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Dartford

Following the dissolution of Dartford Priory, Henry VIII chose the site to construct a Manor House between 1541 and 1544 for his personal use. Anne of Cleves was given the Manor House as part of her divorce settlement by Henry, and lived there between 1553 and 1557. Elizabeth I retained the use of the Manor House but only stayed there on two occasions. Today only the Gatehouse remains, offering a choice of three rooms for ceremonies.

The Lord Irving Suite, completed in the early 1990s, was added to the hall to provide a self contained prestigious and spacious function room. Ceremonies in this room can comfortably accommodate up to 80 guests.

Situated in the oldest part of the building, the Anne of Cleves Room features timbered beams. A tapestried lover's pew takes pride of place within the period fireplace. This charming room allows for up to 30 guests.

The beamed Hythe Room, suitable for small registrations with just four guests, provides an intimate atmosphere with views over the front garden.

At the front of the building is a walled garden featuring wooden seating and a stone sundial. The facade of the Gatehouse provides an interesting backdrop for photographic opportunities. To the rear of this historic building is yet another seating area, where pictures of the couple might be taken in a more private setting.

On-site parking is limited to the ceremony car and spaces for disabled people. There are further public car parks within walking distance. Full disabled access and toilet facilities are provided.

Why not take a virtual tour of The Manor Gatehouse? (This link opens in a new window)

Open days

  • Saturday 8 March 2008 from 10am to 12noon
  • Thursday 8 May from 5pm to 7pm
  • Tuesday 8 July from 5pm to 7pm

Location

The Manor Gatehouse
Priory Road
Dartford
Kent DA1 2BJ - map opens in a new window

Please note: Priory Road will be closed to traffic due to road works for around 16 weeks from Monday 11 August 2008. The Victoria Road entrance to Priory Road will be closed completely and access from Wesgate Road will be limited. However, the public car park adjacent to the Manor Gatehouse will not be affected and is just a short walk away.

Simply Perfect Kentish Marriage Ceremony or Kentish Civil Partnership - fees from 20 February 2008 to 31 March 2009

Anne of Cleves room (up to 30 people)

Monday to Thursday - £159
Friday - £183
Saturday - £215
Sunday/Bank Holiday - £250

Lord Irving suite (up to 80 people)

Monday to Thursday - £224
Friday - £257
Saturday - £302
Sunday/Bank Holiday - £374

Registration of marriage or civil partnership in the registration room (up to four guests - does not include a Kentish Ceremony) - £40.

Please note: There will be an extra charge for legal preliminaries (notices to be given by both people), and for certificates and a rehearsal if they are required. The cost also includes a non-refundable booking fee. Please speak to our ceremonies team regarding these charges.

All ceremonies are subject to availability.

If you change the date/time or re-book a ceremony, an additional fee of £15 will be payable.

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