We have entered an exciting new era of weddings and lots of couples are opting for a narrowed down guest list and seeking small wedding venues in London. A reduced guest list has many pros. Firstly, it becomes all about the food. Wave goodbye to the three-course classic and upgrade to a Michelin-starred feast with wine pairing. You can go big on the little details; the floristry, tablescape and favours all warrant more thought. On the day, the intimate number means you don’t have to “do the rounds” rushing between friends and family, you can fully relax and engage in proper conversations with everyone there. And your guests will mingle more too.
We’ve also noticed a shorter lead time on weddings – it’s no longer the classic 18-month countdown but often six weeks – and having a smaller number makes this totally achievable. The idea of a big party is definitely not for everyone and can feel overwhelming. Then let’s not forget the couples who are planning big destination weddings but need to officially tie the knot first, and want to do it in style.
Whatever your reasoning, there are so many beautiful venues in the capital, whether you’re looking to host an old-school sit-down wedding banquet for your nearest and dearest, a fabulously raucous drinks reception or party in a penthouse – we have got you covered.
Best small wedding venues in London at a glance:
- The Hari, Knightsbridge
- Corinthia London, Embankment
- Daphne’s Conservatory, Chelsea
- NoMad London, Convent Garden
- The Connaught, Belgravia
- The Mitre Hotel, Hampton Court
- Bvlgari Hotel London, Knightsbridge
- Rosewood London, Holborn
- The Goring Hotel, Belgravia
- The Kensington, South Kensington
- Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury
Tried, Tested and Reviewed by TWE
The Hari, Knightsbridge
The Hari’s Garden Terrace is a hidden gem in heart of Knightsbridge, designed for celebrating your big day in the most idyllic setting. A private and intimate option, available for exclusive hire for couples looking to host up to 25 people. Adorned with living walls and hanging lights, this modern and stylish venue is not only effortlessly attractive but extremely practical – courtesy of a retractable roof and heaters. Eliminating any concerns over the British weather, The Hari’s Garden Terrace is the ideal outdoor venue for all year round. The expert team will create a bespoke wedding package for you, including a five-star drinks reception and wedding breakfast, flowers, a personalised wedding cake (created by their very own Pastry Chef) and luxurious accommodation for you and your guests. www.thehari.com/
Corinthia London, Embankment
For true foodies, Kerridge’s Private Dining Room (seating 16) at The Corinthia Hotel has to be top of your list. Brought to you by the team of Michelin-starred Chef Tom Kerridge, it’s the ultimate wedding dining experience. There’s a smart kitchen area within the room so you and your guests can delight in watching your own personal chef prepare each course. The interiors are exquisite, it’s arty yet cosy with wooden wine cabinets lining the walls. In true Kerridge style, dishes are animated, it’s the best of British cuisine with a modern twist. To enhance the experience even further, the Head Sommelier is on hand to pair wines with each course. Alternatively, hidden within the main restaurant of the hotel, The Northall Private Dining Room, is a very special setting (seating 12). It’s a decadent space with mirrored walls, perfect for a small but sparkly celebration (www.corinthia.com).
Daphne’s Conservatory, Chelsea
Often combined with a Chelsea Town Hall ceremony, Daphne’s Conservatory, is a stunning setting for an intimate wedding reception. The private dining space can accommodate up to 32 guests for an Italian-style sit down feast or 50 for a lively drinks reception with delicious canapés. The Conservatory is designed to embrace each season. In summer months, there’s an alfresco feel thanks to the retracting glass roof and in winter a blazing fire in the open range turns it into an cosy nest. Head Chef Michael Brown creates seasonal plates, including all the Italian much-loved classics and can work with you to create a bespoke menu to elevate things further. One less thing for your wedding checklist – the room comes with lovely candles, menu cards and place names (www.daphnes-restaurant.co.uk).
NoMad London, Covent Garden
The new hotel that everyone is talking about, and we can see why. Located opposite The Royal Opera House, NoMad London takes residence in a Grade II-listed building famously known as The Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station. There are 91 elegant rooms, and a number of cool spaces for intimate wedding celebrations. Adjacent to the dramatic Magistrates’ Ballroom are two private dining rooms, the De Veil room and the Fielding Room (both seating 16 – 24). Alongside the Magistrate’s Ballroom is the Magistrate’s Bar (seating 25) offering the ultimate privacy and seclusion, it has a dedicated entrance straight from the street. Alternatively, tucked away just off The NoMad Restaurant sits the Fireplace Room (seating 30) a richly inviting and atmospheric space with lush textures and dark hues. Ideal for a sit-down dinner or fun drinks party (www.thenomadhotel.com).
The Connaught, Belgravia
Sister hotel to the famous Claridge’s, The Connaught is a glamorous hotel with an intimate, inviting vibe. The event spaces were designed by interior master, Guy Oliver, and strike the perfect balance of contemporary and opulence. Couples can choose a round table in the light-flooded Georgian Room overlooking Carlos Place (seating 6-10) or a cocktail reception in the wood-panelled Maple Room (capacity 20-100). The Mayfair Room is the largest space (capacity 44-200) and arguably one of the most spectacular private dining rooms in London with antique mirrored walls and a stunning parquet floor. The options are endless and the dedicated team will ensure nothing short of perfection, working with local artisans and wedding extraordinaires to bring your dream to life. The hotel also won the 2020 World’s Best Bar award and houses the Aman Spa so it’s sure to wow your loved ones (www.the-connaught.co.uk).
The Mitre Hotel, Hampton Court
This trendy boutique hotel on the banks of the Thames has its very own mooring, meaning you and your partner could impress on your wedding day by arriving by boat. The leafy light-flooded orangery (seating 24 – 60) is a stunningly designed space created to reflect a quintessential Henley Regatta boathouse. Clad with terracotta walls and dramatic colours, there’s also a fabulous private terrace for a lively al fresco drinks reception. Food and drink are the heartbeat of the hotel, with masterchef Ronnie Kimbugwe at the helm. As a little added extra, newlyweds can enjoy a complimentary first anniversary dinner and stay as part of their wedding package. There’s also a Whispering Angel boathouse bar and very affordable rooms with bags of character for all your loved ones (www.mitrehamptoncourt.com).
Bvlgari Hotel London, Knightsbrige
A glamorous hotel, a stone’s throw from Hyde Park, with a swanky atmosphere thanks to its contemporary Italian design and dark interiors. It’s a smallish hotel with just 85 bedrooms and the staff provide impeccable service, making it a great choice for intimate celebrations. Micro-wedding options include The Ballroom Foyer (seating 40) with inbuilt bar and white gold mosaic ceiling (licenced for weddings) – unlike other ballroom spaces, it has a neutral decor so you can inject your own creativity and style. Other options include the famously capacious Bvlgari Suite dining rooms (seating 8), underground bar Nolita Social (seating 71) and the Sette Private Dining Room (seating 18). It is also home to a private state-of-the-art cinema and The Bvlgari Spa with 25m pool, gold mosaic vitality pool and tucked-away cabanas (www.bulgarihotels.com).
Rosewood London, Holborn
When you enter the dramatic courtyard of this renowned hotel you are transported to a cool oasis, right in the bustling city centre. Intimate spaces include the Sir George Room (Banquet capacity 16, Reception 50) steeped in heritage and ideal for exclusive ceremonies. Just outside is the Grand Marble Staircase, a striking place to have your photographs taken. The Living Room (banquet capacity 36, reception 50) provides an elegant and relaxed setting located on the ground floor and features a gorgeous lounge area and large windows that let in the natural light. For ultimate privacy, why not takeover one of the unbelievably glamorous suites; the six-bedroom Manor House exceeds all expectations, with its beyond luxurious interiors, own lift and postcode. Tailored menus, gin masterclasses, the Matthew Curtis hair salon and Sense Spa all add to the magic of a wedding here. www.rosewoodhotels.com
The Goring Hotel, Belgravia
The Goring has plenty of claims to fame; from having the largest hotel garden in London to its Royal Warrant – you may recall the Duchess of Cambridge checking in the night before the royal wedding. The heritage hotel is unique when it comes to weddings too as it has 5 licenses, so you are spoilt for choice if you want to officially tie the knot here. For receptions, the recently refurbed Drawing Room (seating 12) has a grand ambience or The Silver Room (seating 8) features a striking embroidered wallpaper, by Fromental with hand-painted Chinoiserie design in red. The Veranda (seating 30) is a beautiful pavilion space overlooking the garden and finally The Garden Room is the largest space (seating 44). It has its own conservatory area with a sliding wall of glass, leading out to the glorious gardens making it ideal for an al fresco celebration. The Michelin-starred chef will create a show-stopping seasonal menu and there’s plenty of luxurious accommodation for all your guests. www.thegoring.com
The Kensington, South Kensington
Located amongst the leafy avenues of Regency South Kensington, The Kensington hotel stands as an iconic city landmark and pristine setting for an unforgettable wedding day. Every wedding is unique and it is perfectly suited to the more intimate-style weddings. The Study (seating 18 or 30 for a standing drinks reception) is the ideal spot for a smaller gathering. It features classic period interiors and characteristic lofty ceiling alongside sleek, contemporary furniture. The in-house team will work with you to design a bespoke menu curated from the finest, freshest and locally sourced ingredients – paired with wines selected by the Head Sommelier, Philip Dunne. Every detail, from the florals and room decor to place cards will be managed by the passionate team, ensuring nothing short of perfection. www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-kensington-hotel
Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury
Set in the heart of the historic Bloomsbury, London’s literary epicentre, Dalloway Terrace is an elegant and vibrant restaurant and perfect destination to host a wedding reception for a small party of 22 guests. To elevate celebrations further, the restaurant’s in-house Champagne is Perrier-Jouët meaning you and your guests can toast with an extra special glass of Maison Belle Époque. The indoor and heated outdoor space is known for its regular transformations, enticing guests and locals to visit regularly to enjoy impressive floral installations which evolve with the seasons. The enchanting oasis also hosts a weekend brunch as well as daily Afternoon Tea menu served between noon and 4pm. Its beautiful and elegant surroundings make for a romantic and intimate setting for any special occasion. dallowayterrace.com/
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