How much time is allowed for a wedding ceremony?
We allow 2.5 hours. This gives enough time for the couple to arrive, be interviewed by registrars, their guests to arrive, the ceremony itself and a short time for photos to be taken afterwards.
Are we allowed to play music in the Garden?
Acoustic music is allowed in the Garden, but unfortunately amplified music is not allowed. We have many residential neighbours whose properties back onto the garden space, so we need to be mindful of them in terms of sound levels.
What decoration restrictions are there?
We try to be as flexible as possible with decorations, to allow you to transform the spaces to fit your vision! However, as a historic building we do have some restrictions for suppliers – and we are happy to liaise directly with them to ensure that plans remain within our guidelines. At its simplest level, we cannot allow any decorations or lighting affixed to floors or walls, nor any decorations (such as berries or certain flowers) that could cause staining. If you want further information with regards to specific ideas, please just ask!
How accessible are the spaces?
We try to ensure our spaces are accessible as possible – however we are a historic site which does limit us to the number of modifications we can make to the building. Our Museum Galleries are entirely step free to access, as are the lavatories on the ground floor. The Chapter Hall, Old Chancery and Council Chamber are accessible via a lift and a ramp through our NHQ building. Please note this ramp is only suitable for manual wheelchairs.
Will anyone be there on the day to help us?
Yes, a member of the Events team is assigned to every event and will be available to answer any questions in the run up to the day, as well as staying on site from set up through to clear down to ensure that your event runs smoothly.
Can I store items with you before/after the event?
Unfortunately, we are unable to store any items before or after your event, due to space restrictions within the building. We are happy to liaise with suppliers with regards to drop off and collection times for your event.
Can I use my own caterer?
I’m sorry we only permit those on our approved suppliers list to work within our Listed spaces.
Is there a corkage charge?
No, the museum will not charge you a corkage fee but caterers may charge a fee to serve drinks.
What people say
“Thank you for being so helpful and for making our conference such a pleasant day. Everybody loved the venue – they are a discerning group of people with very high standards. I would highly recommend the Museum as a conference venue.”
National Trust
“We want to express our deepest thanks for your organisation and efficiency on the day of our wedding. All staff at the Museum were really helpful and we are delighted to have had our wedding ceremony with you.”
Siobhan
“We had an amazing day. So many people have complimented us on the choice of venue, it really is a special place.”
Helen and Ed
“We couldn’t have been happier with the venue – everyone was extremely friendly and accommodating. The Chapter Hall looked beautiful and the Council Chamber was a perfect drinks space.”
Kate
“The committee was overwhelmingly in favour of the Museum over other locations I had scouted. Your helpfulness and positive attitude really made your venue so wonderful a place to perform.”
Exmoor Singers in London
