I have been photographing weddings in Greenwich and South East London for over 17 years, my first was at the church on Crooms Hill, ‘Our Lady Star of the Sea’, with the reception being held at Greenwich restaurant the Spread Eagle. Since then I have worked at virtually all the venues in the area. Including:
Trafalgar Tavern
The Trafalgar Tavern is a favourite wedding location of mine and I am lucky enough to be on their recommended list of photographers. Built in 1837 and positioned on the Greenwich Maritime World Heritage Site. The quality of light in the Trafalgar is exceptional, coming in from the floor to ceiling bay windows. Light bounces in from the river as well as the sky, giving almost a silvery quality. The Trafalgar has different spaces to shoot in. The Nelson Banqueting Rooms hosts the wedding breakfast, the ceremony takes place in the adjoining area and guests enjoy the champagne reception in the refurbished Admiral’s gallery bar. This venue combines naval history with contemporary details to great effect.
Queen’s House
The Queen’s House in Greenwich is a wonderful wedding venue. Situated within Greenwich Royal park and part of the National Maritime museum, it was built in the 17th century and was originally home to Charles 1’s queen Henrietta Maria. The Tulip staircase is the first geometric self-supporting spiral stair in Britain and is a stunning piece of architecture, the collanades offer shelter in wet weather and soft shade from bright sunlight. The Great Hall in particular reflects Renaissance ideals of mathematical, classical proportion and harmony. The striking feature of the Great Hall is the geometrically-patterned black-and-white marble floor. As a creative photographer, you could not ask more from a venue than the Queen’s House.
Painted Hall
The Painted Hall which is part of the National Maritime Museum is sometimes described as the ‘finest dining hall in Europe’. It was originally intended as an eating space for the naval veterans who lived at the Royal Hospital and was designed by Sir Christopher Wren and Nicholas Hawksmoor. The Painted Hall is used today as a dining area for special occasions, including weddings. I have photographed weddings here many times and it is a joy to have so much visual potential at one’s disposal. This is a magnificent venue and provides a stunning visual back drop for a wedding celebration.
Ranger’s House
The Ranger’s House is a fine Georgian venue, positioned on Blackheath flanked by Greenwich park. Nestled within the walls of the private garden, the venue is licensed for a marquee up to 100 guests. Exquisite interiors, home to the Wernher collection and the rose garden makes the Ranger’s House the perfect venue for a smaller wedding.
Eltham Palace
Eltham Palace is one of the most enchanting attractions in London. Set within moated gardens Eltham Palace boasts a mixture of medieval and art deco styles. With an outstanding tradition of fine hospitality this enviable location will make your event truly memorable. With a sunken rose garden, rock garden and beautiful lawns, the 19 acre private grounds provide an amazing setting for guests to enjoy.
Tudor Barn
The Tudor Barn is situated in 13 acres of award winning parkland and has stood on this ancient site since 1525. The 16th century barn is twenty minutes from Central London, and is ideally suited for a wedding. Licensed to hold civil ceremonies and civil partnerships, the Tudor Gallery has original beams and stunning outdoor areas including the Moat Terrace and the front lawn which are ideal outdoor summer locations for receptions.
Charlton House
Built during the reign of James 1, Charlton House is the finest Jacobean Mansion in London. This beautiful building is an ideal venue for weddings. Capacity is up to 150 in each of 14 differently-sized rooms.
St Alfege church, Greenwich
St Alfege is the Anglican parish church in the centre of Greenwich. There has been a church here for over a thousand years, dedicated to the memory of Alfege, the Archbishop of Canterbury who was martyred on this site in 1012. This is simply a wonderful church to take photographs in, with beautiful stained glass windows and a raised organ loft giving the opportunity to take creative photographs from above.