Frequently Asked Questions
What support can you provide for planning our wedding?
Over the years we have hosted many memorable and inspirational weddings, so we have a wealth of experience we can share with you. However we do not offer a bespoke wedding planning service, so if you are looking for dedicated support with planning your perfect day we recommend that you engage the services of a wedding planner (our suppliers list includes some recommendations).
Can we get married at a local church?
The nearby village of Conistone has a lovely Norman church boasting panoramic views across the valley. Dating back over a thousand years, St Mary’s can accommodate up to 120 guests. There is a lovely walk from the church back to the the Riverside Reception meadow across an ancient bridge and alongside the river. To find out more about a church wedding at St Mary’s contact 01756 760237 or email upperwharfedale@leeds.anglican.org
Do we have to hold the legal part of our wedding at Kilnsey?
No, we are entirely flexible so you can choose to get your legal ceremony done in a registry office, a church or however you wish. Although remember that one of the benefits of having everything in one place is that it simplifies your big day, reducing planning and thereby freeing up time for you to enjoy yourselves more, in addition to negating the need for travel from the ceremony to the reception.
How do we organise a legal wedding ceremony?
One of the first things you should do is to contact the North Yorkshire Registrar’s Office to find out whether your preferred date is available, then place a provisional booking for it. Contact the Registrar on 01609 535373 or email registrars.skipton@northyorks.gov.uk
Do we have to use the venue’s catering and bar?
Because we are a flexible venue you are free to choose whatever catering and bar option you like. We have a number of recommendations on our suppliers list.
Where do guests park?
The Ceremony Field and Riverside Reception meadow are half a mile apart, with parking provided at both. However guests often prefer to walk between the two, so you might want to think about asking people to park at the Riverside Reception (this means that cars are close at hand for those who intend to drive home after the reception). The parking is on grass which can occasionally be an issue during wet weather.
How do we arrange evening transport for guests?
Although there is a local taxi, this can be busy on weekend nights so we recommend booking a minibus with driver, ideal for ferrying guests back to bed at the end of the evening. If each guest pays a small amount then this should cover the cost of hire. To find out more contact Hargreaves Coaches based in the local village of Hebden.
Is the 11.30pm curfew flexible?
Our wedding venue is located in a beautiful peaceful National Park and we respect the local community by ensuring that there is no late night disturbance, therefore there is no extension to the 11.30pm finish time. If your guests have been drinking since the early afternoon they’ve done well to get to this time of night!
What do we do if it’s raining?
In over five years of hosting weddings at Kilnsey, we’re pleased to report that it’s been very rare for the weather to spoil a fantastic celebration. However we’re great believers in being prepared for all eventualities, which is why we have written the ultimate guide to smiling through a wet wedding as well as having a special contingency plan for moving the ceremony indoors if required. It’s particularly important to make sure your guests are prepared for all weathers so we’ve drawn up a short How To guide that you can send to everyone in advance.
Is the venue child friendly?
We love to see children running around the fields exploring. Just remember to keep an eye on them at all times – there is a river and lakes in the vicinity, and sheep don’t always take kindly to being chased.
How many guests can we invite to a wedding at Kilnsey Park?
The venue can comfortably accommodate up to 120 of your guests.
What does the hire price include?
Your wedding hire at Kilnsey Park will include as standard the Ceremony Field and the River Meadow for your reception and party, from Friday afternoon until Sunday afternoon – with the stunning landscape and views included for nothing! There are lots of bespoke add-ons including traditional cottage accommodation and glamping.
Do we need to obtain an entertainment licence for the music?
No, this is included in your venue hire.
Can guests swim in the river?
We do not recommend swimming in the river on the wedding day, for the simple reason that alcohol and water don’t mix. However if you want to take a dip the following day that is entirely up to you, but that will be at your own responsibility.
Is a bonfire or fireworks allowed?
No bonfires or fireworks are allowed – we’ve had very bad experiences in the past with horses and cattle being terrorised by fireworks. You are permitted to have a firepit or two as long as these are not able to burn the ground (so they must either be elevated on legs or on stones).
