London has it all, and our 100 Best Wedding Venues 2020 pick of capital gems for large or intimate celebrations set the scene for an unforgettable party
Words: Isabella Eckett
London weddings are classics and also offer opportunities to host your guests in a convenient and glamorous setting that will be unforgettable. All the venues on our 100 Best Wedding Venues 2020 list offer multiple spaces that can host a crowd or an intimate celebration. As a bonus, many also have wonderful outdoor spaces that are perfect for alfresco drinks and beautiful wedding photographs. Expect peerless service and special touches to make you and your guests feel spoiled.
The Hurlingham Club
It’s one of London’s most exclusive members’ clubs and, once you walk through the grand gates at The Hurlingham, you’re transported into an oasis. It’s incredibly peaceful, thanks to its stunning 42-acre grounds, and guests can even play a spot of croquet on its hallowed lawns. You can hold an intimate ceremony in the breathtakingly beautiful Terrace Room, flooded with natural light thanks to mirrored walls and floor-to-ceiling glass doors. For even more wedding wow walk down the aisle in the Palm Court, accommodating up to 800. hurlinghamclub.org.uk
The Lanesborough
An elegant classic packed with period features and gorgeous reception spaces, this is a superb choice, whether you’re going for a small dinner or swanky party. There’s an award-winning spa, Michelin-starred chefs and a fleet of chauffeur-driven cars. Hyde Park is your front garden – watch the Household Cavalry pass by from your suite. Need a little help finding the dream dress? Legendary designer Bruce Oldfield is the hotel’s official couturier. oetkercollection.com
Corinthia London
You are in the best possible hands at this lovely London hotel, with dedicated wedding specialist Alexandra Pisani and team on hand to make decisions easy. Every detail is considered, from the best cuisine to incredible floral arrangements. ESPA Life at The Corinthia is a dreamy retreat for brides-to-be. Intimate gatherings can be held in The Northall Private Dining Room, and bigger weddings in the superb Ballroom. Westminster and the Thames provide a chic cityscape. corinthia.com
Edition London
Looking for a chic London party venue? The Basement at the Edition London is a Soho hotspot. The electric late-night atmosphere will ensure your guests hit the dancefloor. Alternatively, The Penthouse offers 360-degree views of the capital and sweeping balcony, making this a cool location for a smaller group. Menus are designed by Jason Atherton of insta-famous Berners Tavern. editionhotels.com
St Ermin’s Hotel
There’s something so chic about tying the knot just around the corner from Buckingham Palace and St Ermin’s is a capital gem. From the moment you pull up at the tree-lined courtyard and enter the grand lobby, you’ll be dazzled. Nearly everything is white marble, including the ornate curved staircase and balcony mezzanine. The Crystal Ballroom is magnificent – originally designed by theatre designer JB Briggs. sterminshotel.co.uk
The Savoy
With a legendary international reputation, The Savoy has played host to royalty and stars down the years. Arrive in style in one of the hotel’s cars – a Rolls Royce Phantom or Bentley Mulsanne. Exchange vows at the Queen’s private chapel next door. The Lancaster Ballroom can accommodate up to 500 guests for your reception, while access to Embankment Gardens allows for ample photo opportunities. thesavoylondon.com
The Connaught
Sophisticated, with lashings of old-school charm, The Connaught is one of Mayfair’s best kept secrets. There are a number of elegant spaces for intimate weddings or larger parties, and a religious ceremony can be conducted at neighbouring Farm Street Church. The expert team will ensure your wedding is unforgettable, while the delicious seasonal menus here are mouthwatering. the-connaught.co.uk
Rosewood London
The Rosewood is a wonderful choice for an uber-stylish couple. Atmospheric low lighting, rose-gold finishes and statement marble staircase (featuring an aviary) make it an incredible place to tie the knot. From family gatherings to grand affairs, the heritage property has your party sorted. Then check into one of the hotel’s townhouses for the ultimate start to married life. rosewoodhotels.com
L’oscar
This lavish new boutique hotel offers something totally unique for your big day and is ideal for couples who want a mix of traditional and new. Housing a meticulously restored former chapel, The Baptist, this octagonal double-height space has sumptuous decor and a sense of occasion to impress your guests for ceremony or after-party. Other areas include the rich and seductive Committee Room and elegant Library. loscarlondon.com
Claridge’s
With a history of state banquets and royal receptions, iconic Claridge’s can happily host up to 400 people. Effortlessly elegant, you will receive a five-star service from the moment you enquire. Your dedicated coordinator will curate everything from the wedding breakfast to the first dance. No idea is too big, no detail too small. For guest lists of 60 plus, you’ll be given keys to a complimentary suite for your wedding night. claridges.co.uk
Shangri-La
Hold a mesmerising wedding up in the clouds. You can’t beat the views from this hotel, located on the 34th floor of The Shard. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views of the city. Make a dramatic entrance down the grand sweeping staircase. Walk down the aisle with the London skyline as your backdrop. The wedding photos will not disappoint, whatever the season. shangri-la.com
The Berkeley
Opt for a ballroom extravaganza at The Berkeley and your pre-wedding pampering is sorted. You automatically gain an exclusive membership for Cloud 9 Health Club and Spa (9 weeks prior to the big day). You’ll also be introduced to Belgravia’s finest wedding suppliers and receive a complimentary consultation with London A-list couturier Phillipa Lepley. The hotel is contemporary and chic, so great for a modern celebration. the-berkeley.co.uk
House of Commons
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural beauty and an international landmark. It’s hard to imagine waltzing through those guarded gates, exchanging vows and partying inside, but you absolutely can! The in-house team are (naturally) experts at planning grand events and will even arrange a guided tour for your wedding party. The sumptuous Terrace Pavilion overlooking the Thames and Westminster Bridge is the place to raise a glass. parliament.uk
Banqueting House
Created specifically for royal parties, a wedding at Banqueting House is guaranteed to be a memorable red-carpet affair. The Main Hall, with painted ceiling by Rubens, is breathtakingly-beautiful. The vaulted Undercroft is equally atmospheric. This is part of the Historic Royal Palaces portfolio, meaning you will have your own event manager to guide you on accredited suppliers for catering, flowers, furniture and entertainment. hrp.org.uk
The Dorchester
The Dorchester can accommodate every wedding imaginable – a party for 1,000 guests is a breeze. For a VIP guest list, the Ballroom Suite boasts its own entrance on Park Lane. Crush Hall, Silver Room and the Gold Room also have the wow factor. For an intimate celebration with a view choose the Penthouse & Pavilion, with glam decor by theatre designer Oliver Messel and a stunning and secluded rooftop terrace. dorchestercollection.com
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