Winter Wedding Venue in Kent

Guide 2026

Frost, fairy-lights & lower fees: the smart couple’s guide to winter weddings 2026

 

The magic of winter weddings: how to plan a beautiful, memorable cold-season celebration. Picture mulled-wine toasts beneath a glass roof while snow dusts the lawns...

For savvy couples, winter weddings offer unbeatable savings, golden-hour lighting, and magical ambience.

If you're considering tying the knot between January and March 2026, here's your data-driven guide to planning a winter wedding that dazzles.

 

Romantic winter season

For many couples, the word “wedding” conjures images of sun-drenched afternoons, outdoor vows beneath blue skies, and pastel flowers in full bloom. But a growing number of modern brides and grooms are shifting the narrative, discovering that winter, with its frosty beauty and romantic intimacy, offers something truly special.

A winter wedding isn’t just a seasonal choice, it’s a bold and beautiful statement

With fewer competing events on the calendar and an atmosphere that begs for elegance, candlelight, and rich textures, cold-weather weddings can be both enchanting and highly practical. From budget-friendly bookings to breath-taking wintery backdrops, there are many reasons to embrace the off-peak magic.

Whether you dream of exchanging vows in a twinkling barn, relaxing beside a roaring fire, or dressing your day in evergreen and velvet, winter weddings offer a world of charm and opportunity, if planned well.

Here’s everything you need to know to craft a stylish, seamless, and memorable winter wedding

 

1. Why Choose a Winter Wedding?

 

Cost and availability - lower spend, higher value, better availability

According to Bridebook, the average UK wedding cost in January is just under £13,500 compared to over £22,000 in September. That’s a potential saving of nearly £9,000.

Winter weddings typically fall outside peak season, which means that venues and suppliers often have more availability and are more flexible on pricing. You may be able to afford your dream venue or splurge on details like entertainment, floral installations, or bespoke catering that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive.

Popular venues often have freer weekends and weekday availability during winter, allowing for short-notice bookings and custom upgrades. This flexibility can also mean more relaxed planning timelines. Where summer dates often book up two years in advance, winter months can allow couples to plan a high-quality wedding with less competition.

 

Distinctive style - cosy, romantic atmosphere

Winter weddings stand out.

While summer weddings often share similar tones and styles, winter allows for a more defined and dramatic aesthetic. Think candlelit ceremonies, velvet table runners, jewel-toned florals, and deeply personal menus featuring rich seasonal flavours. It’s a chance to do something elegant and unconventional, and be remembered for it.

 

Travel savings

January is one of the cheapest months for travel. Hotels, airlines, and taxi services offer post-holiday discounts that benefit both couples and guests.

 

A quiet way to be remarkable

Weddings often fall into clusters, many couples getting married around the same time as their friends. With that can come a quiet pressure to do things a little differently. Whether it’s a twist on the menu, an unexpected colour scheme, or a venue that feels like a hidden gem, winter offers a gentle way to make your celebration stand apart. The season itself provides a backdrop that feels fresh and memorable, even before the personal touches come in.

Data Sources

• Cost gap – January average spend £13.5 k vs September £22 k bridebook.com.
• Availability – Venues report freer weekends & last-minute deals forbetterforworse.co.uk.
• Atmosphere – Cosy lighting, shorter days for golden-hour photos squaremeal.co.uk.
• Travel savings – Post-holiday hotel and flight rates dive in January thetimes.co.uk.

 

 

2. Choosing the right venue

 

The importance of indoor comfort

 

The venue is the anchor of any wedding, but in winter, its role becomes even more important. You’re likely to spend most of the day indoors, so comfort, layout, and atmosphere matter. Heating is a given, but so are good acoustics, mood lighting, and a sense of flow between ceremony, drinks, dinner, and dancing.

Look for venues with architectural interest: exposed beams, fireplaces, dramatic windows, or winter gardens. These spaces don’t need a lot of dressing up and naturally suit the season. If the venue includes outdoor access (for photos, sparklers, or even part of the drinks reception), ensure there are sheltered walkways or options for guests to warm up quickly between spaces.

 

Photographic opportunities

 

Winter light is a photographer’s dream - low, soft, golden. While the sun sets early, the "golden hour" often lasts longer than it does in summer, offering beautiful, romantic light for portraits.

If you’re hoping for snow, check average conditions in the area during your preferred month, but remember that frost, mist, or even a bare landscape can be just as striking.

Ask your photographer if they’ve shot winter weddings before. They’ll know how to use limited natural light, how to bring out indoor warmth, and how to capture the season’s quiet magic.

 

Venue features to look for

• Fireplaces – nothing adds charm and comfort like a crackling fire.
• Glasshouses or conservatories – offer light and the feeling of being outdoors without the chill.
• Characterful lighting – chandeliers, fairy lights, and candles all shine in winter.
• Warm textures – wood, stones, velvet furnishings, and deep colours set the mood.

 

 

Heat, light & plan B - prioritise venues with:

• Indoor ceremony licenses
• Strong heating throughout
• All-glass elements for natural daylight
• Onsite contingency options for snow/rain

 

Questions to ask on a site visit

• Is there a backup generator?
• What are the coat storage and heating solutions?
• Are there indoor photo spots if the weather turns?
• Can the venue safely salt or grit walkways?
• Is there flexibility for a Sunday wedding in March?
• Is Valentine’s Day free?
• Would you offer extended access the night before for setup?

 

Pro tip

Grab our full venue checklist at the end of this article.

 

3. Design, fashion & styling trends 2026

 

Bridal and groom style

Winter weddings offer the rare opportunity to layer in both style and comfort. Brides can opt for long sleeves, velvet accents, heavier fabrics like Mikado silk or brocade, or glamorous accessories like faux fur wraps or dramatic capes.

For grooms, tweed or velvet jackets in deep colours (forest green, midnight blue, burgundy) look stunning and feel seasonally appropriate. Waistcoats, pocket watches, and buttonholes with berries or pine give a nod to heritage and seasonality.

 

Hair and makeup tips

Cooler weather can actually benefit hair and makeup, it reduces frizz and sweating, but beware of dryness and static. Use hydrating primers and finishing sprays, and be sure makeup artists are prepared for both indoor lighting and potential outdoor photos.

 

Colour palettes that pop

Winter weddings lend themselves to bold, sophisticated colour schemes. Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red, and deep plum add richness and elegance. Metallics, particularly gold, bronze, or icy silver, reflect candlelight beautifully and add a festive touch.

Alternatively, a palette of winter whites, soft greys, and pale blue can create a delicate, snow-queen effect, particularly when paired with frosted branches, glassware, and fairy lights.

 

Textures and ambience

Where summer weddings often feel light and airy, winter weddings thrive on layers and textures. Think velvet table runners, faux fur throws, woollen shawls for guests, and rich linen napkins.

Lighting is key, use dozens of candles, overhead fairy lights, and pools of warm illumination to create intimacy.

Decorate with seasonal foliage like eucalyptus, pine, olive branches, or even bare twigs sprayed in metallics. Incorporate seasonal fruits (pomegranates, figs, cranberries) as table décor or in centrepieces.

 

Floral choices

Winter florals may be less abundant, but they’re no less stunning. Popular blooms include:

• Amaryllis
• Hellebores (Christmas Roses)
• Anemones
• Ranunculus
• Roses
• Berries, pinecones, and evergreen branches

 

Adding seasonal touches like mistletoe or holly can nod to the festive season without dominating the aesthetic.

 

Trends for 2026

 

·        Colour Palettes
Goodbye autumn orange, hello jewel tones. Think emerald green, royal blue, and crimson paired with ivory or metallics.

 

·        Lighting Layers
Combine Edison bulbs, soft fairy lights, and candles. Aim for three layers of light per space to create warmth and depth.

 

·        Sustainability
Choose recyclable or reusable décor. Incorporate British-grown winter florals like hellebores, amaryllis, or dried arrangements.

 

If your Pinterest board still screams autumn pumpkins, step away from the gourds – 2026 belongs to velvet ribbons and snow-kissed foliage.

 

4. Food & drink

 

Seasonal Menus. Winter weddings call for comforting, warming food that feels indulgent but elegant. Think:

• Slow-roasted meats or game
• Root vegetable purées
• Wild mushroom risottos
• Chestnut or celeriac soups
• Glazed seasonal vegetables

 

For starters, serve something warm and welcoming. For mains, rich sauces and hearty sides work well.

Finish with desserts like sticky toffee pudding, poached pears in red wine, or spiced chocolate torte.

 

Cakes and desserts

Winter wedding cakes often play with spice, richness, and texture. Fruitcake with brandy, gingerbread tiers, dark chocolate ganache, or marzipan with sugared cranberries. For décor, consider fresh winter foliage, gold leaf, or snow-dusted effects.

Offer warm extras like:

• Mulled wine or cider
• Irish coffee stations
• Mini hot chocolates with toppings
• Late-night snacks: sliders, gourmet toasties, or cheese boards

 

Signature cocktails

Custom drinks help set the tone. Try:

• Spiced pear martinis
• Hot toddies
• Negronis or Manhattans
• Winter spritzes with rosemary and orange

 

Table wine

Choose reach and bold wines to complement your choice of main courses and desserts. Check the wine list of the venue and don’t forget to ask if corkage is allowed.

 

 

5. Guest comfort & experience

 

Heating and shelter

Make sure guests never feel the cold, literally or figuratively. If any part of the event is outside (e.g. sparkler send-offs, drinks under the pergola), provide heaters, covered walkways, and blankets.

Welcome guests with hot drinks on arrival. Keep cloakrooms well-staffed. Consider baskets of pashminas or mittens in guest areas, and ensure bathrooms are warm and well lit.

 

Timings and lighting

The days are shorter, so plan your ceremony earlier than you would in summer, ideally starting by 2pm. This gives time for photos in daylight and ensures guests are settled before night falls.

Add extra lighting to outdoor paths, signage, and car parks. Uplighting trees, using lanterns, and marking key areas with candles all enhance safety and atmosphere.

 

Travel & logistics

Weather is unpredictable in winter, so provide clear travel advice to guests in advance. Arrange accommodation nearby and consider transport options if roads are icy or guests are coming from far away.

Send updates and practical info via your wedding website or email to keep everyone informed.

 

Book accommodation early

January, February and March hotel rates are often 20–40% lower than peak season. Secure room blocks early and inform guests.

 

6. Tips for smooth planning

• Plan for weather – Even if snow is unlikely, have contingency plans in case of storms or delays.
• Ask the experts – Work with suppliers who’ve done winter weddings. They’ll know how to light a space, keep guests comfortable, and work with the season rather than against it.
• Communicate with guests – From dress codes to arrival times, make sure your guests know what to expect.
• Think early – With earlier sunsets, structure the day to front-load key moments like photos and speeches.

 

 

7. Run-of-day

 

Sample itinerary of your wedding day

 

12:30pm: Guests arrive, greeted with mulled wine

2:00pm: Indoor ceremony

2:30pm: Drinks & canapés (photo time)

4:00pm: Wedding breakfast

6:00pm: Toasts & cake

7:30pm: Evening guests arrive, reception and DJ

9:00pm: First dance

11:00pm: Evening ends

11:30pm Carriages

 

Contingency timings

Have an indoor photo location mapped out. Add 15-minute buffers between all events to allow for winter delays.

 

Vogue has a beautiful article on the do’s and don’ts when planning a winter wedding.

 

8. Month planning timeline (for Jan–Mar 2026 dates)

April - October 2025
Book venue and registrar. Consider Sundays and weekdays, which are still popular even in winter. Have a look at the link to Kent County Council’s guide to book your Kent wedding at the end of this article.

 

July – November 2025
Secure photographer and make-up artist. Ensure both are experienced in low-light and indoor events.

 

October 2025
Order outfits and allow extra time for tailoring. Choose heavier and cool winter accessories, crystals, faux furs, fabrics and thermal linings.

Also send save-the-dates. Mention potential weather and transport issues.

 

December 2025
Finalise décor and lighting briefs. Double check candle safety regulations and confirm LED alternatives.

 

January 2026
Confirm all suppliers' snow contingency plans. Prepare for last-minute grit, salt, and 4x4 transport.

 

9. Rapid-fire FAQ

 

Will guests be cold?
Not if you plan well. Heating hubs, blankets, and warm drinks make all the difference.

 

Is the period January to March really cheaper?
Bridebook.com reports January weddings average £8.5k less than summer ones.

 

How do photos work with limited daylight?
A good photographer can use indoor light creatively. Aim for a 2pm ceremony to catch the best natural light. Photographer Ellie Gillard has a great guide for professionals and couples  elliegillard.co.uk

 

Can we still have fresh flowers?
Yes. British-grown winter florals like hellebores, ranunculus, and berries are stunning in cold-weather arrangements. The Knot has 34 Winter Wedding Bouquets

 

 

 

Finally

Winter weddings are not just a charming alternative to the traditional summer celebration, they are a world of their own. They invite intimacy, elegance, and a sense of magic that few other seasons can match. With thoughtful planning and the right team around you, your winter wedding can be an unforgettable, deeply personal celebration full of warmth, light, and love.

If you're the kind of couple who wants to do things a little differently, who finds beauty in the unexpected, then winter might just be the perfect time to say I do.

 

Download and more information

Ready to make winter wedding planning a breeze? Download our Ultimate Winter-Wedding Venue Checklist and start shortlisting venues like The Glasshouse Kent today.

If you feel overwhelmed at the prospect of planning and booking a wedding in Kent, don't panic! Have a look at the Guide to Book your Kent Wedding

If you would like to discuss winter weddings please contact our wedding coordinators weddings@theglasshousekent.co.uk