Wildly Romantic: Adventure Awaits At This Stunning Country Estate
Celebrate your nuptials with a twist at the unique Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve in Kent
Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by breath-taking views within the historic walls of one of England’s finest country houses, which also happens to be home to more than 900 rare and endangered animals.
Port Lympne Mansion, a Grade-2 listed estate, is steeped in a legacy of grandeur and sophistication. The former residence of British politician and socialite Philip Sassoon, this beautiful manor has hosted illustrious guests including Charlie Chaplin and Sir Winston Churchill. Today, Port Lympne offers a wedding setting that is truly exceptional, blending timeless elegance with the charm of the golden era.
However, beyond its rich history, the 600 acres venue is home to Kent’s largest wildlife park, where close to a thousand animals reside – from majestic giraffes to prowling tigers, there’s a plethora of stunning creatures for guests of all ages to gaze in awe at.
This magical and unique setting provides a truly memorable backdrop for your wedding day. Guests can sip on cocktails as they take in the endless views, or perhaps even a pre-reception safari to truly immerse everyone in the beauty of nature. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the versatile and beautifully designed spaces can be tailored to your vision.
Port Lympne offers couples a dedicated events coordinator who will diligently work with you every step of the way, ensuring that every detail – from the reception to entertainment and activities – is bespoke.
The Pergola
The Orangery
WEDDING SPACES
Port Lympne features a range of stunning indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings, from intimate gatherings in the elegant mansion to larger celebrations in the glass orangery. Each area is filled with charm and delightful views, providing the perfect backdrop for your big day.
The Pergola
The enchanting flower-draped Pergola, nestled within the ancient walls of the mansion’s garden, offers an idyllic setting for exchanging vows. The space is fully licensed for civil ceremonies and it can comfortably accommodate up to 100 seated guests, with additional standing space for 20. After the ceremony, your loved ones can gather in the beautifully tiered terraced gardens for drinks and canapes.
The Orangery
For an unforgettable evening reception or elegant lunch, opt for Port Lympne’s glass orangery and terrace. This chic space, inspired by the glamour and of the Gatsby era, provides an exclusive, private setting for your celebration. With capacity for up to 120 seated guests, The Orangery combines modern luxury with timeless sophistication, offering a cloakroom, luxury washrooms, a spacious dance floor and a fully-equipped kitchen. For larger gatherings, there is the option to add marquees or food stations on the adjoining lawn, creating a seamless flow of celebration between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Moroccan Courtyard
The Moroccan Courtyard, located on the mansion’s first floor is a hidden gem for smaller, more intimate wedding gatherings. Once the lively centre of parties for Sassoon’s influential circle during the 1920s and 30s, the courtyard still carries that sense of history and charm, but with a quieter, more personal touch.
Restored in 2019, it retains its original marble columns and floors, and feels timeless with brass lanterns, gently flowing water fountains and soft pink walls draped in jasmine and bougainvillea. With room for up to 24 guests, it’s a space that feels both private and open, perfect for a small ceremony, an elegant cocktail evening or a cosy rehearsal dinner.
The Mansion
For couples planning a smaller wedding of up to 50 guests, the mansion’s elegant drawing rooms and sun-drenched terrace provides a perfect setting. Built in 1919 by renowned architects Sir Herbert Baker and Philip Tilden, the Cape Dutch-style mansion exudes timeless charm. Surrounded by 14 acres of beautifully-landscaped terraced gardens, it offers a stunning backdrop for your special day, whether for a small ceremony, dinner or an intimate reception. The mansion’s unique décor adds a sense of character and history, while the south-and west-facing terraces offer lovely sea views.
CATERING
The perfect menu is a key element of any wedding. From selecting crockery and table linens to designing the menu and pairing wines, the team at Port Lympne can handle every detail. Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent offers some of the finest ingredients, and the chefs collaborate with trusted local suppliers to craft a bespoke seasonal menu that suits your tastes and dietary needs.
The in-house Indian chef is a master in crafting exquisite Indian cuisine. With a deep understanding of traditional flavours, he can create a menu that bring an authentic touch to your celebration. The team also partners with award-winning vineyards to select wines that complement your food choices perfectly.
Moroccan Courtyard
Rangers Tour at Port Lympne
ACCOMMODATING GUESTS
When attending a wedding at Port Lympne, guests are spoiled for choice with a range of unique and luxurious accommodations – each offering a different way to experience the park’s surroundings. The venue can host 350 guests across a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets.
The luxury lodges let you wake up to lions or tigers right outside your window, with a private buggy for exploring the reserve. The award-winning Treehouse Hotel, perched in the canopy, offers panoramic views of the 600-acre landscape in a luxurious, elevated setting. The restored cottages provide a cosy home away from home, where you might spot a rhino in your private garden or relax by the fire pit. For guests looking for a quieter retreat, Leopard Creek offers a variety of cabins, perfect for couples or small groups. From the intimate two-person Cubs to the more spacious four-person Wigwams, these stylish lodgings offer stunning views of the reserve and exclusive access to the Amur leopard enclosure. Each option brings a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring a memorable stay for wedding guests.
Port Lympne is more than just a venue – it offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you’re seeking timeless elegance or a celebration infused with nature and wildlife, this is the perfect setting to create memories that will last a lifetime.
For further enquiries www.portlympne.com or 01303234111
Aldington Rd, Lympne, Hythe CT21 4LR
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