Wedding venue inspiration - Venues

Bilsington Priory, Ashford

Steeped in history, the priory was built in 1253 for the canons regular of St Augustine's. This grand monastic building retains its Medieval structure, composed of Kentish ragstone, and alongside the marquee the remains of the old cloisters can be found. A Grade I listed heritage building, the Priory once provided hospitality for local travellers and pilgrims on their journey to Canterbury. Set in seven acres of mature landscaped gardens, surrounded by a moat and the abbot's former fishponds, the Priory is a photographer's paradise. Its secluded rural position offers an exclusive setting, that's still only 15 minutes from Ashford. Options for your "I dos" include the Grand Ceremony Room and the conservatory, as well as the gardens, hosting between 50 and 120 guests. Then, for your afternoon and evening celebrations you can move into the 12 x 12 lined marquee or the Chapter Room, both able to accommodate 150 guests.

Sprivers Mansion, Tonbridge

This elegant Georgian country house wedding venue, built in 1759 and now owned by the National Trust, is blessed with beautiful ornate period features and décor. Amongst its historical features are fine Georgian fireplaces, ornate plasterwork, a sweeping oak Chippendale staircase, stunning original chandeliers, and a stunning gold family coast of arms. Plus, the generous three-room bridal suite is decorated in the same style. The elegant façade of the main house is typical of the era, with its dolls' house symmetry and large double oak doors, all surrounded by formal gardens. There's also plenty of opportunity to capture those all-important photos in the walled rose garden, wild flower meadow, fields, orchards and ponds.

Weddings at Brenley, Faversham

Brenley Farm makes for a lovely rustic wedding venue in the Kent countryside.Outside on the lawn, in front of the beautiful Georgian Farmhouse, just by the duck pond and barn, you'll find a beautiful traditional gazebo, complete with Kent peg roof and timber posts. Here you can seat 100 of your nearest and dearest to witness your vows. If the weather doesn't suit, though, there's a marquee available, which can be set up in the event of rain. Inside the farmhouse, surrounded by apple and pear orchards, hop gardens and vineyards, is a Georgian dining room that can seat up to 30 of your loved ones for intimate celebrations. This offers a lovely formal option in the summer months or even shelter from the temperamental British weather the rest of the year. It's also licensed for ceremonies. You have the choice of several fields in which to host your celebrations, all set in the glorious Kent countryside on a working farm. Each can host up to 150 guests and comes complete with water and electricity, offering a blank canvas. There's also accommodation on site for 30 people, plus space for campers. The venue is fully booked for 2021, but has availability for 2022 and 2023 and is taking bookings now.