An Essex Wedding - Nov/Dec 2019 (Issue 89)

CASTLE INCLUSIVE PACKAGES from just £9,995! LASTING LOVE Leeds Castle – also known as “the loveliest Castle in the world” – turned 900 years old this year. During its long history, the Castle has been owned by six Medieval queens, and if walls could talk, they would tell of some of the most romantic stories in British history. Leeds Castle’s first royal owner was Queen Eleanor of Castile, the first wife of King Edward I, who purchased it in 1278. Eleanor was responsible for building the beautiful rounded Gloriette and for installing a bath house for Edward. The couple were very much in love, and perhaps due to the romance of the setting, or pure coincidence, several of the royal couples’ sixteen children were born nine months after stays at Leeds Castle. MAKING HISTORY Couples coming from Essex today will see that the Castle still offers a magical setting. With several different venues, it provides flexible packages that can be tailored to meet specific requirements. You can marry in the Castle itself, with up to 100 friends and family in the elegant Ceremony Room, followed by a lavish wedding breakfast in the Henry VIII Banqueting Hall overlooking the moat. After dinner, settle back in the opulent drawing rooms or dance the night away in the Heraldry Room before heading upstairs to your sumptuous state bedrooms. Alternatively, choose the Maiden’s Tower. With its private walled garden, ceremony rooms and five luxurious bedrooms, it makes up part of a wonderful package for 50 to 100 guests. For larger gatherings of up to 200 people, the 17 th -century Fairfax Barn is the perfect spot, while Battel Hall is one of the most charming venues for intimate weddings or outdoor ceremonies. Set on the edge of the Leeds Castle estate, this Medieval manor has been recently refurbished to the highest specification and offers three reception rooms, a marquee, terrace and seven bedrooms. DATE FOR THE DIARY Engaged couples are invited to meet with one of Leeds Castle’s experienced wedding coordinators for a private show-round. Alternatively, book for the next wedding showcase on 18 th and 19 th January, 2020, when the venue will be dressed in all its finery. TALE AS OLD as time Throughout its 900-year history, Leeds Castle in Kent has been considered one of the most romantic settings in Britain LATE AVAILABILITY OFFERS IN THE KNOW… Leeds Castle is located near Maidstone in Kent, off junction 8 of the M20 and just over an hour’s drive from London. For further information, and to book a private viewing, call 01622 767 877 or visit the website leeds-castle.com/weddings ADVERTORIAL 5