Marleybrook House

Marleybrook House is an exclusive-use wedding venue on Stourmouth Road at Preston, about seven miles east of Canterbury in Kent. At its centre is a 17th-century thatched farmhouse, surrounded by landscaped gardens, paddocks and woodland. There is a walled garden, an oak barn, traditional barns, an event suite and a marquee, which gives you room for a small gathering or a large party.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

This suits couples who want the whole place to themselves and a day that does not follow a set formula. With exclusive use, your guests are the only people on the grounds. The mix of spaces, from a quiet walled garden to a big marquee and a vintage fairground, lets you build the day around what you enjoy rather than a standard template.

Ceremonies

The venue is licensed for ceremonies, and celebrant-led weddings are also welcome. Outdoor ceremonies can take place in the walled garden or beneath the trees in the grounds, while the oak barn offers a sheltered setting. Ceremonies can hold up to around 150 guests.

Receptions and food

Receptions can be held in the marquee, the event suite or the traditional barns, with up to around 150 guests seated for a meal and more for an evening party. Catering is handled in-house, with menus that can include barbecues and hog roasts as well as vegan and other dietary options. A vintage fairground with Victorian swing boats, rides and games can be booked for your guests, which makes an easy way to keep the evening lively. Prices and menus are available from the venue.

Getting there and the area

The venue lies just off the A253 between Canterbury and the Thanet coast, with parking on site. Canterbury has two railway stations with fast trains to London, and the cathedral city is a good base for guests who want to make a weekend of it. Stodmarsh National Nature Reserve is close by, and the beaches at Herne Bay, Whitstable and Margate are a short drive away.

Good to know

• The venue is booked on an exclusive-use basis.
• Catering is provided in-house.
• Private guided viewings can be booked in advance.