Business Details
31 Years
experience
Your Exclusive Wedding Venue in Cornwall
Polhawn Fort, a family-owned venue with a personal touch, has been hosting weddings and events for 29 years. Our experienced team combines event management expertise with a deep understanding of creating memorable celebrations. Originally purchased in 1988 as a weekend retreat, the Napoleonic Fort has been meticulously restored to offer a unique blend of historical charm and modern comfort. We pride ourselves on providing exclusive use of our venue, allowing couples complete creative freedom to design their perfect day. With 8 bedrooms accommodating up to 24 guests, our venue offers both intimate and grand celebration options across multiple licensed spaces.Our approach prioritizes flexibility, with no restrictive rules beyond those mandated by licensing authorities. The Wicksteed family's artistic heritage is evident throughout the property, with original artworks and carefully curated interiors enhancing the Fort's natural beauty. We maintain strong relationships with local suppliers while welcoming clients' preferred vendors to ensure personalized service.
Services
Wedding Venue Hire
Exclusive Accommodation
Event Planning
Catering Services
Homestays
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- Family-owned venue with 29 years of wedding experience
- Exclusive use of entire property with complete creative freedom
- 8 bedrooms accommodating up to 24 guests on-site
- Multiple licensed ceremony spaces with sea views
- Flexible approach with minimal restrictions
What people say
Simply the best
Out of this world
Absolutely perfect
Wowed all guests
Dream come true
Services
Wedding Venue Hire
Polhawn Fort offers exclusive wedding venue hire with complete creative freedom. Our licensed spaces include the Grand Napoleonic Hall for 100 guests, intimate Ocean Room for 30, cliffside Summerhouse, and flexible terrace. The venue includes tables, chairs, kitchen equipment, and decor for seamless celebrations. Our team provides guidance while allowing personal customization. With no corkage fees and flexible entertainment options, couples can create their perfect day.
Exclusive Accommodation
Our exclusive accommodation sleeps 16 guests across 8 individually styled bedrooms, with optional extra beds for 8 more. Each room features Vispring mattresses, Egyptian cotton linens, and sea views. The Fort includes communal spaces like the roof terrace and gardens for pre-wedding preparations and post-celebration relaxation. All bedrooms have tea and coffee facilities, while the fully equipped kitchen serves larger groups.
Event Planning
We provide comprehensive event planning support while maintaining a hands-off approach. Our experienced team offers venue expertise and supplier recommendations but allows complete creative control. We assist with site visits, layout planning, and logistics coordination. With 29 years of experience, we ensure smooth execution while respecting couples' vision. Our flexible approach accommodates various event styles from formal ceremonies to casual celebrations.
Catering Services
We offer flexible catering options with no mandatory suppliers. Couples may choose from our recommended local caterers or bring their own. Our kitchen facilities include professional equipment for self-catering options. We accommodate diverse dietary requirements and event styles from formal banquets to casual BBQs. The venue provides glassware, crockery, and cutlery for 100 guests, with additional support available for specific requirements.
Homestays
Polhawn Fort offers self-catered homestays in our historic venue outside wedding seasons. The property sleeps 16 guests across 8 bedrooms with optional additional beds. Our homestays include full kitchen access, living areas, and outdoor spaces. Guests enjoy coastal views, private beach access, and proximity to local attractions. The Fort's flexible approach allows personalized stays with minimal restrictions beyond safety requirements.
People
John Wicksteed
Owner
Purchased Polhawn Fort in 1988 as a weekend retreat while living in London. Led major renovations before relocating permanently to Cornwall. Co-founded the wedding venue business in 1995 with his wife Teresa.
Teresa Wicksteed
Owner
Co-owner with 29 years' experience in wedding venue management. Fine Art graduate whose artwork adorns the Fort. Recently qualified in Sound Healing, offering wellness sessions at the venue.
James
General Manager
Joined Polhawn Fort in 2002, progressing from maintenance to General Manager. Oversees daily wedding operations and major maintenance projects since 2022. Provides continuity through his long-term venue knowledge.
Bernard
Consultant
Cornwall-born son of owners with 14 years' experience in film visual effects. Combines creative expertise with family venue knowledge, splitting time between VFX career and Polhawn Fort consultancy.
Rose Wicksteed
Marketing Consultant
Award-winning Casting Director and holistic teacher. Manages brand direction, marketing, and interior design. Brings international perspective from her UK-Greece base to venue development.
Questions
What's included in the venue hire?
Venue hire includes exclusive use of the Fort with 8 bedrooms, kitchen facilities, tables/chairs for 100 guests, and white drapes with fairy lights in the Napoleonic Hall.
Can we bring our own caterer?
Yes, we welcome your preferred caterer or can recommend local specialists. The venue provides full kitchen access and catering equipment for self-service options.
Is the venue accessible for disabled guests?
We provide wheelchair ramps and accessible bathrooms. Most areas are on one level, though some garden access requires short steps with ramp assistance.
What are the noise restrictions?
We follow licensing regulations with amplified music ending at 11pm. Our thick stone walls naturally contain sound, allowing flexible entertainment options within legal limits.
Can we have a fireworks display?
Fireworks require prior approval and safety assessment. Our coastal location offers alternative evening lighting options with fairy lights and torches along the cliff path.
What happens in bad weather?
We monitor weather forecasts and provide 24-hour notice if terrace use is restricted. Indoor spaces comfortably accommodate all guests with contingency plans for marquee events.
Reviews (4)
Sharon Cooper Photography
Dec 07, 2021
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A truly fantastic wedding venue. The staff are amazing and the grounds and sea views are spectacular. Make sure you get down to the wonderful beach. A true gem.
Claire Hill
Dec 01, 2021
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Great place for a wedding, lovely scenery, setting, and beautifully decorated. The acoustics made it difficult to hear the registrar, and we couldn't hear the vows at all, so microphones would be a good addition, the toilet cubicles were also really difficult to get in and out of as they were tiny. But, a gorgeous setting, and I one I'd highly recommended.
Raymond Russell
Nov 13, 2021
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What an absolute beautiful place. Attended a wedding here and its so unique. It was a pleasure to attend a wedding in such a picturesque location and historical building.
Taz David
Nov 09, 2021
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A beautiful place, we were there for a family wedding. Outstandingly lovely so picturesque. Would recommend for any event, food was excellent, friendly efficient staff. Xx
