Take a first look at the Honourable Artillery Company’s Armoury House, with its golden flag stone exterior, regal columned entrance and patina clock tower, and you’d be forgiven for assuming it is a country estate. But this historic building and the surrounding greenery can actually be found bang, smack in the middle of London.
Located just moments away from east London favourites such as Old Street and Columbia Road, this stunning wedding venue is hidden in plain sight amongst the hustle and bustle of the city. Completed in 1857 and designed by architect Joseph Jennings, it started life as a Regiment and Army Reserve and is now also a charity and a membership club, with ample room in the buildings and grounds to host events, too.
There are four main areas which can be used to host wedding ceremonies and receptions. If you are planning on throwing a huge bash, the Prince Consort Rooms have a capacity of 350 people and can be transformed into whatever theme your heart desires. Unlike some of the other spaces, it is a contemporary-style, blank canvas which is perfect if you’d like to take over the space with a specific colour scheme or look. It also has exclusive access to a pretty courtyard and summer terrace, so that while the room is being changed from service, to wedding breakfast, to dancefloor, you can enjoy drinks outside with your guests. If you’re looking for a space with a more period aesthetic, The Long Room has a capacity of 150 and a much more dramatic look with white cornicing and large chandeliers. For a more intimate affair, the Queen’s and Ante Rooms can accommodate 40 people and has beautiful period detailing, butter-yellow walls and lots of natural light. And finally, if you’re hoping for sunshine, the Artillery Garden is the largest garden in the City of London at just over five acres and creates that countryside feel but with all the ease of London venue.