P.O.A
Up to 80
On-Site
Exclusive Use
Wedding Licence
shortlisted
The Museum is a gracious historic Grade 1 listed building situated in the heart of Cowes. We offer a complete wedding service which can be individually tailor made for you.
Features & Capacity
Overview
Venue Type
Museum
Attraction
Dining Capacity
80
Reception Capacity
120
Bridal Suite
Changing Only
Usual Access Time
12:00 PM
Usual Finish Time
12:00 AM
Venue
Bridal Changing Facilities
Exclusive Use
Grade I/II Listed Building
In-House Wedding Coordinator
Outdoor Reception Space
Water View
Ceremony & Reception
Church Within Walking Distance
Confetti Permitted
Wedding Licence
Food and Drink
Alcohol Licence
No Corkage Charge for Own Alcohol
In-house Catering
Cultural Specialists
Historic Building
Full Description
This famous pink building on Cowes waterfront offers a venue that is both unique and remarkable, making a historic backdrop on your special day.
Originally the home of the renowned press baron and yachting entrepreneur Sir Max Aitken, the Museum was created to house his extraordinary personal collection of paintings and sailing memorabilia. In addition to this wonderful dining / reception room, a large balcony offers guests the chance to enjoy the wonderful panorama of the Solent scene, with its yacht racing, passing cruise liners and views across to the Spinnaker Tower. If you wish to be dropped off or collected from your wedding by boat, we have steps giving access to the sea!
The Museum offers an intimate space for up to 80 people for your ceremony and reception. Choose from one of our three nominated caterers, to create the perfect menu - from a simple afternoon tea to a sumptuous 5* gourmet dining experience. We are located in the heart of Cowes, a short walk from the Red Jet ferry service and also within 5 minutes walk of local churches.
Our wedding hosts are here to help with your planning and will be there on the day to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Personal Message from the Manager
Name of Wedding Contact: Gillian
We offer a venue that is completely different from any other. As a small charitable organisation we provide an entirely personal service, intended to make your day perfect.
Experience
Year Business Was Established
1979
No. of Weddings Hosted
Between 10 and 30
Public Liability Insurance
Yes
No. of People In Team
3
Reviews
(3)
(3)
Helen and Gavin
Married in June 2017
December 2017
We couldn't have wished for a better venue and all the guests absolutely loved the museum.
I just wanted to send you the biggest 'Thankyou' for making Gavin and my day so special. We couldn't have wished for a better venue and all the guests absolutely loved the museum.
Annabel and Carl
Married in January 2017
December 2017
The Max Aitken Museum truly is a jewel in the Isle of Wight crown.
“Sandie and Ruth are lovely, lovely people and a real credit the Museum. They were both so helpful, as well as being incredibly patient while Annabel and myself were taking our time deciding on seating arrangements etc.
All both Annabel and myself have done since the wedding, is sing the praises of the Museum - it was a fantastic day, in an amazing location - The Max Aitken Museum truly is a Jewel in the Isle of Wight Crown, and a place that shouldn't be missed on a visit to the Island."
Anon
Wedding: June 2016
December 2017
'What an incredible place! ’
We visited here for dinner on a Saturday evening and what an incredible place. We had the pleasure of dining surrounded by a rare and fascinating collection of nauticalia.
Location & Contact Details
Address
83 High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7AJ, England
Travel Notes
High speed ferries run from Southampton to Cowes and from Portsmouth to Ryde- journey time 25 minutes. There is also a car ferry service from Southampton and Portsmouth
Nearest Town
Cowes
Nearest Motorway & Junction
M3 Southampton
Nearest Train Station
Southampton
Nearest Airport
Southampton
Preferred Supplier List
(2)
FAQ
(10)
Describe the best wedding that happened at your venue?
A small wedding with 50 people at Christmas time. It was organised at very short notice for two very busy people ( the bride bought her dress the week before the wedding, the groom works abroad!) They were thrilled and delighted with everything.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
Plan, but also Enjoy.
What’s your favourite personal touch you’ve seen at a wedding?
An artist who did 5 minute profile portraits of the guests, cut from paper.
Describe your venue in 5 adjectives.
Unique, intimate, fascinating, warm, friendly
Where’s the best photo spot at your venue?
In the Museum
Have you had any celebrity guest or wedding at your venue?
Dame Ellen MacArthur- round the world yachtswoman and founder of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation
What’s your favourite canapé?
sushi
What’s your favourite midnight treat?
kedgeree
What is your venue's most unique feature?
The paintings and exhibits
What part of your business are you most proud of?
Events and parties held in the Museum