A Grade I-listed country house has won Heritage Wedding Venue of the Year.

Bradbourne House in East Malling clinched the coveted title at the Kent Wedding Awards.

It was announced during a black-tie gala awards ceremony at the Mercure Great Danes Hotel in Maidstone on Thursday, November 16.

Independent hospitality company, BaxterStorey, provide catering for the venue.

Operations director Kevin Logan says they are all “thrilled” with the achievement.

“At Bradbourne House, our exceptional team is wholeheartedly committed to transforming wedding dreams into memorable experiences,” he added.

“This award is a testament to the unwavering dedication of every team member, from our event managers to our talented chefs, who work tirelessly to guarantee a delightful and memorable experience for all.”

The property, set in 20 acres, dates back to 1590 and is recognised as a Grade I-listed Queen Anne country house.

Originally constructed between 1712 and 1715, it underwent significant transformations from its Tudor origins, with some of the original features still preserved in its kitchens.

Since 1938 it has been owned by the East Malling Trust – a charity set up to support the East Malling Research Station, which is dedicated to supporting UK fruit growers.

In January, following the early closure of Hadlow Manor Hotel in Tonbridge, Bradbourne House offered to take on as many couples as it could help to make sure their big day went okay.

Other winners at the event included Colonnade Florist in Tunbridge Wells for Wedding Florist of the Year, Modus Film Productions in Ashford for Videographer of the Year, as well as Artisan Cakes and Confections in Sevenoaks for Wedding Cake Designer of the Year.