Weddings are one of the most important events that you can ever plan, and it’s no surprise that couples will go to great lengths to find the perfect venue for their special day. London is one of the premier wedding destinations in Europe, with a wealth of stunning venues to choose from, so if you’re looking for somewhere truly memorable to tie the knot, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
The expert venue finders at Hire Space have plenty of experience in playing matchmaker between couples and their dream wedding venue. Here, we've shared our top advice for anyone searching for the perfect wedding venue in London. Congratulations, and happy planning!
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How to find your perfect wedding venue
How to find your perfect wedding venue
With so many amazing venues to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to hold your special day in London. We're here to help!
To help you find the perfect venue for your wedding day, it’s best to narrow down your search by looking at style, capacity and budget. Once you have an idea of these factors, you can start narrowing down the venue options by using Hire Space's search tool. Just input your numbers of guests, and any other restrictions you've decided on (like having a late license), and we'll share a whole selection of fantastic venues with you that suit your brief!
Here are a few tips to get you started on honing your options.
Start your search with a budget in mind
Make sure you've carefully thought through how much you're planning to spend on the day as a whole, and how much you can afford to spend on the venue. Remember that other costs like flowers, table decor and entertainment can add up quickly - so having a relatively strict overall budget in mind could save you a lot of money - and stress down the line! When comparing prices, make sure that all costs are included, such as any cleaning or corkage fees.
How much does a wedding venue cost?
Weddings tend to be one of the most expensive types of events to host in London, and venue costs are no exception. Of course, the exact cost can vary greatly depending on location and size, but generally speaking a wedding reception could cost anywhere from £2,500 to over £30,000, before you factor in all the extras like catering and decor. Have a look at some of our more affordable wedding venues for options at the lower end of the scale.
Decide on the guest list
Once you have a budget in mind, consider how many guests you plan on inviting - this will determine the size of the venue you need to accommodate them. London has some fantastic intimate venues, and some equally amazing grand ballrooms for hundreds of guests: check them all out below.
Think about catering options
Don't forget to check out the catering options available - whether it's a sit-down meal or buffet, you'll want to make sure your guests will be well-fed! Some venues provide in-house catering while others will allow you to bring in your own caterer. Both have benefits, and it's up to you what will work best for your wedding - just make sure you check this with the venue when you enquire with them.
Settle on a vibe
It's also important to think about what kind of atmosphere you want your wedding day to have - will it be formal or relaxed? Will it be indoors or outdoors? Taking the time to consider these details can help you find the perfect venue for your special day. Decor also plays a part in deciding on the venue - some venues may have more of a contemporary feel while others may be more traditional. By checking out our options below you can browse by the vibe you're looking for!
Tap into special deals and packages
Some venues may even be able to provide discounts or extra services if you book at a certain time, or take advantage of promotions. Venue marketplaces like Hire Space can liaise with venues about availability and packages they offer, often more quickly and efficiently than if you go directly to the venue.
Visit any potential venues
Finally, it's always a good idea to visit any potential venues before you make your decision. This way, you can get a feel for the place and see if it matches your vision for the perfect wedding day. It's a good idea to check out reviews from past customers to get an idea of what the experience was like.
It's also worth checking out the local area for hotels, transport links and other attractions - this will make it easier for your guests to get to the venue without any problems.
Read over the contract
Once you've chosen your venue, make sure to double-check the contract before signing it. This will help avoid any surprises down the line and ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible on your big day!
Bring in the experts
If you need further help with finding the right venue, just get in touch with our team of expert venue finders! We can provide more advice on available venues in London and what would best suit your needs, and we can also help you book your desired venue and provide additional assistance throughout the process.
A top tip from our expert planners: finding the perfect wedding venue in London takes time and patience - so start early and take your time until you're sure you've found the right one, or bring us on board to speed up the search. Happy planning!
Browse the best wedding venues in London
We've got our eyes on the top venues to tie the knot: check out some of our favourite wedding venues in the city and beyond below!
What kind of venues are popular for weddings in London?
With its cosmopolitan style and unique charm, the British capital is home to some of the most beautiful wedding venues in Europe, ranging from romantic Victorian mansion to industrial-style warehouses. There's something to suit all tastes and budgets, and you can find some of our favourite venues in each style listed below!
Top intimate wedding venues in London
Small wedding venues are ideal for smaller, more intimate weddings for close friends and family. These venues are perfect for a truly romantic atmosphere, and often include special features such as private terraces or gardens, rooftop views or even secret hideaways.
RSA House
If you're looking for a venue with a truly unique atmosphere, then RSA House is the perfect choice. This Grade I listed building in the heart of London's vibrant Covent Garden includes three elegant main spaces and two private rooms, with an impressive entrance hall leading up to the grand central staircase.
Location: Charing Cross
Capacity: 220 reception
{10-11} Carlton House Terrace
Situated in the heart of St James, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace is an elegant Georgian townhouse. The venue offers a range of stunning spaces spread over four floors - from a lawned garden terrace to an oak panelled room complete with marble fireplace. This venue can accommodate up to 220 guests and also includes several private rooms for smaller groups.
Location: Charing Cross
Capacity: 200 reception
41 Portland Place
For a classic wedding venue in the heart of London, look no further than 41 Portland Place. This Grade II listed townhouse is perfect for an intimate wedding, and features an impressive entrance hall, three grand rooms and two private terraces spread over four floors. The venue can accommodate up to 100 guests.
Location: Great Portland Street
Capacity: 120 reception
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Top elegant wedding venues in London
If you're looking for the most opulent of settings, these luxury wedding venues offer the opportunity to really go all out on your big day! With stunning decor and grand spaces, these venues will make a lasting impression on your guests and give you the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable celebration.
Queen's House Greenwich
The Queen's House Greenwich is a stunning building located in beautiful Greenwich Park, and offers spectacular views over the River Thames. With plenty of outdoor space and unique features, it'll guarantee a memorable occasion - plus it features the most photo-worthy staircase in the whole of London!
You could also choose to host the ceremony at this beautiful spot, before heading to Royal Museums Greenwich's sister venue, The Cutty Sark, for the reception if you want to really push the boat out on an unforgettable occasion!
Location: Greenwich
Capacity: 150 reception
8 Northumberland Avenue
For something truly opulent, 8 Northumberland Avenue is one of the most luxurious venues London has to offer. Offering a combination of traditional elegance and modern amenities, the venue can accommodate weddings with a capacity of up to 1000 people - all in the most central location possible, just 3 minutes from Trafalgar Square.
Boasting classic Victorian architecture and beautiful chandeliers, the venue's grand ballroom has been described by English Heritage as 'the grandest example of a Victorian ballroom in existence', and we'd have to agree that it's the perfect place to celebrate your special day!
Location: Charing Cross
Capacity: 440 dinner; 600 reception
Dartmouth House
Dartmouth House is a luxurious and elegant wedding venue located in the heart of Mayfair. This stunning venue includes several beautiful spaces and a stunning French-style courtyard, which can accommodate up to 120 guests. With impressive Grade-II listed Georgian architecture, beautiful gardens and luxurious interiors, this venue is perfect for a classic wedding day.
Location: Mayfair
Capacity: 350 reception
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Top impressive wedding venues in London
If you want to wow your guests with an impressive setting, these venues have unique features that are sure to leave a lasting impression. From grand ballrooms and secret gardens to modern art galleries and luxurious private members clubs, they'll provide plenty of photo opportunities for guaranteed memories.
Searcys at The Gherkin
The Gherkin hardly needs an introduction, but did you know you could get married in this iconic London landmark? The stunning glass building offers incredible vistas and contemporary design, making it the perfect venue for a truly unforgettable wedding day.
Searcys' beautiful event spaces on level 38 and the very top of the building provide 360 degree views of the London skyline - plus, with fabulous catering on site, it's not an event your guests are likely to forget in a hurry!
Location: Liverpool Street
Capacity: 260 reception
Museum of London
The Museum of London is an out-of-the-ordinary choice for a wedding celebration, and we think it's one of the most memorable settings in town. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand affair with up to 600 guests, you'll find the perfect space for your special celebration here, from the awe-inspiring Great Hall, to the peaceful and secluded Garden Room.
Surrounded by some of the most fascinating artefacts from London's history (which provide endless opportunities for great photographs!), this venue is sure to make your wedding go down in history!
Location: Barbican
Capacity: 350 dining; 600 reception
Southwark Cathedral
The grand Gothic style of Southwark Cathedral provides an unrivalled setting for a truly special wedding day. Located on the south side of the River Thames, this historic landmark offers awe-inspiring architecture, stunning interiors and plenty of photo opportunities - not to mention the cathedral's connection to Shakespeare and Charles Dickens, among many other famour names.
Location: London Bridge
Capacity: 210 dining
The National Gallery
The National Gallery is a perfect setting for couples who are looking to add an artistic touch to their day. This majestic building offers grand interiors, original artwork and beautiful outdoor spaces – ideal for a sophisticated wedding. With pastel-coloured walls and domed glass ceilings you'll feel like you're inside a painting.
Location: Trafalgar Square
Capacity: 450 reception
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Top outdoor wedding venues in London
If you're looking for an outdoor venue with a difference, we have plenty of options to choose from. From stunning gardens and terraces to vineyards, these venues are perfect for those who want an outdoor experience without sacrificing the wow-factor of their day!
The Cutty Sark
Fancy sailing into the sunset on your special day? The iconic Cutty Sark offers couples the perfect opportunity to do just that (well, from a stationary spot that is!). With an open deck and sweeping views of the Thames, this is an unforgettable venue for a memorable wedding.
Plus, below the boat you'll find a truly incredible reception venue in The Dry Berth, with space for up to 450 guests to mingle below the bow of the boat - a pretty unique location, we'd say!
Location: Greenwich
Capacity: 450 standing
The Hurlingham Club
The Hurlingham Club is an impressive lawn club located in Fulham, with 42 acres of beautiful rolling lawns to set your wedding party off in a romantic oasis. With its manicured gardens, large terrace and stunning views of the Thames, it's a great venue for an outdoor reception.
The venue also offers plenty of beautiful indoor spaces for a ceremony, buffet, or sit down dinner, from the lovely Terrace Room to the grand and elegant Palm Court and Orangery. These spaces feature plenty of windows and natural daylight to bring the outdoors inside as well!
Location: Fulham
Capacity: 1200 standing reception
BMA House
BMA House is a historic venue situated in central London. With its majestic façade, beautiful outdoor spaces and luxurious interiors, this venue provides the perfect spot for an unforgettable wedding celebration. On sunny days, its courtyard is one of the best places to be in the city, with a fountain, green space, and plenty of room for mingling and sampling champagne in privacy!
Location: Euston
Capacity: 320 reception
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Top unusual wedding venues in London
If you're looking for something truly unique and memorable, these venues are sure to make your special day one that's talked about for years. From quirky museums to converted warehouses and secret sanctuaries, they offer a distinct atmosphere that will keep your guests talking!
Museum of London Docklands
The Museum of London Docklands is a unique venue situated on the historic Isle of Dogs. Located over five floors of a beautiful Georgian warehouse, this Grade 1 listed venue offers impressive interiors, interactive exhibits and wide variety of spaces that are ideal for a stylish wedding.
Set your ceremony in any of the fascinating exhibit rooms and you'll be surrounded by 2000 years of the city's past! It's a night that's sure to be a huge amount of fun, which also bodes well for the future!
Location: Canary Wharf
Capacity: 350 standing
The Zetter Townhouse
The Zetter Townhouse is a quirky boutique hotel located in the heart of London. Its fun and eccentric interiors make it perfect for a truly original reception, while its outdoor courtyard is ideal for an intimate ceremony. Fun, unique, and filled with fascinating features (including a stuffed kangaroo...), it's the perfect spot for an unforgettable reception.
Location: Farringdon
Capacity: 120 reception
ArcelorMittal Orbit
For couples looking to take their wedding to new heights, the ArcelorMittal Orbit is a great choice. This iconic sculpture offers spectacular views across London from its 114 metre high summit – perfect for those who want an unforgettable experience on their big day.
Location: Stratford
Capacity: 160 dining
Asylum Chapel
Asylum Chapel is an eccentric venue located in Peckham, situated in an old church that's become an arts organisation and cult venue for cool events. With its unique architecture and dark, gothic interiors, this chapel is ideal for couples who want a truly unusual wedding experience and beautiful photographs to treasure afterwards.
Location: Peckham
Capacity: 130 theatre
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If you're still looking for your perfect venue, Hire Space has hundreds of options - from grand ballrooms to intimate spaces, and even outdoor venues. Check out all our top wedding venues below - we wish you all the best for your special day!
Happy venue finding!
The Hire Space Team
Author
Jessamy Cowie
Jessamy channels her passion for sustainability and cultural events into shining a spotlight on innovation and inspiration in the events world, and heading up Hire Space's sustainability committee.
