Arts

Events

Weddings

What is the total cost for hiring Abney Park Chapel and what mandatory additional charges apply?

The venue hire cost is £499 for ceremonies, with security being mandatory for all events. Security costs £147+VAT per officer during the day, with an additional officer required (£294+VAT total) for events after park closing hours. Not-for-profit events receive discounted rates with the same security requirements.

What are the available time slots and when is the venue considered 'after hours'?

The venue offers hourly slots from 10:00-16:00 on most days, with some variations (Saturday 30 November shows 10:00, 11:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00 available). Events after park closing hours require additional security at £294+VAT total. Access time for setup and suppliers begins at your booked start time.

What is the booking process and payment requirements?

After expressing interest, you receive a provisional hold for 5 days. You must sign and return pages 2 and 11 of the contract, then the venue calls to take full payment of £499 over the phone. For legal ceremonies, you must first confirm registrar availability before the venue contract is issued.

What catering restrictions apply and what are the costs for external caterers?

The venue is 'dry hire' with no kitchen or prep area, suitable only for cold buffet food or canapes that arrive ready to serve. All catering must come from accredited caterers, with Funthyme or Sabel recommended for this venue. Using non-accredited caterers incurs a £535+VAT buyout fee plus an accreditation process.

What capacity does the venue accommodate for different event setups?

The venue previously accommodated around 30 yoga mats comfortably for a gong bath event. For ceremonies, it can handle 30 people including the couple and 28 guests. The space includes a mezzanine level with seating and can be arranged for various event types.

Are there restrictions on vehicle access for equipment and elderly guests?

Only temporary vehicle access is granted for supplier equipment drop-offs. There is no vehicle access available for elderly guests - all attendees must walk from the park entrance to the chapel through the arboretum setting.

What types of events are prohibited at the venue?

As a Council-run building, the venue cannot be hired for religious services. The venue is not suitable for hot food service, sit-down dinners, or full bar service due to the lack of kitchen facilities and preparation areas.

How do site visits work and what are the available appointment times?

Site visits must be booked in advance with specific time slots available (typically 9:15, 10:15, 11:15, 12:15, 13:15, 14:15, 15:15). You must arrive promptly as late visits cannot be accommodated. Access is via front reception, and video tours via Google Meets can be arranged as an alternative.

What are the requirements for legal wedding ceremonies at the venue?

For legal ceremonies, you must first check registrar availability through https://hackney.gov.uk/approved-premises and pay their separate fee before the venue will issue a contract. The venue can only provide a provisional hold until registrar confirmation is received.

What audio-visual capabilities and restrictions exist for performances and exhibitions?

The venue has excellent natural acoustics suitable for sound baths and performances. While specific AV equipment details aren't provided, the venue can accommodate events requiring sound systems and has been used successfully for gong baths and musical performances.