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At a glance

Up to 45
Exclusive Use
Civil ceremony
Wedding Facilities
In house wedding coordinator
Essentials
Civil ceremony, Exclusive use
Type of Venue
City, Historic, Museum, Outdoor, Small and intimate
Venue Style
Cool, Modern, Unique

About

When searching for a city wedding venue, finding one blessed with traditional glamour and a unique feel, can be tricky. Fortunately, we’ve got a brilliant solution. Originally built in the Tudor period and later remodelled in the 1730s, weddings at The Minories Art Gallery are infused with irresistible charm and romance. Nestled in the heart of Colchester, just a stone’s throw from Colchester Castle, this grade II-listed Georgian townhouse is home to one of the earliest surviving buildings of the Gothic Revival.

The folly, complete with pointed Gothic arches, a crenellated roofline, and quatrefoil windows evokes medieval grandeur and romantic mysticism. One of the most popular locations to say ‘I do’ at The Minories Art Gallery, the folly, along with the cobbled floors and lush flowerbeds of the garden lend a fairytale feel to share with up to 45 guests. If the weather refuses to behave, however, you’ll also find various other rooms to provide an equally stunning backdrop.

Inside this historic building, which also houses Colchester’s oldest art gallery, you’ll find a magnificent first-floor ballroom. Complete with ornate cornices and large windows framed by neoclassical columns, The Ballroom is a no-brainer location for wedding breakfasts. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal or buffet-style dining, the on-site catering team is ready to accommodate your needs.

As a wedding venue, The Minories Art Gallery puts sustainability in pride of place. There are various wedding packages to choose from, all of which champion sustainable products and suppliers to minimise any environmental impact. The experienced team has a brilliant list of recommendations, so whether you’re looking to bring in an external caterer, or organise in-season floral displays and dried flower arrangements you’ll have everything you need. Throughout your journey, you’ll have a dedicated wedding coordinator working closely with you to create a bespoke and unforgettable big day.

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Rooms

The Folly

The Folly


Ceremony Capacity: 45

Enquire about this room


The Ballroom

The Ballroom

| Size: 46m2
Ceremony Capacity: 45
Reception Capacity: 45

The stunning ballroom of this Tudor-Georgian house, with magnificent lighting.

Enquire about this room


The Girling Room

The Girling Room

| Size: 75m2
Ceremony Capacity: 45
Reception Capacity: 45

The core of The Minories, the Girling Room is a brilliantly spacious area with direct access to our garden.

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Testimonials for The Minories Art Gallery

It was absolutely perfectAUGUST, 2025

We recently had our small wedding at The Minories, and it was absolutely perfect. The venue itself is gorgeous — it strikes the perfect balance between traditional charm and a modern, stylish feel. It made for a lovely, intimate atmosphere that suited our day beautifully.The staff were fantastic throughout. They were helpful, attentive, and really went the extra mile to make sure everything ran smoothly. A special mention also goes to Sally for all the support with planning and being there on the day to support with everything.The food was outstanding and so many of our guests commented on how delicious everything was.The only downside is the limited parking, which made things a bit tricky for some of our guests. That said, it didn’t take away from what was an otherwise wonderful experience.If you’re planning a smaller wedding and want a unique, character-filled venue with excellent service and food, we’d absolutely recommend The Minories.

Sonny Brown

I can't wait to go backMAY, 2025

I visited for an event put on by the East Anglia Folk Centre. The organisers were lovely, very welcoming, and personable. Accessibility, as with many historic buildings, poses some challenges, but they are very open and honest about what is and isn't available. They were also very accommodating when I spoke to someone about being uncomfortable on my chair, and they assisted swapping it for something with a full back. The building is beautiful, and the Folk Centre is full of folk inspired art, curios, and an extensive folk library. I can't wait to go back.

rxkittens

Meet the team
The Minories Art Gallery

Sally Murray

Weddings Coordinator
Sally is an experienced Weddings Coordinator who works with several venues across East Anglia. 

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The Minories Art Gallery
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