Exeter Historic Guildhall

Exeter's Historic Guildhall stands on the High Street in the centre of the city and is one of the oldest municipal buildings in England still in use. For more than 800 years it has been the seat of local government, and it has hosted royalty and visiting dignitaries. Today its Great Hall and Jury Room are used for weddings, civil partnerships and vow renewals.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

It is a strong fit for couples who want a civil ceremony with real sense of place, in a building at the heart of the city's civic life. The ceremony is short and focused, held in a hired slot, which suits couples planning a city wedding with the party somewhere else. The two rooms make it just as workable for a small group as for a larger gathering.

Ceremonies

The Great Hall is the main room, with timber panelling, a brass chandelier and grand oak doors at the entrance. It holds around 75 to 80 guests and is hired in three-hour slots, either morning or afternoon. The Jury Room takes up to 35 guests and suits a more intimate ceremony, with shorter slots through the day. Ceremonies run Monday to Saturday, and Sundays can be arranged. Your registrar is booked separately through the local register office before the Guildhall confirms your date.

Receptions and food

The Guildhall does not provide catering. You can add a drinks or canapé reception after the ceremony, bringing your own drinks and food, which gives you a chance to toast with guests before moving on. Most couples then head to a restaurant, hotel or other reception venue in the city for the meal and evening.

Getting there and the area

The Guildhall is on the High Street, a few minutes on foot from Exeter Cathedral and the shops and cafes of the city centre. Exeter Central station is a short walk away, and Exeter St Davids, on the main line from London and Bristol, is around fifteen minutes on foot. Public car parks are dotted around the centre.

Good to know

• Two ceremony rooms, the Great Hall and the Jury Room
• Weddings, civil partnerships and vow renewals are all held here
• No in-house catering, but a drinks reception can be added