Introduction: A Century of Celebrating Love at Old Marylebone Town Hall
One of London’s most iconic wedding venues, the Old Marylebone Town Hall, is marking its 100th anniversary this year. Known for its grandeur, rich history, and star-studded weddings, the venue has stood as a cherished location for couples from all walks of life to tie the knot. To commemorate this momentous occasion, the Town Hall is offering 100 couples the opportunity to marry for just £100, an initiative that has already generated significant buzz and excitement.
With its distinctive columns and stately façade, Old Marylebone Town Hall has witnessed a century of love stories, from intimate ceremonies to celebrity nuptials that made headlines around the world. As it celebrates its centenary, this historic venue is reflecting on its storied past while looking ahead to a bright future filled with even more romance and memories.
A History Steeped in Romance: The Story of Old Marylebone Town Hall
From Modest Beginnings to Iconic Status
Opened in 1924, Old Marylebone Town Hall was designed to serve as a municipal building but quickly became known for its elegant architecture and central location, making it a popular choice for weddings. Its grandeur and historical charm have only increased over the years, attracting not only London locals but also couples from around the world.
Famous Weddings Over the Decades
Old Marylebone Town Hall’s status as a prime wedding venue was cemented by a number of high-profile weddings. Among the most famous was the 1969 marriage of Beatles legend Sir Paul McCartney to Linda Eastman. McCartney’s connection to the venue didn’t end there; he returned in 2011 to wed Nancy Shevell, marking the second chapter of his love story at the same location.
The venue also played host to the marriage of fellow Beatle Ringo Starr and Barbara Bach in 1981. More recently, former Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher chose Old Marylebone Town Hall not once, but twice, marrying actress Patsy Kensit in 1997 and singer Nicole Appleton in 2001.
These celebrity weddings have added to the Town Hall’s allure, turning it into a beloved landmark for fans and a sought-after venue for couples looking to create their own slice of history.
The 100th Anniversary Celebration: £100 Weddings for 100 Couples
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
To celebrate its centenary, Old Marylebone Town Hall is offering 100 couples the chance to marry at the iconic venue for just £100. This special offer, set for October 1st, is a nod to the venue’s history and a gesture to make the magic of Marylebone accessible to even more couples.
The event will run from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., with the Town Hall’s 75 staff members working tirelessly to ensure that each ceremony is as special and memorable as possible. With seven ceremonies scheduled every hour, it’s set to be a day filled with love, joy, and celebration.
A Unique Wedding Experience
Couples taking part in the centenary celebrations will be able to invite up to eight guests and even bring along up to two pets, making the day truly personal and unique. Whether it’s a beloved dog walking down the aisle or a cat in a bow tie, the day is all about celebrating love in its many forms.
For some couples, the opportunity to marry at such a historic venue, at a fraction of the usual cost, is a dream come true. With demand for wedding venues at an all-time high and costs continuing to rise, this special event is not only a celebration of history but also a gesture of inclusivity.
Renovation and Renewal: Old Marylebone Town Hall Reimagined
A £60 Million Makeover
In 2013, Old Marylebone Town Hall closed its doors for a comprehensive renovation. The four-year project, costing £60 million, was aimed at restoring the building’s original grandeur while modernising its facilities to meet contemporary standards. When it reopened in 2017, it did so with an expanded space, state-of-the-art amenities, and a renewed sense of purpose.
The renovation included the addition of new ceremony rooms, designed to accommodate both large and intimate gatherings. Each room retains the classic elegance that has made the Town Hall famous, but with updated interiors that enhance the overall experience.
A Venue for Modern Love Stories
While its history is long and illustrious, Old Marylebone Town Hall is far from being stuck in the past. Today, it stands as a testament to the evolving nature of love and marriage. With civil partnerships, same-sex marriages, and vow renewals becoming more common, the Town Hall has embraced these changes, offering a welcoming space for all couples to celebrate their love.
Memorable Moments: Celebrity Weddings at Old Marylebone Town Hall
Paul McCartney and Linda Eastman (1969)
The marriage of Paul McCartney and Linda Eastman in 1969 was a defining moment for the venue. The couple’s understated ceremony was in stark contrast to the glamour and glitz often associated with celebrity weddings. It was a testament to the Town Hall’s appeal as a venue where the focus is on the love shared between two people, rather than on spectacle.
Ringo Starr and Barbara Bach (1981)
Another Beatle, another love story. Ringo Starr’s wedding to Barbara Bach in 1981 cemented Old Marylebone Town Hall’s status as the go-to venue for music legends. The ceremony was small and private, but its significance was felt by fans worldwide.
Liam Gallagher’s Double Wedding (1997 and 2001)
Former Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher’s choice to marry at Old Marylebone Town Hall twice speaks to its lasting appeal. His 1997 wedding to Patsy Kensit was a media sensation, while his second wedding, to Nicole Appleton in 2001, was equally high-profile.
These weddings are just a few examples of the countless love stories that have unfolded within the Town Hall’s storied walls.
The Future of Old Marylebone Town Hall: Continuing the Legacy
A Beloved Landmark for Generations to Come
As Old Marylebone Town Hall celebrates its 100th anniversary, it’s clear that its appeal is timeless. With its mix of historical charm and modern amenities, the venue is set to continue being a top choice for couples looking to make their wedding day truly special.
Expanding Offerings for New Generations
Looking ahead, the Town Hall plans to expand its offerings even further. With the addition of more flexible spaces, new catering options, and enhanced technology for live streaming ceremonies, Old Marylebone Town Hall is adapting to the needs of modern couples while preserving its historic essence.
Quote from the Venue Manager: “We’re incredibly proud of our history, but we’re equally excited about the future. Our goal is to continue being a place where love stories are written, whether it’s for a grand ceremony or an intimate elopement.”
Conclusion: 100 Years of Love and Counting
Old Marylebone Town Hall’s centenary celebration is more than just an anniversary—it’s a celebration of love, history, and community. Over the past 100 years, the venue has been the backdrop to countless love stories, from the quiet exchange of vows to the joyous celebrations of families and friends.
As the Town Hall looks forward to its next century, it remains committed to being a place where every couple, whether famous or not, can feel like they’re making history.
Final Thought: With its timeless elegance, storied past, and exciting plans for the future, Old Marylebone Town Hall will continue to be a cherished location for generations of couples to come.
