A joyful journey
The Old Kent Barn
The Old Kent Barn is a family owned and run, award winning venue.
Claire & Will
Claire and Will, the Managing Partners, were the first to hold their wedding reception at the Barn back in September 2005. It seemed like the perfect venue for a wedding, so together with Claire's parents they started the business the following year. Now sole owners, together they manage their family run business with exceptional attention to detail, service and experience.
After 18 years and over 1400 married couples, Will and Claire couldn't imagine doing anything else.
The Barn’s History
Welcome to The Old Kent Barn, a charming wedding venue nestled in the stunning Kent countryside between Folkestone and Canterbury in the village of Swingfield. This rustic beauty is over 250 years old and was originally used to house cattle and hay. Fun fact - the aged oak beams in the construction were taken from old sailing ships!
The Simmons Family fell in love with the Old Barn in 1996 and turned it into their graphic design studio. After transforming it into a three-bedroom Bed and Breakfast, they hosted a magical wedding reception for daughter Claire and son-in-law Will in 2005. This sparked the creation of The Old Kent Barn Weddings, where the Barn is now used for onsite accommodation for couples after their big day.
In 2015, Claire and Will became sole owners after the Simmons retired. We can't wait to welcome you to this charming piece of history in the heart of Kent!
The Team
The Old Kent Barn team is a dynamic and diverse group, comprising individuals from various age groups and backgrounds who share a common passion for creating unforgettable events.
As a family-run business, the team takes pride in their close-knit and welcoming atmosphere, where each member brings unique skills and expertise to contribute to the continued growth and success of the venue. From seasoned professionals to young talents, the Old Kent Barn team is committed to delivering exceptional service and creating lasting memories for every client, ensuring that each event is a truly special experience.
Ask The Experts
The Old Kent Barn is passionate about all things weddings. With years of experience in creating memories, we've become experts in making dream weddings come true.
Visit The Old Kent Barn blogs, with helpful tips and planning advice, aimed at providing valuable resources for wedding planning. From inspiration to practical advice, The Old Kent Barn’s blogs have been created to be a trusted source for couples, as you plan your special days.
Testimonials
“Thank you so much for everything you have done, you made our day truly amazing and one never to forget. We are so sad it’s all over but we’ll definitely be back for a visit! ”
Mr & Mrs Stanhope - May 2023