The museum’s Dinosaur and Fossil Galleries is now licensed to host civil wedding ceremonies.
The galleries, which are dominated by the colossal Rutland Cetiosaur skeleton affectionately known as George, have been favourite locations for wedding photos for many years among couples getting married at the museum’s Victorian Gallery and Lord Mayor’s Room.
Now, with the galleries themselves licensed for weddings, couples can exchange vows in the shadow of the giant beasts.
Leicester deputy city mayor responsible for culture and leisure, Cllr Piara Singh Clair, said: “We’ve had lots of interest from people wanting us to make the Dinosaur Gallery available for weddings, so we’ve done the work to get it licensed.
“Dinosaurs and fossils have been a major attraction at New Walk Museum for many years, and these particular galleries were opened by Sir David Attenborough in 2011, so they really are at the heart of the museum.
“The galleries make a stunning location for couples to exchange their vows, in addition to the other parts of the museum where weddings have been allowed for several years already.”
The gallery seats up to 80 guests with an option of a drinks reception at the Lord Mayor’s Room and Parlour afterwards.
Ceremonies can take place on Monday to Friday at 11am, 2.30pm or 3pm, or on weekends and Bank Holidays at 11am, 1pm or 3pm.
From April to September, weddings can also take place on Saturdays at 5pm.
The museum is located just off the picturesque New Walk, and is a five-minute walk from Leicester Train Station.
The museum has undergone a major refurbishment programme in recent months, including improved disabled access and a stunning new entrance and staircase based on the design of an ammonite shell.
Local attractions on display at the Dinosaur and Fossil Galleries include the plesiosaur known as the Barrow Kipper, as well as a chunk of the Barwell Meteorite and examples of fossilised Precambrian Charnia – among the oldest living organisms.
For further information or to book a viewing, contact New Walk Museum on 0116 225 4900.
Other city museums which are also licensed for weddings including the Guildhall, Abbey Pumping Station, and Belgrave Hall and Gardens. Details are available on www.leicester.gov.uk/weddings
