Weddings Lookbook 2026 by the-historic-dockyard-chatham

Weddings

Say I do

The Commissioner’s House & Gardens

Many summers ago, a couple wandered through a quiet walled garden. They paused beneath the mulberry tree, sharing a smile that promised forever.

For centuries The Commissioner’s House has held moments like these. Every vow, every kiss, every celebration, woven gently into its walls.

This summer, the house begins a new chapter. Restored. Renewed. Ready for love stories yet to be told.

Perhaps the next story is yours.

Planning Your Wedding

At the heart of our historic estate The Commissioner’s House has held centuries of laughter and love stories, and it will be reopening its doors this summer for you to tell yours. Our meticulously restored house becomes your home for the day, offering an elegant canvas for each chapter of your wedding - whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony, or a reception fit for a commissioner.

Combining the timeless character of our heritage venue with modern hospitality, catering and service, we’ll ensure your day feels effortless. Before the guests arrive you can make yourself comfortable in our bridal suite, while our in house team get to work delivering on the details.

From the moment you book your first viewing to the last goodbye at the bar, you can plan your day knowing you’ve got a renewed venue, with years of experience. To help plan your day our team use their expertise to recommend the trusted suppliers we've worked with over the years.

The Temeraire Bridal Suite

At the heart of The Commissioner’s House you’ll find The Temeraire Bridal Suite. Our bridal suite has been purpose-built with your wedding in mind; every detail having been exquisitely designed to create the perfect setting to begin your day.

Decorated with delicate, blush pink heritage tones, and hand crafted wallpaper, our bridal suite is a space to relax and get ready in style before your celebration starts. You'll have access to the suite before your ceremony to spend precious moments with your closest friends and family.

Featuring a private bathroom and Georgian windows that flood the rooms with natural light, The Temeraire Suite is an elegant space to begin one of the best days of your life.

Ceremonies in The Ballroom

Capturing the grandeur of its lively past, step inside our Ballroom to say ‘I do’ in style. Just across the hallway you’ll find our warm and welcoming Garden Room with a cosy bar where your guests can toast the happy couple.

• Seats 70 for your ceremony

• Seats 40 for dining

Ceremonies in The Sunne Room

With a soft light that dances through floor to ceiling sash windows and elegant heritage decor, The Sunne Room offers understated luxury.

• Seats 70 for your ceremony

• Seats 40 for dining

• Located just across the hallway from our luxurious bridal suite

Outdoor Ceremonies in The Courtyard

For a stunning outdoor ceremony, choose to recite your vows in The Commissioner's Courtyard. After the ceremony your guests can enjoy drinks on the patio, while you steal a moment in the tranquil beauty of The Commissioner's Gardens.

• Seats 70 for your ceremony

Ceremonies Onboard HMS Gannet

For a unique ceremony venue, step aboard HMS GANNET. Built right here in Kent, our striking Victorian sloop offers both The Captains' Cabin for intimate ceremonies or the main deck for a larger event. Invite your guests to get comfortable on board for a drinks and canapés reception before heading home to The Commissioner’s House to continue your celebration.

• Seats 40 in The Captains' Cabin for an intimate ceremony

• Seats 100 on the main deck

• Located just a short walk from the rest of the festivities at The Commissioner’s House

Ceremonies & Receptions in The Orangery

New for 2026

Flooded with natural light and overlooking our exquisite secret garden, The Orangery is our largest venue. After vows are exchanged step outside for drinks on the lawn, or quietly escape into the serene greenery to enjoy a quick moment for just the two of you. Later The Orangery transforms into a stunning location for your evening party.

• Seats 120 for both your ceremony and dining

• Brand new for this year

Dine Like an Admiral

When it’s time to take your seats, you can settle in and enjoy the moment knowing that our team are on hand to deliver an outstanding menu with brilliant service.

Food is at the heart of every celebration here. Our head chef brings creativity and craft to every menu, drawing on the best seasonal produce and taking influences from Britain’s rich culinary traditions. We take pride in supporting local suppliers, adding a true Kentish touch to the dishes we offer.

From refined canapés to indulgent feasts, your wedding breakfast will be shaped around your tastes and your story. Ahead of the day, you’ll enjoy a menu tasting, ensuring that every detail feels personal, celebratory, and unforgettable.

Dance Like a Sailor

The Commissioner’s House has always known how to host a party; a high society hub from the first day it threw open its doors in 1704. Add to the legacy by dancing the night away, getting lost in conversation, and celebrating in style.

You and your guests are invited to make yourselves at home in the cosy enclaves of The Garden Room bar, party in The Orangery, or stroll the romantic gardens in the twilight.