Last month we were invited to view a new wedding venue, Elmley Nature Reserve. If you are a couple with an appreciation for nature and wildlife, if you are looking for a weekend exclusive use venue within easy reach from London, if you like the idea of a remote island and fire-pits after dark, if an 18th century barn appeals and if you are looking for plenty of accommodation on site, then Elmley might just be the venue for you.
Elmley is an escape into nature, it is a vast wilderness and a spectacular landscape. I would definitely describe it as unique. It is actually a family owned and run farm with a commitment to sustainability of the landscape and the wildlife that it supports. Set in 3300 acres, it is situated in North Kent (about 40 miles and very accessible from London). It is a very extraordinary place, from the moment you arrive you feel like you have been transported.
The venue offers a number of accommodation options for up to 120 guests across the spring/summer season and will appeal to the more adventurous outdoors spirited couple and guests. The main farmhouse offers a selection of boutique rooms. On the grounds there are also a selection of luxury shepherd's hut style lodgings (some even with outdoor bathtubs). Finally, for the most outdoor-loving guests, they offer glamping. I would describe it all as rustic luxe - in the best possible way.
Elmley is offered for weddings on a 2 night use basis with private use of the Farm. You and your guests have access to the private beach (for sunset swims) and all the surroundings. The heart of the wedding celebrations is the 18th century Kentish Barn - a brilliantly imposing dramatic barn for dining and dancing.
We were invited to spend the night and see what the venue has to offer. To me, it felt like a tonic for the soul. From the moment we arrived (on a glorious but cold winter afternoon), the landscape and surroundings had us hooked. We were lucky to be invited on a wildlife tour where we got to properly experience the landscape, before enjoying an amazing meal in the Farmhouse restaurant (truly delicious, local produce and lovingly prepared. The chocolate mouse and sticky toffee pudding were amazing!). The next morning I woke up and ran around the reserve to see the private beach and soak up the feel of the place. If you are the kind of couple with the outdoors and nature in your hearts, who want to experience a rustic luxe wedding, in a venue that truly feels unique, this is definitely one you should have on your shortlist. The most brilliant thing about it? It's a rare find and not lots of people know about it...
For more information - contact the friendly team at Elmley for details (and, of course, we would be happy to help you plan your dream wedding here!)
photography credit to Rebecca Douglas Photography