Weddings: Spaces available

In the heart of Oxford, host your dream wedding in the Old Bodleian Library: an historic venue steeped in beauty, elegance and charm. 

The Bodleian is situated alongside its iconic neighbours: the infamous Radcliffe Camera, Exeter College’s enchanting walled garden, and the remarkable Sheldonian Theatre. These long-established buildings form the backdrop to a truly memorable wedding in Oxfordshire. 

In the Old Bodleian Library, you have the option to hire the Divinity School, Convocation House and Chancellor’s Court for your wedding ceremony or wedding ceremony and reception.    
 

Explore our spaces in this virtual tour

Three long tables decorated with blue and white flowers laid out at the Divinity School

Divinity School

Reception package

 The magnificent late-gothic Divinity School lends itself to a truly mesmerising space for wedding receptions. The striking stone-carved ceiling and the warm stone floor create a flare of grandeur and the large arched windows enhance the romantic nature of the room, particularly when the early evening sun filters through.

For seated wedding receptions, the Divinity School can accommodate either college or cabaret style seating for up to one hundred and twenty guests.

Convocation House and Chancellor's Court

Ceremony only

Convocation House can be used to host wedding ceremonies, seating up to one-hundred guests.

The room features a breathtaking fan-vaulted ceiling and intricately carved woodwork including the fixed benches with chapel style seating.

Adjoining Convocation House is the anteroom, Chancellor’s Court. This room is used as the private entrance for ceremonies that take place during the day. Originally built in the 17th century, Convocation House was once designed as a meeting place for the University’s supreme legislative body while Chancellor’s Court was the University’s former courtroom. 

A couple stand in front of a large window surrounded by dark wood panelling in Convocation House
A couple in their bridal outfits stand in front of a vintage silver car underneath the Bridge of Sighs in Oxford

Outdoor spaces

To romanticise your wedding further, stunning outdoor spaces like the Old Schools Quad can be exclusively yours for an intimate cocktail hour or a celebratory drinks reception after your wedding ceremony.

A picturesque spot for your newly wedded couples is the Wren door. This faces the Sheldonian Theatre and has been used to frame countless moments between couples and their loved ones.

Beyond these spaces are the Bridge of Sighs, the Clarendon steps, the Radcliffe Camera, and even the iconic red telephone box beyond the Clarendon Quad.

Our spaces

Bodleian site map

 

We are looking forward to celebrating with you!

If you would like to book an appointment with a member of the Bodleian's Wedding team, please complete the form below and one of our staff members will be in touch.