South London is home to a number of fabulous wedding venues, from the magnificent Royal Observatory or Cutty Sark in Greenwich to an urban, industrial warehouse in Brixton…
Lead image: Hampton Court Palace
1 The Royal Observatory, Greenwich
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich received its wedding license at the end of 2017, so you can be one of the first to take advantage of this out-of-this-world venue. The Royal Observatory was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and built in 1675 to observe the stars: ‘Put simply, it is the home of time!’ says David Taylor, Events Planner at Royal Museums Greenwich. ‘It provides an intimacy and is a unique space, but is also surrounded by the greenery of beautiful Greenwich Park. Its views are simply spectacular and the celestial nature of its history makes it a charming and magical place for couples to exchange vows.’ The best photo opportunity, says David, is the Prime Meridian line in the courtyard, which separates the east and west of the world. ‘For many, weddings are an opportunity to bring people together; families and friends that could be dispersed around the world. To picture a bride and groom coming together on this line is very special.’
rmg.co.uk
2 Fulham Palace
The tranquil Fulham Palace provides a historical backdrop for stunning wedding pictures. Rooms to hire vary in style from Tudor to Georgian. Four rooms are licensed for civil ceremonies including the ornate Bishop Terrick’s Drawing Room and the classical Great Hall, and the surrounding thirteen acres are ideal for balmy garden parties.
3 Eltham Palace
The wood-panelled entrance hall, the Italian drawing rooms and the verdant gardens of Eltham Palace host elegant, romantic ceremonies and receptions. There are also experts in flowers, lighting and entertainment on hand to ensure your big day runs as smoothly as possible.
Eltham Palace
4 The Painted Hall, Greenwich
The magnificent Painted Hall of the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, is recognised as one of the greatest examples of decorative painting in England, and has even been described as the Sistine Chapel of the UK. The Painted Hall is currently in the midst of a huge conservation project due for completion in 2019, but in the meantime you can take a ceiling tour to explore every inch of your gorgeous venue in preparation for your big day.
The Painted Hall
5 The Cutty Sark, Greenwich
Where else in the world can you be married under the hull of an original ship? Grand and creaking with history, her original masts and clipper design emulates the romance of the grand age of sail. There are three decks on which to entertain, as well as under the hull. You can declare your vows on the Tween Deck, originally used to stow cargo on Cutty Sark’s epic voyages around the world, while the Main Deck overlooks the Thames and has three towering masts and 11 miles of rigging to provide a dramatic backdrop for photography. As the evening progresses, guests can make their way under the hull into a unique space where guests can let loose under a feat of engineering that suspends all 9.5 tonnes of this ship overhead.
rmg.co.uk
6 Belair House, Dulwich
Belair House is a stunning two-floor Georgian mansion which boasts panoramic views of Belair Park in West Dulwich and a glossy bar and dining room for your reception. In summer, enjoy the grounds, conservatory and terraces, and in winter, celebrate with your honoured guests beside heartwarming open fires.
belairhouse.co.uk
Belair House (photo: guymilnes.com)
7 Hampton Court Palace
Create your own special day at the magnificent Hampton Court Palace where kings and queens have lived, loved and celebrated for over 500 years. Invite your friends and family to walk in the 60-acre gardens, dine in the orangery style Garden Room, marvel at the splendour of the Great Hall or experience the unique atmosphere of the Little Banqueting House. With a range of spaces and gardens in which to hold your ceremony and the party afterwards, Hampton Court Palace is the perfect venue for your perfect day. The palace is hosting a wedding showcase on 25 February 2018 (11am-3pm), where you can explore a selection of the unique spaces available for your wedding and meet a selection of approved suppliers including photographers, luxury florists and caterers.
hrp.org.uk
Kings and queens have lived, loved and celebrated for over 500 years at Hampton Court Palace
8 Dulwich Picture Gallery
Happy couples can celebrate their nuptials amidst paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens and Gainsborough in the Soane Gallery at the Dulwich Picture Gallery, or opt for a more contemporary feel in the Linbury Room. On sunny days, the Gallery Gardens and the Meadows offer ample space for a magnificent party.
Photography by rogerspictures.com
Dulwich Picture Gallery
9 Battersea Arts Centre
Eclectic historical architecture including an impressive marble staircase, a bustling foyer and a striking Council Chamber – the Battersea Arts Centre is a truly dramatic location for a wedding that stands out from the crowd. There’s also plenty of space to dance as you take centre stage on your special day.
Battersea Arts Centre
10 Sacred Heart, Wimbledon
The Sacred Heart Catholic church in Wimbledon, just next to Wimbledon College, is the perfect church for solemn vows. Organ music can be arranged via the Director of Music, as can soloists and even a choir. The Gothic revival architecture is equally as striking on the outside, viewed from Edge Hill, as it is on the inside.
Photography by rogerspictures.com
Sacred Heart Wimbledon
11 Dulwich College
The award-winning architecture of Dulwich College, designed by Charles Barry Junior (whose father designed the Houses of Parliament), makes for wedding photographs you’ll be sure to treasure. The triangular gables, turrets and cupolas are inspired by 13th century North Italian buildings and prove a majestic, striking backdrop.
Photography by guymilnes.com
Dulwich College
12 Admiral’s House, Greenwich
Greenwich’s cup runneth over with wonderful, original wedding venues. The 17th century Admiral’s House is the oldest building within the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, and was commissioned by Charles II in 1660. The setting is regal, yet intimate, with tranquil views overlooking the nearby Thames.
Old Royal Naval College
13 Morden Park House
Morden Park House, set in Morden Park, is perfect for a country-style wedding in south London. The Borough Register Office is a Grade II* listed fine 1770 house in extensive grounds, and was originally built for John Ewart as part of the Morden Hall Estate. The building was recently restored with the help of the Heritage Lottery Fund, and the interior has a number of contemporary features including a marble paved entrance hall, and a grand imperial type staircase with wrought iron balustrades.
Photography by guymilnes.com
Morden Park House
14 The Asylum Chapel, Peckham
The Asylum Chapel situated at Caroline Gardens in Peckham is a Grade II listed venue built in 1826. Originally a charitable institution, these days it serves as a visually arresting, unusual venue for wedding ceremonies and photo shoots, and is suitable for up to 120 guests.
Photography by rogerspictures.com
The Asylum
15 Brixton East
Brixton East 1871 on Gresham Road was once a furniture warehouse, and extends to over 4500 square feet. Wooden beams, bare concrete and minimal finishing make for an industrial backdrop to a truly modern, chic wedding in SW2. Complete the look with shimmering candles, twinkling lights and all your loved ones.
Photography by capturedbykatrina.co.uk
Brixton East
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