Art. History. A rooftop terrace. And the low-key thrill of saying “I do” next to a priceless statue that’s older than your nan’s soup ladle.
Location: Ashmolean Museum, Oxford
Good for: Couples who love architecture, art, and a bit of quiet flexing about their venue choice.
You know how most museums politely ask you not to touch anything?
The Ashmolean doesn’t just let you in—they let you get married there.
Right in the heart of Oxford, the Ashmolean is that rare breed of wedding venue that feels genuinely majestic without also feeling like you need to whisper. If you’re into neoclassical columns, 17th-century art, and the idea of sipping champagne next to a marble sarcophagus—congratulations, you’ve found your place.
The Vibe
It’s Oxford, but make it sexy.
Tall pillars, huge windows, and that delicious combination of echoey grandeur and hushed awe you get when standing under something ancient and mildly intimidating.
The kind of space where every corner looks like a Vogue editorial backdrop. And no, that’s not an exaggeration. If you're the kind of couple who owns a coffee table book about design, this is your Super Bowl.
Ceremony & Reception Spaces
You’ve got options. Multiple galleries and event spaces, from the stunning Grand Staircase to the light-drenched Rooftop Restaurant. You can marry surrounded by centuries of art, then head up to the rooftop for drinks and views over Oxford's dreaming spires.
Ceremony? Reception? Evening party with a string quartet in one room and a disco in another? All doable.
And yes—there’s plenty of room for the dance floor. Just not near the Ancient Egypt exhibit. That’s sacred ground.
The Light
Let’s talk natural light. Because the Ashmolean gets it.
There are huge gallery windows, and they’re positioned like someone specifically asked, “How do we make wedding photographers cry tears of joy?” The evening light on the rooftop terrace is chef’s kiss. Golden hour over Oxford skyline? Don’t mind if I do.
The Photography (My Bit)
This is where the Ashmolean really flexes.
Architectural lines that frame portraits like a Wes Anderson shot.
Soft museum lighting for editorial-style candids.
Marble textures, shadow play, and actual artefacts older than most wedding traditions.
Also, it’s hard not to get goosebumps when photographing a couple walking through a gallery of Renaissance paintings like they own the place.
Spoiler: on your wedding day, you kind of do.
Things I Love as a Photographer
Rooftop views – genuinely cinematic.
Gallery vibes – timeless, elegant, and not a fairy light in sight.
Indoor backup – rain? Who cares. The entire venue is stunning inside.
Oxford setting – cobbled streets, old buildings, and plenty of spots nearby for couple portraits if you fancy a short wander.
Final Thought
Weddings at the Ashmolean are part museum, part modern editorial, part "oh wow, we actually did this."
It’s not your average venue—and that’s kind of the point. You don’t book the Ashmolean because you want “a nice room for the ceremony.” You book it because you want art, history, and a little bit of drama (the good kind).
If you’re planning a wedding at the Ashmolean, I’d love to photograph it. Quietly. Artfully. With minimal awkward posing and zero statues harmed in the process.
