Weddings: Spaces available

Host your dream wedding in the in the heart of Oxford at the Old Bodleian Library: a historic venue steeped in beauty, elegance and charm.

Situated alongside iconic neighbours, like 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 Oxford.

You have the option to hire the Divinity School, Convocation House and Chancellor’s Court for your wedding ceremony and/or reception.

Explore our spaces in this virtual tour

A couple kiss in front of three long empty tables in a large stone room

Divinity School

Reception package

The magnificent late Gothic architecture of the Divinity School lends itself to a truly mesmerising space for wedding receptions. The striking stone-carved ceiling and warm stone floor create an unmatched flare of grandeur, while 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

Featuring a breath-taking, fan-vaulted ceiling, the Convocation Houses’ intricately carved woodwork includes fixed benches with chapel-style seating, and can set up to one hundred guests.

Adjoining Convocation House is the anteroom, Chancellor’s Court. This room is used as the private entrance for ceremonies taking place during the day.

Originally built in the 17th century, Convocation House was once designed a a meeting place for the University’s supreme legislative body, while Chancellor’s Court was the University’s former courtroom.

A bride and groom kiss in front of a crowd at their wedding ceremony at the Bodleian Library

A bride and groom surrounded by three bridesmaids in purple and two groomsmen in suits on the steps outside the Bodleian Library

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.

We look 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.