Elegant double curved staircase with red floral wallpaper and ornate railings inside a historic mansion.

Wedding Photography on the Grand Staircase at the Renaissance Hotel


The Grand Staircase at the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel is one of the most iconic and romantic photography spots in London. Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in the 1860s, the staircase was part of the original Midland Grand Hotel — a Gothic Revival masterpiece that opened in 1873. Its sweeping curve, ornate ironwork and richly patterned red carpet make it instantly recognisable. Whenever I go to the hotel, and particularly look at the staircase, I can’t help but remember that not too long ago there was a very serious risk of the whole thing being demolished. When you see how beautiful the hotel is now, it’s hard to imagine that was ever a possibility.


The building was closed for much of the 20th century, but thankfully it was rescued, restored and reopened in 2011 as the Renaissance Hotel. Since then, the staircase has become a favourite for film shoots, fashion campaigns, and even featured in the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” video.


Do You Need Permission for Photography on the Grand Staircase at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel?



Unsurprisingly, access is tightly controlled. You can’t just wander in off the street and start taking photos — the hotel is understandably protective of the space. But if you’re dreaming of some stunning photographs on this architectural masterpiece, here’s what you need to know.

Ornate Victorian-era theater interior with red velvet seats, gilded columns and decorative architectural details.
A sequence of black and white photos showing a person in formal attire posing on an ornate wooden staircase.

Photoshoot Options on the Grand Staircase


If you’re staying at the hotel, you may be eligible to access the space for a short complimentary shoot on the staircase. This is just for the space, you will still have to pay me as your photographer. This access is only available to guests with a bedroom booking — which actually makes it a very decent option if you’re getting married at Camden Town Hall just across the road. Staying the night before means you’ll wake up relaxed and can get ready in a beautiful and historic setting. If you're not staying at the hotel, there is quite a steep charge for using the stairs — in fact, it’s often cheaper to just book a room!


Only one photographer is allowed — so it’ll just be me — and whichever option you choose, the hotel only permits minimal photography equipment. That really just means me with a camera and a flash attached — no tripods, lighting rigs or assistants. You can click here to get in touch and check my prices and availability.


It’s also worth noting that this is a working hotel, so we’ll need to be respectful and mindful of guests who may be using the staircase at the same time. Disruption has to be kept to an absolute minimum.


Here’s what the hotel currently offers. Remember, this is just for access to the space, it does not include my fee as your photographer.


  • Classic Photoshoot – Complimentary access to the stairs
  • 15-minutes.
  • Access to the 2nd & 3rd levels of the Grand Staircase.
  • Requires proof of a hotel bedroom reservation.


  • Deluxe Photoshoot – £1,000
  • 1-hour photoshoot
  • Access to the 2nd & 3rd levels of the staircase and the hotel forecourt


  • Luxury Photoshoot – £2,000
  • 2-hour photoshoot
  • Access to the 2nd & 3rd levels of the staircase and the hotel forecourt


The hotel can also customise these packages if you’re after something more tailored — for example, a 30-minute or 90-minute shoot instead. Just ask if you have something particular in mind. Some packages allow use of the forecourt too, as long as we don’t block the entrance or disturb hotel guests. To discuss the options, you’ll need to contact the events team at the hotel directly — they’re the ones who handle all shoot bookings.


This is a special location that not many people have access to — so if you want your wedding photographs to have a little bit of a wow factor, it’s certainly worth thinking about. And perhaps it’s just the excuse you needed to treat yourself to a stay at the Renaissance Hotel.

Ornate Gothic staircase with red fleur-de-lis wallpaper and blue starry ceiling in historic mansion interior.
Ornate Gothic staircase with red carpeting and blue ceiling in historic St. Pancras Hotel features detailed iron railings.
Elegant carpeted staircase with red fleur-de-lis wallpaper inside a Gothic Revival castle featuring vaulted ceilings and arches.
Grand staircase in historic mansion with ornate iron railings, tall windows, red walls and antique light fixtures.
A grand spiral staircase with ornate wrought iron railing inside an elegant mansion with classical decor and lighting.
Someone wearing a white wedding dress poses with a bouquet on ornate wooden stairs with decorative carpet and stained glass windows.
Elegant curved staircase in an abandoned vintage mansion with dramatic lighting and ornate architectural details.
Ornate grand staircase in a historic building with red lighting and dramatic architectural details.
A sequence of photos showing a bride and groom ascending an elegant red-walled staircase with ornate gold wallpaper.
A bride in a white wedding dress and veil poses for a series of elegant bridal portraits in a red and gold room.
A ghostly figure in white stands in an ornate hallway with arched columns and blue patterned carpet.
Wedding guests are seated in an elegant historic venue with ornate columns and decorative details.
Elegant staircase with ornate railings and red patterned wallpaper in a luxury hotel interior.
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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