Arts

Events

Weddings

What is the total cost for a wedding ceremony at Abney Park Chapel?

The venue hire cost is £499 for a wedding ceremony. Security is mandatory for all events, with charges of £147+VAT per officer during the day, and an additional officer at £147+VAT (£294+VAT total) for events after park closing hours. The registrar's fee is separate and paid directly to Hackney Council.

What are the available time slots for wedding ceremonies?

Wedding ceremonies are available Monday-Saturday from 10:00-16:00 in hourly slots. Saturday slots show some restrictions, with 12:00 and 13:00 unavailable on certain dates. Sunday ceremonies are not offered based on the available scheduling.

How do I book the registrar for a legal wedding ceremony?

You must first secure the registrar through Hackney Council before the venue will send a contract. Complete the booking form at https://hackney.gov.uk/approved-premises or contact the registrar team on 0208 356 7442. The venue will only proceed with your booking once registrar availability is confirmed and their fee is paid.

What is the booking and payment process?

After confirming registrar availability, the venue sends a contract requiring signatures on pages 2 and 11, which must be returned by a specified deadline. Once the signed contract is received, the venue calls to collect the full payment of £499 over the phone. Payment is required in full before the booking is confirmed.

What catering options are available and what are the restrictions?

The chapel is a 'dry hire' venue with no kitchen or prep area, making it unsuitable for hot food, sit-down dinners, or full bar service. All food and drink must be provided by accredited caterers and brought ready to serve. Using a non-accredited caterer incurs a £535+VAT buyout fee plus an accreditation process.

Can we hold both ceremony and reception at the chapel?

Yes, the chapel is suitable for wedding ceremonies and drinks receptions. However, it cannot accommodate sit-down dinners or full bar service due to the lack of kitchen facilities. The venue is better suited to cold buffet food or canapés for receptions.

What happens if there's a booking conflict with my preferred time?

If your preferred slot is unavailable due to existing bookings, the venue will offer alternative times. For example, if there's a booking until 15:30, the earliest available access would be 16:30. The venue maintains provisional bookings for 5 days while you confirm registrar availability.

Are there vehicle access restrictions for elderly guests or suppliers?

Vehicle access is only granted temporarily for supplier equipment drop-offs. There is no vehicle access available for elderly guests - all attendees must walk from the park entrance to the chapel. This should be considered when planning for guests with mobility requirements.

What furniture and facilities are included in the hire?

The venue hire includes complimentary use of all furniture and a dedicated venue coordinator. The chapel features brand new stained glass windows, seating on the mezzanine level, new flooring, accessible toilets, and an accessible pathway. The venue is fully accessible and Grade II listed.

Can we use the venue for non-religious ceremonies?

Yes, the chapel is non-denominational and suitable for civil ceremonies and humanist ceremonies. However, as a Council-run building, it cannot be hired for religious services. All legal ceremonies must be conducted by Hackney registrars.