Arts

Dining

Weddings

What is the base venue hire cost for weddings and what's included?

Wedding venue hire starts at £6,000 + VAT + staffing costs. This includes exclusive access to the main venue, access to the iconic trains and rooftop for photography, gig-level stage with sound and lighting rig, and a dedicated event sales manager. The venue can accommodate up to 150 guests seated on long tables for the ceremony and wedding breakfast, and up to 700 for evening receptions.

What are the mandatory staffing costs for wedding events?

Staffing costs are mandatory and charged separately from the venue hire fee. Based on similar events, expect staffing and security costs of approximately £4,000 + VAT, though exact costs vary depending on hours of hire and number of attendees. This typically includes security staff, bartenders, sound technicians, duty managers, and cleaning staff.

Can we hold both our ceremony and reception at Village Underground?

Yes, Village Underground is licensed for wedding ceremonies and can host both your ceremony and reception. The venue seats up to 150 guests on long tables for ceremonies and wedding breakfasts, then transforms for evening receptions accommodating up to 700 guests. The space includes a green room that can serve as your private bridal suite.

What catering options are available and what do they cost?

Village Underground works with London's leading caterers including Cater London, Wolf & Lamb, Dinner Ladies, and KERB Events, and also welcomes external caterers if you have someone in mind. Bowl food packages start at approximately £30.80 + VAT per person for 6 bowls (5 hot/cold plus 1 sweet). Hot catering packages can reach £75 + VAT per person for comprehensive breakfast, snacks, lunch and drinks with barista service.

What are the drinks package options and pricing?

Unlimited drinks packages start at £10 + VAT per person per hour for house beer, wine, and soft drinks, with premium packages reaching £22 + VAT per person for 2-hour packages. If you have drinks sponsors, a corkage fee per person applies for free drinks, or a 'bar buy-out' fee if sponsors supply all drinks throughout the event.

What technical equipment is included and what costs extra?

The venue hire includes gig-standard stage, sound and lighting rig, plus DJ equipment. Additional technical services cost extra: large screen/projector with video technician packages range from £2,000-£4,500 + VAT depending on complexity. The venue's PA and lighting are valued at over £15,000 but basic packages can be added for £1,500 + VAT.

Are there restrictions on music events or live performances?

Village Underground does not book public or ticketed music events through online platforms - these must go through their programming team directly. However, private wedding receptions with live bands, DJs, and dancing are fully supported with their professional sound and lighting systems. The venue has hosted aerial performers attached to lighting trusses for special events.

What are the booking and availability restrictions?

Saturday availability is extremely limited as the venue prioritizes music events on weekends. Weekday weddings (particularly Wednesday and Thursday) have much better availability and may offer more flexible pricing. The venue requires booking confirmation well in advance, with some urgent bookings needing confirmation within 24 hours for staff availability.

What furniture and setup options are available?

Chair hire and delivery costs approximately £1,000-£1,500 + VAT for 100-150 guests. The venue offers flexible seating arrangements including long tables for up to 150 guests, round table configurations, and can clear space for dancing areas. Poseur tables and bar stools are available for cocktail-style receptions, with furniture delivery and collection services provided.

What makes Village Underground unique for wedding photography?

The venue features iconic trains on the roof, exposed brick archways, soaring ceilings with natural daylight, and industrial heritage architecture. Couples get exclusive access to both the main venue and the rooftop trains for photography, creating truly unique wedding photos in the heart of Shoreditch's vibrant cultural scene.