wrote about the house, a romantic hideaway in the verdant Wicklow countryside. And you certainly won't be disappointed with the level of service and care you will get if you choose Tinakilly House for your wedding reception. Not only does it have an intrinsic sense of sophistication, it is also listed as one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The restaurant is renowned in its own right for its cuisine and excellent choice of wines.

Kinnity Castle, Co. Offaly (Tel. 0509-37318)

With its Louis XV drawing room, cellar bars, and Georgian dining room, Kinnity Castle is an impressively eclectic mix of eccentric styles and eras. Once the family home of medieval chieftains, the castle was converted in the last century to incorporate a hotel and banqueting hall. Although the facilities on the grounds (which include tennis, fishing and a health and fitness centre) are excellent, the downside to this venue is that the countryside and towns surrounding are not very inspiring.

Moyglare Manor, Co. Kildare (Tel. 01-628 6351)

A half-mile long, tree-lined avenue leads to Moyglare Manor, an elegant Georgian house standing amid fields dotted with cows and sheep. With its antique furnishings, four-poster beds and rich velvets, there are many reasons to recommend this informal setting for your wedding. With two conservatories, a vast dining room and ample reception rooms, space certainly won't be an obstacle. This is a very special location to consider for your big day.