bilsington priory | wedding venue in kent
Situated in the most beautiful location, Bilsington Priory really ticks all the boxes and their ethos of ‘our venue, your dream’ is always delivered though their care and professionalism for all their couples, from start to finish.
The most romantic wedding venue in Kent
Set in seven magnificent acres of mature gardens with majestic outlooks in every direction, the distinguished old Priory and Edwardian country house are offered exclusively for couples searching for that unique location. A wedding photographers’ dream, offering an unparalleled backdrop to weddings in Kent. The estate boasts stunning grounds, a 13th century Priory Building and an elegant Edwardian Manor House. Bilsington Priory has been home to the same family for three generations, and they have taken great care to make sure every couple hosting their wedding at our venue feels special. A part of the family.
'If you are looking for the perfect romantic location, look no further. This venue has everything you could dream of and much, much more. A gold star wedding venue.'
Set in the heart of a private estate, St. Augustine’s is the most idyllic of Kentish locations. Founded in 1253, dissolved in 1535 and restored in 1906, this distinguished medieval Priory is steeped in history. Originally home to the Black Cannons of St. Augustine’s Order, it was a hostel for many pilgrims to Canterbury, later a centre for smugglers, most notably the Aldington Gang. Even to this day, it still retains an ancient offer of hospitality to the Archdeacon of Canterbury who has the privilege of staying at the Priory ‘two nights and a day, but nothing more.’
The Grand Ceremony Hall and marquee can seat up to 110 Guests (Evening 200) or for more intimate ceremonies part's of the Edwardian house, adjacent to the Grade 1 * Listed Medieval Priory are also licensed for civil ceremonies for up to 50 guests.
The Priory:
Set in the heart of England’s garden, Bilsington Priory is one of the most beautiful locations in Kent. Steeped in History, the medieval priory was built in 1253 by Sir John Mansell (Lord Chief Justice to Henry III and ambassador to Spain), and has been part of the same family for three generations. The Grand Ceremony Hall is full of character and charm, needling little decoration. We even provide romantic candles as part of your package and can host up to 100 guests. We do allow bio-degradable confetti at the front of the Priory, and we have ample parking on site.
The Manor: If you’d like to get ready for your special day in comfort, it doesn’t get more luxurious than an Edwardian Manor. You can hire the beautiful Four Poster Room, which is a suite of three rooms; an Edwardian bathroom, dressing room and a four poster bedroom. There’s plenty of space for a bride and her bridesmaids to soak up the atmosphere whilst they get ready for their special day. With beautiful oak panelled walls, and traditional staircase, our Manor House provides exceptional opportunities for photoshoots and pre-wedding shots.
The Reception Marquee:
The marquee, which comfortably seats 120 guests, can offer the opportunity to extend the space for more guests if required. The Chapter Room is perfect for a night of dancing and laughter, with a licensed bar cheaper than the pubs a stone’s throw from us. Come rain or shine, you can enjoy the luxury and grandeur of our private country estate for your special occasion. If you’d prefer a quieter, more intimate Wedding Breakfast, we can provide just that in our Conservatory. We can seat up to 50 guests, and the doors open out to the gardens with views of the priory and the surrounding grounds.
The Bilsington Priory Team:
Libby and Zena have more than thirty years’ combined experience within the industry, and specialise in bespoke weddings which cater to the individual tastes of everyone that walks through the door. As Managing Director of Bilsington Priory Estate, Team Leader and founding member of Team Priory! Libby Lawson’s keen appreciation of service and management has empowered her in establishing Bilsington Priory as a leading wedding venue in Kent. Her expectations for excellent service are the ultimate ally for a personalised wedding experience, and a benchmark for all members of their wedding team. Zena Hale has worked alongside Libby for over fifteen years, supporting the venue and team to deliver a unique wedding experience to each and every couple who book with Bilsington Priory. She works closely with the clients, and truly invokes the message of their team’s practice which is ‘Our Venue, Your Dream.’
The Bilsington Priory in-house caterers Robert and Jonathan Emson have worked alongside their dedicated team of professionals for over 10 years, maintaining their high standards for perfection, no matter the event. Both have cultivated successful careers in catering since they left school. Robert worked in hotel and corporate catering, working for Gardner Merchant, preparing fine dining for corporate directors before teaming up with brother Jonathan and venturing into restaurant ownership in 1998. Jonathan had become an incredible chef in his own right working with a chef from London’s Dorchester Hotel and also served as a private chef to the Prime Minister’s table at 10 Downing Street. Since forming Emson Events, the brothers have served, among others, the Royal Families and government of the United Arab Emirates before joining Bilsington Priory in 2007.
Catering:
The service on offer at Bilsington Priory is meticulous, because they expect the best of their staff so that couples can enjoy their day and remain stress free. They will Maître d’ for you, ensuring the day is seamless and professionally run, on hand to answer any questions you might have before and during the big day.
The in-house caterers can cater professionally for all diets, including but not limited to Coeliac, Dairy Intolerants, Pescatarians, Vegetarians and Vegans. Whether you need their guidance to decide on what will be served, or have a very set idea, they are happy to discuss your catering with you and encourage new ideas.
Bilsington Priory can provide anything from the list below, but if you wish to know whether they are able to cater your preferred menu, please call them using the contact info below:
Canapé Receptions
Hot & Cold Buffet Items
Salads
Afternoon Tea
Dinners and Banquets
Desserts
Hog Roast & Barbecue
All ingredients are locally sourced, and the team use as much sustainable practice as possible, recycling all glass, cardboard and paper, as well as other waste generated on site.
The Bar:
A full complement of staff will serve your post-ceremony drinks, as your guests enjoy the views of the lake and the Old Priory. The team will also chill all of your wine, Champagne and juices for the Pre-Wedding Breakfast and Wedding Breakfast service.
Although there is a fully licensed cash bar, the venue does not charge corkage for the service of drinks. They also have a specialist Gin Bar and offer a wide variety of beers and wines for you and your guests to enjoy. The cash bar prices are lower than the pubs only a stone’s throw away!
bilsington priory | wedding venue in kent
The dedicated team of in-house professional advisers at Bilsington Priory ensure each wedding is unique and personal in every way. Choosing this beautiful wedding venue in Kent will not only guarantee you and your guests are treated to one of the most unique locations in the county but also you will be looked after in a way your big day deserves.
Message Bilsington Priory directly below today to discuss their wedding venue in Kent.
Bilsington Priory | Wedding Venue in Kent
Email: weddings@bilsingtonprioryestate.co.uk
Tel: 01233 720992
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Facebook: facebook.com/BilsingtonPrioryWeddings/