Your Kent Wedding - Page number 23 - July/August 2021 (Issue 97)

BILSINGTON PRIORY 01233 720 992 | www.bilsingtonpriory.co.uk Steeped in history, the Priory was built in 1253 for the canons regular of St Augustine’s in a French style of the period. Now a Grade I listed heritage building, it once provided hospitality for travellers and pilgrims on their journey to Canterbury. Alongside, the marquee is situated over what remains of the old cloisters. Set amongst seven acres of mature landscaped gardens and surrounded by a moat, the Priory offers a paradise for your wedding photographer. Plus, its secluded rural position provides an exclusive setting that’s off the beaten track yet still just 15 minutes from the major travel hub of Ashford. The Grand Ceremony Room is an oak and stone hall, once the rectory for the black canons. It can seat 100 guests for the ceremony with room for a musical quartet. Meanwhile, The Conservatory is a bright space connected to the Edwardian manor house and accessed via the private garden. Surrounded by the moat it overlooks ancient woodlands with stunning views over Romney Marsh. It can play host to 50 for the “I dos.” Finally for the vows, the garden’s ceremony area is focused on a chess-board gazebo and surrounded by mature trees and shrubs. It can seat up to 120. Receptions for 150 guests are hosted in the marquee, which boasts an exposed wall showing off the historical stonework of the Priory and a stunning Louis XV-style chandelier. Tables can be dressed in the style of your choice and evening entertainment takes place in the adjacent Chapter Room complete with bar and dancefloor. The west wing of the manor is offered to wedding parties wishing to prepare on site. The private bathroom still has its original Edwardian features and the four-poster bedroom is blessed with wonderful views. Post celebrations there are four rooms available on a bed and breakfast basis. THE DREYS 01622 236 550 | www.thedreys.co.uk Based in 80 acres of private Kentish woodland The Dreys offers a naturally beautiful backdrop to your wedding day. Ideal for celebrations of any size and style, with so much space available the possibilities are practically endless, allowing you to create your wedding, your way. You can expect exclusive use of the whole site for the day. Features of the venue include a large choice of furniture and styling items all included in the price of hire, along with a fire pit, day beds, blankets, tables, chairs, linens and additional al-fresco seating. There’s even a professional sound system available throughout complete with wireless microphones. The “I dos” take place in The Field Shelter, which is a covered open- sided deck that can host 100-140. Celebrant-led ceremonies can also take place in the woods accompanied by 140 loved ones. For your revelries The Dreys offers two bespoke built marquees, one of which can be used for the drinks reception and the other for the wedding breakfast with ample mingling room. Both boast wooden flooring and festoon lighting. The larger even has a stunning floral ceiling display and dancefloor. Maximum capacity for an evening reception is 200. What’s more, you have the opportunity to stay in the secluded Woodcutters Cottage on the night of your wedding, waking up to breakfast on the veranda. Guests can also stay on site in one of 10 bell tents or wagons available to hire. www.chr islawsonphotography.co.uk www.chr islawsonphotography.co.uk www.jad egreenbrooke.com www.jad egreenbrooke.com LOCAL VENUES 23