Period piece Our roundup of Kent’s historical venues BRADBOURNE HOUSE 01732 897 436 | www.bradbournehousekent.co.uk Bradbourne House is an exclusive-use, Queen Anne, Grade I listed country house located in the heart of Kent. The House boasts 20 acres of picturesque parkland featuring ancient trees, a tranquil lake and secret garden fruit orchard. From the moment you drive through the iron gates you’re surrounded by pristine striped lawns, and the grounds are home to a plethora of wildlife including hundreds of Canadian geese that return to the lake each year. The venue offers two licensed indoor areas. What would once have been the ladies’ sewing room, The Drawing Room is the perfect spot for intimate ceremonies with up to 50 guests. The bay windows look out across the lakes and gold chandeliers hang from the ceiling. The Great Hall at the heart of the House can host up to 100 nearest and dearest. Its blue walls are one of Bradbourne House’s most memorable features, with the Twisden family portraits adorning each of them. Huge doors lead out to the marble steps at the front and look over the grounds. The Hatton Fruit Garden is the venue’s antique apple and pear orchard. Originally planted as part of the Dig for Victory campaign, the walled gardens now provide that secret spot for you to exchange your vows. You can also say your “I dos” al fresco on The Great Hall Steps, which provide the grandest of entrances. As you ascend and arrive by the side of your beloved, the house itself provides the most spectacular backdrop. The Great Hall can also play host to receptions with 100 seated or 200 standing from a decadent wedding breakfast to that all-important evening bash. The Breakfast Room can accommodate 40 dining guests or 100 standing. It provides a different feel within the House with its dark oak interiors and portraits. Often referred to as the gentleman’s room and complete with grand piano, this space is the perfect setting for intimate meals or relaxing with tea and cake. The Drawing Room, which can host the same numbers as the aforementioned Breakfast Room boasts bay windows practically made to frame the wedding cake, and the ceiling is beautifully ornate, covered in gold detailing. DID YOU KNOW? The house as it stands today was built between 1712 and 1715 and served as the Twisden family home right up until 1937, when the house was auctioned and bought by the East Malling Trust. www.jamesirelandphotography.co.uk www.jacksonandcophotography.com HISTORICAL VENUES 23
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