The Allure of a Belfast City Hall Wedding

Belfast City Hall, located in the heart of the city, is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic civic buildings. Its Edwardian architecture and central location make it a popular and elegant choice for weddings. Whether you're envisioning an intimate gathering or a formal ceremony, the venue provides a historic and photogenic setting for your big day.

Why Choose Belfast City Hall?

Stunning Architecture: With marble interiors, sweeping staircases, and intricate stained glass, the building provides a dramatic backdrop that adds a touch of grandeur to your ceremony.

Prime Location: Situated in central Belfast, the City Hall is easily accessible for guests and surrounded by many restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues for post-ceremony celebrations.

Cost Effective: A wedding in Belfast city-centre will be comparatively cheap when compared to venue hire at an exclusive venue for a day, potentially saving you £1,000's.

Kate Donaldson Photography

Planning Your Ceremony

Booking and Contact: To book your wedding at Belfast City Hall, you'll need to contact the Registrar Team at the council by calling 028 9027 0455. It’s advisable to reserve well in advance to secure your preferred date and time.

Marriage Notice Requirements: Couples must submit a marriage notice at least 28 days before the ceremony. This includes:

• Completed marriage notice forms (one per person)

• Original birth certificates

• Passports or other valid ID

• If previously married, evidence of divorce or a death certificate

These documents should be submitted either in person or by post to the Belfast Registration Office. More details are available on the nidirect website and the Belfast City Council marriage page.

Ceremony Style: Ceremonies at City Hall are concise yet meaningful. You can choose a simple civil service or personalise the ceremony with your own vows, music, and readings, subject to approval by the registrar.

Fees and Costs

The fee for a civil ceremony at Belfast City Hall varies depending on the day of the week:

• Monday to Friday: £463

• Saturday: £680

• Bank/Public Holidays: £712

These costs include the marriage notice fee, room hire, and registrar attendance. Full fee details are available on the Belfast City Council’s official site.

Wedding Photo Opportunities

Belfast is a city rich in character, history, and stunning backdrops, making it a dream location for wedding photography. Whether you're getting married at Belfast City Hall or elsewhere in the city, there are countless photo opportunities that blend urban chic with natural beauty and architectural grandeur.

1. Belfast City Hall Grounds

If you’re having your ceremony at City Hall, you don’t have to go far for spectacular photos. The building’s Edwardian Baroque façade, domed roof, and sweeping front lawns provide a classic and grand backdrop. The marble staircases and stained glass windows inside also create beautifully lit, timeless portraits.

Kate Donaldson Photography

2. Cathedral Quarter

Just a short walk from City Hall, the Cathedral Quarter is full of cobbled streets, street art, and industrial-chic alleyways. This area blends Belfast’s old-world charm with a modern, urban edge, perfect for couples looking for unique, editorial-style shots.

Danielle Kernohan Photography

3. Botanic Gardens & Palm House

If you want a splash of greenery, the Botanic Gardens offer a tranquil escape with manicured lawns, rose gardens, and the beautiful Victorian Palm House. The natural light and tropical plants inside the glasshouse make for dreamy, romantic images.

4. Titanic Quarter

The Titanic Belfast building, with its striking angular design, is ideal for dramatic, contemporary wedding shots. The area also includes the Harland & Wolff cranes (Samson and Goliath), dry docks, and historic slipways, ideal for couples with a love of maritime history and industrial vibes.

leek, modern interiors and bold architectural lines. These venues are perfect for minimalist or contemporary-themed shoots.

5. Murals & Street Art

Belfast is well known for its murals and urban artwork, particularly in areas like The Falls Road and The International Wall. While some murals are political, others are colourful, modern, or celebratory, offering a bold and dynamic element for couples who want something completely different.

Tips for Getting the Most from Wedding Photos:

• Time of Day: Early morning or golden hour (an hour before sunset) offers the best natural light.

• Plan Your Route: Choose 2–3 key locations that are close to your venue to minimise travel time.

• Weather Backup: Belfast weather is unpredictable, always have an indoor location or umbrellas on hand just in case.

Lynn Wortley Photography

Post-Ceremony Venues

While Belfast City Hall does not host wedding receptions, its central location means you're just steps away from a variety of venues to continue your celebration. Options include:

• Café Parisien: Overlooking City Hall, this intimate venue offers a Parisian-inspired ambiance

• AMPM Cabaret Supper Club: Famed for its eclectic décor and vibrant rooftop garden, it’s a perfect choice for couples looking for a distinctive and energetic setting.

• The Merchant Hotel: A luxurious option with opulent interiors, suitable for grand receptions.

• Titanic Hotel Belfast: Located in the historic Titanic Quarter, it combines maritime heritage with modern elegance.

• The MAC: For art enthusiasts, this contemporary arts venue offers a creative space for your reception.

An important consideration to make here is if the venue is within walking distance. If not, you may need to arrange private transport for example.

Silver Lace Photography

Incorporating Local Wedding Suppliers

Planning a city wedding allows you to collaborate with a variety of local suppliers to personalise your day. The NI Wedding Directory lists 100's of trusted professionals across Northern Ireland, including:

• Photographers: Capture your day with experienced photographers familiar with Belfast's iconic locations.

• Florists: Enhance your venue with bespoke floral arrangements.

• Videographers: Select from a range of videography options to suit your taste and budget.

• Stationery Designers: Create custom invitations and signage to reflect your wedding theme.

• Live Wedding Painters: Hire local artists to keep your guests entertained throughout the evening.

By choosing local suppliers, you support the community and benefit from their expertise in creating memorable city weddings.