We've compiled over 50 of our favourite venues in London and across the UK in size order
This recently restored space, with its Rubens-painted ceiling, is an awe-inspiring sight when hosting up to 380 diners, but the room is also perfect for receptions of 500. Once enjoyed as a drinking den by James I, the vaulted Undercroft below is an atmospheric space for receptions.
Amid 2,000 acres of landscaped gardens, this historic Oxfordshire venue is a picturesque setting for weddings. The glass-roofed Orangery is ideal in summer, with a terrace overlooking the Italian Garden. In winter there’s the classic Marlborough Room, with chandeliers, high ceilings and a large fireplace.
Pairing 18th-century architecture with cutting-edge technology, this City venue’s Porter Tun room is one of the largest unobstructed spaces in London, with capacity for 1,000 reception guests or 600 diners. Audio and lighting can be personalised, while the Montcalm London City next door offers sleek and chic accommodation.
The Barbican’s best-kept secret is without question its rooftop Conservatory, a verdant space that houses more than 2,000 species of tropical plants under a glass roof. Its treetops are overlooked by a large terrace, while the Garden Room works well for wedding breakfasts with up to 280 guests.
Restored to its former art-deco glory, this venue features original fittings and features, including smart 1930s lights and cornicing in the private entrance. Its 550-capacity Assembly Hall is ideal for large-scale receptions and can be split into three rooms for 180 standing or 80 sit-down diners.
Located on a leafy Camden square, this venue works with caterer Sliced Events. Its five spaces are fresh and modern in look, and can cater both for civil ceremonies and wedding receptions. All the food is prepared from scratch – even the bread is baked on site.
Tucked away in a six-acre garden just beyond Moorgate, the Honourable Artillery Company is a hidden gem for weddings. The standout space is the Long Room with its oak panelling and minstrels gallery. Begin proceedings with a fizz reception on the lawn.
Quintessentially English, the Fulham members club occupies a 42-acre estate. Its modernised events wing is available for hire, with the largest of its spaces able to host dinners for 1,000. Couples can make their vows in the glass-domed Palm Court, which can itself be taken over – along with the Broomhouse Suite – by groups of 200 and more.
The Grade I-listed Royal Exchange offers imposing architecture and a striking naturally lit indoor courtyard. Its stately entrance is an obvious photo opportunity and makes a strong first impression. On the ground floor, the Grand Café seats 100-300 guests. Exclusive hire can be arranged.
This Grade II-listed art-deco venue offers two attractive and flexible spaces for weddings. The Assembly Hall is the party space, with a sprung dance floor, large stage and one of the largest mirror balls in Europe. The Council Chamber is better suited to ceremonies and holds up to 80 guests.
You and your guests could be gazing at a handful of London’s iconic South Bank buildings – from the Tate Modern to Shakespeare’s Globe – as you tie the knot at the River Rooms. The licensed wedding venue has a variety of blank canvas spaces spread across two floors, hosting receptions for up to 700.
Rosewood comes complete with an in-house director of romance to advise on personalising weddings from the cutlery to the toastmaster. The hotel’s Belle Epoque architectural features, such as a carriageway entrance to the grand courtyard and a seven-storey marble staircase, should make the photos pretty special too.
Virginia Park Lodge
On the shores of Lough Ramor in County Cavan, and less than an hour’s drive from Dublin, this former hunting lodge is now owned by Michelin-starred chef Richard Corrigan. Larger wedding groups can take over the lakeside Pavilion, while the Marchioness banqueting room can host more intimate parties. Up to 100 guests can stay over on site.
Over the years, Warwick Castle has caught the eyes of famous folk from William the Conqueror to Mick Jagger. It’s not hard to see why. An armour-lined Great Hall can seat 130 guests, while the 18th-century Conservatory hosts receptions for 120 and overlooks handsome gardens. For really big weddings, marquees in the Pageant Field along the banks of the Avon can accommodate up to 1,000.
Looking for somewhere a bit smaller?