Wedding venue inspiration - Country havens

Knowlton Court, Canterbury

This quintessentially English house oozes calm and serenity in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. The house is beautiful, and the rooms are elegant, complete with fine artwork, huge stone fireplaces and fabulous features. Sitting in 20,000 acres of private land, Knowlton Court is approached by an avenue of lime trees culminating in the circular lawn and walled garden. The house is surrounded by formal gardens and you feel a sense of calm and tranquility wandering through them. The amusing topiary hedges are always a talking point and the masses of climbing roses add fantastic colour and an unbelievable scent. There are a number of properties within the estate, which can accommodate up to 64 overnight guests, including the ten-bedroom Dower House.

Eastwell Manor, Ashford

With its oak-panelled spaces, open stone fireplaces, quirky original features, grand staircase, ornate windows and doors, and stylish early Art Deco interior design, Eastwell Manor exudes charm. Built more than 450 years ago, the grey stone exterior of this Neo-Elizabethan manor house is covered in beautiful ivy, which changes colour with the seasons. Set in 3,000 acres of landscaped gardens, this idyllic spot provides a stunning backdrop for your nuptials. Situated at the end of a long tree-lined drive it boasts 72 elegantly styled bedrooms and suites. All wedding packages include a deluxe suite for the newlyweds and nine bedrooms, with bed and breakfast. The venue also offers exclusive hire of the manor house, which includes all 23 of its bedrooms.

Nettlestead Place, Nettlestead

As you arrive at Nettlestead Place via the beautiful 14th-century gatehouse, the Grad I listed manor comes into view. It's still a private family home and has, over the centuries, hosted many a lavish event and celebration. This lovely historical building, along with its stunning surroundings, offers a quintessentially English setting for your big day. The venue has 10 acres of award-winning gardens with its own picture-perfect sunken pond and beautiful far-reaching views across the River Medway. With its stone walls, archways, secret gardens, and winding pathways, Nettlestead Place offers a wealth of incredible photo opportunities. What's more, you're offered a complimentary menu and wine-tasting experience when you book your wedding date here.

Cobham Hall, Cobham

Nestled in 150 acres of Grade II listed parkland, Cobham Hall dates back to 1208 when the original manor was granted by the King to the De Cobham family. The Hall is home to a priceless collection of paintings and antiques as well as to the famous ashes of English cricket, which were gifted by the then English cricket captain and future 8th Earl of Darnley, Ivo Bligh, in 1883. Now operating as an independent day and boarding school for 200 girls, Cobham Hall is one of the country's finest historic country houses. Only 28 miles from central London and within easy reach of the A2, M2, M20 and M25 the venue is conveniently situated, while enjoying a picturesque and tranquil setting. Offering a maximum of 20 wedding dates per year, Cobham Hall is a hidden gem that will amazing your guests with its history, grandeur and elegance, and its dedicated wedding team will help you create a day designed exclusively for you. What's more on booking your wedding day at Cobham Hall, you'll be invited to a complimentary menu tasting and wine pairing. Plus, there a bridal dressing room and groom's lounge on site for use on the morning of your wedding.

Inn on the Lake, Gravesend

The Inn on the Lake sits on the edge of 12 acres of woodland. Its glorious gardens are built around three natural lakes, providing stunning backdrops for your all-important photos. The floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall windows flood the hotel's large wedding room with natural light and offer stunning panoramic views over the lakes and gardens. The lakes are the focal point for weddings here, from nuptials at the water's edge and beautiful photo opportunities on the jetty through to barbecues on the lakeside terrace. You could even wake up to coffee on your bedroom terrace looking out at this gorgeous scenery. The ultimate romantic spot, the Lakeside Gazebo is set on the edge of the largest lake and permits 200 loved ones (with an additional 50 standing) to witness your vows.

The Hop Farm, Maidstone

The Hop Farm is one of Kent's quintessential, landmark weddings venues. With the famous backdrop of the county's traditional oast houses, and surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, it's an idyllic location for your special day. The wedding gardens and terraces are exclusive to each wedding and provide a wealth of jaw-dropping backdrops for your photographer to utilise. You have the luxury of choice when it comes to your ceremony, with outdoor and indoor options available. In the gardens, the wedding gazebo can host 140 guests and indoors the Whites Wedding Suite can hold the same number. Receptions, on the other hand, can also be hosted in either of the above two places with capacity for 150 loved ones, or alternatively in the Shires Wedding Suite filled with beams and facing the outdoor terrace. It's a bright space and wonderful for hosting celebrations for 150 guests.