The Music Room is pure drama, in the very best way. You arrive through the main entrance, walk the Long Gallery (already impressive), and then step into this huge, colourful, jaw-dropping space that honestly makes people stop mid-sentence. The walls are deep crimson, covered in painted scenes, the curtains are held up by carved dragons, and the lotus chandeliers hang low from the domed ceiling. It’s bold, theatrical and completely unforgettable. This room is made for wedding ceremonies that feel like a moment, and it’s even been the backdrop for one of the UK’s first same-sex weddings, which just adds to its story.
CAPACITY: Up to 90 seated (including the couple)
The Red Drawing Room feels like a little secret within the Pavilion. Tucked away on the ground floor, it’s calm, rich and full of character, with the original dragon wallpaper and palm-tree pillars still very much doing their thing. This is where the King’s guests would retreat after big banquets, and you can feel that sense of intimacy the moment you’re inside. It’s not open to the public and has its own private entrance, which makes your ceremony feel properly personal and unhurried. You can use this room just for your ceremony, or link it with the King William IV Room for drinks afterwards. Ceremonies here are seated only, which actually works beautifully with the relaxed, elegant feel of the space.
CAPACITY Up to 44 seated (including the couple)
This is where the impact really hits. The Banqueting Room is used for drinks receptions and can host up to 180 guests standing. It’s bold, dramatic and unforgettable, the kind of space where people pause mid-conversation just to take it all in. With dragons overhead and grand chandeliers, it really feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Perfect for that first glass before or after the ceremony.
This room feels more relaxed and sociable, and works beautifully for wedding breakfasts or smaller receptions. It can host up to 60 guests seated, 80 standing for drinks, or around 70 for a standing buffet. It flows naturally from the Red Drawing Room and is a space where guests tend to settle into.
The Adelaide Suite has elegance without being overwhelming and is a great option for wedding breakfasts or receptions for up to 75 guests. It’s ideal if you want something that still feels special but a little calmer than the larger state rooms.
If the weather’s on your side, the King’s Lawn is a treat. Drinks outside, the Pavilion as your backdrop, guests spilling onto the grass, it’s relaxed, summery and feels hard to beat.
★ Long Gallery
This one’s a favourite for a reason. Soft pink tones, pattern, curves. It’s perfect for elegant, slightly playful portraits.
★ The Saloon
Bold, dramatic and instantly impressive. Rich colour, gold detailing and beautiful light make it a brilliant spot for couple portraits that feel striking and full of character, without needing much posing at all.
★ The corridors
Don’t skip these. The corridors are full of texture, colour and unexpected light, and they’re brilliant for those in-between, just the two of you moments.
★ Music Room (if you’re using it)
Rich colour, dramatic details and a real sense of that Pavilion drama. Even a couple of frames here feel special and timeless.
★ Red Drawing Room doorway & details
A calmer, more intimate spot with beautiful architectural touches, perfect for quieter portraits.
★ King’s Lawn
Step outside and you’ve got greenery, space and the Pavilion as your backdrop. It’s perfect for fresh air and a change of pace.
★ Around the Pavilion exterior
A wander around the building gives you domes, arches and quiet corners that work beautifully for editorial-style shots.
★ The gardens
Paths and little pockets of calm that balance out the grandeur of the building.
★ The Lanes
Just a few minutes away for colour and an unmistakable Brighton vibe.
★ Seaside & the pier
If you’re up for a short wander, the seafront and pier are always worth it. Open space, big skies, salty air instantly let’s you relax. The pier adds that playful, unmistakably Brighton backdrop for photos that feel lively and full of character.
★ Know how the ceremony works
The Pavilion provides the venue, but all civil ceremonies are carried out by the Brighton & Hove Register Office, with an additional fee paid directly to them. It’s a separate booking, so worth factoring in early.
★ Red Drawing Room = seated ceremonies only
If you’re getting married in the Red Drawing Room, all guests must remain seated during the ceremony. It’s down to the historic nature of the room, and honestly, it suits the elegant feel of the space perfectly.
★ Catering is an approved supplier only
You’ll choose from a selection of approved caterers who know the building inside out. They’ve been picked for good reason, but you’ll need to contact them directly for quotes and catering costs.
★ Plan a separate party venue
The Pavilion isn’t licensed for parties, there’s no dancing, DJs or late-night celebrations here. Think of it as the ceremony-and-reception part of the day, then plan to head elsewhere for the party (which Brighton is very good at).
★ Parking is very limited
There’s space for one wedding car only within the Pavilion Estate. Guest parking isn’t available, so it’s worth letting guests know in advance to plan public transport or nearby parking.
★ If you’re looking for a Royal Pavilion wedding photographer, give me a shout!
My approach is relaxed, colourful and documentary-led, capturing the real feeling of the day without turning it into a photoshoot.
You can see more about my Brighton wedding photography here.
Life is built up of many small and wonderful occurrences that will go unnoticed, and it gives me great joy to record these.