A person with a clear umbrella walks past Bellanger restaurant with its red awning on a city street.

Your Perfect Day from Start to Finish in Islington


1slington offers a charming blend of historic elegance and modern convenience, making it an ideal location for your wedding day. As an Islington Town Hall wedding photographer, I am always a bit awestruck by its beautiful marble staircase and rich history. Additionally, the surrounding areas offer diverse settings for post-ceremony shots. I should know - I've lived here for 20 years!


Ceremony Venue: Islington Town Hall


Located on Upper Street, Islington Town Hall is not only architecturally impressive but also steeped in history. The marble staircase is a highlight, offering a grand setting for photographs. The building's design and interiors provide a timeless elegance that enhances any wedding album. They have a great selection of rooms from the tiny Canonbury Suite just for you and your witnesses to the very grand Council Chamber which can seat up to 85 guests. Room 99 for 20 guests is my personal favourite.

A couple share a joyful moment while sitting at a restaurant table decorated with festive holiday lights and decorations.

Reception Venues: Upper Street And Surroundings


Stepping out of the Town Hall, you're immediately on Upper Street, known for its array of restaurants, bars, and cafés.ithin a short walk, you can find the perfect venue to suit your reception, whether you're looking for a cozy café or a lively bar. I often tell my couples that a good place to meet pre-ceremony is The Vineyard pub which is directly opposite the town hall - it's just quite quiet in the day and is great for photos but do check there is not soccer match on that day!


Another favourite of mine which is just over the road is Mr Lobo (Peruvian) and Terra Rosa (Italian). Many couples take the short walk from the Town Hall to Bellanger which is just on Islington Green and just a little further is Frederick's on Camden Passage which is perfect for a large group with a garden, terrace, separate area for drinks and a huge dining room.


Heading on towards Exmouth Market you'll find the fabulous Coin Laundry. With craft beer and cocktails, this laid back neighbourhood bar is perfect for wedding receptions. They have a large space upstairs, perfect for dining and downstairs is a second room which usually serves as a dance floor with its own bar. It always works really well.


Moving in the opposite direction from the Town Hall takes you towards Canonbury and the lovely Canonbury Tavern which has a terrific private room upstairs, perfect for a small to medium sized wedding party.


Transportation: Getting There


Islington is well-connected, making it accessible for you and your guests. Highbury & Islington tube station is about a 10-minute walk away, and Angel tube station is just down the road. Additionally, several bus routes stop right outside the Town Hall. If you're arriving in a special wedding car, arrangements can be made for drop-off and pick-up at the front of the Town Hall. Alternatively, there's a quiet street beside the Town Hall where your driver can wait comfortably.

A wedding couple sits intimately together on ornate marble stairs with a white bouquet in a romantic moment.

Local Vendors: Dresses And Florists


If you want to keep it really local supporting local businesses can add a personal touch to your wedding. For bridal attire, Angelica Bridal in Camden Passage (my favourite street), near Angel tube , offers a range of beautiful dresses. Very close to the Town Hall you have the fabulous tailor Charlie Allen.


When it comes to florists, Upper Street boasts several options. Angel Flowers and Plants, located at 60 Upper Street, and Dansk Flowers, situated at St Mary's Church on Upper Street, are both reputable choices.


Need More Local Knowledge?


Planning your wedding in Islington combines the charm of historic venues with the convenience of modern amenities, ensuring a memorable day for you and your guests. I've lived just down the road from the Town Hall for 20 years so if you need any more local knowledge, please just let me know.

Wedding guests laugh and socialize during a reception dinner in an elegant dining room.
People enjoying a celebratory meal with wine glasses and floral centerpieces at an elegant dining table.
A bride and groom walk together down an elegant hallway with arched ceilings and framed artwork on the walls.
Black and white architectural photo of a grand historic building with columns and steps.
A romantic black and white dance scene with two people embracing while dancing in an intimate setting.
Black and white photo of newlyweds signing marriage documents with joyful expressions.
A solemn civil ceremony takes place in an elegant wood-paneled room with red carpeting and stained glass windows.
Two cheerful men in suits smile together while standing on outdoor building steps in black and white photograph.
A couple in formal wedding attire stands next to a chalkboard sign outside Canonbury pub on a quiet street.
A couple in stylish suits exits a building together, with the person in white holding a floral bouquet.
People walking with umbrellas on a rainy day past brick townhouses with a bright blue door in London.
Classic vintage white Rolls Royce wedding car parked in front of Frederick's storefront in black and white photograph.
Wedding Photographer Gary Williams

YOUR LONDON BASED DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER


If you're looking for more than just posed photographs, if you want your wedding day to be documented authentically, capturing real emotions and heartfelt connections – then you've found your documentary wedding photographer. Get in touch and let's create memories together. Send your enquiry and you'll be able to download a free copy of my very useful Wedding Guide.

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