As capital cities go, London is pretty special. It’s diverse, unique, stylish and quirky and London wedding venues are equally as brilliant. Whether you’re looking for an impressive central townhouse, a hip hotel, a gritty urban space or a quieter location on the fringes of the city, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Here’s my pick of ten brilliant, and decidedly different, London wedding venues…
I’ve got such a soft spot for the RSA as back in my wedding planner days, a couple of my all-time favourite weddings were held here. This fantastic Georgian townhouse hides so many secrets inside and you’ve got a pick of spaces from grand rooms, modern areas and the atmospheric Vaults that are just amazing when filled with candles at night. Within a stone’s throw from the Thames, Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden, you won’t find a lovelier location in central London.
Images: Left - RSA via Coco Wedding Venues | Right - Trinity Buoy Wharf via Eclection Photography
Heading out along the river, you’ll come to Trinity Buoy Wharf in one of the most exciting spaces in Docklands. Looking out to the O2, this three-acre site is one of the most characterful spots in town and your guests can even arrive by boat as an extra treat. Think exposed brick and steel pillars and you’ll have a good idea what’s in store – a perfect blank canvas venue if you’ve got decorative ambitions. You can also make the most of the late license here and party until 2am!
From an industrial space, we head to floral heaven now and to the gorgeous Clifton Nurseries, tucked away in the heart of Little Venice. It’s London’s oldest gardening emporium and if you’re looking for a green, botanical space in the capital, you need look no further. Clifton Nurseries also has The Quince Tree on site so all your catering needs will be taken care of too.
Images: Left - Clifton Nurseries via Coco Wedding Venues (as before) | Right - Dartmouth House via Dartmouth House
Stepping into Dartmouth House is like stepping back into the days of grand London society. There’s a sweeping staircase, chandeliers, wood paneling and tasteful 18th Century style decorations. However, it’s the enclosed external courtyard that really is Dartmouth House’s most fabulous feature. It’s private, secluded and oh-so perfect for the most elegant of drinks receptions.
Asylum Chapel must win the title of the most popular dry-hire space in London and it’s no surprise at all. This amazing venue, bombed in WWII, is home to the atmospheric old Chapel that’s now available for weddings. If you’re hunting for an individual wedding venue that you can make your own without any hint of the everyday, this is the space for you. Winter weddings here, with the chapel full of candles, are extraordinarily beautiful.
Images: Left - Asylum Chapel and Right - Ace Hotel via Coco Wedding Venues (as before)
This super hip boutique hotel is just everything you’d expect from a cool Shoreditch wedding venue. Think juice bars, live music, art gallery, grab-and-go-snack bars and vintage furniture in trendy, stripped back rooms. Ace Hotel is licensed for ceremonies and it’s child and pet friendly too. The 7th floor is where you’ll head for your celebrations and my goodness, the views! There’s a bird’s-eye bar and amazing terrace and all kinds of brilliant touches.
Oh how I love the Horniman Museum and Gardens and the Grade II listed Victorian Conservatory is such a special place for a wedding. It’s elegant beyond words and the atmosphere here in summer is just amazing. It can accommodate up to 120 guests and there’s also a private terrace for al fresco dining. Horniman also has the Pavilion and the Bandstand, which has just been refurbished and could possibly be the best spot for an intimate wedding ceremony in London.
Images: Left - Horniman Museum via Horniman Museum and Gardens | Right - The Union Club via The Union Club
Deep in the heart of Soho is The Union Club and it’s absolutely perfect for quirky, intimate weddings. The interiors are just fabulous, mixing contemporary and boho touches brilliantly. The Union Club has been hosting weddings for more than 20 years and they sure know how to throw a party!
In the heart of Richmond Park, on the very fringes of London is Pembroke Lodge. This wonderful Georgian mansion is set in its own 11 acres and it’s the perfect setting for a traditionally elegant wedding. There’s a choice of ceremony locations and totally swoonworthy views from the terrace that overlooks the Lodge’s landscaped gardens and the green expanse of Richmond Park beyond.
Images: Left - Pembroke Lodge and Right - Kensington Roof Gardens via Coco Wedding Venues (as before)
I have to finish with another personal favourite, Kensington Roof Gardens. Where else could you find fully-grown trees, a stream with fish, lush gardens, wildlife and pink flamingos, all 100ft up above London? You can party with a late licence until 2.30am and you’ll have the whole of this paradise to yourself. Honestly, it’s an unbelievable venue that has to be seen to be believed!
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