How to Choose the Perfect Venue for Your London Wedding
Expert tips from the planners at RWS London
Choosing a wedding venue in London might just be the hardest (and most exciting) part of planning your big day. With so many beautiful spaces , from elegant ballrooms to quirky warehouses and tranquil countryside estates just outside the city , it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
At RWS London, we’ve spent years helping couples find “the one” (venue-wise!), and we know exactly what questions to ask before falling head over heels for a location. Here’s our honest advice to help you find a venue that fits you , your style, your story, and your guest list.
1. Start With Your Vision , Not the Venue
Before you start pinning venues or booking viewings, take a moment with your partner. What kind of wedding do you both see?
- Is it formal or relaxed?
- Indoor or outdoor?
- City glam or countryside charm?
This helps narrow things down. If you’re picturing a romantic ceremony under a glass dome, a venue like the V&A Museum might be perfect. If you’re imagining drinks on the lawn followed by dancing in a barn-style ballroom, Four Seasons Hampshire could be your match.
2. Think About Guest Experience
It’s your day, yes , but guest comfort matters too. Choose a location that’s easy to get to, with good transport links or nearby accommodation.
If you’re inviting guests from abroad, a central London location may be ideal. But if your wedding is more intimate or you’re planning a weekend celebration, a country estate outside the city offers privacy and breathing space.
3. Understand What’s Included (and What’s Not)
Some venues offer everything , catering, furniture, staffing. Others are “dry hire,” meaning you’ll need to bring in everything from tables to teaspoons.
Neither is better than the other, but the difference affects your budget and how much planning is involved. We always advise our couples to look beyond the venue hire cost and consider the full picture.
4. Visit With a Planner (if you can)
Venue show rounds are lovely , but planners see the details couples might miss:
- Where will suppliers load in?
- Is there enough power for the lighting you want?
- What’s the backup plan if it rains?
For example, at the V&A Museum, you get just under two minutes for set-up access , something we’ve planned for down to the second. It’s details like this that can make or break the flow of your day.
5. Ask About Restrictions and Flexibility
Every venue has its own rules , from noise curfews to décor limitations. Some venues only allow their preferred suppliers. Some don’t permit candles. Others charge extra if the party runs late.
Having an experienced planner on your side helps here. At RWS, we know the ins and outs of most top London venues and can help you avoid surprises.
6. Follow Your Instincts
You’ll know when a venue feels right. The photos don’t need to be perfect. The logistics might need a little work. But if you can see yourself walking down the aisle there, celebrating with your loved ones, and making memories , trust that feeling.
We always tell our couples: the right venue isn’t just beautiful. It’s where everything comes together.
Need Help Finding the Right One?
At RWS London, we’ve built strong relationships with some of the city’s most iconic venues. Whether you want classic, contemporary, or countryside , we’ll guide you through every step, from shortlisting to styling.
Let’s find the place where your story begins.
Get in touch today , we’d love to hear what you’re dreaming of.
