Arts

Events

Weddings

What is the total cost for hiring Abney Park Chapel and what mandatory additional charges apply?

The venue hire cost is £499 for ceremonies, with security being mandatory for all events. Security costs £147+VAT per officer during the day, with an additional officer required (£294+VAT total) for events after park closing hours. A £550+VAT buyout fee applies if you want to use non-accredited caterers.

What are the available time slots and how do park closing hours affect my event?

Events typically run from 10:00am-4:00pm on weekdays and Saturdays, with some slots at 2:00pm and 3:00pm. Events after park closing hours require additional security at £294+VAT total. The venue cannot accommodate hot food service or full bar service due to lack of kitchen facilities.

What is the booking process and payment requirements?

After confirming availability, you'll receive a contract to sign on pages 2 and 11, which must be returned within the specified timeframe. Full payment of £499 is taken over the phone once the signed contract is received. For weddings, you must first secure the registrar before the venue contract is issued.

What catering restrictions apply and what are my options?

The venue is 'dry hire' with no kitchen or prep area, making it unsuitable for hot food, sit-down dinners, or full bar service. All food must be brought ready-to-serve by accredited caterers, with cold buffet or canapes recommended. Using non-accredited caterers incurs a £550+VAT buyout fee plus an accreditation process.

What is the capacity and layout of the chapel?

The venue can accommodate approximately 30 yoga mats comfortably on the ground floor, with additional seating available on the mezzanine level. The space features a simple yet striking layout with stained glass windows and is suitable for various event configurations including photography shoots and private parties.

Are there vehicle access restrictions for suppliers and guests?

Only temporary vehicle access is granted for supplier equipment drop-offs. There is no vehicle access available for elderly guests or general attendee drop-offs. All guests must walk from the park entrance to the chapel through the arboretum setting.

What are the restrictions for religious services and denominational events?

As a Council-run building, the venue cannot be hired for religious services. However, the non-denominational chapel is suitable for humanist ceremonies, weddings, and other secular celebrations. Legal wedding ceremonies require separate booking with Hackney registrars.

How far in advance should I book and what is the provisional booking policy?

Provisional bookings are held for 5 days while you arrange other requirements like registrars for weddings. The venue gets fully booked well in advance, so early booking is recommended. Site visits can be arranged on specific weekdays and Saturdays with slots typically at 15-minute intervals from 9:15am-4:15pm.

What furniture and equipment is included in the hire?

The venue hire includes complimentary use of all furniture and moving of furniture as needed. A dedicated venue coordinator is provided with your booking. The chapel has excellent natural acoustics, making it suitable for sound baths and acoustic performances.

What are the setup and access times for events?

Setup time and supplier access begins at your contracted start time - there is no early access included. For events with existing bookings earlier in the day, access may be limited to later times (such as 4:30pm or 5:30pm starts when there are earlier bookings until 3:30pm).