Often called ‘The Garden of England’, Kent is known for its rolling green hills, delicious wineries, plentiful strawberry fields, and charming countryside. It’s the perfect spot for couples looking for a romantic and picturesque wedding setting, with everything from grand estates to rustic barns and intimate vineyards offering a stunning backdrop.
Plus, with its close proximity to London, it offers the ideal mix of countryside beauty and convenient travel options for your guests. There’s no need to travel over hills and under dales to reach this beautiful spot; simply jump on the overground, and within an hour, you'll be surrounded by the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Kent.
Kent is also the home of beautiful and world-famous landmarks like Canterbury Cathedral, the White Cliffs of Dover, and Hever Castle and Garden—the childhood home of Anne Boelyn! There’s a whole lot of English heritage in Kent, making it perfect for literary nerds (hello—The Canterbury Tales!), history fanatics, and those who appreciate a venue with some serious character. Whether you’re after a stately manor, a peaceful vineyard, or a castle wedding steeped in history, Kent has everything you need.
When it comes to pricing, Kent offers a broad range of options. The average cost of a South East wedding is £22,644, which is £1,822 more than the average UK wedding cost of £20,822. That’s an almost 9% increase, and is reflected in the increased cost of flowers, food, and venues. But, there are absolutely ways to keep your budget down if you’re price-conscious.
Kent’s historic connection to the monarchy and abundance of castles mean that the theme of royalty is a popular choice for weddings in the county. Colours like royal blue, gold, purple, and burgundy will be popular, as well as ornate details like chandeliers, velvet drapery, and statement floral arrangements. If you want to feel like a prince or princess for the day, this is the theme for you.
A natural, floral theme is another favourite, making the most of Kent’s stunning countryside and gardens. Think flower crowns, wildflower bouquets, floral arches, and botanical-inspired decor that brings the outdoors in. This laid-back, boho feel is perfect for those looking for a relaxed, perfectly undone look and anyone wanting to embrace the beauty of nature.
Finally, a vintage-inspired wedding theme is a timeless choice. It’s perfectly suited to Kent’s historic venues, and adds that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ that will have people talking about your wedding for years to come. Whether you're drawn to the glamour of the 1920s, the romance of the 1950s, or the bohemian vibes of the 1970s, there are plenty of ways to bring a nostalgic touch to your big day. Think lace wedding dresses, antique-style decor, mismatched china, and classic cars for a grand entrance.
Whatever your style, Kent is sure to have something that suits your needs.
For the classic couple, Hayne House in Hythe is set in 35 acres of beautifully manicured grounds. You can choose to have your ceremony in the beautiful orangery, elegant hunting lodge, or in the landscaped gardens. Plus, there are a ton of on-site eco lodges and six beautiful bedrooms for your guests to rest their dancing feet. It’s a stunning venue that offers the perfect combination of elegance and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a history buff or dreaming of your fairytale ending, getting married in the iconic Hever Castle & Gardens is a dream come true. With prices starting at £3,500 for venue hire, this 14th-century castle is a magical place to say "I do." The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle offers a rich historical backdrop, combined with its beautifully manicured gardens and stunning interiors. Whether you choose to wed in the castle’s elegant Tudor Suite or outdoors in the rose garden, Hever Castle is a truly jaw-dropping venue. Just imagine the photos!
If you like the idea of a historic venue but aren’t quite sold on a castle, consider Bilsington Priory. Built in 1253, the former Augustinian Priory is the perfect backdrop for your big day. With its charming mix of ancient stone walls, lush gardens, and peaceful surroundings, Bilsington Priory offers a serene and romantic atmosphere. The venue can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, with prices starting from £8,650 for their cheapest package.
If you’d prefer something a bit more unusual, Wickerwood Farm Wedding Venue could be the spot for you. With tipis, gorgeous farmland, and a dedicated woodland where you can say your vows, this place is perfect for couples who love the idea of a laid-back, boho-style wedding. Wickerwood Farm Wedding Venue is all about the laid-back, festival vibes, so if bunting and fairy lights is your vibe—this is the place for you.
The average couple in Kent spends £5,626 on their venue for the big day. That’s slightly more expensive than the UK average of £5,945. But, with such stunning venues surrounded by gorgeous views, is it a surprise that Kent’s wedding venues come at a premium?
Lead time is always a tricky subject when it comes to wedding planning. If you plan too early, you might find your tastes change, or you miss out on last-minute deals. But leave it too late, and your dream venue might already be snapped up—especially in a popular wedding destination like Kent.
On average, couples book their Kent wedding venue around 12 to 18 months in advance, particularly for peak summer dates. If you’re planning for an off-season or midweek wedding, you may be able to get away with a slightly shorter lead time. However, this often comes with added stress and less flexibility, as you might need to compromise on things like your ideal date or specific venue features if you book at too late notice.
Did you know that Gravesend in Kent is the hottest place in the UK? While this is an average, not a guarantee, Kent is one of the sunniest places in the UK, making it a fantastic location for a wedding. The region benefits from a relatively mild climate, with long, warm summers and crisp, fresh winters, meaning you can enjoy a picturesque outdoor wedding no matter the season.
Spring (March-May) in the South East brings temperatures of between 12°C and 18°C, meaning it’s the perfect spot for a sunny, spring affair. Look for a venue that makes the most of the blooming flowers and fresh greenery—somewhere like Wilderness Wedding Venue in Canterbury offers the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor spots. With a tipi, greenhouse, lake, rustic boathouse, and more, you’ll have plenty of options, come rain or shine. Plus, the natural beauty of springtime in Kent means you won’t need to go overboard on decor—Mother Nature does a lot of the work for you!
Summer (June-August) offers temperatures of between 22°C and 24°C, making it ideal for long, lazy celebrations that stretch into golden evenings. If you’re dreaming of an outdoor ceremony followed by drinks in the sunshine, venues like Chart Hills Golf Club in Biddenden provide stunning open spaces with sweeping countryside views—perfect for those dreamy sunset photos. Just be sure to have a backup plan in case of a classic British summer shower.
Autumn (September-November) is a lovely time to get married in Kent. The leaves are changing, the evenings are getting darker and cosier, and there’s a crisp, romantic feel in the air. It’s the perfect season for rich colour palettes, seasonal flowers like dahlias and chrysanthemums, and warm, candlelit receptions. Venues like The Castle Westenhanger in Hythe offer three licensed ceremony rooms and can accommodate up to 300 guests. That means you can go big with a grand celebration or keep it intimate with just your nearest and dearest—all while surrounded by stunning autumnal scenery.
Winter (December-February) weddings, although not the most popular, can be absolutely beautiful. Consider a venue like The Secret Garden, Ashford. It’s the perfect spot for a classy, black-and-white-themed New Year’s Eve wedding, where guests can toast with champagne as the clock strikes midnight. Or, if you’re after something more rustic and cosy, think twinkling lights, soft piano music, and a small but select guest list.
Kent’s rural location can make it a little trickier to get to, especially if your venue is out in the sticks. But, where there’s a will, there’s a way, and there are plenty of ways to make the journey smooth for you and your guests.
If you're coming from London, the high-speed train from St Pancras can get you to key locations like Canterbury, Ashford, and Maidstone in under an hour. For those driving, Kent is well-connected by motorways like the M2 and M20, making it easy to reach even the most tucked-away countryside venues. Just be sure to check parking options, especially if your venue is in a rural spot with limited spaces.
When it comes to accommodation, Kent has plenty of options. Whether your guests prefer a boutique hotel, Airbnb, or a well-known chain, there are plenty of options in Kent. You might consider a venue that doubles as a hotel to save your guests the travel time. For example, Mercure Tunbridge Wells or Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa offer both wedding facilities and comfortable rooms, making it easy for guests to celebrate late into the night without worrying about getting home.
