Set in the heart of London, yet with beautiful and secluded surroundings, Middle Temple is the most enchanting venue in the capital with a rich tradition of romance and centuries-old tales of royals, playwrights and pioneering explorers. Situated on the bank of river Thames, it is one of four ancient Inns of Court, established in the 14th Century by the Knights Templar and has been at the very epicentre of Britain’s ancient justice system to this very day.
The magical setting boasts one of the finest Elizabethan Halls in the country, Middle Temple Hall, whose unrivalled heritage and limited availability create an incredibly exclusive and dramatic backdrop to any wedding. Beneath its double hammer beam roof, oak-panelled walls are decorated with hundreds of Coats of Arms, while its impressive windows are made from heraldic glass memorials to notable Middle Templars. The very first recorded performance of ’Twelfth Night’ was staged here on 2 February 1602, in which William Shakespeare himself acted.
Guests are sit at the same High Table, where generations of Royalty have dined for centuries. The 29-foot-long table is believed to be a gift from Elizabeth I – made from a single oak tree that was floated down the Thames from Windsor Forest.
An impressive setting for weddings, the Hall can host ceremonies up to 100 guests, wedding breakfasts from 70 to 100, and informal receptions up to 320. It can be set up in a variety of ways to suit formal or informal dining before dancing the night away underneath that magnificent roof.
Alongside the Hall, Middle Temple’s magnificent Bench Rooms are a regal backdrop for weddings and civil partnerships, photography and drinks receptions, and can accommodate up to 100 guests.
On a balmy evening, the Gardens of Middle Temple are the most beautiful, secluded and quintessential London setting. Here guests can enjoy a rare level of privacy, while viewing the twinkling lights of the Embankment across the perfectly manicured lawns. The tranquil Rose Garden has been renowned for the beauty of its roses since Shakespeare’s time alongside the Fountain Court - a welcome oasis, just moments from the bustle of City life. The enchanting outdoor setting boasts world-class catering and a wide variety of marquee options, accommodating up to 700 people.
All rooms in Middle Temple are licensed to accommodate civil ceremonies as well as wedding receptions. Working with distinguished catering suppliers makes the venue a popular choice for Asian and Jewish weddings too. A dedicated team of professionals is employed to create a truly bespoke package that goes beyond expectation, in every way possible.
Note to Editors:
- Parliament Chamber, the most distinguished of all Bench Rooms, is the very spot where Bridget Jones and Mark Darcy were memorably engaged. Previously the Middle Temple library, it features exquisite carved panelling, intricate ceiling, and stained glass memorials to Henry II, Edward III, Elizabeth I and James IV.
- Queen’s Room, the most graceful of all Bench Rooms, is named after HM Queen Mother, who was called to the Bar in this very room in 1944. She dined at the Inn every year from 1944 until her death in 2002.
- Prince’s Room is named after Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, who was called to the Bench here on 6th July 2009. Paintings of Rt Hon Joseph Jekyll and Sir Nicholas Hyde adorn the walls while their coats of arms are in the south west transept of the Middle Temple Hall.
- While the Bench Rooms are available for hire all day every day, Middle Temple Hall and Gardens are open to the public from 4pm on weekdays, and all day at weekends.