There can be few more impressive venues for a wedding than palatial Penshurst Place, the former home of King Henry VIII, writes Beverley Morrison.

This beautiful stately home has frequently been used as the setting for historical dramas like The Other Boleyn Girl starring Scarlett Johannson and the BBC TV series Merlin. The home of the Sidney family since it was gifted to them by Henry’s son Edward VI, Penshurst has been visited by a succession of royals from Queen Elizabeth I to the late Queen Mother.

Today, the stunning house and gardens are an ideal setting for weddings with catering provided by Leith’s Fine Dining. Couples choosing to host their wedding at Penshurst will be able to tailor a new selection of menus to suit their particular requirements. “As wedding couples have often asked us to advise and recommend a menu, picked from our extensive fine dining menus, we felt we should provide some pre-selected for clients,” explained Leith’s general manager Garry James. “We have named the three new menus The King, Queen and Noblemen, to evoke Penshurst Place’s royal and noble owners and visitors.”

Leith’s was founded over 40 years ago by Prue Leith, who was recognised for using the freshest, finest ingredients from around the world to create exceptional dishes – so couples can be sure of giving their guests a memorable dining experience under the direction of chef Emily Bell. Typically, a celebratory dinner or wedding breakfast is comprised of three courses, however you have the option to add a refreshing sorbet or a delicate fish course should you wish. The head chef has also devised a wide selection of mouth-watering canapés to serve at the Champagne reception.

Couples choosing to hold their reception at Penshurst will be invited, after choosing their menu, to an exclusive tasting at the stately home in one of the medieval banqueting rooms.

Penshurst venue hire prices start from £1,995 – depending upon the type of reception required and the date chosen – up to £7,495 for the venue plus reception (prices exclude VAT). The number of guests can vary up to approximately 200. Fine dining, three course menus start from £62.50 + VAT (2014 rate only).

For further details about holding a wedding at Penshurst Place call 01892 870307 or visit www.penshurstplace. com/yourwedding