London is, without a doubt, one of the most inclusive cities in the world to say "I do." But as a wedding photographer, I know that for queer couples, finding a venue isn’t just about the "look" - it’s about the feeling. It’s about walking into a space and knowing that you, your partner, and your community are genuinely celebrated, not just "accommodated."
If you’re looking for a venue that ditches the stuffy traditions and embraces your story exactly as it is, here is my curated guide to the best LGBTQ+ friendly wedding venues in London.
1. The Iconic Trailblazers: London’s Registry Offices
London’s town halls are legendary for a reason. They offer that "quintessential London" vibe without the rigid formality of a traditional church.
Islington Town Hall: A true piece of history. Islington hosted the UK’s first same-sex marriage in 2014. The grand marble staircase is basically a rite of passage for London couples.
Old Marylebone Town Hall: With 7 different ceremony rooms (from the cozy Paddington Room to the grand Westminster Room), it’s perfect for everything from elopements to big bashes. It’s timeless, elegant, and famously welcoming.
Chelsea Old Town Hall: Located on the iconic King’s Road, this is the place for couples who want a bit of "rock n’ roll" history with their registry ceremony. The steps are the ultimate spot for a confetti explosion!
2. The "Cool & Alternative" Crowd
If you’re the kind of couple who finds "traditional" a bit boring, these venues offer a blank canvas for something unique.
Asylum Chapel (Peckham): This Grade II listed building is raw, atmospheric, and breathtakingly beautiful. It’s perfect for my documentary style—the crumbling paint and stained glass provide a backdrop that feels honest and artistic.
Hackney Coffee Co: For the coffee lovers! It’s a lush, green oasis in the heart of East London. It’s intimate, relaxed, and perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel like one big, beautiful hang-out.
The Barbican Conservatory: Want a tropical wedding in the middle of a brutalist concrete masterpiece? This is it. It’s one of the most unique spaces in the city and very popular with the LGBTQ+ community for its "otherworldly" feel.
3. The Bohemian Pubs & Private Clubs
For a "party-first" wedding where the vibes are high and the awkwardness is low.
The Union Club (Soho): Tucked away in a 300-year-old Georgian townhouse, this is the epitome of Soho bohemian cool. It’s quirky, colorful, and has been a safe haven for creatives and the queer community for decades.
The Bedford (Balham): A stunningly restored pub with a circular "Globe-style" theatre. It’s grand but completely unpretentious—ideal for a late-night party and "In the Box" portrait sessions.
Why the "Vibe" Matters
As someone who is also training to be a counsellor, I’m hyper-aware of the "wedding performance" pressure. Many LGBTQ+ couples feel they have to perform a certain way for the camera.
My approach is the opposite. I’m there to capture the quiet glances, the loud laughs, and the moments you didn't even know were happening. No awkward posing, no fake smiles—just the real, unscripted joy of your day.
How to spot a truly inclusive venue:
Look at their language: Do they use "Bride and Groom" exclusively on their site, or "Couples/Partners"?
Check their galleries: Do they showcase real same-sex or gender-non-conforming weddings, or just "styled shoots"?
Trust your gut: During your tour, do the staff ask about "The Bride" or do they ask about you?
Planning your London wedding?
If you want a photographer who gets the "relaxed, documentary" vibe (and maybe a few "In The Box" shots for your guests), I’d love to chat. Click here to check my availability.
YOUR DAY.
YOUR PEOPLE.
YOUR RULES.