Business Details
13 Years
experience
Exclusive Event Venue in Kimmeridge
Smedmore House is a historic 18th-century country house located on the Jurassic Coast, offering exclusive rental opportunities for weddings, holidays, corporate events, and film productions. Nestled in Dorset's rolling countryside with panoramic sea views, the property combines Georgian architectural elegance with modern comforts. The main house accommodates 16 guests across eight double bedrooms, complemented by the newly refurbished Garden Wing and a luxury bridal suite in the Penthouse Flat. Surrounded by two acres of landscaped gardens, wildflower meadows, and direct access to Kimmeridge Bay, the venue provides a tranquil setting for special occasions. Our team has curated this unique property since 2013, ensuring guests experience the perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary convenience.The house has hosted numerous events, consistently receiving praise for its exceptional atmosphere and versatile spaces. With fossil-rich cliffs, water sports opportunities, and local attractions like Clavell's Tower nearby, Smedmore House offers both privacy and proximity to Dorset's natural wonders. Our commitment to maintaining this Grade II-listed property as a premier venue reflects our dedication to preserving its heritage while meeting modern event requirements. The estate's secluded location and extensive grounds make it ideal for photography, celebrations, and corporate retreats. We continue to enhance guest experiences through thoughtful improvements while respecting the property's historical significance.
Services
Wedding Venue
Holiday Rentals
Corporate Events
Film Location
Accommodation
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- We offer exclusive access to a Grade II-listed Georgian house with 24/7 privacy
- Our property provides direct cliffside access to Kimmeridge Bay's fossil-rich coastline
- We accommodate up to 24 guests across 11 luxury bedrooms with event space for 100+
- Our team has hosted over 100 weddings and corporate events since 2013
- We maintain partnerships with local service providers for seamless event planning
What people say
Most beautiful house
Perfect venue
Stunning views
National Trust quality
Tranquil setting
Services
Wedding Venue
Smedmore House provides an exclusive wedding venue with capacity for 100+ guests. The property features multiple ceremony locations including cliffside terraces and historic drawing rooms. Our dedicated wedding coordinator assists with planning, while the newly refurbished Garden Wing and luxury bridal suite offer accommodation for up to 24 guests. The venue's unique setting combines Georgian architecture with Jurassic Coast scenery.
Holiday Rentals
The manor house sleeps 16 guests across eight double bedrooms, with additional accommodation in the Garden Wing and Penthouse Flat. Our self-catering rentals include full access to two acres of landscaped gardens and proximity to Kimmeridge Bay's water sports. The property maintains historical authenticity while providing modern comforts for family reunions and special celebrations.
Corporate Events
Smedmore House offers exclusive corporate event spaces with capacity for 50+ delegates. The venue combines historic meeting rooms with modern AV capabilities, supported by dedicated event staff. Our secluded location provides ideal conditions for team-building activities and strategic planning sessions, with accommodation for overnight stays and networking opportunities.
Film Location
The Georgian architecture and Jurassic Coast setting make Smedmore House a distinctive film location. Our production support includes location scouting assistance, equipment access, and accommodation for cast and crew. The property's varied interiors and cliffside exteriors have featured in multiple period dramas and commercial productions seeking authentic historical backdrops.
Accommodation
We provide luxury accommodation across 11 bedrooms, including the Penthouse Flat bridal suite with panoramic views. The main house sleeps 16 guests in historic double bedrooms, while the Garden Wing offers three additional double rooms. All accommodations maintain period features with modern comforts, including en-suite bathrooms and contemporary furnishings.
People
Laura Dugdale
Event Manager
Laura Dugdale has managed Smedmore House events since 2013, bringing extensive experience in luxury venue coordination. Her background in hospitality ensures seamless execution of weddings and corporate functions. She oversees all event bookings and client communications.
Jack Wren
Caretaker
Jack Wren maintains the property's historical integrity while managing day-to-day operations. With over 20 years' experience in heritage property management, he ensures the house and grounds remain in pristine condition. He serves as primary contact for general inquiries.
Eilish Butterfield
Wedding Coordinator
Eilish Butterfield specialises in wedding planning at Smedmore House. She coordinates venue viewings and provides expert guidance on event logistics. Her local knowledge enhances guest experiences through recommended service provider partnerships.
Questions
What types of events can I host at Smedmore House?
We accommodate weddings, corporate events, family holidays, film productions, and private parties with exclusive venue hire.
How many guests can stay overnight?
Our property sleeps 24 guests across 11 bedrooms, with capacity for 100+ day visitors.
Is Smedmore House accessible by car?
Yes, though we recommend following our detailed directions as sat-nav systems may provide incorrect routes.
What historical features does the house have?
The Georgian architecture includes period furnishings, stone urns, and historical connections to P.D. James' 'The Black Tower'.
Are there local attractions nearby?
Kimmeridge Bay offers fossil hunting and water sports, while Clavell's Tower provides historic views just 2 miles away.