An Essex Wedding - Jan/Feb 2018 (Issue 84)

22 An enchanting setting C elebrating its 900 th anniversary in 2019, Leeds Castle has had many incarnations over the past nine centuries. From a Norman stronghold and the private property of six Medieval queens, to a palace owned by Henry VIII and more recently, an elegant early 20 th -century retreat for the rich and famous where Lady Baillie, the venue’s last private owner, entertained high society guests from London. Today, the venue still has the most captivating of settings for a fairytale wedding with flexible packages which can be tailored to meet your specific requirements. Hosting your nuptials at Leeds Castle also includes the assistance of a dedicated wedding coordinator, award-winning in-house florists and an exceptional catering team. For al fresco vows couples can choose from exclusive-hire Castle Island, or, alternatively, up to 100 friends and family are welcome to witness ceremonies, in the castle’s elegant Ceremony Room adjoining the Library – the latter is ideal for champagne drinks receptions. Wedding breakfasts are served in the large Henry VIII Banqueting Hall, with impressive views across the moat. After dinner, guests are invited to dance the night away in the Heraldry Room or relax in the opulent 1920s Drawing Rooms, before staying in one of the luxurious state bedrooms. Adjacent to the castle sits the 16 th -century stone Maiden’s Tower, a self-contained building with a private garden, ideal for your ‘I dos’ and evening reception. It’s suitable for between 50 to 100 of your nearest and dearest, and also offers five luxury en suite bedrooms. For larger gatherings with a 200-strong guest list, the 17 th -century Fairfax Barn is perfect for dinner and dancing. But perhaps one of the venue’s most charming spaces is the newly restored Battel Hall. This historic country house opened its doors for exclusive hire last year after an extensive refurbishment, and now features three elegant reception rooms, a marquee terrace beside enchanting wisteria vines, and five individually designed en suite bedrooms. With a number of bed and breakfast rooms also available on the estate, plus period cottages and eight glamping pavilions in the summer months, there’s plenty of overnight accommodation to keep your loved ones happy. ADVERTISING FEATURE Situated among 500 acres of beautiful Kentish parkland, the 12 th -century moated Leeds Castle is the most magical environment for your wedding celebrations In the know... ❤ Leeds Castle is located near Maidstone, Kent, just off Junction 8 of the M20 and is just an hour’s drive from London. ❤ Wedding packages start from £8,800. For further information or to book a private viewing, visit leeds-castle.com/weddings