Recently engaged? Break with conformity and the ceremonial norms of a church and hotel wedding. Exercise your creative power and express who you are as a couple rather than being confined to wedding package A, B or C. Here are our favourite unique wedding venues across the U.K. and Europe to consider and add to your Pinterest board.
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Today’s engaged couples have a multitude of wedding planning resources readily available to them. With inspirations from online and print magazines, wedding planners and wedding blogs to Pinterest, modern couples can creatively express themselves on their special day. From repurposed Victorian listed buildings and industrial power stations to yachts and a rooftop glass pyramid overlooking Paris, there are unique and wonderful venues perfect for your big day.
The Old Fruitmarket in Glasgow, U.K.
Photo credit: NDK Wedding Photography
This venue’s visually dramatic Victorian architecture features a vaulted ceiling, listed cast-iron columns and the original signage. The Old Fruitmarket creates a spellbinding backdrop for a wedding ceremony and reception in the heart of Glasgow’s arts and cultural quarter, Merchant City.
The White Building in London, U.K.
Photo credit: Love My Dress
Located in Hackney Wick in the East End of London, The White Building provides the ultimate blank canvas for truly creative types who want to make the most out of a simple yet flexible space. Fill the bright airy room with paper lanterns and fresh flowers in jam jars to evoke a warm atmosphere.
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Chateau de Challain in Lorie Valley, France
Photo credit: Chateau de Challain
Have the ultimate romantic wedding at a fairy tale chateau in the heart of the Loire Valley. The castle can host smaller ceremonies or a marquee can be set up in the grounds to accommodate parties as large as up to 1,000 guests.
The Alps Lodge in Verbier, Switzerland
Photo credit: Tweetup Kuching
Don’t fancy a city, country or beach wedding? Take to the mountains any time of the year at Richard Branson’s paradise in the Swiss Alps. Use the stunning mountainous backdrop to proclaim your love.
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Sailing in the Mediterranean
Stanislav Solntsev, Photodisc, Getty Images
Let your love bask in a sunlit glow on a yacht in the Mediterranean with an intimate group of friends and family. The next chapter of your life should start with an adventure and what better way than sailing with loved ones in the Med
Aynhoe Park in Banbury, U.K.
Photo Credit: You and Your Wedding
Don’t dismiss Aynhoe Park as any ordinary country estate. This stunning 17th century Palladian home is filled with eccentric treasures from across the globe, which have been acquired by owner James Perkins. If a taxidermy polar bear in aviator goggles intrigues your equally quirky personality then Aynhoe Park might be for you.
The Tree House in Loch Goil, U.K.
Photo credit: Wilson McSheffrey
Nothing is more dramatic than the majestic mountain scenery of Scotland. For an intimate ceremony with your nearest and dearest that evokes childlike whimsy the Lodge’s rustic tree house, overlooking the serene waters of Loch Goil, is perfect. For larger parties of up to 50 guests, The Lodge offers the opulent and luxurious Victorian dining room.
The Decorium in London, U.K.
Photo credit: Shaadi-Esque
Swimsuits were once required for this venue but cocktail dresses or black ties are more apt for the location these days. Make a statement at this North London former public swimming pool. Its elegant foyer entrance and 5,500 square foot 19th Century “Emperor Suite,” featuring neo-classical design, make it an unparalleled venue.
The Napoleon Cellar in London, U.K.
Photo credit: Berry Brothers & Rudd
Foodie couples with a passion for wine will love this subterranean venue. Berry Brothers and Rudd’s striking 17th century Napoleon Cellar accommodates up to 60 guests for lunch or dinner or can host up to 100 guests for a canape reception. There is a separate area adjacent to the Napoleon Cellar perfect for a pre-dinner wine reception.
Pyramid Roof Top in Paris, France
Photo credit: Bedouk
Francophiles and urbanites will love this unique space overlooking the Seine with its breathtaking 180-degree view from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the Maison de la Radio. Host a sophisticated cocktail reception or a sumptuous dinner in this incredible space..
Battersea Power Station in London, U.K.
Like the idea of an industrial estate but want to go larger? Look no further than the Battersea Power Station, which has been a playground for film, fashion, music and art. See how Mark Niemierko, London Wedding Planner, completely transformed the space for a retro chic wedding in the video below. Who wouldn’t want to celebrate with 1,000 of their friends in the venue that graced Pink Floyd’s album cover?
Things to consider
Planning a bespoke wedding will generally take more time and commitment to make your creative vision a reality. Chloe Richardson, an Edinburgh and London-based Event Manager, advises that couples will need to consider travel arrangements and logistics for those attending. It is also important to think about access to the venue for elderly or disabled guests and whether catering, bands or waiting staff are able to actually work in the proposed location. These implications require more planning than just picking “wedding package B” at “hotel chain C” but in the end it is your special day — make it exactly how you envision it to be.
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