Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

Credit: John Cairns

Set amongst the cityscape of Oxford's dreaming spires, the Ashmolean is a magnificent wedding venue in the heart of Britain's cultural heritage. Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean is a Grade I listed building and the oldest public museum in the world. Its impressive exterior is made up of a majestic forecourt and a Neo-classical façade, including stone pillars and a portico, which can be up-lit in the evenings. These breathtaking features, together with the museum's original doors, create an entrance to remember.
   Displaying half-a-million years of art and history, the spaces can be hired exclusively to provide a stunning backdrop for weddings and celebrations. The grand staircase and its stunning gilded chandelier lead into the Italian Renaissance and European Art Galleries for the ceremony or drinks reception. Reminiscent of an English country house, these galleries are filled with Old Master paintings and marble sculpture. The couple also has access to their own private entrance. The contemporary Atrium features a soaring staircase, which creates a dramatic stage for speeches. The couple and guests can then dine amongst Greek and Roman statues before dancing until late or relaxing in the Museum's Vaulted Café.
   All of the galleries are licensed for nuptials; for guest numbers of up to 100 couples can opt for the European Art Gallery for the ceremony. This gallery is also available for exclusive ceremonies in the daytime whilst the museum is open. It's reminiscent of an opulent English country house with red silk-lined walls, crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and displaying Old Master paintings, marble sculpture. It also has an original 17th-century harpsichord which can be played.The contemporary Atrium is a popular choice for drinks and canapés receptions – typical guests numbers are 150 but it's adjoining galleries and four floors can be opened up to accommodate as many as 900 guests. The couple and guests can then dine amongst classical statues in the Greek and Roman Sculpture Gallery with maximum guest numbers of 150 before dancing until late or relaxing in the Museum's Vaulted Café, inviting additional guests if the couple wish, to a maximum of 270.
   When choosing this big-day venue, couples can enjoy the benefits of a dedicated wedding planner who will support the couple with every step of the way and be there on the day to ensure everything goes to plan. The venue also offers expert guides and access to special exhibitions to add something different for guests on the day or for the duration of their wedding festivities. Over the years, the Ashmolean has developed a network of hand-picked and trusted suppliers to work with who strive to make every occasion special.All couples tying the knot here, can indulge in a complimentary anniversary dinner with fizz in the Ashmolean's Rooftop Restaurant.
   Couples who book their evening reception here, will benefit from a complimentary tasting with the venue's exclusive caterer as well receive as a case of Champagne delivered to their door after their special day.
  
Contact: 01865 610 406 | ashmolean.org/venue-hire
Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont St, Oxford OX1 2PH