UPNOR CASTLE 01634 718 742 | www.medway.gov.uk/info/200271/upnor_castle Set in the picturesque riverside village of Upnor, Upnor Castle is a rare example of an Elizabethan artillery fort. Paired with rolling hills, architectural brilliance and natural beauty, your big day here will be captured against a backdrop of history at one of England’s truly timeless places. The Castle is available for weddings from May to September, and is offered for ceremonies only, plus drinks in the grounds. It is often booked in combination with the Corn Exchange in historical Rochester, which provides an equally grand backdrop for wedding receptions and evening celebrations. Wander back in time as you make your way down the enchanting cobbled high street to the grand entrance gates, where you’ll pass through the dramatic, studded oak doors of the gatehouse, finding the grassed inner courtyard beyond. The venue boasts a river view and glorious gardens too. Climb the wooden stairs to the upper floor, where you’ll find Upnor Castle’s historical wedding room, which was once a store for munitions. Now, it boasts novel powder-barrel seating, echoing the castle’s past. Here, there’s room for 80 nearest and dearest seated, with a further 20 standing. After the ceremony, you’ll be able to enjoy an alfresco drinks reception in the Castle’s gorgeous grounds, where you can sip on champagne and hold court with your guests. With panoramic views of the river, this timeless and historical venue, also provides the picture-perfect backdrop for wedding photos to be treasured. HEVER CASTLE 01732 861 800 | www.hevercastle.co.uk Hever Castle is a gem in the heart of the Garden of England. The double-moated Castle displays a glorious creeping Boston Ivy, which turns a rich, deep red during late Autumn, making for iconic photographs in front of this beautiful building steeped in British history. Meanwhile, the Medieval gatehouse still retains a working drawbridge and portcullis, offering a further impressive spot for those all-important photographs. The award-winning Italian Gardens are a real highlight and showcase original statues from Rome, found alongside the stunning Loggia and Trevi-inspired fountain, overlooking the 38-acre boating lake. The impressive arched columns within the gardens, set off against the perfectly planted borders bring a true taste of Italy into the heart of the Kentish countryside. There are three areas available for ceremonies here. The Castle’s Inner Hall can accommodate 60 loved ones for the vows. With ornate panelled walls, antiques and open log fire it’s a wonderful spot for winter weddings in particular. The Tudor Suite Sitting Room within the Astor Wing can also host 60. This exclusive space opens out onto the nearby lawns overlooking the Castle. The Astor wing itself is an Edwardian extension built onto the Castle in 1903. Designed in the Tudor style, it boasts hand-carved oak panelled walls and large open fireplaces, along with an eclectic collection of private artwork, all while retaining the feel of a private country home. There are also 27 bedrooms here offering onsite accommodation for you and your guests. Finally, the Loggia located in the award-winning Italian Gardens, is the venue’s outdoor ceremony area overlooking the lake. It can host 70 to 180 nearest and dearest for the “I dos.” The Guthrie Pavilion, situated next to the rose garden can accommodate up to 180 for your reception. For more intimate parties, The Astor Wing can host up to 60 nearest and dearest, who can enjoy evening entertainment with you, and perhaps even take a night cap into the Billiards Room or Music Room. Alternatively, the Winter Garden Lawn, which overlooks the Castle, is available for marquee hire for larger parties, who can also enjoy the gardens during the afternoon reception. www.terivphotography.co.uk https://dannibeachphotography.com 29 HISTORICAL VENUES
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