A local's guide to wedding photography in Sittingbourne (& slightly beyond)
Your go to guide for a stress free wedding day in Sittingbourne
If you're planning a wedding in Sittingbourne or the surrounding areas, congratulations! While it might not be the first place that comes to mind for a dream wedding, this part of Kent is home to some truly beautiful venues—whether you're after a rustic barn, a woodland retreat, or an elegant manor house.
As a Sittingbourne wedding photographer, I’ve spent time researching the best local venues for beautiful wedding photography. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the most popular wedding venues in and around Sittingbourne, along with tips to help make your planning process smooth and stress-free.
Whether you're just starting your venue search or finalising the details of your big day, I hope this guide provides some inspiration.
Let’s dive in!
A wedding at The Apple Yard, beautifully decorated by Ophelia London
Wedding venues in Sittingbourne
Sittingbourne might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wedding destinations, but it’s a fantastic choice. It’s got a mix of countryside charm, historic character, and easy access to nearby towns like Faversham, Maidstone, and Sheerness. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic barn, a woodland retreat, or something completely unique, this area has plenty to offer.
Hempstead House
Situated in Bapchild, Hempstead House is a wonderfully versatile venue that blends indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you're dreaming of a grand celebration or a more intimate gathering, this venue can be easily tailored to suit your vision. Along with its stunning event spaces, Hempstead House also offers hotel accommodations, making it the perfect choice for couples and their guests to stay overnight and fully immerse themselves in the wedding experience, without a worry about getting home.
The Apple Yard
I had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful wedding at The Apple Yard, and it’s an ideal venue for couples seeking a spacious and adaptable setting. With its expansive, open layout, this venue offers the freedom to transform the space to suit your personal style. There’s plenty of room to accommodate your guests, and the blank-canvas design allows for endless decoration possibilities—so you can create the wedding atmosphere you’ve always envisioned.
The Oak Grove
Located in Upchurch, The Oak Grove offers a truly exclusive and intimate setting for your wedding. With just 22 dates available each year and only one wedding per week, it promises a personal and relaxed atmosphere for your big day. This summer-only venue is ideal for couples looking for a refined yet laid-back celebration, where every detail can be tailored to suit your vision.
The Dreys
For a more intimate and relaxed vibe, The Dreys is a fantastic choice. This venue gives you the beauty of nature without any of the worries that come with it. You can exchange vows in the serene woodland or opt for the sheltered space right in the heart of the venue, keeping you and your guests comfortable no matter the weather.
With fully covered outdoor spaces for your ceremony, dining, and dancing, The Dreys offers a peaceful, natural setting that’s as practical as it is beautiful. It’s perfect for couples looking for a calm, elegant celebration with a real connection to nature.
The BarnYard
I recently visited The BarnYard ahead of a wedding I’m photographing there this August, and it’s such a lovely spot for a rustic, countryside wedding. With its exposed beams, fairy lights, and open fields, it’s perfect for couples who want a laid-back, picturesque setting. The natural surroundings make it a dream for photos, especially during golden hour.
Styled shoot at Longton Wood
Wedding venues near Sittingbourne
If you’re open to exploring beyond Sittingbourne, there are some beautiful venues just a short drive away. Here are a few ideas, along with approximate travel times:
Longton Wood (approx. 10 minutes from Sittingbourne)
I had the pleasure of doing a styled shoot at Longton Wood last July, and it’s honestly a hidden gem. Set in a peaceful woodland, it’s perfect for couples who want a natural, outdoorsy vibe. The setting is super relaxed and intimate, and the woodland backdrop makes for some stunning photos.
One of the best things about Longton Wood is the flexibility—it’s a complete blank canvas! You can truly make it your own. There’s a woodland blessing area tucked amongst the trees with a beautiful hexagonal arch, plus twinkling festoon lights that add a touch of magic to the evening. You can even enjoy the firepit area with log seating or take a swing on the tree swing (yes, it's as fun as it sounds!). Plus, there’s plenty of space for glamping, so you and your guests can stay right on-site. Showers are provided, so you’ll be able to enjoy the whole experience without worrying about a thing.
Judd’s Folly, Faversham (approx. 15 minutes from Sittingbourne)
If you're looking for something a little different, Judd’s Folly might be just the place. Set in the heart of the British countryside, this venue offers both a beautiful indoor ceremony room and a rural Woodland Pergola for a more outdoorsy vibe. It’s perfect for couples who want to combine elegance with a relaxed, natural atmosphere. Plus, with a hotel right on-site, you and your guests can stay overnight and fully enjoy the day without the hassle of travel.
The Ferry House, Sheerness (approx. 20 minutes from Sittingbourne)
Overlooking the tranquil Swale estuary, The Ferry House is a beautifully restored barn venue that offers breathtaking views and a relaxed, rustic charm. Set among farmland, wild meadows, and wetland reserves in the heart of the Kent countryside, it’s the perfect backdrop for couples seeking a wedding with relaxed elegance. With the opening of Spring Barn in 2026, The Ferry House will offer even more options for couples, providing an additional barn for those looking for a unique and intimate celebration. Whether you choose the original barn or the new Spring Barn, the peaceful surroundings and natural beauty ensure a memorable day for you and your guests.
Tips for a smooth wedding planning experience in Sittingbourne
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming at times, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track:
Start early, but don’t stress
Booking your venue and key vendors early can save you a lot of hassle, but don’t worry if you’re working with a shorter timeline—there are still plenty of options available.
Lean on your suppliers
Your suppliers are there to help, so don’t hesitate to ask for advice or recommendations. Whether it’s your photographer, florist, or venue coordinator, we’re all here to make your day as seamless as possible.
Keep it personal
Your wedding should reflect you as a couple. Whether it’s through your choice of music, decor, or venue, adding personal touches will make your day feel truly special.
Remember to enjoy the process
It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but don’t forget to take a step back and enjoy the journey. This is a celebration of your love, after all, so make sure to have fun along the way.
A little note from a wedding photographer in Sittingbourne
As a Kent wedding photographer who’s had the privilege of capturing several beautiful days so far, I’ve come to realise that some of the best moments are the ones you don't plan for. The spontaneous laughter, the tears, those quiet glances between you and your partner—those are the memories you'll truly cherish. While it’s important to focus on the details, don’t forget to take a step back and soak in the joy of the day itself. It's these genuine moments that will last a lifetime.
Looking for a Kent wedding photographer?
If you're looking for a wedding photographer in Sittingbourne who captures the real, candid, joy-filled moments, I’d love to hear all about your wedding vision!
I photograph straight, same-sex, gay, & LGBTQ+ weddings across Swale, Canterbury, Maidstone, Ashford, and beyond, capturing the moments that matter most—naturally, authentically, and with a gentle, relaxed approach.
Meet your Kent inclusive wedding photographer
Your wedding day is said to be one of the very best days of your life. A day where you truly celebrate your love, your relationship and everything — and everyone — that is part of your story.
As an award-winning wedding photographer, I blend in with your day — and put you at absolute ease. My style is relaxed, natural, candid and authentically you, working behind the scenes to capture those moments that almost pass you by — but have so much meaning.
