no. I did it all the in the UK, then DHL paperwork to my then GF. Booked hotel next to visa center, booked visa center.
First one was a bit of a headache but each year I got better as I had folders and templates already in place. After the first visa I could demonstrate my GF met the visa requirements for the 2nd.
I did 4 tourist visas for my now wife. Lots of paper gathering yes. Word your sponsorship letter well. Key thing they want to know is you will cover all her costs during the visit including NHS. A plan to visit places, Stonehenge, London etc and that you will ensure she returns back before the visa expiry so not to jepodise future applications. Good luck.