I thought romance was dead until I visited this hidden gem – I now want to renew my vows!
Weddings used to be quiet affairs at a small church or registry office with a pub reception. While they’ve got more flamboyant and fabulous over the years they can be quite impersonal with couples being churned in and out. I’ve always been glad that my husband and I kept ours low key, that is until I saw Kirkby Fleetham Estate.
I went along to take a look at the newly launched Kirkby Fleetham Hall Estate, which has just been reopened as a wedding and events venue. It’s a real hidden gem in its own concave of North Yorkshire near the village of Kirkby Fleetham, located near Northallerton, and dates back to the 1700s. Nestled in the heart of the North Yorkshire rolling countryside amongst beautiful woodland, blooming flowers and a picturesque lake, when I arrived in the tranquil estate I felt like I had been transported on to the set of Bridgerton.
Not only does a stunning country home stand in the centre of this picturesque estate but it’s surrounded by gardens, a lake, woodland and it even has its own delightful historic church, an orangery, a bothy and separate guest/holiday cottages; all within the Estate’s grounds.
It’s been Karen Stephenson’s home for 20 years and now she’s hiring it out exclusively. Yes, the full thing.
We walked around the walled gardens, meandered by the lake and posed by the bridge. It dawned on me that Karen moved in when my husband and I got married. Perhaps it was a sign for our 20th anniversary that we should renew our vows here? I mean if Jamie and Jools Oliver can renew their vows twice, then why can’t we just once? I loved the shabby chic touches with photo opportunities galore.
Then it was time to take a look inside the epic country home that is Kirkby Fleetham Hall. It is steeped in history, and Karen has expertly designed the inside to fit the period when the house was built, giving it a luxurious yet cosy feel. Each of the eight en-suite bedrooms have their own unique style.
There’s a huge kitchen and wine cellar too. If I hadn’t already fallen in love with the place, there is also the small yet stunning church, (which is part of the estate), lovingly decorated with flowers. I could see us declaring our love here then having drinks in the Orangery, then a party in the marquee on the lawn before retiring for the night in the Hall. It would certainly make the most stunning of occasions. Now I just have to convince my husband…!
Whether you’re having a party, baptism or your getting married, or hopefully renewing our vows, this place is sure to be memorable for the right reasons.
Find out more here: https://www.kirkbyfleethamhallestate.com/
Review and images by Victoria Reddington @vic_reddington
Some images supplied
