Kingston Country Courtyard Wedding — Dorset

Kingston Country Courtyard is a restored Purbeck stone barn venue in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck, near Corfe Castle in Dorset. Set in open countryside with uninterrupted views towards the castle and out to sea, it offers a courtyard, cottage garden and woodland, with several licensed ceremony spots.

That view towards Corfe Castle is unforgettable, and I always make the most of it — there are few backdrops in Dorset quite like it. The mellow Purbeck stone and surrounding countryside give the whole day a timeless, romantic feel that's a pleasure to photograph.

Why Kingston Country Courtyard is a photographer's dream

The headline backdrop is that sweeping panorama across to Corfe Castle, which I use for portraits and wide establishing shots, especially as the light softens in the evening. The warm Purbeck stone of the barn and courtyard photographs beautifully in any season.

With the cottage garden, courtyard and a quiet woodland area to choose from, there's lovely variety close to hand without anyone having to travel. The exclusive-weekend setting keeps things relaxed, so I can document the day as it naturally unfolds across the venue.