The Setting
Wilderness Wedding Venue is hidden away in a beautiful green rolling valley in East Kent, not far from London. The setting is spectacular. Not only is it an eco site and part of a re-wilding project, but it’s private, tranquil, and surrounded by nature with incredible uninterrupted views and sunsets to make your heart sing.
The Vibe
The Wilderness is a gorgeous green valley with a lake, ancient woodland and incredible views over the water meadows and beyond. As this is a nature reserve it’s a haven for wild birds, butterflies, foxgloves, bluebells, ferns, magical oak trees and meadow flowers. They have two separate licensed areas on site for legally binding civil ceremonies and partnerships; the Woodsman’s Cabin and the Naked Tipi, both of which sit on the edge of the lake.
The Naked Tipi on the water’s edge is for outdoor ceremonies and could not be more environmentally-friendly. The chestnut coppice which forms its structure was felled from woodlands just a few hundred meters away. It’s a completely serene and quiet setting, with only the sound of the bullrushes, birdsong and long grasses whistling in the wind and the sweet smell of wild meadow flowers.
The Woodland Glade is a hop, skip and jump away and includes the unique handmade Champagne Shack bar, with swing seats on the veranda, chill out area, festoon lighting, a giant disco ball, three large kata tipis and a fire pit.
There is a vintage Shepherd’s Hut too, which perches on the hill overlooking the valley and is the newlywed’s private space for the day. Glamping on site is also available for up to 54 people sharing huge bell and emperor tents. The Glamping Meadow and glade are just a 2-3 minute walk through beautiful woodland.
Catering isn’t included in the venue hire, but they have seven accredited caterers at Wilderness. All their caterers offer a wide range of options including BBQs, hog roasts, feasting menus, traditional menus, street food, festival style food, ‘Host the Roasts’ and so much more. They can design menus to the specification of each couple and naturally cater for vegans and people with food allergies too.
They stock a wide variety of local ales, ciders and wines, as well as a large selection of world drinks and cocktails. You can even take your own and pay corkage if you wish.
If you would like to have the venue styled for your wedding, they have a venue stylist; Tiggi, who can provide photographic backdrops, custom-built props, signage, floristry and calligraphy to add another dimension to the day. Think boho, ethereal, festival, luxe and woodland.
New for 2024, Wilderness has a Tree House where you can say your vows, make your speeches or even have outdoor performances. The ‘Wild Roots’ Pizza Shed will also be opening its doors, serving wood-fired pizza.