so you're having an Oculist wedding! Here's the lowdown on everything you need to know
Why Choose Oculist for your Wedding
The Oculist is a brilliant Brighton wedding venue for couples planning a relaxed, stylish and non-traditional celebration. Tucked just off North Street, this former Victorian eye hospital has been transformed into a character-filled cocktail bar, making it ideal for weddings and evening receptions in the heart of the city.
The space is rich with atmosphere, high ceilings, original architectural details and low, moody lighting create a warm backdrop that needs very little styling.
One of the biggest perks of choosing Oculist is the location. Step outside and you’re instantly surrounded by Brighton’s best photo spots, from The Lanes and colourful streets to historic architecture and the seafront just a short walk away. It’s perfect for natural, documentary-style couple photos that feel effortless, urban and very Brighton.
For couples wanting a wedding that offers flexibility and feels more like a great night out with their favourite people, The Oculist is a brilliant choice and a joy to photograph.
Choosing a Space that’s right for your Oculist Wedding
The Ground Floor and Main Bar
The ground floor at The Oculist is where the atmosphere really comes alive. It’s an open, flowing space centred around the main bar, with high ceilings, rich textures and that effortlessly cool Brighton feel. This is where drinks, mingling, dancing and late-night celebrations naturally happen, all without the space ever feeling split or formal. It’s ideal for relaxed receptions and parties where everyone stays connected and the energy builds as the evening goes on.
The Mezzanine
Upstairs, the mezzanine offers a slightly quieter, semi-private space that still feels part of the action below. With its own seating and bar area, it works beautifully as a relaxed lounge for guests, a spot for early drinks, or somewhere to step away for a breather without disappearing from the party. It adds another layer to the venue and gives your day a really nice sense of flow.
Rooftop Terrace
One of The Oculist’s real highlights is the rooftop terrace. Spread over two levels, it’s perfect for drinks in the open air, golden hour moments and relaxed conversations as the sun dips over the city. The lower level features cosy, heated booths, making it usable even as the evening cools, while the upper deck is great for catching up with family and friends, city views and laid-back portraits that feel very Brighton.
Spots for Couple Portraits Around Oculist
★ The Lanes Just moments from the venue, The Lanes are full of narrow alleyways, textured colourful walls, shopfronts and pockets of light. Perfect for relaxed, documentary-style portraits with a proper Brighton feel.
★ North Street & Surrounding Backstreets Colourful buildings, urban details and quieter side streets make this area great for modern, editorial-style couple photos without having to travel far.
★ Brighton Seafront The beach and promenade are close enough for a quick wander. Open space, sea air and dramatic skies make for effortlessly romantic photos, whatever the weather decides to do.
★ The Carousel Brighton’s seafront carousel is always a favourite. Whether you hop on for a few frames or just use it as a backdrop, it adds movement, colour and a fun, carefree feel to your portraits.
★ Grab an Ice Cream! One of my favourite options. A quick stop for ice cream along the seafront creates relaxed, joyful moments that feel very real and very Brighton. No posing, just you two enjoying the day.
★ The Oculist Rooftop Don’t forget the venue itself. The rooftop terrace is brilliant for laid-back portraits, especially as the light softens, with city views and a cool, urban backdrop.
Top Tips for your Oculist Wedding
★ The Oculist isn’t licensed for civil ceremonies, but celebrant-led weddings are welcome and work beautifully here.
★ There’s plenty of space on the ground floor for a live band, DJ and a proper dancefloor. Just bear in mind that outdoor music wraps up at 10pm. House and electronic DJs can be provided on Friday and Saturday nights if you’d like to keep things simple.
★ Catering can be provided in-house by the venue, or you’re welcome to bring in your own external caterers if you have something specific in mind.
★ The main staircase works brilliantly for speeches, giving you a natural focal point and great sightlines for guests.
★ You can choose to hire the full venue or just part of the rooftop. The rooftop spans two levels, giving guests plenty of room to relax, move around and enjoy the celebrations.
★ If you’re looking for a photographer for your Oculist wedding give me a shout!
Get in touch
Life is built up of many small and wonderful occurrences that will go unnoticed, and it gives me great joy to record these.
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