Where are the best wedding venues in Canberra? Photo: File.
Planning your big wedding day? If so, you’ll be hosting one of the most significant celebrations of your lifetime. And choosing the right venue is key to your wedding’s success.
A wedding venue is more than a scenic backdrop. It’s a place where you’ll celebrate love and make memories with family and friends. It’s also where you’ll take your first steps with your new spouse.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a wedding venue, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great wedding venue?
Choosing the right wedding venue can take the stress out of your special day. You’ll want a venue that suits the style of your wedding, your budget and the number of guests. You’ll also want a venue that is there to support you, to make your day as seamless and stress-free as possible.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a wedding venue.
- Picture perfect. Most engaged couples want a wedding venue to reflect who they are. They strive for a picture-perfect venue—perhaps one that is architecturally beautiful or one that has breath taking natural landscapes. Refine your search for the best venue by first considering the style, tone and feel you want.
- Top-notch facilities. Top-notch wedding venues have flexible spaces of various sizes and provide a wide range of services to meet all your needs. That can include providing tables, chairs and linen. It can also include sound, vision and lighting services. You’ll likely want a dance floor, quality cuisine (beautifully plated) and more.
- Convenient location. You’re best to consider many factors when choosing a location. Accessibility, access to accommodation, transport and parking might be important. If you’re holding your venue further afield, you might want shuttle or other travel services for the convenience of your guests.
- Impeccable service. Ask about staff and service levels when choosing a wedding venue. Friendly and experienced staff, ready to provide personalised and attentive service, will make your day super special.
- Flexible packages and pricing. Renting your wedding venue is usually a major expense. You’ll want to research packages and pricing at a few venues so you fully understand your options. Flexible packages can help keep you budget in check without compromising on your wedding.
The best wedding venues in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and maintain a minimum average of 4/5 stars on both Google and Facebook reviews.
Gold Creek Country Club
Gold Creek Country Club, on the prestigious Nicolls Estate, is a picture-perfect venue for weddings, large and small. The décor is functional, stylish and can be transformed for relaxed or formal weddings and everything in between. A stunning feature is the massive fireplace, especially attractive in Canberra’s cooler months.
Trevino’s Restaurant and Bar at Gold Creek has one of the best dining views in the ACT. The team plans and executives weddings with flair, for both members and the general public.
Wedding menus and drink packages are customised to suit any budget and the venue can be decorated to make the wedding party’s vision come true.
Trevino’s Restaurant and Bar’s menu varies with the seasons and always features pastas, steaks, seafood, poultry, salads and delicious desserts. The team in the kitchen is creative and supports all dietary requirements.
Gold Creek Country Club has been giving joy to wedding parties since 1996. High-quality customer service is always the aim. No request is too challenging.
In addition to weddings, Trevino’s Restaurant and Bar caters for engagements, birthday parties, wakes, conferences and special celebrations like Christmas. This unique venue has something for everyone.
Call or head to the website and complete the contact form to have a staff member discuss the full range of services offered by the staff at Gold Creek Country Club.
On Google, Nina Finch wrote, “The friendly staff can cater for any function, large or small, and are only willing to make your special occasion memorable.”
Canberra Southern Cross Club
Making weddings wonderful. That’s the reputation upheld by the Canberra Southern Cross Yacht Club, an award-winning wedding venue with a devoted team on hand to create the perfect day.
Winner in the “2023 Wedding Industry Awards, Waterfront Category (Canberra, Southern Tablelands and Snowy Mountains)”, the Club makes dreams come true. This award celebrates excellence in the wedding industry, as voted by newlywed couples.
The Canberra Southern Cross Yacht Club, on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, is well known for its breathtaking views, exceptional service and versatile function venues. The Club has over 40 years’ experience helping clients plan and deliver wedding receptions, small, medium and large.
Award-winning chefs have curated an extensive range of affordable function packages. Menus can easily be tailored to reflect each couple’s personal taste and budget, and special dietary requirements are accommodated. Drink menus can be designed to complement food packages.
Beautifully appointed facilities provide a great range of options and state-of-the-art technology is available. Explore The Wardroom, The Lotus Room, The Balcony and The Yacht Club Restaurant—all with water views, and each with their own distinct personality. Spaces can be transformed to any style of wedding.
The dedicated, experience team is committed to creating unforgettable wedding experiences. Team members are not only highly qualified, they are passionate, flexible and easy to work with.
On Google, Lily Oh wrote, “We had a wedding function here for my friend. Such beautiful super friendly staff … We had a great time!”
Thoroughbred Park
Thoroughbred Park offers so much more than horse racing. This special spot is perfect for weddings and a wide range of other private functions.
With the tranquility of a park setting and special views of the Brindabella and Majura mountain ranges, Thoroughbred Park offers versatile, flexible functions spaces for wedding receptions of all sizes and styles.
Thoroughbred Park has multiple unique spaces available for wedding receptions, accommodating up to 150 guests and well beyond 800 guests. The Owners and Trainers Lounge is modern and sophisticated. The Winning Post Bar is ideal for wedding cocktail functions. The Black Opal Room, Silks Room and Rich Reward rooms all feature floor-to-ceiling windows. Private rooms and lounge areas are great for small wedding groups.
The Functions Department’s friendly, creative team is highly experienced in supporting memorable wedding receptions, providing suggestions and ideas for the ultimate experience for any wedding couple. Rooms can be transformed to any design.
Premium menu and function packages include canapes, entrees, mains, desserts, and buffet options. Food and beverage packages are tailored by Thoroughbred Park’s in-house chef. Special dietary requirements are easily accommodated.
Thoroughbred Park is also a desirable destination for Christmas parties, training days, conferences, special events, trade shows, and corporate dinners of all sizes and styles.
Only five minutes from the heart of Canberra. Free parking.
Get in touch with Thoroughbred Park’s experienced team today to begin planning that dream wedding.
On Google, Suzanne Wescome wrote, “I'm excited to be holding my wedding here later this year! Beautiful setting, lots of on-site parking, function rooms are lovely.”
National Gallery of Australia
The National Gallery of Australia is a sophisticated location for those seeking a culturally rich wedding venue. Situated along the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, it features world-class function spaces, including the heritage-listed Sculpture Garden. The Gallery caters to intimate and large wedding receptions, with The Gandel Hall accommodating up to 350 seated guests. Cocktail receptions are available. Food, wine and service are impressive.
Jill Taylor wrote on Google, “The gallery is my favourite spot in Canberra.”
Rydges Canberra
Rydges Canberra is ideal for romantic wedding receptions. The entrance is alive with auburn foliage in autumn and vibrant cherry blossoms in spring. The stunning atrium is perfect for receptions. Rydges’ Forrest Suite accommodates larger weddings. Semi-private spaces are ideal for smaller weddings. Food and wine packages available. Rydges Canberra has wedding guest accommodation and a Honeymoon Suite.
Melinda Smith wrote on Google, “Beautiful place to stay ... We had a balcony view of the huge indoor atrium restaurant.”
The National Arboretum
The National Arboretum has a selection of romantic settings for memorable weddings, all with stunning and spectacular views. Venues include the Village Centre, with its award-winning architecturally designed building featuring soaring ceilings, and the Margaret Whitlam Pavilion with floor-to-ceiling glass and private balcony. Weddings can also be held in forests and gardens. Ginger Catering presents food and beverage packages for seated and cocktail weddings.
Don Brackenreg wrote on Google, “Beautiful spot for a wedding, great views over Canberra.”
Tuggeranong Homestead
Tuggeranong Homestead is a heritage-listed wedding venue offering rustic old-world charm in a country setting. Set among 70 acres, this country setting provides total seclusion. Tuggeranong Homestead features stunning gardens, fountains, a gazebo and spectacular scenery for miles. It’s a beautiful setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions, with exclusive use. Professional service and quality food complement each wedding day. Wedding photographs are spectacular at this location.
On Google, Attila Ovari wrote, “Great venue, great service and awesome food.”
The National Museum of Australia
The National Museum of Australia, an architecturally stunning building, is an ideal venue for unique weddings right on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. The Museum has sweeping decks, expansive windows and impressive indoor and outdoor spaces with mountain, city and lakeside views. Wedding packages are flexible and include exceptional food and wine. The Museum is one of Canberra’s most sophisticated wedding venues.
Shane King wrote on Google, “A wonderful open space with the lake on its backyard.”
QT Canberra
QT Canberra moves mountains for perfect, personalised weddings. With eight venues to choose from, QT Canberra mixes elegance with creative enchantment and make dreams come true. Whether the wedding is an intimate party, opulent sit-down dinner or a grand 800-guest affair, QT Canberra’s team has everything covered, and in detail. QT Canberra also offers romantic honeymooning options.
Verena Van Boom wrote on Google of QT Canberra, “Great location, lovely hotel, amazing views and rooms had a balcony which I loved.”
The Boat House
Tucked away in its own private parklands on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, The Boat House is a stunning and award-winning wedding location. The Boat House offers breathtaking views of Kingston Foreshore and surrounds. It’s a sophisticated venue with fine-dining and personalised services. Each wedding reflects the married couple’s unique wishes, needs and values.
On Google, Damian Tolson wrote, “Wedding reception for the ages. Good food and attentive staff. Perfect venue for celebrating the perfect couple.”
Midnight Hotel
One of Canberra's most luxurious wedding venues, Midnight Hotel in Braddon is the perfect place to celebrate an intimate occasion with your closest family and friends.
With three event rooms to choose from and wedding services on site, plan every detail to the letter for up to 100 guests.
"Midnight Hotel, Autograph Collection invites the global guest to experience the beat of a growing city, the personal touch of exceptional service and above all, originality and authenticity in a celebration of high design," the team says online.
If you’re looking for more information on wedding planning, you might like out articles on the best wedding photographers, wedding & marriage celebrants and wedding bands, DJs and musicians Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with wedding venues in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the wedding venues listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a wedding venue cost?
Many factors are involved when choosing a wedding venue. One is the number of guests you’ve invited. The additional services you want can influence cost. Location and the quality of the venue can too. It’s best to sit with a wedding contact at each venue and nut out a detailed costing, so there are no hidden surprises.
What questions do I ask a wedding venue?
Consider questions around date, number of guests that can be accommodated and if other events are taking place at the venue on the same day. Ask about wedding packages and what’s included. You’ll likely want to ask about room set-up and decorations. It’s important to ask questions about food, alcohol and your wedding cake needs. Payment and insurance are also important topics to ask about.
What is included in a wedding venue package?
Most wedding venues offer packages to provide flexibility. Packages generally include costs for venue hire for ceremonies and receptions. They also include pre-wedding and reception food and beverages, staff, agreed level of service and requirements like table settings and cake tables. Packages can also include services like stages, light, visual and sound.
What are the most popular months for Canberra weddings?
Summer is a popular time for weddings in Canberra. Having said that, many weddings are held in other seasons. Some couples want to get married in warmer months and others in cooler months.
How far in advance should I book my wedding venue?
It’s always best to plan well in advance so your wedding day sparkles. Many wedding planners recommend booking up to 18 months in advance, especially with more popular venues. Some require even more time, and some less. Saturday is the most popular day for a wedding.
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