10 UK museum wedding venues to get married in

Here in the UK, we love a bit of art and culture; from the National Portrait Gallery in London, to the National Museum of Scotland, these buildings and their galleries, are part of our national identity. But did you know you can get married in them? Here are 10 of the best:

National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

One of Scotland’s most iconic buildings houses not only the country’s National Museum, but can also play host to your bridal party! The venue is fully licensed and offers beautiful galleries and large open spaces filled with light and calm. Choose between a more modern setting, or opt for a traditional in-gallery ceremony.

National Museum of Scotland Atrium. Image: NMS

Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh

At the very heart of cultural Edinburgh, why not wed in historical splendour and then relax for a banquet in amongst what some have claimed is the finest collection art collections in Scotland? The National Gallery gives the bride and groom a guest list of up to 250 for a dining experience overseen by Rembrandt and Vermeer, and then an exclusive private exploration of the collection.

Scottish National Portrait Gallery. Image: Castle Brae

Scottish National Portrait Gallery. Image: Planet Flowers

The Ulster Museum, Belfast

The Belfast room has been exquisitely restored and combines traditional architectural beauty with modern functionality; the intimate Atrium is an exclusive and intimate venue for your altar, while the museum itself boasts an once-in-a-lifetime reception space for a contemporary wedding event.

Ulster Musuem Belfast. Image: NMNI

The Tall Ship, Glasgow

At nearly 200 years old, this once mighty cargo ship has been transformed from its humble Clydeside beginnings into a splendid wedding venue on the river. It offers guests unrivaled riverside panoramas and presents prospective bride and grooms with a 200 person reception or 150 person banquet. This vessel circumnavigated the globe four times, and could now host the start of your own journey together.

The Tall Ship Glasgow. Image: Encore Hospitality

The National Portrait Gallery, London

Have your reception dinner surrounded by ancient paintings and feast like the portraits of the kings and queens that adorn every wall in gilded splendour. Take a private tour of the National Gallery after dark and say your vows in the centuries old alcoves that now house the most exclusive collection of portraits in the world. Leonardo da Vinci, van Gough, and Constable will all be present on your big day.

The National Portrait Gallery. Image Bob Books

The National Portrait Gallery. Image Unique Venues of London

The Barbican, London

One of the most unique wedding venues to be found in London is the Conservatory at the Barbican, which gives a bride and groom their own tropical paradise for their nuptials. The ceremony can take place in the special exotic glass-clad hall, and the adjoining Garden Room is the perfect setting for your reception; able to house up to 250 guests in champagne-filled heaven.

The Barbican Terrace, London. Image: The Barbican

The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

The impressive pillared building houses the Oxford University museum of art and archaeology, and could be the location for you to exchange your vows. This fully licensed gallery-filled venue works in partnership with a dedicated caterer to make your wedding as special as possible.

Ashmolean Museum Oxford. Image Ashmolean

Ashmolean Museum Oxford. Image Oxford Aspire Musuems

The Discovery Museum, Newcastle

“Eat, drink and be married!” says this well-seasoned wedding venue who promise something unique for your special day. The Turbina Atrium at this Tyne-flanked museum, or the impressive Great Hall brings sophistication and architectural beauty to any wedding ceremony, with the bride and groom’s offered the intimate Story of Tyne gallery for their wedding breakfast.

Discovery Musuem Newcastle. Image City Newcastle

Discovery Musuem Newcastle. Image Discovery Museum

The Royal Society of the Arts, London

The world-famous prestige of the Royal Society in London could be the venue for your wedding and reception, giving a unique spark to your special day. Set amongst the gorgeous Georgian House, the incredibly complex galleries and breath-taking interior will be one of the most memorable things about your big day.

The Royal Society of the Arts. Image RSA — The Royal Society of the Arts. Image: RSA

The Royal Society of the Arts Wedding. Image RSA — The Royal Society of the Arts Wedding. Image: RSA

National Museum of Wales, Cardiff

Tear yourself off a slice of Welsh heritage and add an atmosphere of style to your nuptials by selecting the National Museum in beautiful Cardiff, Wales. The venue almost guarantees a breath-taking wedding snap, from the parquet galleries, to the world-famous paintings, and spectacular architecture.