The Orangery, Holland Park
Holland Park’s Orangery is, without doubt, one of the most elegant venues to tie the knot in the capital. Flooded with natural light, it looks onto a rose garden, while the gentle trickle of a fountain provides the soundtrack to drinks receptions on the lawn. It is, of course, a public park so prospective couples must not mind the idea of people ambling by, and it’s not a vast space so it’s not one for couples hoping to invite everyone they’ve ever met (it seats 80). But if that doesn’t put you off, then it remains one of the most charming spots in the land to get hitched. If it was good enough for Lord and Lady Holland’s receptions… Find more info here.
The Crypt At The Bleeding Heart, Clerkenwell
For something altogether wintrier and more atmospheric, the endlessly characterful, candle-lit 600-year-old The Crypt at St Etheldreda’s, which holds up to 120 guests, is divine. A magical medieval crypt in Ely Place, adjoining Bleeding Heart Yard, it has form when it comes to tying the knot: King Henry VIII himself held a three-day wedding feasts there in 1531. The chicken-gnawing monarch’s poor record in matters matrimonial aside, it’s worth it for the food alone, which comes from the legendary Bleeding Heart French Restaurant. Its events managers are some of the best in the business: if you so desire, all you need do is turn up and everything will have been beautifully organised for you. And that is what we call magic. Find more info here.
Leighton House, Kensington
Located in the heart of London, this opulent Victorian mansion was once the home of renowned artist Lord Frederic Leighton and now serves as a captivating venue for weddings and special occasions. The house's stunning Arab Hall, adorned with intricate mosaics and a grand domed ceiling, provides an exquisite backdrop for exchanging vows, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a blend of cultural richness and timeless elegance. With its lush gardens, ornate interiors, and a sense of artistic grandeur, Leighton House offers a magical ambiance that ensures every wedding held here is a masterpiece in itself. Find more info here.
Image: Jez Dickson
Kew Gardens
Getting married at Kew Gardens is nothing short of magical. Nestled within the lush embrace of London's most renowned botanical wonder, all is enchantment. As couples exchange vows amidst the vibrant gardens, every corner of Kew tells a story of natural beauty. The iconic Victorian glasshouses and serene lakes provide a captivating backdrop, while the scent of exotic blooms and the gentle rustle of leaves on the breeze create an atmosphere of sheer romance. It's a venue that seamlessly weaves together the grandeur of nature and the elegance of history. Options include a towering Victorian glasshouse, an elegant orangery, a cosy cottage, and many lush gardens, depending on the size of your party. There will, of course, be endless opportunities for photos amongst the verdant glory of the gardens. Find more info here.
The Greenhouses at One Marylebone
The Greenhouses at One Marylebone are a botanical dream come true. Rigfht in the heart of London, this unique venue offers a picturesque oasis and the Greenhouses themselves, with their elegant glass structures and verdant gardens, provide a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. Whether you envision an intimate affair or a grand celebration, the versatile spaces and enchanting ambiance cater to a variety of visions. Find more info here.
Pembroke Lodge, Richmond Park
Perched majestically within the serene Richmond Park, this historic venue offers a picturesque setting that exudes timeless elegance. The sweeping views of the park and the London skyline, combined with the Lodge's Georgian charm, create an atmosphere of unparalleled magic. Whether you choose to exchange vows in the stunning Belvedere Suite or amidst the rose gardens, a wedding at Pembroke Lodge is utterly charming. The Belvedere seats up to 140 guests and up to 200 guests in total for an evening party and reception drinks are usually taken on the terrace, with its views over the Thames. The Russell Suite, meanwhile, is on the first floor and holds 70 seated guests for the ceremony and reception, with up to a total of 100 guests for the evening party. Drinks are held on the South Lawn and the views, from inside or out, are spectacular. Find more info here.
Petersham Nurseries, Richmond
As anyone who has ever been to the original Petersham Nurseries will attest, the place is wall-to-wall enchantment, its rustic greenhouses and its slightly wild aspect lending an impossible romance to the whole affair. No venue could more beautiful than this for a wedding, where the greenhouses brim with bougainvillea and jasmine. Numbers depend on the greenhouse you choose – and as far as floristry is concerned, nowhere is better placed to create something enchanting. The food, meanwhile, is famously divine. Find more info here.
The Foundling Museum, Bloomsbury
There are many ways to tie the knot at The Foundling Museum. You can choose the Court Room which holds 40 for a wedding breakfast. You could go for the Picture Gallery, which holds 110. Or, you could simply book the entire place, which holds 250. Surrounded by a captivating collection of art, the museum's elegant Georgian interiors and beautiful gardens provide a sense of timeless charm. If Dickensian charm is your thing, this is the place. Find more info here.
By Nancy Alsop
October 2023
