Business Details
46 Years
experience
Exclusive Wedding & Event Venue in Kent
Established in 1980, The Knowle Country House has been a cherished venue for weddings and events under the stewardship of Michael & Lynn Baragwanath. Nestled within 14 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, our Victorian mansion offers a historic and elegant backdrop for celebrations. We specialize in exclusive hire, ensuring privacy and personalized service for every occasion. Our commitment to fresh, in-house cuisine elevates dining experiences, whether for intimate gatherings or grand events. The venue's rich heritage, including connections to Charles Dickens, adds a unique narrative to its charm.With flexible spaces accommodating up to 150 guests, we cater to weddings, memorials, and corporate events with equal dedication. Our team prioritizes seamless coordination, from floral arrangements to entertainment, ensuring every detail aligns with client visions. Sustainability and local sourcing underpin our operations, reflecting modern values within a historic setting. As a family-run business, we blend tradition with innovation to create unforgettable experiences.
Services
Wedding Venue Hire
Restaurant Dining
Event Hosting
Wake Services
Exclusive Hire
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer exclusive venue hire with no hidden charges or concurrent events.
- Our historic gardens and Victorian architecture provide a unique photographic backdrop.
- Freshly prepared, seasonal menus tailored to your event's requirements.
- Personalized service from experienced team members since 1980.
- Flexible spaces accommodating intimate gatherings to grand celebrations of up to 150 guests.
What people say
Beautiful all year round
Amazing food
Excellent portion sizes
Brilliant service
Wonderful meal
Services
Wedding Venue Hire
Our Victorian mansion offers exclusive wedding hire with capacity for 50150 guests. The venue includes gardens, a glass conservatory, and reception spaces with in-house catering. Packages include floral arrangements, overnight accommodation, and entertainment options.
Restaurant Dining
The restaurant provides seasonal menus with freshly prepared dishes for private parties and events. Accommodating intimate dinners or large groups up to 98 guests, our spaces combine historic charm with modern culinary excellence.
Event Hosting
We host corporate events, celebrations, and private functions in versatile spaces including the Garden Room and Dickens-themed study. Full venue hire ensures privacy and bespoke arrangements for your occasion.
Memorial Services
Our venue provides dignified settings for memorial gatherings, including memory tables, floral tributes, and buffet catering. Packages accommodate 40150 guests with flexible duration and licensed bar facilities.
Exclusive Hire
Total venue privacy for weddings or events with sole use of all spaces. Includes gardens, reception rooms, and overnight accommodation without concurrent bookings, ensuring personalized attention.
People
Michael Baragwanath
Owner
Co-owner with Lynn Baragwanath since 1980, Michael oversees operations at The Knowle Country House, combining hospitality expertise with stewardship of its historic legacy.
Lynn Baragwanath
Owner
Co-owner alongside Michael Baragwanath, Lynn contributes decades of experience in event management and hospitality to ensure exceptional guest experiences at this family-run venue.
Mark
Head Gardener
Our Head Gardener Mark has dedicated his career to cultivating the venue's 14-acre grounds, creating award-winning gardens that serve as a picturesque backdrop for all events.
Questions
What wedding packages do you offer?
We provide Traditional Weddings from £7,900 and Twilight Weddings from £4,800, both including venue hire, catering, accommodation, and entertainment options.
Can we host non-wedding events?
Yes, we accommodate corporate events, memorials, and private parties with flexible spaces for 40–150 guests, including bespoke catering and AV facilities.
Is accommodation included?
Wedding packages include overnight stay in our Coach House with breakfast. Additional guest accommodation is available through local partnerships.
What dining options exist?
Our restaurant offers seasonal menus for private parties, with options for three-course meals, buffets, and dietary requirements across multiple event spaces.
How far in advance should we book?
Peak dates book 12–18 months ahead. We recommend contacting us early to secure preferred dates, especially for Saturday weddings.
What historical features exist?
Built in the 1850s by Rev. Joseph Hindle, the venue has connections to Charles Dickens and retains original architectural details across its 14-acre estate.
Reviews (5)
Sharon M. Harris
Dec 31, 2021
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We returned for another special meal and the service and food was amazing as always!! We got married at this beautiful location in 2014 and love returning! They never fail to impress!!
Wishing all the staff a Happy New Year and we look forward to seeing you again in 2022 xx
Wishing all the staff a Happy New Year and we look forward to seeing you again in 2022 xx
Jack Kinsey
Dec 17, 2021
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Had a meal at the Knowle this evening. The service was very poor, I was spoken to rudely three times by staff when asking for a drink. My first drink was more head than lager and was told it was because the lager was lively. The food was of poor quality especially for a venue selling itself as classy. Overall a bad experience for the money.
Leah Banks
Dec 12, 2021
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Wow the best bottomless prosecco and cocktail evening. All of the cheese and charcuterie board. Thank you, will definitely be back!!!
F. Aggrey
Dec 11, 2021
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Attended a wedding here recently. Amazing and well kept venue, lovely staff, drinks and food yummy! Can never go wrong with having your wedding in this place! Highly recommended!!!
Fiona Denney
Nov 30, 2021
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Absolutely beautiful. Booked for my daughter's wedding. Mark was delightful. (And they now have cocktails on tap. Espresso martini here I come! )
