Your Kent Wedding - September/October 2022 (Issue 104)

KNOWLE COUNTRY HOUSE 01474 822 262 | www.knowlecountryhouse.co.uk As you sweep along the venue’s driveway, it’s easy to be captivated by the charm and elegance of this fine Victorian mansion, set in one of the most beautiful and historically interesting spots in Kent. Having recently undergone extensive renovation work, the venue now boasts a gorgeous conservatory with a bar, and the lovely gazebo with surrounding patio used for outdoor ceremonies has been given a new lease of life. The wonderful location never fails to impress visitors. Set in 14 acres of gardens and orchards, with a wildlife area, the grounds burst with colour whatever the season and offer views of the distant River Thames. Located less than an hour’s drive from London with excellent rail links, The Knowle can accommodate weddings with up to 90 daytime guests for the ceremony and wedding breakfast, with space for an additional 80 in the evening. Receptions can be celebrated in the main restaurant with 90 loved ones or for more intimate gatherings, in the Octagonal Room (The Charles Dickens Room) for 10 nearest and dearest. Alternatively, the Garden Room can accommodate 40 guests and leads into the Victorian conservatory, an extended lounge area for everyone to enjoy. Irrespective of the numbers there’ll only be one wedding on any day, offering total privacy and sole use of the premises, with no hiring or hidden charges. Located in the centre of the House is the venue’s getting-ready room, perfect for all your preparations. A large room bathed in natural light, it features full-length mirrors, plush furnishings, Bluetooth stereo and a privacy screen. DID YOU KNOW? The Knowle Country House was built by Rev. Joseph Hindle, rector of Higham from 1829 to 1856, in the mid 19th century. Charles Dickens, an acquaintance of the Reverend, became a frequent visitor to The Knowle and it’s said he would have high tea in the study. https://jeffoliverphotography.com HAVENFIELD HALL 01634 699 758 | www.havenfieldhall.com Hidden away from public roads, Havenfield Hall sits at the end of a long drive that opens up to reveal the building’s grand scale. As you walk past the front of the house and around to the back where it opens onto the gardens, you’ll find the external games room, complete with full-sized snooker table and bar billiards table. Further on, there’s the Old School House, Cart Shed and bar, which hug a central courtyard, providing the perfect space for live bands, DJs and entertainment. The Old School House is your indoor ceremony option (80 guests), it features high ceilings and exposed timber beams, large windows and French doors, allowing natural light to flood in. For al fresco vows the Cart Shed and Courtyard (100 guests) are available, this open-faced oak-framed structure opens out onto the paved courtyard providing a lovely option that can be dressed according to your theme. Finally, for the ceremony, The Bandstand also offers a charming outdoor location for 120 loved ones. Welcome drinks can be served in the courtyard or on the lawned area, making use of the gardens and grounds. The three buildings that surround the central courtyard can all be utilised for the reception. DID YOU KNOW? Havenfield Hall’s interiors have been lovingly restored to bring them into keeping with the original building’s character and charm, with just a few modern touches added for comfort. Each of the seven bedrooms has its own individual decorative style. https://jeffoliverphotography.com 27 HISTORICAL VENUES

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