We’ve lined up some of our favourite contemporary wedding venues around the capital where you can host an elegant modern celebration
The capital is awash with choice when it comes to venues and, while historic palaces and iconic hotels make great choices, don’t overlook the potential of London’s smart modern venues – from skyscrapers to galleries. Clean lines, natural light, great views and pared-back surroundings can set the tone for a thoroughly modern celebration. Another side benefit to consider is that many of these spaces have superb facilities, plenty of space and the blank canvas that enables truly creative scene setting. Here’s our pick of London contemporary wedding venues to inspire you.
East Wintergarden
With its 27m-high glazed ceiling and Italian marble floors, East Wintergarden has an almost cathedral-like quality that is perfect for a contemporary ceremony and celebration. It is a vast venue that can host dinners for 500 and double the number for standing receptions. You also have state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems – perfect for the evening’s entertainment. Jubilee Park is opposite – a good location for outdoor photography. Capacity: Up to 1,000. itavenues.co.uk
Haberdashers’ Hall
Tradition meets the 21st century in this striking livery hall in Smithfield created for the Haberdashers’ Company. The centrepiece is a tranquil courtyard garden with dancing fountain. Interior spaces are perfectly designed for grand events and blend contemporary design with a sense of history. The venue is managed exclusively by ITA Venues, which is linked to caterers Ampersand and Chester Boyd, so you can plan a tailor-made celebration to suit the theme of your day. Capacity: Up to 400. itavenues.co.uk
Hilton Hotel Park Lane
This iconic 1960s hotel with its tower rising high above Park Lane has welcomed everyone from the Beatles to Hollywood stars over the years. It has a capacious Grand Ballroom – seating over 1,000 for dinner and more for a standing reception. For smaller events, the ballroom can be divided. There are lots of other spaces to choose from, including the glamorous Crystal Palace Suite overlooking Hyde Park and the intimate fourth floor Serpentine Suite. The views are simply stunning and an in-house team of planners and caterers are on hand to design a bespoke party. Capacity: Up to 1,250. 3.hilton.com
ICA
While the building inhabited by the Institute of Contemporary Arts may be a beautiful Grade I period piece by Nash, the interior is all about cool and modern spaces that are perfectly suited to a celebration. The in-house events team can organise wedding breakfasts for up to 84 guests and standing evening receptions for up to 150. The first floor Nash and Brandon Rooms offer fabulous views over The Mall and London landmarks. A garden next door to the ICA building can be incorporated into the celebration on request. Capacity: Up to 150. ica.org.uk
Kings Place
A purpose-built event space, and with a choice of six rooms for wedding and celebrations, Kings Place also has stunning views over the waters of Regent’s Canal if you pick the Battlebridge Room. The in-house team have an imaginative menu of options for dining – be it a wedding breakfast or standing reception – and you will have an in-house wedding coordinator to ensure your event goes perfectly to plan. Capacity: Up to 400. kingsplaceweddings.co.uk
Saatchi Gallery
Home to stunning contemporary art (although the building itself is a glorious period piece), Saatchi Gallery’s Gallery Mess makes a great party space, with food and event planning by Rhubarb. There are a variety of options here, including a private dining room or whole hire of the swish bar and restaurant, with up to 100 for a seated meal and 120 standing. There’s a lovely terrace that can be used in warmer months. Capacity: Up to 120. rhubarb.co.uk
Searcys at The Gherkin
This striking contemporary landmark in the heart of the City is about as stratospheric as it gets for a wedding ceremony and reception. The event space occupies the top two floors and the views are incomparable. Events here are organised by Searcys and you have a range of options for dining (up to 140 people) or standing receptions. You can choose from two well-designed wedding packages created by head chef Matt Edmonds, both comprising canapés and three-course meal. Or discuss a bespoke menu for your celebration with Searcys’ wedding planners. Capacity: Up to 260. searcysclubthegherkin.co.uk
Sky Garden
You can’t host a ceremony here, but the fantastic Sky Garden near Fenchurch Street is a good choice for a wedding reception or post-reception party. You have options for private dining in the Vinoly Room or can take over the fantastic City Garden for a seated event (150) or larger standing reception. The caterers here are Rhubarb, so the menu options are excellent. Capacity: Up to 450. skygarden.london
Need more inspiration? check out our pick of boutique hotels in the capital
