8 beautiful spots for wedding portraits in London (and the permits you need)

London is one of the most photogenic cities in the world for couple portraits: ivy-covered ruins, Victorian markets, rooftop gardens and wide open parks. But it comes with crowds, traffic and a surprising number of rules about who can take photos where. Here are eight places worth considering, and what you need to know before you go.

1. St Dunstan in the East

A bombed-out church turned garden, with ivy climbing through Gothic windows. It’s one of the most romantic spots in the City. City of London gardens offer a photography licence for weddings and portraits, which at the time of writing costs £294 for up to two hours, between 8am and 6pm. Go early on a weekday for the quietest light.

2. Leadenhall Market

Ornate Victorian roof, cobbles and colourful painted ironwork, right in the middle of the City. It’s busy on weekdays and quieter at weekends. There’s no published rule for wedding photos, so contact the market team in advance if you’re planning a proper shoot.

3. Sky Garden

Views right across London from the top of 20 Fenchurch Street. It’s free to visit, but you need to book tickets, and photography is for personal use only. Tripods, flash and professional equipment aren’t allowed, and commercial shoots need written permission and a fee in advance. Lovely for a casual visit, trickier for a full portrait session.

4. The Kyoto Garden, Holland Park

A peaceful Japanese garden with a waterfall, koi pond and maples that turn spectacular in autumn. Kensington and Chelsea council has strict terms: a small crew, handheld kit only, no props, stay on the paths, and shoots aren’t usually allowed on summer weekends or bank holidays. Apply in advance.

5. Primrose Hill

The classic view south over the London skyline, especially lovely at sunrise or sunset. It’s managed by the Royal Parks, so a permit is needed for a professional shoot (more on that below).

6. Richmond Park

Ancient oaks, long grass and, if you’re lucky, deer in the background. It feels a world away from the city. Again a Royal Park, so a permit applies. Keep a respectful distance from the deer, particularly in autumn.

7. The South Bank

River views, the city skyline and St Paul’s across the water make a great backdrop for a relaxed, city-feel shoot. Note that commercial photography on the Southbank Centre’s own site goes through their filming team with notice and a fee, so keep to public walkways or plan ahead.

8. Hampstead Heath’s Hill Garden and Pergola

A hidden, slightly overgrown Edwardian pergola with climbing plants and stone columns. It feels like a secret garden. The City of London offers a two-hour wedding and portrait licence on weekdays. Check before you go, as parts of the Pergola have been under maintenance.

Royal Parks permits, explained

The Royal Parks (including Richmond Park, Primrose Hill, Hyde Park, Greenwich Park and St James’s Park) have a dedicated Wedding & Lifestyle Photography Permit. At the time of writing:

• You apply online at least 10 days in advance
• Your photographer needs £5 million public liability insurance
• Shoots are limited to one hour, a maximum of 10 people and selected areas of the park
• The Regent’s Park has its own booking system

Guests taking photos on their phones is fine. It’s professional shoots that need the permit.

Tips for a London portrait session

• Go early. A weekday morning means quieter streets and softer light. Weekends in summer get very busy.
• Pick two or three spots close together rather than trying to cross the city. Traffic will eat your time.
• Wear comfortable shoes between locations and change at the spot.
• Have a rain plan. Covered spots like Leadenhall Market are great on a grey day.
• Think about a separate session. On the wedding day itself, travel time eats into time with your guests. A pre-wedding or after-wedding shoot lets you take your time.

Getting married in London, or want a city portrait session? Tell us what you have in mind and we’ll help you plan it, including any permits you need.

Sources: The Royal Parks; City of London gardens; Hampstead Heath; Sky Garden terms; RBKC Kyoto Garden terms; Southbank Centre. Checked October 2026.