Abi and Jonathan’s York Wedding at Merchant Adventurers’ Hall
Abi and Jonathan celebrated their wedding day in the beautiful city of York, choosing the historic Merchant Adventurers’ Hall for their reception. The city offered a perfect blend of elegance, heritage and atmosphere, and their day felt full of meaning from beginning to end.
Their ceremony took place earlier in the day at The Bar Convent. It is a very special venue with a personal connection, as it can only be used by couples who attended school there. After the ceremony, everyone made their way into York city centre for the reception and celebrations.
A Historic York Wedding Venue
Merchant Adventurers’ Hall is one of York’s most notable historic buildings. With its medieval timber structure, oak beams and warm candlelit atmosphere, it is an unforgettable setting for a wedding. Tucked just off Fossgate in the heart of the city, it is a venue that immediately feels welcoming and full of character.
Abi and Jonathan held their drinks reception in the peaceful walled garden. Guests chatted, explored and enjoyed the sunshine, with York’s historic rooftops just beyond the trees. Afterward, everyone moved inside to the Great Hall for the wedding breakfast, framed by long banqueting tables, tall floral arrangements and the glow of soft lighting across the beams.
Later in the evening, the celebrations continued in the Undercroft, where the music, dancing and shared joy filled the space. It was one of those weddings where guests stayed on the dancefloor, and the laughter never really stopped.
Why Merchant Adventurers’ Hall Works So Well for Weddings
If you are considering a wedding in York, Merchant Adventurers’ Hall has a lot to offer:
- Beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, which work well in any season
- The convenience of a central York location, close to hotels and transport
- A warm, atmospheric setting perfect for candlelight and evening celebrations
- Plenty of space for larger weddings, without losing the feeling of intimacy
- Endless photo opportunities, both inside and in the surrounding streets
The building has a charming sense of occasion and history. It suits couples who love the idea of a wedding that feels timeless and relaxed, with a touch of grandeur. Check our there website for more information – https://www.merchantshallyork.org/hire
The City as Part of the Celebration
One of the best things about a York wedding is being able to step outside into cobbled lanes, gardens and historic streets. Abi and Jonathan took a little walk together for portraits between ceremony and reception. The city offered a perfect backdrop, and the quiet moment between them gave the day a lovely pause before the the rest of the party.
These small pockets of calm in a wedding day can be some of the most memorable.
A Note on The Bar Convent Ceremony
While most of the images and celebrations took place at Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, the ceremony at The Bar Convent made the day uniquely personal. It is a venue with deep significance for Abi and her family. Although it is not open to the wider public for weddings, it provided a meaningful and heartfelt start to the day.
For Couples Planning a York Wedding
York is a wonderful city to celebrate in, especially if you want your wedding day to feel walkable, historic and full of atmosphere. Merchant Adventurers’ Hall is a standout choice if you are looking for a reception venue that brings visual character, warmth and history together.
If you would like more inspiration for planning a wedding in York or want to chat about photography for your day, feel free to get in touch. We are always happy to talk through ideas and help with recommendations.