From sumptuous interiors to grand views and glorious gardens, each of these choice London wedding venues delivers a spectacular setting and with truly capital style
Royal appointment
Banqueting House has hosted grand occasions – including guests of the monarch – since the early 17th century. An architectural and artistic treasure in the heart of Whitehall, it is a stunning location for a London wedding. The undoubted star of the show is the Rubens ceiling, which provides a grand backdrop for balls and intimate receptions alike. There are two locations to choose from, the impressive Main Hall (which was specially created for entertaining in 1622) and the atmospheric Undercroft, once a drinking haunt of James I. Both venues are available for afternoon and evening hire. hrp.org.uk
Rooms with a view
Once home to the Duke of Wellington, 4 Hamilton Place is located in Mayfair overlooking Hyde Park and offers that rare treasure – a heated roof terrace. Inside, it’s a blend of spacious rooms that have the grandeur of a fine old London town house. There are a variety of event spaces, from the Marshall of Cambridge Room and Foyer up to the Bill Boeing Room, which can host 250. Dedicated wedding coordinators work in partnership with trusted wedding suppliers and can manage every aspect of the celebration, including gourmet food. 4hp.org.uk
Bloomsbury chic
Overlooking one of London’s famed green squares, Bloomsbury House is a chic late Victorian townhouse now available for weddings on an exclusive hire basis. With a fabulous staircase, its versatile reception spaces include an airy vaulted dining room and beautiful gardens, offering scope to create a very customised setting for your celebration. The venue is partnering with planner Louise Perry Weddings and the catering partner is Beluga, which delivers on-trend and delicious menu options. bloomsburyhouse.london
Chelsea landmark
Located in fashionable Chelsea, a stone’s throw from the King’s Road, The Royal Hospital Chelsea was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and is home to the Chelsea Pensioners. With superb interiors and glorious landscaped gardens, it seems a world away from bustling metropolitan life and offers a range of venues for celebrations. These include the State Apartments, overlooking the Thames, and The Great Hall, which has a capacity of 270 for dining. Wren’s beautiful baroque chapel is available for wedding services to members of the local parish or those with a military connection. chelsea-pensioners.co.uk
Riverside splendour
The Old Royal Naval College at Greenwich is one of London’s great landmarks, and with a spectacular riverside setting that looks majestic in any season. With fine Baroque architecture and stunning grounds, you can even choose to arrive by boat, alighting at Greenwich Pier. There are multiple event spaces – from the opulent Painted Hall to the delightful and historic Admiral’s House and atmospheric vaulted Undercrofts. There’s even a Victorian skittle alley that can host a personal wedding event, while the King William Colonnades are perfect for al fresco cocktails. Each couple is assigned a dedicated wedding co-ordinator, supported by a team of wedding professionals, to ensure a fairytale wedding. ornc.org
Two hidden gems
While London seems to be packed with fabulous venues, there are still treasures you might have missed. Gray’s Inn is in a spectacular garden setting and, as one of London’s four Inns of Court, it has a distinguished history and fine reception rooms. A marquee can be erected in the imposing grounds. Recently, it also began hosting bridal shower events, where you can enjoy a variety of activities – from cake making to flower arranging – with some of London’s leading wedding suppliers. graysinnbanqueting.co.uk
Trinity House, home to the General Lighthouse Authority and with a venerable history, is close to the Tower of London and has the ambience of a grand private residence. It features five grand banqueting and conference rooms, a beautiful reception hall with fine sweeping staircase and the Quarterdeck – a first floor corridor full of remarkable maritime artefacts. The Pepys Room, celebrating the famous diarist (and naval administrator) who never tired of London, is just the right size for dancing and can fit in a live band. If you choose to marry in the beautiful Library, you not only have a fine stained glass window, but also views over the Thames and Tower of London. trinityhouse.co.uk
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