Information For The National Centre for Early Music
Our medieval, grade-one listed building is set within peaceful and private gardens and can offer the perfect setting for your special occasion.
The NCEM is set in the grade-one listed, medieval church of St Margaret’s and provides a stunning and unusual venue for your wedding reception or celebration party. Restored to the highest possible standards, this award-winning building provides an idyllic and unusual venue in the heart of York with exceptional facilities and set in peaceful, private grounds. You can relax and enjoy our first-class venue whilst our friendly and welcoming staff will ensure that your event is a memorable occasion.
On the day you will have exclusive use of the venue and our friendly and welcoming staff will work with you to ensure that your occasion runs smoothly and is enjoyed by everyone. You might choose to enter through our stunning Norman arch on the south side or via our contemporary foyer with views of the garden. With plenty of natural light, the church offers a bright, welcoming atmosphere and the stone arches and wrought iron candelabras give a sense of grandeur. At night, the candlelit church offers a beautiful and intimate setting for dining or dancing and the excellent acoustics are perfect for a live band or DJ. The setting inside and out provides a perfect backdrop for your memorable photographs.
We work with Bradshaws of York, Caterers of Distinction, who will be on hand to create your delicious dishes, bursting with seasonal style. They offer an extensive range of options for food and wine to suit your tastes and can cater for any special dietary requirements.
The National Centre for Early Music at a Glance
Price Range
P.O.ABedrooms
N/AType of Venue
HistoricCity Centre
Unique Venue
Exclusive Use
Marquee Weddings
Same-Sex Weddings
Seated Capacity
Up to 120Reception Capacity
Up to 150Meet the Key Person
Hi! I'm India, the Events Coordinator here at the NCEM. It is such a privilege to be able to be a small part of so many wonderfully happy memories. Can't wait to hear from you!
Current Promotions
Exclusive Promotion:
Make your wedding unforgettable with the National Centre for Early Music. We are currently offering 2026 dates at 2025 prices!! Contact us today to secure your date and discuss this all-inclusive package tailored to create your dream day.
Top Wedding Tips
Keep it Simple. The backdrop of St. Margaret's Church is so stunning that extravagant decorations are optional. Homegrown flowers and soft candlelight still have an impact.
What's most important? Identify your top 3 priorities, whether it's food, fresh flowers, or the party, tackle them 1st. This ensures what matters most to you is covered, making everything else easier.
Take time for you! A sweetheart top table is the perfect way to take some time as newly weds to talk and catch up on the day so far.
The National Centre for Early Music Reviews
On the day, all staff were professional, willing and good humoured, even when some guests were lingering at the end of the night! We also had a lot of guests remarking how kind and helpful all the staff were, in particular Mark who helped a guest with her young baby.
We had such a fantastic day celebrating with our friends and family and it really could not have been better. Thank you to you and your team at the NCEM for making our day so special!
If we ever renew our vows, it will be at the NCEM!
Upcoming Fairs at The National Centre for Early Music
Real Weddings
Sarah and Jack
Sarah and Michael
Goldie and Moran
Kirsty and Sam
Nick and Sophie
Milly and Luke
Videos
Cuppa & a Chorus
By choosing to celebrate your wedding with us, you are actively supporting initiatives like 'Cuppa & a Chorus' and helping the NCEM continue to make a difference through music.
KS Films - Guy & Carina Wedding
Fox Tail Photography - Matthew & Elanor's Wedding
Celebrations at NCEM
NCEM Venue Hire
Awards
Accreditations
Social Media
The National Centre for Early Music
- St Margarets Church
- Walmgate
- York
- North Yorkshire
- YO1 9TL
- United Kingdom