Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Book a Viewing
  • Is Nettlestead Place an exclusive-use wedding venue ?
    Yes. Nettlestead Place is an exclusive-use wedding venue, meaning yours will be the only wedding taking place on your chosen day. From the moment your first guests arrive until your final dance, the historic manor house, beautiful gardens and elegant marquee are yours to enjoy exclusively with your family and friends. There are no shared spaces, no competing celebrations and no feeling of being rushed – just the freedom to relax and enjoy every moment together. Many couples tell us that this sense of privacy and exclusivity is one of the reasons they chose Nettlestead Place.
  • Do you hold more than one wedding each day?
    No. We host just one wedding on any given day, allowing every couple to enjoy the estate exclusively and without compromise. Hosting a single wedding means our attention is entirely focused on you and your guests throughout the day. You'll never feel hurried, and you'll have the time and space to celebrate at your own pace, creating memories that are uniquely yours.
  • What makes Nettlestead Place different from other wedding venues?
    Every venue has something special to offer, but couples often tell us there was simply something different about Nettlestead Place. Perhaps it's arriving through the historic gatehouse and discovering a privately owned medieval manor house surrounded by ten acres of award-winning gardens. Perhaps it's knowing yours will be the only wedding taking place that day. Or perhaps it's the personal support they receive throughout the planning process from our experienced team. Above all, Nettlestead Place remains a family-owned home, and we believe that creates a warm, welcoming and calm atmosphere that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.
  • Is accommodation available for us and our guests?
    Yes. Subject to availability, the newlyweds can book our luxurious Bridal Suite, located within the historic manor house, providing a peaceful and elegant retreat at the end of your wedding day. For your guests, there is an excellent choice of nearby hotels, country inns and other accommodation, many just a short drive from Nettlestead Place. We're always happy to recommend options to suit different budgets, making it easy for family and friends travelling from further afield. You can also explore our recommended local accommodation on our Accommodation page.
  • Can we arrange a private viewing?
    Absolutely. The best way to experience Nettlestead Place is to visit in person. A private viewing gives you the opportunity to explore the manor house, gardens and marquee, ask questions, discuss your ideas and imagine how your own wedding day could unfold here. We'd be delighted to welcome you.
  • Is Nettlestead Place suitable for outdoor ceremonies?
    Yes. Many couples choose to exchange their vows in our beautiful Rose Garden Gazebo, surrounded by colourful gardens and views across the estate. Should the British weather have other plans, your ceremony can simply move into our magnificent medieval Undercroft, ensuring your day remains every bit as special whatever the forecast.
  • Will someone help us throughout the planning process?
    Absolutely. From the moment you first enquire until your wedding day, you'll be supported by your dedicated Wedding Consultant, who will guide you through each stage of the planning journey. Whether you need advice, recommendations or simply reassurance, we're here to help ensure your wedding planning feels enjoyable, organised and as stress-free as possible.
  • How far in advance should we book?
    We recommend arranging a viewing as early as possible, particularly if you have a specific date or season in mind. Nettlestead Place hosts a carefully limited number of weddings each year, typically between April and October, allowing us to maintain the high standards of personal service, exclusivity and attention to detail that are so important to us. As a result, many of our available dates are reserved well in advance, especially Saturdays during the spring and summer months. Occasionally, we do have later availability, so it's always worth getting in touch to discuss your preferred date – we'd be delighted to help.
  • How many guests can Nettlestead Place accommodate?
    Nettlestead Place is wonderfully flexible and can accommodate celebrations of varying sizes. Whether you're planning a smaller gathering or a larger wedding, we'll help you choose the spaces and layout that best suit your guest numbers. You can find full details on our Guest Numbers page, or we'd be happy to discuss your plans during a viewing.
  • Can we have a smaller, intimate wedding?
    Yes. Alongside our larger celebrations, we are delighted to offer intimate weddings on selected dates for guest numbers of 30 or more. Whether you're planning a relaxed celebration with your closest family and friends or a larger gathering, every wedding receives the same care, attention and personal service.
Planning Your Wedding
  • Can we personalise our wedding day?
    Absolutely. No two weddings at Nettlestead Place are ever the same. Every celebration is tailored around the couple at its heart, allowing you to create a day that reflects your personalities, style and priorities. Whether it's your ceremony, food, drinks, décor or the flow of your day, we'll work closely with you to bring your ideas to life while making the most of everything the estate has to offer.
  • When do we need to confirm our final guest numbers?
    Final guest numbers are usually required around eight weeks before your wedding day. This gives us plenty of time to finalise your culinary and beverage arrangements, seating plans and other important details, ensuring everything is perfectly prepared for your celebration.
  • Can guests throw confetti?
    Yes, we'd be delighted for you to celebrate with a confetti moment. To help protect our beautiful gardens and grounds, we kindly ask that only natural flower petal confetti is used as biodegradable paper confetti isn't suitable, as it can take many months to fully break down.
  • Can we hold a rehearsal before the wedding?
    Wedding rehearsals aren't usually required and aren't routinely held unless requested by Kent Registrars. Your Wedding Consultant will ensure everyone knows what to expect before the ceremony, helping the day run smoothly and allowing you to relax and enjoy every moment. We will of course accommodate one though if this offers peace of mind.
  • Can we choose our own suppliers?
    Yes. You're welcome to choose the majority of your own suppliers, from photographers and florists to musicians, cake designers and venue stylists. If you're looking for recommendations, we're also happy to suggest experienced professionals who know Nettlestead Place well and whose quality and service we've seen first-hand. We don't receive commission or referral fees, so our recommendations are always based on experience, not commercial arrangements. The only exception is fireworks. If you choose to include a fireworks display, we ask that you use our approved fireworks company for safety and insurance reasons.
  • What if we have questions during the planning process?
    Please don't hesitate to ask. Whether you have a quick question, need reassurance or would like advice on any aspect of your wedding, we're only ever a phone call or email away. Planning your wedding should feel exciting rather than overwhelming, and we're always here to help whenever you need us.
  • Can our dog be part of our wedding day?
    Absolutely – we know that for many couples, a beloved dog is very much part of the family. We're always happy to discuss ways in which your four-legged friend can be involved in your celebrations, whether that's joining you for photographs, greeting guests or even taking on the important role of ring bearer. We'll work with you to make sure everyone – including your canine companion – enjoys the day safely and comfortably.
  • What is an Undercroft?
    An undercroft is a vaulted room traditionally found beneath medieval buildings and was originally used for storage. Today, Nettlestead Place's beautifully preserved medieval Undercroft has become one of the estate's most distinctive spaces. Rich in character and history, it provides a truly memorable setting for ceremonies, while also offering a beautiful indoor alternative should the weather require a change of plans.
Your Food & Drink
  • Can we bring our own caterers?
    To ensure every meal served at Nettlestead Place meets the high standards we're proud of, all catering is provided exclusively by our experienced in-house team. Our Head Chef brings many years of experience creating exceptional wedding menus, drawing inspiration from his own cultural heritage, extensive travels and a passion for international cuisine. He has successfully created bespoke menus for couples from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, so whether you're looking to incorporate traditional family dishes or flavours from around the world, we'll work closely with you to create a menu that feels authentic, personal and memorable. Having one dedicated catering team also ensures a seamless experience from planning through to service on your wedding day.
  • Can we supply our own drinks or pay corkage?
    We don't offer corkage, as all drinks are supplied by Nettlestead Place. Our carefully selected drinks packages and competitively priced bar have been designed to complement your celebration, ensuring excellent quality, seamless service and great value throughout the day.
  • Do you offer drinks packages?
    Yes. We offer a range of carefully designed drinks packages to suit different styles of celebration, from welcome drinks and table wines to toasts and evening refreshments. We'll be happy to help you choose the option that best suits your plans and your guests.
  • Can we create our own drinks package?
    Of course. Many couples choose one of our carefully designed drinks packages, while others prefer to tailor the selection to suit their own tastes and celebration. We'll be delighted to help create a package that's just right for you.
  • Can we provide alcoholic favours for our guests?
    Alcoholic favours supplied for guests aren't permitted. However, if you'd like to include miniature bottles, liqueurs or other alcoholic favours as part of your celebration, we'd be delighted to help source these for you, ensuring everything is presented beautifully and served responsibly.
  • When will we choose our menu?
    You'll normally finalise your menu following your food tasting, giving you the opportunity to sample our cuisine and discuss your choices with our catering team. It's one of the most enjoyable parts of planning your wedding!
  • Do you cater for dietary requirements?
    Absolutely. Our chefs are experienced in catering for vegetarian, vegan and other dietary preferences, as well as allergies and intolerances. Every guest should enjoy a delicious meal, and we'll work closely with you to ensure everyone's needs are carefully catered for.
  • Do you cater for children?
    Yes. We believe younger guests deserve the same attention as everyone else, so we've created a dedicated children's menu featuring delicious, freshly prepared dishes designed especially for them. Children aged 11 years and under enjoy our children's menu, while those aged 12 and over are catered for from our adult menu.
  • Can we taste the food and wines before making our final choices?
    Yes – and it's one of the most enjoyable parts of planning your wedding. As part of your wedding experience at Nettlestead Place, you'll be invited to a complimentary food and wine tasting. This gives you the opportunity to sample your chosen menu, explore our carefully selected wines and make your final choices with confidence. It's a relaxed and enjoyable occasion, allowing you to experience the quality of our food and drink while looking forward to your wedding day.
Your Wedding Day
  • What happens if it rains during our outdoor ceremony?
    Many couples choose to exchange their vows in our beautiful Rose Garden Gazebo, surrounded by the gardens and stunning views across the estate. If the weather isn't suitable, your ceremony can simply move into our magnificent medieval Undercroft. Rich in history and atmosphere, it provides a beautiful indoor setting and ensures your day remains every bit as memorable, whatever the forecast.
  • What happens if it rains during our drinks reception?
    Many couples enjoy their drinks and canapés on the Meadow Lawn, Pond Terrace or in the Rose Garden following the ceremony. Should the weather have other plans, your drinks reception can continue in the enlarged covered entrance area of our marquee. This spacious, sheltered area allows your guests to relax with drinks and canapés without moving into the wedding breakfast area too early, helping the natural flow of your day continue uninterrupted.
  • What time can we access the Bridal Suite?
    The Bridal Suite is available from 9.00am on the morning of your wedding. As Nettlestead Place remains a privately owned family home, this allows us time to ensure everything is beautifully prepared before you arrive to begin your celebrations.
  • When should our guests arrive?
    We usually recommend guests arrive around 15 to 30 minutes before the ceremony begins. This allows everyone plenty of time to settle in, enjoy the surroundings and take their seats before the ceremony starts. If you've chosen to offer pre-ceremony refreshments, we'll advise timings accordingly.
  • How long does the ceremony last?
    Every ceremony is unique, but most civil ceremonies last between 20 and 30 minutes. Your celebrant or registrar will guide you through the ceremony, allowing you to relax and enjoy this very special moment together.
  • How long does the wedding breakfast last?
    Every wedding is different, but as a guide, your wedding breakfast, including speeches, usually lasts between two and two and a half hours. This allows plenty of time for guests to enjoy each course, speeches and conversation before the evening celebrations begin.
  • Are there sound restrictions for bands and DJs?
    Yes. To help protect both the historic buildings and the surrounding environment, entertainment is limited to a maximum peak sound level of 90 decibels. Most professional bands and DJs are very familiar with working within this level, and we'll liaise with your chosen entertainment on the day to help ensure everything runs smoothly while maintaining a fantastic atmosphere.
  • Where are the best places for photographs?
    One of the joys of Nettlestead Place is the variety of beautiful backdrops available throughout the estate. From the medieval manor house and romantic Rose Garden to the Meadow Lawn, Pond Terrace and award-winning gardens, you'll have countless opportunities to create stunning photographs while still enjoying plenty of time with your guests. Our experienced team and your photographer will work together to ensure your photography fits naturally into the flow of your day.
  • Will we have time to enjoy the day ourselves?
    Absolutely. One of the advantages of hosting just one wedding each day is that there's no pressure to rush from one part of the celebration to the next. We'll help plan a relaxed timeline that gives you time to spend with your guests, enjoy some quiet moments together and truly savour every part of your wedding day.
Still Have a Question?
  • Every wedding at Nettlestead Place is unique, and we know you'll have questions that are personal to your own plans. So...
    ...If there's anything we haven't covered here, we'd be delighted to help. Whether you're just beginning your venue search or already imagining your wedding day at Nettlestead Place, our experienced team is always happy to answer your questions. Better still, why not come and experience Nettlestead Place for yourself? We'd love to welcome you for a private viewing, show you around the estate and discuss how we can help bring your wedding plans to life.
Arrange Your Private Viewing