Description
Discover the Timeless Charm of Lord Leycester Hospital for Your Wedding
If you’re dreaming of a wedding venue that blends rich history with stunning architecture, the Lord Leycester Hospital in the heart of historic Warwick is a perfect choice. This enchanting collection of timber-framed buildings dates back to the 14th century and stands as one of England’s finest examples of medieval courtyard architecture. With its unique character and atmospheric setting, it offers a truly memorable backdrop for your special day.
Ceremony and Reception Spaces Tailored to Your Celebration
The Lord Leycester Hospital offers a variety of beautiful, historic spaces for your ceremony and reception. Booking the venue exclusively means you and your guests can enjoy an intimate, personal experience throughout your wedding day.
- The Great Hall: Ideal for larger ceremonies or your wedding breakfast, this grand hall accommodates up to 100 guests. Its impressive Spanish oak beamed roof once hosted a banquet for King James I in 1617, adding a royal touch to your celebration. The Great Hall also transforms perfectly for lively evening receptions where you can dance the night away.
- The Guildhall: Licensed for civil ceremonies, this 600-year-old room offers a warm, honey-coloured half-timbered setting. It comfortably seats up to 70 guests, creating an intimate and unforgettable atmosphere for your vows.
- The Master's Garden: For couples who love the outdoors, this tranquil garden is perfect for a beautiful ceremony or a relaxed drinks reception. Surrounded by stunning medieval architecture, it seats up to 100 guests and provides fantastic photo opportunities by the Norman Arch or the charming thatched summer house.
- The Chapel of St James: For a private blessing, the 900-year-old chapel offers a truly magical space. Located above the medieval town gate, its historic charm adds a special touch to your wedding day.
A Venue Rich in History and Character
Established in 1571 by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, the Lord Leycester Hospital was originally a retirement home for soldiers. The term “hospital” here reflects its original meaning—a place of welcome and hospitality. This Grade I listed building has stood the test of time, surviving the Great Fire of Warwick and serving as home to the Brethren (ex-servicemen) for over 450 years. Its magnificent medieval courtyard offers a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos and drinks receptions, blending history with celebration.
Capacities and Key Facilities
- Guest Capacity: Suitable for weddings with 50 to 120 guests.
- Ceremony Options: Licensed for civil ceremonies indoors and outdoors, plus a historic chapel available for blessings.
- Reception Spaces: The Great Hall hosts seated wedding breakfasts for up to 90 guests and evening receptions for up to 120.
- Venue Features: Exclusive use of the venue, a dance floor, permission for live music and discos, and convenient on-site parking.
Experience
Overview of Lord Leycester Hospital
Wedding Ceremony & Reception
Wedding Venue Details
Wedding Catering
Reviews (1)
- RRach & Dal19/01/2019Beautiful historical venueBeautiful historical venueOur Christmas time wedding was just perfect at the Lord Leycester. The Great Hall looked stunning with the Christmas tree and holly decorations. Our guests loved the setting too. If you’re looking for an intimate setting full of history and original, historical features you will love the Lord Leycester! Our Christmas time wedding was just perfect at the Lord Leycester. The Great Hall looked stunning with the Christmas tree and holly decorations. Our guests loved the setting too. If you’re looking for an intimate setting full of history and original, historical features you will love the Lord Leycester!
Location & Contact Details for Lord Leycester Hospital
What makes Lord Leycester Hospital a unique wedding venue?
Lord Leycester Hospital offers a timeless blend of rich history and stunning medieval architecture, dating back to the 14th century. Its timber-framed buildings and atmospheric medieval courtyard create a truly memorable backdrop for weddings, making it one of England's finest examples of historic wedding venues.
What types of ceremony and reception spaces are available at Lord Leycester Hospital?
The venue features several unique spaces including:
- The Great Hall: Suitable for up to 100 guests, perfect for large ceremonies, wedding breakfasts, and lively evening receptions.
- The Guildhall: A 600-year-old room licensed for civil ceremonies, seating up to 70 guests.
- The Master's Garden: An outdoor tranquil garden seating up to 100 guests, ideal for ceremonies or drinks receptions.
- The Chapel of St James: A private, historic chapel for blessings, adding a magical touch to the wedding day.
What is the guest capacity for weddings held at Lord Leycester Hospital?
The venue comfortably accommodates weddings with guest counts ranging from 50 to 120 people:
- Ceremonies and receptions can host up to 120 guests.
- The Great Hall seats up to 90 for wedding breakfasts.
- The Guildhall accommodates up to 70 guests for intimate ceremonies.
Is Lord Leycester Hospital licensed for civil ceremonies?
Yes, Lord Leycester Hospital is licensed for civil ceremonies both indoors and outdoors. The Guildhall provides a licensed indoor space for civil ceremonies, while the Master's Garden offers an outdoor licensed option. Additionally, the historic Chapel of St James is available for private blessings.
Can I have exclusive use of the Lord Leycester Hospital for my wedding?
Yes, booking the Lord Leycester Hospital provides exclusive use of the venue, allowing you and your guests to enjoy a private, intimate, and personalised wedding experience throughout the day and evening.
Are live music and dancing allowed at Lord Leycester Hospital weddings?
Absolutely! The venue features a dance floor and permits live music and discos, especially in The Great Hall which is ideal for lively evening receptions to celebrate with dancing.
Is there on-site parking available for wedding guests?
Yes, Lord Leycester Hospital offers convenient on-site parking for wedding guests, making accessibility and comfort easier on your special day.
What historical significance does Lord Leycester Hospital hold?
Established in 1571 by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, Lord Leycester Hospital was originally a retirement home for ex-servicemen. The Grade I listed medieval complex has survived the Great Fire of Warwick and boasts unique architectural features, such as the Great Hall’s Spanish oak beams, reflecting its rich heritage.
Can outdoor weddings be held at Lord Leycester Hospital?
Yes, couples who prefer outdoor ceremonies can choose The Master's Garden, a tranquil and picturesque space surrounded by medieval architecture. It accommodates up to 100 guests and offers stunning photo opportunities near the Norman Arch and the thatched summer house.
What makes the Great Hall at Lord Leycester Hospital special for weddings?
The Great Hall features an impressive Spanish oak beamed roof, historically notable for hosting a banquet for King James I in 1617. It accommodates up to 100 guests for ceremonies or receptions and up to 90 for seated wedding breakfasts, making it a grand and majestic space ideal for larger celebrations.
