If you have ever been dumbfounded by your favourite Instagram influencer uploading pictures of a tropical oasis and claiming that it can be found in the middle of central London, the likelihood is that you are seeing the Barbican’s rooftop Conservatory without even realising it.
Without a doubt The Barbican’s best-kept secret, the Conservatory is an incongruous space that houses exotic fish and more than 1,800 species of tropical plants under its glass roof. It is certainly one of the most unusual wedding venues in the capital, but by no means does that make it second rate.
The Barbican Conservatory is licensed to host both wedding and civil partnership ceremonies, while the Garden Room on level three can host up to 220 guests for a seated wedding breakfast. The Garden Room was refurbished a few years back and boasts floor-to-ceiling windows which let in plenty of natural light and offer up stunning views of the city skyline, while a state-of-the-art lighting system is on hand to ensure the atmosphere still sings when it is time for post-dinner dancing.
Weddings at the Barbican Conservatory are catered for by the team at Searcys, who also act as caterers for other London landmarks, including the likes of The Gherkin and The HAC. The kitchen team will create a menu driven by fresh and seasonal ingredients, with dietary requirements easily accommodated for.
On the big day itself, newlyweds will be whisked away to the Barbican Conservatory’s ‘couples area’ after exchanging their vows, at which point an in-house photographer will capture all the magic of their special day, against the stunning backdrop of tropical plants and exotic fish. There is no need to worry about what your guests will do with themselves though, as the rest of the wedding party will be kept entertained with glasses of fizz and a selection of canapés.