fter two years of pandemic-mandated soggy outdoor nuptials; nibbling on sausage rolls in your parents’ back garden, the government has announced plans to legalise al-fresco weddings.
Up until now, weddings and civil ceremonies have had to take place indoors, or outdoors within a permanent structure such as a bandstand in order to be deemed legal. This will change under the new legislation, which rules that prospective newlyweds can get officially hitched at any outdoor, licensed venue — be it an edgy roof terrace or your nan’s vegetable patch.
We’ve put together some of the coolest outdoor venues in the capital to say “I Do” in.
Studio 92 at Studio 9294
Looking for a wedding venue that could double as a rave? Look no further. This industrial venue sits on the canal in Hackney Wick, with an outdoor terrace and on-site catering. The warehouse style venue is basically an empty shell with a huge sound system, perfect if you want a classy dinner by day and a filthy DJ set by night.
Pop Box at Pop Brixton
Pop Brixton has been the favourite haunt of south London creatives for some time who flock to the recycled shipping containers to sample new culinary pop-ups and natural wine by the gallon. But you can also hire this 200-person capacity space for your nuptials. The Pop Box has a stage and sound system, on-site catering facilities and is a three-minute walk from Brixton tube. Nifty!
The Atria at Hackney Town Hall
Although it’s technically inside, the Atria’s courtyard setting and state-of-the-art glass roof feels very much like you’re outside, just with the bonus of being sheltered from the elements. This super cool venue can seat up to 100 guests and feels like a mixture of being on a set of Bridgerton with a side of James Bond. Particularly at night, when the multicoloured glass ceiling lights come on.
10-11 Carlton House
Hidden away in the heart of Westminster, Carlton House feels like something out of the novel The Secret Garden. Just a few minutes stroll from St James’ Park, this gated patch of lawn used to be the private residence of Prime Minister William Gladstone and was designed by the illustrious Regency architect John Nash, who also boasts the Brighton Pavillion and Buckingham Palace on his CV. The leafy oasis is a great spot for a summer drinks reception, followed by dancing in the fancy-sounding ‘Music room’ indoors.
The Conservatory at the Barbican Centre
This is one of the most unique and memorable wedding venues in the capital, nestled moments from Moorgate station in the heart of London. Venture up to the tropical forest rooftop of the iconic Brutalist cultural centre and it’s easy to forget you’re still in the city. How many people can say they tied the knot surrounded by 2,000 species of tropical plants and over 100 species of fish? I’d venture not a lot.
The Chapel at Asylum
Don’t be put off by the name, this crumbling chapel in the heart of Peckham is the epitome of shabby-chic romance. The Grade II listed chapel, built in 1826 has been left almost untouched in 200 years. The crumbling paintwork and stained windows certainly add a unique atmosphere, if not a layer of dust, to all wedding proceedings. Located in Caroline Gardens, moments from Queenstown Road Peckham station, the venue encourages couples to decorate the chapel as they wish, making it a perfect canvas for creative couples looking for a spot of olde worlde charm.
The Wetland Centre
If you prefer wellies to wedges, this one’s for you. This venue is located a short walk from Hammersmith Broadway, but you’ll feel like you’ve been blindfolded and transported to deepest Devon. The fisherman’s hut replica sits in the middle of the West London nature reserve and can hold up to 42 guests, who can also spill onto the adjacent herb garden and sustainable gardens for evening drinks or spirulina shots, whatever floats your boat.
The Clubhouse at Greenwich Yacht Club
Get married on the open water at this floating venue. The Greenwich Yacht Club sits in the middle of the Thames with views overlooking London’s O2, the Thames Barrier and Tower Bridge, which light up forming an exquisite backdrop to evening drinks and dancing on the top deck.
The Roof Terrace at the Century Club
The roof terrace at the Century Club is the largest in Soho, with views overlooking the whole of the West End. The iconic members club bar has the capacity to hold up to 180 people and a retractable roof to mitigate any dodgy British weather.
Yurt Café St Katherine’s Precinct
Always dreamt of getting married in a yurt but don’t fancy leaving the big smoke? Look no further. The Yurt Cafe is fashioned in the shape of a traditional Mongolian Yurt (basically a big, round tent) and features a log fire, perfect to keep you warm even if there’s a gale outside. Only five minutes walk from Bank station, it’s super central and easily accessible.
