Description
Discover Kidbrooke Park: A Timeless Wedding Venue
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that blends historic charm with natural beauty, Kidbrooke Park is a perfect choice. Located just outside the picturesque village of Forest Row, this Grade II listed mansion dates back to 1735 and sits within 60 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland next to the Ashdown Forest.
The mansion’s classical Roman-inspired architecture, crafted from local sandstone, offers stunning views over sweeping lawns and majestic trees. Inside, you’ll find elegant details like carved plaster ceilings, tall windows that flood rooms with light, and period fireplaces—creating a warm, timeless atmosphere for your celebration.
Why Couples Love Kidbrooke Park
- Historic Elegance: Celebrate your day in an 18th-century Grade II listed mansion full of character and romance.
- Expansive Grounds: Enjoy exclusive access to over 60 acres of scenic parkland, including areas designed by famed 18th-century landscape architect Humphry Repton.
- Exclusive Use: The entire Kidbrooke Mansion is yours alone, ensuring privacy and a truly personal experience.
- Flexible Ceremony Options: Licensed for civil ceremonies indoors, with beautiful rooms to choose from—and outdoor ceremonies are also possible.
- Picture-Perfect Settings: From the mansion and its charming folly to the landscaped gardens, you’ll find countless spots for stunning wedding photos.
Spaces Tailored for Your Wedding
Kidbrooke Park offers a variety of elegant spaces to suit your ceremony and reception needs. The mansion is licensed for civil marriages and partnerships, with several rooms available:
- The Long Room: A graceful ballroom that opens onto a historic terrace—ideal for a drinks reception.
- The Great Hall and The Colonnade: Both licensed for ceremonies, offering beautiful indoor settings.
If you’re planning a larger celebration, the extensive grounds are perfect for a marquee, giving you flexibility to create your dream wedding atmosphere.
Capacities & Practical Details
- Ceremony Capacity: Up to 80 guests comfortably.
- Seated Meal Capacity: Up to 80 guests.
- Total Venue Capacity: Approximately 150 guests for receptions and parties.
- Catering: Tailored menus to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
- Convenience: On-site parking, confetti allowed, and ideal for couples who want to personalise their day with DIY touches.
A Venue Rich in History
Kidbrooke Park isn’t just beautiful—it’s steeped in fascinating history. In 1929, it hosted a pageant attended by the late Queen Mother (then Duchess of York) and A.A. Milne, the beloved author of Winnie the Pooh. Today, the estate is home to Michael Hall School, the UK’s oldest Steiner School, which helps preserve the unique spirit of this special place.
Overview of Kidbrooke Park
Wedding Ceremony & Reception
Wedding Venue Details
Location & Contact Details for Kidbrooke Park
What makes Kidbrooke Park a unique wedding venue in East Sussex?
Kidbrooke Park offers a blend of historic elegance and natural beauty, set within a Grade II listed 18th-century mansion surrounded by 60 acres of landscaped parkland next to the Ashdown Forest. Its classical Roman-inspired architecture, exclusivity, and scenic grounds make it a unique choice for couples seeking a timeless venue.
Can I hold both my ceremony and reception at Kidbrooke Park?
Yes, Kidbrooke Park is licensed for civil ceremonies indoors, with several elegant rooms like The Great Hall and The Colonnade available. Additionally, the mansion and extensive grounds can accommodate your reception, including space for a marquee to suit larger celebrations.
What is the maximum number of guests Kidbrooke Park can accommodate for weddings?
The venue comfortably accommodates up to 80 guests for ceremonies and seated meals, with a total capacity of approximately 150 guests for receptions and parties.
Are outdoor ceremonies permitted at Kidbrooke Park?
Yes, Kidbrooke Park offers flexible ceremony options including beautiful outdoor settings within its extensive and picturesque grounds, perfect for couples wanting a natural backdrop for their vows.
Is Kidbrooke Park available for exclusive use during weddings?
Absolutely. When you book Kidbrooke Park for your wedding, you have exclusive use of the entire mansion and grounds, ensuring privacy and a personalised experience throughout your special day.
What catering options are available at Kidbrooke Park?
Catering at Kidbrooke Park is tailored to suit your tastes and dietary requirements, providing customised menus to enhance your wedding reception with delicious food options.
Does Kidbrooke Park allow DIY decorations and personal touches?
Yes, the venue warmly welcomes couples who wish to personalise their wedding day with DIY touches, enabling you to create a truly bespoke and meaningful celebration.
Is there parking available onsite at Kidbrooke Park?
Yes, Kidbrooke Park offers convenient on-site parking facilities for you and your guests to ensure smooth access during your wedding day.
Are there any historical highlights related to Kidbrooke Park that couples might find interesting?
Kidbrooke Park is rich in history, having hosted a 1929 pageant attended by the late Queen Mother (then Duchess of York) and A.A. Milne, author of Winnie the Pooh. It's also home to Michael Hall School, the UK's oldest Steiner School, preserving the estate's unique spirit.
Is confetti allowed at weddings held at Kidbrooke Park?
Yes, confetti is permitted at Kidbrooke Park, allowing couples to enjoy this traditional and joyful wedding moment within the beautiful grounds.
