Hampton Court Palace Summer Wedding Photography
Wedding Photography at Hampton Court Palace in East Molesey
Hampton Court Palace weddings are always a pleasure to photograph and I feel honoured to be one of the Historic Royal Palace’s preferred wedding photographs as it gives me so many opportunities to work in this incredible place.
Megan and Steven planned the perfect day at the Palace including a number of locations to really make the most of the unique setting for their wedding. The day began with bride and groom preparation at the Petersham Hotel before the ceremony which took place in the Kings Guard Chamber.
Following the ceremony, the couple made their way over to the Chapel Royal for a wedding blessing before the reception which took place in the stunning Cartoon Gallery in the Palace.
After the reception, we spent some time in the beautiful grounds of Hampton Court for the couples wedding photographs and we were blessed with incredible weather for their portraits.
Here are a few images from this lovely Hampton Court Palace summer wedding.
Venue: Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Ct Way, Molesey, East Molesey KT8 9AU
Photography: Nick Rose Photography
Makeup Artist: Ausra Ruksene
Florist: Pinstripes and Peonies
Cake Designer: Simon's Bakery
Hampton Court Palace Wedding Photography Guide
Hampton Court Palace stands as one of England's most remarkable wedding venues, blending centuries of royal history with modern luxury. Having photographed numerous weddings at this magnificent venue, I've come to appreciate how each space within the palace offers its own distinct character for celebrations.
The Palace Wedding Experience
Originally built for Cardinal Wolsey before becoming Henry VIII's favoured residence, Hampton Court Palace now hosts celebrations within some of Britain's most historically significant spaces. The palace spans architectural styles from Tudor grandeur to baroque elegance, set within 60 acres of immaculate gardens beside the River Thames.
Ceremony and Reception Spaces
The palace offers several stunning spaces for ceremonies and receptions, each with its own historical significance and practical features.
The King's Guard Chamber brings Tudor grandeur to civil ceremonies, accommodating 150 guests beneath its impressive ceiling. Historic weapons arranged in intricate displays create striking backdrops for photographs, while tall windows flood the space with natural light. For evening receptions, the room transforms beautifully to host wedding breakfasts for 120 guests.
For religious ceremonies, the Chapel Royal provides what many consider London's most spectacular wedding setting. Its breathtaking blue and gold ceiling towers above seating for up to 400 guests, while the historic 1712 organ adds both visual and musical magnificence to Anglican services.
The Great Hall, England's finest surviving medieval hall, creates an unforgettable setting for drink receptions. Original Tudor tapestries and a magnificent hammer-beam roof tower above space for 200 guests, making this room particularly atmospheric for winter celebrations when firelight dances off the historic timbers.
Couples seeking intimate celebrations often choose the Little Banqueting House. This Georgian gem overlooks the Thames, hosting up to 50 guests for ceremonies or dining, with its private garden perfect for summer drinks receptions. Exquisite ceiling paintings and river views create beautiful backgrounds for photography throughout the day.
The Garden Room offers a contemporary space within the historic grounds, perfect for larger celebrations. With capacity for 180 guests during ceremonies and dining, expanding to 300 for evening receptions, this purpose-built venue combines modern comfort with garden views. Its neutral décor provides an ideal canvas for personalisation, while the private terrace extends celebrations outdoors during summer months.
Photography Opportunities
The palace provides extraordinary settings for wedding photography throughout its spaces. The Base Court's Tudor architecture creates dramatic backdrops, while the Fountain Court offers classical symmetry for formal groups. Inside, the King's Staircase and State Apartments provide grand interiors rich with historical detail.
The formal gardens offer year-round beauty, from spring tulips to summer roses, autumn colours to winter frost. The famous maze and Long Water create unique opportunities for creative portraits, while the East and West fronts of the palace provide iconic architectural backgrounds.
Practical Considerations
Ceremonies can begin from 1pm until 4pm, with evening celebrations continuing until 11:30pm. The palace works with approved suppliers who understand the venue's unique requirements, ensuring smooth operation of every celebration.
Each space offers modern amenities while preserving its historical character. Air conditioning features discreetly in the Guard Chamber, while the Garden Room provides full climate control and contemporary audio systems. The palace team expertly manages wet weather alternatives, with covered walkways connecting key spaces.
Cultural Celebrations
The venue excels at hosting cultural celebrations, particularly Asian weddings. The Garden Room's height accommodates mandap structures, while separate preparation areas and approved cultural catering options ensure authentic celebrations. The grounds provide impressive routes for baraat processions, with the West Front creating a magnificent arrival setting.
Key Capacities:
Chapel Royal: 400 for ceremonies
King's Guard Chamber: 150 for ceremonies, 120 dining
Great Hall: 200 for receptions
Little Banqueting House: 50 for ceremonies and dining
Garden Room: 180 for ceremonies and dining, 300 for evening receptions
Hampton Court Palace combines historical splendour with practical modern facilities, creating an extraordinary setting for weddings. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or grand celebration, the palace offers unique spaces that transform every wedding into a truly memorable occasion.
