From the best pubs for Dutch courage to the most scenic places to say those ‘I do’s, we’ve got all your waterside venue needs covered
Words: Heather Steele Illustrations: Lennart Andresen
9am: Get ready
One of the waterfront’s newest openings is Mondrian London at Sea Containers. Here, you’ll find a river view loft that’s a top spot to prepare for the day ahead. Further up the river, there’s the London Marriott County Hall Hotel – book its Westminster Suite – and the Chelsea Harbour Hotel. Heading east, the Four Seasons at Canary Wharf combines knockout views and understated luxury. For an all-time classic, you can never go wrong with The Savoy.
10am: Brunch bunch
A lined stomach will settle the nerves and stop that first flute of fizz going straight to his head. For hearty appetites, Roast’s ‘full Borough’ will do the trick. Pennethorne’s Cafe at Somerset House offers a place for the groom and his ushers to chow down on jambon and gruyere croissants, pastries and doughnuts, as well as a proper brunch on Saturday.
12pm: Dutch courage
Hammersmith is a treasure trove of pubs. On the riverside alone, you’ve got five to choose from but our pick here is The Dove, a traditional tavern with a cracking terrace. Over in Greenwich, it’s the Trafalgar Tavern that’s got the best views of the Thames, along with a smart dining room that serves up decent pub classics. Back in town, the deck at the Old Thameside Inn is an ideal spot when it’s sunny. If not, then its handsome range of ales is sure to keep your husband-to-be happy. Speaking of which, both The Anchor at Cannon Bridge and The Banker at Blackfriars marry decent views with top-notch brews.
1pm: Say ‘I do’
Not many churches are set on the Thames itself, but those that are certainly make an impact. St Mary’s at Battersea (illustrated below) contrasts nicely with the modern structures beyond. The licensed but deconsecrated church that houses the Garden Museum by Lambeth Palace is due for a refurb, but will be available for weddings in 2016. Out in Surrey, All Saints in Marlow, St Mary’s in Hampton, St Peter’s in Staines and All Saints in Bisham all work well for riverside nuptials.
2pm: Float away
If you’re getting married at one end of the river and holding your reception at the other, then avoid traffic by chartering your own vessel. We’re fans of the London Eye Barracuda, which has space for 230 and can serve as more than just a mode of transport. Hire a band, pour some fizz and let your guests soak up the famous views as you sail past. Moored on Embankment, HQS Wellington won’t take you anywhere, but it will provide a traditional backdrop to wedding receptions. Up to 120 guests can dine in the striking wood-panelled Court Room, while the Quarter Deck is a great spot for photos. Also moored is The Yacht London, which can hold 250 guests. At the swankier end of the scale, the Silver Sturgeon (below) offers art deco-style interiors, food by Jamie Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts and plenty of alfresco space for quaffing champers.
3pm: Catch of the day
If, after finding The One (that’s your man and your dress), food is second on the list, consider hiring a restaurant for your reception. Some of the best along the river include The Gun (seating 80) and High Timber (100). Gordon Ramsay’s The Narrow (70) has a fab PDR and we’re big fans of Northbank, which serves up Cornish-inspired dishes for up to 110 guests. Skylon (220) on the South Bank combines great views from up high with modern British food, while Butler’s Wharf Chop House (140) will suit more carnivorous couples.
5pm: Get the party started
Go grand in Greenwich by booking the Old Royal Naval College. The stunning interiors of the Sir Christopher Wren-designed Painted Hall make a regal setting for a 400-strong wedding. Maritime history buffs will also love the Cutty Sark, which can hold dinners beneath its golden hull. If you want to be on the river itself, the Greenwich Yacht Club is a safe bet. Those with dreams of a garden party vibe will like the look of Middle Temple Hall, which offers spacious grounds with room for a marquee. The terrace at Somerset House is another impressive outdoor bet. From there, you’ll spot rooftop venue The Deck, which can host ceremonies as well as late-night receptions for 150.
2am: Suite dreams
When the party’s over, what could be better for the hangover than the fresh air of the countryside? We love the Deluxe Suite at Hotel du Vin Henley upon Thames – lovely rolltop bath – and both The Bingham and the runnymede-on-thames hotel offer knockout views, as well as luxurious honeymoon suites. The Swan at Streatley has spacious rooms overlooking the river and some picturesque gardens. Our top spot is the River View suite at The Petersham Hotel. Not only is there a private balcony, but the fab Petersham Nurseries restaurant is round the corner – perfect for a post-wedding brunch the next day.
Top tips...
Designer duo
Melanie Potro's award-winning bespoke dresses and Candy Anthony's vintage-inspired shoes are avaialable to buy in Oxo Tower Wharf.
Fast fashion
Grooms can grab and go with this pre-tied linen and silk bow tie by Brendan Joseph.
Licence to thrill
If you’re after a civil ceremony, there are plenty of licensed venues on the river. Nothing offers quite the panorama of the London Eye, where small ceremonies can be held in the capsules. At the Tate Modern, the sixth-floor East Room looks across to St Paul’s Cathedral through floor-to-ceiling windows and holds 100 seated guests. For large ceremonies, Canary Wharf’s East Wintergarden can hold 500 beneath its 27m arched glass atrium. Last year, the walkways suspended above Tower Bridge became licensed for weddings too. Up to 50 guests can attend a ceremony here, while 120 can sit down for dinner afterwards.
Decor after dark
This bottle tealight set from Nordic House will look great on a terrace in the twilight hours.
Convenient food
Only moments from the riverside, Bea's of Bloomsbury is a handy cake supplier.
Market value
Greenwich Market and Borough Market are short strolls away from the river, and both are packed with inspiration for putting the finishing touches on your wedding. For all things foodie (think wedding favours and wine if you’re buying your own) Borough is your best bet – Blowing Dandelion chocs and Borough Wine booze will fit the bill. You can also purchase your flowers here at either Chez Michele or The Gated Garden. Over at Greenwich, Teabird sells beautiful candles in antique teacups, which make great table centrepieces, and they’ve got plenty of second-hand trinkets if you’re chasing a vintage theme on the big day.
Further upstream
If you’re planning to escape the city, there’s a wealth of waterside options. Hampton Court Palace acquired a marriage licence last year and its Great Hall makes a fine setting for a wedding. Ravens’ Ait, near Kingston, is a private island, while the majestic Cliveden House has its own moorings, with plenty of outdoor space overlooking the river. For foodies, the renowned Waterside Inn at Bray can be hired for intimate wedding breakfasts for up to 12 guests.
Set the scenery
Flowers for Weddings by Tarnia Williams can deliver to venues in Berkshire, Hampshire and Surrey.
This article was first published in Square Meal Weddings, 2015