Royal Weddings At St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral hosted the royal wedding of  Prince Charles and Princess Diana. 

Do you also wish for a royal wedding at St. Paul’s Cathedral? Well, you’re not alone. 

While only a few lucky couples get the chance each year, tying the knot at this historic venue is a truly special experience. 

About thirty couples exchange vows here annually, mainly on Saturdays from January to February and April to October. 

These weddings follow the Church of England traditions and typically occur in the Chapel of the Order of the British Empire, nestled within the Crypt. 

So, if you’re considering a fairy tale wedding, St. Paul’s might just be the perfect place for your happily ever after.

This article will explain the eligibility criteria for getting married in St. Paul’s Cathedral, available spaces, and more.

Who Can Get Married In St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral has specific rules about who can get married there. 

The Archbishop of Canterbury must approve all weddings, and the following groups are eligible for marriage:

• Members of the Order of the British Empire and their children

• Members of the Order of St. Michael and St. George and their children

• Members of the Imperial Society of Knights Bachelor and their children

• People who work or volunteer at the Cathedral, including those at the Cathedral School, depending on their length of service, and their children

• Holders of the British Empire Medal and their children.

The Royal Wedding Of Prince Charles And Princess Diana

St. Paul’s Cathedral in London hosted the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana on July 29, 1981.

The last wedding at St. Paul’s had been 480 years earlier, with Prince Arthur marrying Princess Catherine. 

The royal wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana was a momentous occasion that captured the world’s attention. 

This choice was different from the usual venue of Westminster Abbey. 

St. Paul’s was chosen because of its larger capacity, able to accommodate 3,500 guests compared to Westminster Abbey’s 2,000.

The event was watched by millions worldwide as the young Diana Spencer, in her iconic wedding dress with a 25-foot train, married the heir to the British throne. 

The ceremony blended traditional royal pomp and widespread public excitement, marking a significant chapter in the history of the British royal family.

Spaces Available Inside The St. Paul’s Cathedral

The event spaces at St. Paul’s Cathedral feature some of the oldest and most beautiful architectural elements.

They have now been transformed into versatile venues perfect for corporate hospitality. 

From the cozy dining rooms in the Chapter House to the impressive Crypt, there’s a space suitable for every type of gathering. 

All their spaces are accessible, and with convenient transport links and nearby hotels, guests will find getting here easy.

They collaborate with some of London’s top caterers to provide a personalized service with meticulous attention to detail. 

They have trusted suppliers to assist with lighting, floral arrangements, and entertainment to enhance your event.

Guests can enjoy the cathedral’s grandeur with private tours and musical performances, adding a unique and memorable touch to any occasion.

Wren Suite

The Wren Suite is a sophisticated venue suitable for seminars and family celebrations, accommodating up to 100 guests for receptions. 

This elegant space boasts some of St. Paul’s Cathedral’s oldest and most exquisite architectural elements, blending Sir Christopher Wren’s grandeur with recycled stone from the Medieval Cathedral. 

Equipped with 21st-century technology like a built-in projector, screen, and PA system, it offers modern amenities for various events.

It features vaulted ceilings and stone remnants from the Great Fire of London.

The Wren Suite provides an ideal setting for elegant dinners, intimate wedding receptions, or family christenings. 

It includes the charming Beehive, an intimate room perfect for drinks, breakout sessions, or buffets.

In terms of capacity and layout, the Wren Suite can accommodate different event styles:

The Wren Suite is open every day for daytime events and available for evening events from Monday to Thursday. 

Exceptions are made for Friday and Saturday evenings.

The Crypt

The Crypt at St. Paul’s Cathedral offers a grand space for larger events, accommodating up to 350 standing guests. 

As the largest Crypt in Europe, it encompasses the Cathedral’s footprint and boasts vaulted ceilings and stunning stonework. 

This historic space is the final resting place for notable figures from various fields.

The western end of the Crypt provides a versatile setting for various events, including canapé receptions, formal dinners, and award ceremonies. 

Access to the space is through the Churchill Gates and Nelson’s Chamber. 

For standing receptions, the Crypt can accommodate up to 350 guests. 

Round tables can host up to 250 guests for seated dinners, while one long table can seat up to 120 guests.

The Crypt is available for evening events from Mondays to Thursdays, except for Friday and Saturday evenings.

Nelson Chamber

The Nelson Chamber at St. Paul’s Cathedral welcomes up to 250 guests. 

It offers a unique setting centered around the tomb of Admiral Lord Nelson. 

This chamber is situated beneath the cathedral’s dome, perfect for pre-dinner drinks, receptions, and intimate dinners. 

The Churchill Gates and the Duke of Wellington memorial surround it.

The rotunda space features intricate tiled mosaics created by female prisoners in Woking Gaol during the 19th century. 

Admiral Lord Nelson’s tomb is the chamber’s focal point, adding to its elegance and charm.

The Nelson Chamber can accommodate up to 250 guests for pre-dinner drinks receptions, while receptions can host up to 200 guests. The space can seat dinners for up to 20 guests.

The Nelson Chamber is available for evening events from Mondays to Thursdays, except for Friday and Saturday evenings.

Chapter House

The Chapter House at St. Paul’s Cathedral offers two charming dining rooms.

It can accommodate up to 70 people for a standing reception or 32 for a seated dinner. 

These rooms are perfect for fine dining, exclusive drinks, receptions, and private family gatherings, with stunning views of the Cathedral and its iconic dome.

Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and his son in 1715, the Chapter House boasts elegant Queen Anne-style red brick architecture. 

Situated adjacent to the Cathedral, it features two beautifully restored rooms adorned with wood-paneled walls, chandeliers, and portraits depicting characters from the Cathedral’s history.

Fully accessible with lift access and accessible toilets, the Chapter House dining rooms are equipped with AV capabilities and WiFi. 

It’s available for evening events from Monday to Saturday.

They are also open for daytime wedding receptions, Christening celebrations, and anniversary lunches on Saturdays and Sundays.

The North Churchyard

The North Churchyard at St. Paul’s Cathedral offers a picturesque setting for BBQs, bars, and canapé receptions, accommodating up to 350 guests. 

Dating back to 1236, these garden spaces have served as the site of the General Assembly.

It also provides a private oasis amidst Sir Christopher Wren’s stunning architecture.

Accessible via the Cathedral Floor and South Transept, guests enter through the rose garden gate, surrounded by various trees. 

The gardens offer a charming backdrop for mingling, with options for BBQs, food stations, and bars among the roses and trailing wisteria.

Featuring restored railings and some of London’s oldest trees, the North Churchyard is a unique venue for standing receptions and summer parties. 

In rough weather, the Cathedral provides the Crypt as a backup plan. 

The space is available for evening events from Mondays to Thursdays.

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