ADVERTORIAL
COME AND DISCOVER THE LO ST V IL L AGE OF DODE
Photography by Tom Jeavons
Shrouded in romance and history , the Lost Village of Dode is a place to be discovered as the leaves begin to fall and the cycle of the seasons spin again .
Abandoned over 600 years ago , it is now a place of silence , stillness and reflection , lovingly restored by its owners – and a wonderful place for a wedding ceremony or celebration to call your own .
Located in a hidden Kentish valley in the heart of the North Downs , near Luddesdown , this is a place like no other , providing the perfect backdrop for those who not only love nature but are connected to it .
It offers several spaces for people to hire , allowing them to create an event that holds the most meaning to them , from hand fasting ceremonies in a stone circle to candlelit betrothals in an ancient deconsecrated church .
You can choose from an intimate indoor Civil Ceremony , Partnership or Renewal of Vows . There ’ s the option for outdoor blessings too in Dode ’ s stone circle .
DODE CHURCH – A ROMANTIC , RUSTIC VENUE , STEEPED IN HISTORY
For over nine centuries , Dode Church was the spiritual centre of the village , and it remains a place of peace , worship , tolerance and respect .
This uniquely romantic venue is perfect for Autumn as the morning mists clear and the nights draw in – with the scent of English herbs , straw on the floor and burning torches on the wall adding to the sense of occasion .
This building can host small , intimate ceremonies of up to 42 people , ideal for those seeking a tranquil church wedding that retains a highly spiritual atmosphere without the religious connotations .
TIE THE KNOT IN A STONE CIRCLE
Dode ’ s stone circle , Holly Henge , is licensed for weddings , often in combination with a ceremony in the nearby church but a unique place all its own .
It ’ s made all the more special by being one of the only stone circles in the UK that allows couples to reconnect with ancient traditions going back for millennia .
Outside blessings – or handfasting ( the original tying the knot ), presided over by Dode ’ s own robed celebrant – take place here as do traditional baby naming ceremonies .
CONTINUING THE CELEBRATIONS AND STAYING OVER
Once you ’ re done with the ceremony , it ’ s time to celebrate at the Lost Village of Dode , with a range of options for a lavish wedding reception banquet , complete with dancing to finish the night , of course .
With two-superb self-catering cottages , couples can extend their stay with us , reflecting on a day they will never forget .
For couples and wedding planners looking for a truly unique canvas for an intimate , tranquil wedding there ’ s nowhere like the Lost Village of Dode .
To discover it for yourself , visit : www . dodevillage . com
AT A GLANCE INFORMATION :
• Weddings are held on Thursdays , Fridays and Saturdays from 1 April until 31 October each year – only one wedding per day .
• Christmas weddings may also be held Thursday – Saturday from 1 – 23 December .
• A full day package option from £ 8,250 includes exclusive venue hire , a choice from three menus , photographer , two floral arrangements and more .
• Small and intimate weddings and receptions for up to 42 people start £ 2,950 including VAT .
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