How to plan the wedding of the century in Dover, Kent

The venue is arguably the most important part of your wedding. It’s the place where all your guests gather to witness your marriage vows and celebrate your unique love story. 

Solton Manor is a grand Grade-II listed 9-acre estate nestled between Dover and Deal, with romance and intrigue to be found around every corner. Boasting a historic manor house, a beautiful converted large barn, five exclusive-use ceremony spaces, glorious gardens (including ancient ruins), and on-site accommodation for up to 28 guests, it’s no wonder that so many couples choose Solton Manor year-round to host the wedding day of their dreams.

Read our guide on how to choose the best Kent wedding venue for advice on what to consider when narrowing down your shortlist.

One of the greatest joys of choosing a wedding venue in Dover is the abundance of places that your guests can explore before and after the big day.

Dover Castle, also known as the Key to England, is undoubtedly the county’s star attraction, boasting a magnificent Great Tower created by King Henry II, secret wartime tunnels where you can witness ‘the miracle of Dunkirk’, and panoramic views of the sweeping coastline below. The iconic White Cliffs of Dover provide a fantastic range of stunning walking routes and photo opportunities, while the town’s charming seafront cafes and independent shops give your guests an easy way to while away a morning.

Discover why more and more couples are now choosing a destination wedding in Kent in our dedicated blog post. 

Dover and the surrounding Kent area are home to some incredibly talented wedding suppliers. They’re the kind who can turn even the vaguest of ideas into something truly extraordinary. Choosing local suppliers brings several benefits: they know the area well, they understand local venues, and they’re nearby if you need them for pre-wedding visits.

Think about the key people who will help shape your day, such as:

• Florists. Whether you’re drawn to wild meadow arrangements or sculptural, seasonal blooms, we work with some fantastic florists, including House of Mimi Fleur, J’s Perfections, and Sweetpea Florist who can help bring your vision to life. 
• Photographers. Our trusted local photographers know the light, the landscapes, and the best spots around Solton Manor for those golden-hour portraits. We highly recommend Benjamin Toms Photography, Blue Lily Weddings, Fleur Challis Photography, and Dover Media Group for the most stunning snapshots of your special day.
• Caterers. Kent’s food scene is positively thriving. We’re proud to partner with Invicta Food Design for all our wedding catering. Whether you’re looking for a traditional three-course sit-down meal or fun, quirky sharing platters, Invicta Food Design has got you covered.
• Entertainers. Live bands, magicians, DJs, garden games…there are endless ways to entertain your guests on your wedding day. Amanda Wyatt (violinist), Aston (band), and DJC Mobile DJ Services are just some of our favourites. But if you’re looking for something in particular, why not check out our comprehensive list of trusted suppliers.

Your venue styling sets the tone for your entire wedding reception – and the Dutch Barn at Solton Manor offers the perfect blank canvas for you to decorate to your exact tastes. The dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, overlooking the Famine Downs Meadow, create a light and airy space that lends itself to a variety of looks – from soft, romantic florals to more modern, minimalist decor. Many couples choose to enhance the barn’s spacious feel with sculptural flower arrangements, statement tablescapes, and twinkling lights wrapped around the exposed timber pillars. 

As the day turns to night, the Dutch Barn transforms into the ultimate party space. Think neon ‘Mr & Mrs’ signs, a fairy-lit dancefloor canopy, or even a styled bar that becomes the heartbeat of the evening. 

Get inspired by our seasonal styling guide and start designing the day you’ve always envisioned.