Choosing your dream wedding venue and accommodation can be daunting. The process often involves balancing several factors such as location, capacity, and amenities—plus staying within budget. Additionally, there is the pressure of ensuring that any accommodation you book for yourself, and your guests is comfortable and extra special to create a truly memorable experience.
Many couples are also searching for unique wedding destinations to make their ceremony personal to them, and the seaside town of Whitstable in Kent is becoming a popular choice. Whether you are dreaming of a traditional ceremony or a more unconventional celebration, this guide will help you navigate the options available in Whitstable, helping your special day be as enjoyable as possible.
Why Choose Whitstable for Your Wedding?
Whitstable offers an idyllic backdrop for weddings, combining the charm of its maritime heritage with a vibrant community. The town has picturesque landscapes, which include pebbled beaches, a historic harbour, and well-kept gardens to provide a variety of stunning settings for the ceremony and photographs.
There are also a growing number of registered venues in town and the surrounding area. For example, Whitstable Castle has gardens overlooking the sea, rustic barns surrounded by fields, and various stately homes for a grand party. There are also beachfront venues offering couples the opportunity to say their vows against the backdrop of the sweeping views of the Thames Estuary, making for an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the Whitstable wedding venues themselves, Whitstable is renowned for its warm, welcoming community and its rich culinary scene. It is also recognised for its locally sourced seafood - adding an extra layer of flavour to your wedding celebrations. If you decide to stay by the sea, the town's compact size means that venues and accommodations are never far from each other, allowing for easy transitions between ceremony, reception, and accommodation sites. This convenience can make for a more relaxed experience for both your wedding party and guests.
Additionally, Whitstable's proximity to London and good transport links makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a destination wedding without extensive travel. This accessibility, coupled with the town's unique offerings, makes it the perfect choice for couples wanting a memorable and distinctly their own wedding.
Best Wedding Venues In Whitstable
Below are some of the top wedding venues in Whitstable to help you find your perfect setting.
Whitstable Castle and Gardens
Looking over the town, Whitstable Castle and Gardens presents a fairy-tale backdrop for weddings. This historic venue, with its manicured lawns and panoramic views of the Whitstable coastline, offers a romantic setting for both ceremonies and receptions. The castle's interior exudes period charm, featuring ornate rooms that can accommodate intimate gatherings or larger celebrations. The gardens, great for outdoor ceremonies, bloom with beautiful flowers, providing a picturesque location for your wedding.
The Marine Hotel
The Marine Hotel, perched on the top of Tankerton slopes, has recently been fully refurbished to offer a more contemporary interior. With breathtaking views of the Thames Estuary, it serves as a sophisticated venue for weddings. The hotel's function rooms cater to a range of wedding sizes, all benefiting from the scenic coastal backdrop. The Marine Hotel's experienced events team can assist with planning through to the celebration.
East Quay Venue
Within Whitstable Harbour, there is the East Quay Venue, which combines industrial charm with stunning sea views, making it a sought-after location for weddings. Its spacious, light-filled rooms can be customised to fit various themes. The venue's proximity to the beach allows for breathtaking wedding photos against the backdrop of the sea. East Quay Venue prides itself on its bespoke approach to weddings, ensuring each couple's vision comes to life.
The Beacon House
Situated next door to the Kiora holiday home, The Beacon House offers an intimate setting for smaller weddings. This historic property, with its Victorian architecture and elegant decor, provides an intimate and romantic atmosphere. The garden, overlooking the beach, is an idyllic spot for outdoor ceremonies and receptions, offering stunning sunset views over the sea. Its intimate scale makes it perfect for couples looking for a more personal and private celebration.
Canterbury Registry Office
The Canterbury Registry Office is just a short drive from Whitstable and provides a classic setting for your marriage ceremony. It is located within Wellington House, just outside the Roman city walls. The rooms are in keeping with the period of the 18th century building, and there is a small private garden that backs onto the river Stour.
Booking Wedding Accommodation for Your Special Day
Many couples leave guests to book their own accommodation; however, you will need to find somewhere for yourselves and the wedding party. For those wanting a relaxed place to stay with direct access to the beach and sea views, look at Kiora.
The Kiora holiday home offers a serene and elegant setting ideal for couples and their guests getting married in Whitstable. It blends period charm with modern comforts and accommodates up to eight people. With its stunning seafront views and private garden, Kiora provides a beautiful and tranquil environment, ensuring a memorable stay for all. The property is also pet-friendly, so your dogs can join in on your wedding celebrations. With the exception of the Canterbury Registry Office, the venues listed above are only 10 minutes or less walk away, with The Beacon House being just next door.
Wedding Planning in Whitstable
To assist with wedding planning in Whitstable while staying at Kiora, Jez (the property co-owner) can offer support by recommending local suppliers and transport advice. Though Kiora is not a registered wedding venue for the legal ceremony and does not provide wedding planning services, local knowledge of the area and connections can be helpful. From suggesting the best local florists and photographers to advising on tide times for guests to enjoy a sea swim, Jez's insights can help make your wedding in Whitstable as smooth and stress-free as possible.
How to Book Your Wedding Stay at Kiora
Booking your wedding stay at Kiora is straightforward, ensuring a hassle-free experience for couples and their guests. To secure your accommodation, visit the availability and enquiries page, where you'll find a detailed availability calendar, rental prices and contact details. Simply select your desired dates to see if they are available and submit an enquiry with any specific requests or questions you might have. Jez will get back to you promptly and help make the booking process as smooth and efficient as possible, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your upcoming celebration in Whitstable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Whitstable a unique wedding destination?
Whitstable is celebrated for its beaches, historic charm, and vibrant harbour, offering a picturesque setting for weddings. The town's variety of venues includes beachfront ceremonies, elegant castle weddings, and many more options only a short drive away.
Can Kiora accommodate large wedding groups?
Kiora can sleep groups of up to eight, offering flexible accommodation options for the wedding couple and their guests. If you would like to entertain large groups of friends and family during your stay, please contact Jez for prior consent. Children under two are not included in the count.
How early should I book my wedding stay at Kiora?
Given Whitstable's popularity as a wedding and holiday destination, we recommend securing your accommodation at Kiora as soon as possible. Early booking guarantees the availability of your preferred dates and allows for a stress-free planning process. This is especially important if you want to get married during peak seasons.
Does Kiora help with wedding planning?
While Kiora does not provide dedicated wedding planning services, we can offer invaluable support by recommending trusted local suppliers and transport solutions. Jez's local knowledge and connections can be a huge help in bringing your wedding celebrations to life.
Are pets allowed at Kiora during wedding stays?
Understanding the importance of having your dogs by your side, Kiora welcomes pets during your stay. This pet-friendly policy ensures that no family member misses your special day. The property has a private garden and is located just off the beach, perfect for pre-ceremony walks.