Penshurst Place was our go-to option after viewing 3-4 different venues in the area. Our wedding was rather more gothic than typical with a distinct Phantom of the Opera theme. As such, the soaring towers, expansive grounds and cavernous Barons Hall, complete with crimson lighting, suits of armour and a huge burning brazier in the middle, was perfect. It genuinely looks like a castle (but without the castle price tag), and in November we had the most mysterious rolling fog in the early morning and in the night - during the day, sunlight boiled the mists away and the towers were immersed in golden light.
We were married in the nearby St John's Church, which was incredible in its own right with the immense organ - it was then less than a 5 minute walk to the venue, the whole way our guests were directed by staff. Though we weren't there, I understand they were welcomed professionally into the aforementioned Baron's Hall, and were suitably wowed before being handed prosecco and canapes. We were able to submit 2 spotify playlists that were un-fussily played through the Baron's Hall and then later the Sunderland Room where we had dinner. This was an equally grand room, sufficient for 80 people and also containing a roaring fire.
Despite the ancient venue, wifi and heating was in operation, as was a complimentary microphone for the speeches. The food was delicious, and we had enjoyed a varied quantity during the food tasting. The serving staff were all professional and disciplined, whilst remaining approachable and friendly. There was also no problem with having actual candles as our table decorations (perhaps unsurprising given they basically lit a bonfire in the middle of the Baron's Hall), nor any issues with us bringing a fully sharpened sword to cut the cake.
We then were all directed to the Garden Room, which is furnished in a more modern manner and suitable for hosting the DJ and complete with a dance floor. The bar continued service until 2330 from the equally delightful Buttery Room, once again a welcoming fire burned in the hearth.
We have received nothing but glowing feedback from our guests, and indeed have nothing but that to provide ourselves. The organisational staff were also extremely knowledgeable and accommodating, especially George McLeod who really did go above and beyond. If you want to get married in a castle, just get married here instead, it's better quality, better value, and next to an amazing church too.Penshurst Place was our go-to option after viewing 3-4 different venues in the area. Our wedding was rather more gothic than typical with a distinct Phantom of the Opera theme. As such, the soaring towers, expansive grounds and cavernous Barons Hall, complete with crimson lighting, suits of armour and a huge burning brazier in the middle, was perfect. It genuinely looks like a castle (but without the castle price tag), and in November we had the most mysterious rolling fog in the early morning and in the night - during the day, sunlight boiled the mists away and the towers were immersed in golden light.
We were married in the nearby St John's Church, which was incredible in its own right with the immense organ - it was then less than a 5 minute walk to the venue, the whole way our guests were directed by staff. Though we weren't there, I understand they were welcomed professionally into the aforementioned Baron's Hall, and were suitably wowed before being handed prosecco and canapes. We were able to submit 2 spotify playlists that were un-fussily played through the Baron's Hall and then later the Sunderland Room where we had dinner. This was an equally grand room, sufficient for 80 people and also containing a roaring fire.
Despite the ancient venue, wifi and heating was in operation, as was a complimentary microphone for the speeches. The food was delicious, and we had enjoyed a varied quantity during the food tasting. The serving staff were all professional and disciplined, whilst remaining approachable and friendly. There was also no problem with having actual candles as our table decorations (perhaps unsurprising given they basically lit a bonfire in the middle of the Baron's Hall), nor any issues with us bringing a fully sharpened sword to cut the cake.
We then were all directed to the Garden Room, which is furnished in a more modern manner and suitable for hosting the DJ and complete with a dance floor. The bar continued service until 2330 from the equally delightful Buttery Room, once again a welcoming fire burned in the hearth.
We have received nothing but glowing feedback from our guests, and indeed have nothing but that to provide ourselves. The organisational staff were also extremely knowledgeable and accommodating, especially George McLeod who really did go above and beyond. If you want to get married in a castle, just get married here instead, it's better quality, better value, and next to an amazing church too.