Planning a wedding in Kent? You’re in luck! Kent is home to some of the most picturesque and diverse wedding venues in the UK, offering breathtaking backdrops for both photography and videography. From grand castles to rustic barns and elegant estates, these venues guarantee unforgettable moments that I’m always excited to capture as a wedding photographer and videographer.
Here are my top 10 wedding venues in Kent, each offering something unique for couples, whether you’re dreaming of a fairytale setting, an outdoor celebration, or a modern, chic affair.
1. Hever Castle
Best for: Fairytale Weddings, Historic Charm
With its stunning architecture and lush gardens, Hever Castle is a dream for couples looking for a truly fairytale wedding. As a photographer, I love the endless photo opportunities here—from the grand castle façade to the lakeside views. Both Inside rooms and outdoor spaces provide an elegant backdrop for your perfect wedding celebration.
Why I Love It: The combination of history and grandeur makes for breathtaking wedding portrait backdrops, all year round, both indoors and out.
2. Hayne House
Best for: Eco-Friendly, Elegant Outdoor Weddings
Hayne House is a perfect venue for couples seeking a blend of elegance and sustainability. Its glass orangery offers a bright, naturally lit space that’s a dream for photographers to achieve that bright, well lit look. The surrounding gardens provide a tranquil and picturesque setting for outdoor ceremonies and candid moments.
Why I Love It: The glass orangery floods the room with natural light, which makes capturing vibrant, clean photos so easy. They also have beautiful bridal room for those getting ready shots.
3. Salomons Estate
Best for: Timeless Elegance, Versatility
Salomons Estate offers a perfect blend of history, beauty, and versatility. Whether you prefer an indoor or outdoor ceremony, Salomons’ sprawling grounds and beautiful architecture create a striking backdrop for both photography and videography. The Victorian mansion, serene lakes, and landscaped gardens allow for a variety of wedding day looks.
Why I Love It: The venue’s versatility means there is space for those stunning portraits with different backdrops as well as plenty of space for those relaxed, candid moments.
4. Wilderness Wedding Venue
Best for: Outdoor, Boho, Rustic Weddings
If you’re a couple dreaming of a relaxed, bohemian-style wedding, Wilderness Wedding Venue is the place to be. This unique outdoor venue allows for a more laid-back vibe while still offering plenty of style. The rustic woodlands and natural settings provide an enchanting backdrop for earthy, intimate wedding shots.
Why I Love It: The natural light filtering through the trees and the rustic charm makes for stunningly authentic wedding photos. Also, the staff there are just so friendly and helpful!
5. Leeds Castle
Best for: Grand, Fairytale Weddings
Known as "the loveliest castle in the world," Leeds Castle offers a majestic setting for couples who want a grand wedding. Its historic architecture, surrounded by a tranquil moat and gardens, creates endless opportunities for beautiful photos and videos. Whether you choose an intimate ceremony in the Maiden’s Tower or a larger affair in the Castle itself, this venue never disappoints.
Why I Love It: The combination of the medieval castle and the romantic gardens gives me endless opportunities for both regal and candid wedding shots.
6. Chilston Park Hotel
Best for: Elegant, Country House Weddings
Chilston Park Hotel, with its grand Georgian architecture and 22 acres of parkland, offers a luxurious setting for weddings. The hotel’s timeless elegance, combined with its picturesque grounds, allows for stunning bridal portraits, intimate ceremonies, and romantic couple photos.
Why I Love It: The grandeur of the venue combined with the open parkland creates beautiful contrasts between formal and natural wedding shots.
Chilston Park Website
7. The Gardens at Yalding
Best for: Outdoor, Garden Weddings
For couples who love nature, The Gardens at Yalding is a hidden gem. Its expansive, beautifully landscaped gardens provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and vibrant wedding photography. The combination of lush greenery, water features, and charming garden paths offers endless possibilities for creative photos.
Why I Love It: The gardens in bloom create a stunning backdrop for vibrant, natural wedding photography.
8. Nettlestead Place
Best for: Historic, Intimate Weddings
Nettlestead Place, a 13th-century manor house, provides a historic yet intimate setting for weddings. The combination of the stunning medieval architecture, picturesque gardens, and the River Medway running through the estate makes it an ideal spot for timeless wedding photos.
Why I Love It: The historic charm of Nettlestead Place offers a rich and romantic backdrop for both intimate and grand weddings.
9. Penshurst Place & Gardens
Best for: Regal, Garden Weddings, Intimate Ceremonies
Penshurst Place combines medieval elegance with beautiful gardens, making it ideal for couples looking for a regal outdoor wedding. The 11 acres of formal gardens provide the perfect setting for wedding ceremonies and dreamy photography sessions.
Why I Love It: The Tudor gardens offer a unique and beautiful setting for natural, candid moments and posed portraits.
10. Marleybrook House
Best for: Rustic, Vintage-Inspired Weddings
Marleybrook House offers a unique blend of rustic charm and vintage glamour. This 17th-century house and its beautifully maintained gardens provide a charming and relaxed setting for wedding photography.
Why I Love It: The vintage carousel and funfair at Marleybrook add a playful touch, perfect for creative wedding photography.
Wrapping Up: Finding the Perfect Kent Wedding Venue for Stunning Photography
Whether you’re dreaming of a grand, regal affair or a laid-back outdoor celebration, Kent offers some of the most beautiful wedding venues for photography and videography. As a wedding photographer and videographer, these venues provide endless possibilities for capturing your special day in the most magical way. If you’re getting married at any of these locations, I’d love to help document your love story.
Need help capturing your dream wedding in Kent? Let’s chat!
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