A breathtaking backdrop for wow-factor weddings
Weddings
There’s nowhere more memorable for a wedding than Polhawn Fort. The historical Fort overlooking Cornwall’s dramatic coastline provides a truly unique setting throughout the seasons.
Available for exclusive hire midweek or over the weekend, our venue’s indoor and outdoor spaces are all yours for the time you are here. We offer you complete freedom to create a wedding that’s personal to you.
On a summer’s day, there is nowhere more romantic to say your vows than our Summerhouse. Positioned cliffside between the Fort and the ocean with far-reaching views, the Summerhouse is fully licensed for outdoor wedding ceremonies.
Once the formalities are finished, our manicured lawns overlooking the secluded cove offer ample space for outdoor marquee receptions and dining al fresco. Our recommended suppliers know the Fort inside out and will be happy to arrange a site visit to talk through the plans for your wedding and suggest the most suitable options.
100
Seated
Capacity
Summerhouse + Lawn
For indoor weddings, The Fort offers two inviting spaces for your special day. Larger parties can be hosted in the Grand Napoleonic Hall seating up to 120 guests, while the Ocean's Room is ideal for small, intimate weddings of up to 30 guests.
The warm, earthy tones of the Fort’s natural stone provide a blank canvas for your event. Style the space with elaborate floral displays or keep it understated and let the Fort’s natural beauty become the backdrop.
100
Seated
100
Standing
Capacities
The Fort’s Halls
Perfect for pre or post ceremony gatherings, The Terrace is a stretch-tent space on the roof of the Fort. Decorated with fairy lights and surrounded by lush vegetation, it’s the ideal place to relax and reminisce.
Due to our coastal location and occasional strong winds, there may be times when The Terrace is unavailable. Guests will be notified 24 hours before your event should adverse weather conditions affect the use of the space.
75, 64 and 80 guests
Seated Options for
100
Standing
Capacities
The Terrace
There’s so much to say about Polhawn Fort.
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While here, we invite you to do as much or as little as you like. Soak up the Cornish sun by day and star gaze by night. Go wild swimming in the ocean or enjoy a soothing soundbath by the bay. Take a leisurely hike along the South-West coastal path toward the ancient Rame Head, or meander through the Grade One gardens at Mount Edgcumbe Country Park. There’s more than enough to fill a few days here and you’ll find the very best of Cornwall within easy reach.
Local activities
Available for stays midweek or over the weekend, Polhawn Fort comfortably sleeps 16 guests within the exclusive hire agreement. Need extra beds? Let us know as we can often accommodate an additional eight guests on request.
Stay Here
A family owned and managed venue, Polhawn Fort’s approach is friendly and free-spirited. We believe weddings and events should be fun and a true expression of yourself. That’s why we try to keep rules and restrictions to a minimum, allowing you to use the space as you wish.
Our Approach
Built in 1867, originally as a deterrent to Napoleon III, Polhawn Fort was designed with strength, security and longevity in mind. The threat of a hostile landing on Whitsand Bay was over before the build was complete, so the Fort has never seen battle. Since then, the building has been reimagined as a private home, guest house, hotel and wedding venue.
The History
Why Polhawn
Seasonal, locally-sourced produce and superb service come as standard. No matter the style of event, you can be certain that you and your guests will enjoy a celebratory feast that matches the fabulous setting.
Our in-house team are on hand to talk you through the options available, the menus, seating configurations and a guide on costs. If you have your own preferred caterer in mind, that’s no problem either. We welcome you to choose the suppliers that best suit your wedding style.
When it comes to food at Polhawn Fort, the choice is fully yours. Whether you have five courses of fine dining or an informal al fresco BBQ in mind, you’ll be in complete control of the catering you choose for your wedding.
We work with a handpicked collection of Cornwall’s best caterers who, between them, can deliver every type of cuisine. Innovative menus to accommodate vegans, vegetarians, children and those with specific dietary needs are available, all cooked with the same passion and panache.
Food at the Fort
Once supper has been served, it’s time for the evening after party. The Fort has a full alcohol and entertainment licence, allowing you to choose the suppliers that best suit your style of occasion.
Stock up your own bar with specially selected spirits, beers, ales and wines to serve to guests free of charge, without incurring corkage fees. Alternatively, bring in a bar supplier to run a paid bar fully stocked with your tipples of choice.
Dance the night away to the sounds of your preferred DJ or live band, or ask us for details of our favourite entertainment suppliers.
The After Party
A wedding is a celebration of you and your life together. And we want you to cherish this moment in a place that feels personal. As a family-owned and run venue, we’re able to make our own rules and that’s why we have kept them to a bare minimum.
Other than a few restrictions that are beyond our control, you’re free to use Polhawn Fort as your own. Whatever the vision for your wedding, we’ll connect you with the people who can help make it happen.
Your Wedding
Built with 8-feet deep, granite walls, The Fort is designed to weather all seasons. Winter weddings here bring a new vibe, where cosy comfort and log fires become the order of the day. The wild coastal storms and pared-back nature are enjoyed from within.
Between the snow and rain, Cornwall’s micro-climate provides plenty of sunshine year-round for brisk walks along the beach and outdoor photo opportunities.
Polhawn Fort is available for exclusive weddings throughout the year and offers seasonal reductions. Get in touch for details of our winter rates.
Winter Weddings
Beth & Gregg
"We had our wedding at Polhawn Fort in May and it was simply the best! When we viewed Polhawn Fort 2 years ago it took our breath away, it was the first venue we viewed and we booked in that day, absolutely stunning. All our guests were wowed too and kept saying to us we’ve won the wedding of the year by our venue alone! On top of that, James and the team were extremely helpful and went above and beyond with any query we had, and always got back to us so quickly!"
"The most beautiful wedding venue in the world ever."
Rhiannon & Travis
"I can't even put into words how incredible our wedding was there! It was like a dream come true and still can't believe it was for our special day. The team were so kind and helpful from the run up to the wedding with any silly little questions I had to helping us on the day and everything on the wedding day! Cannot thank you and recommend you enough! The whole place is just out of this world and I wish we could come and stay for an annual visit. Absolute perfection!"
"It was all absolutely perfect!"
If there is a place that should be seen in person, it’s this one.
We’d love to show you around our Fort and share ideas for your event. We’re located 30 minutes from Plymouth, 90 minutes from Bristol and 4 hours from London.
Our doors are open for visitors every Friday and Monday between 13.30-15.00. Book a date below or call the team on 01752 822864 who will be happy to help.
For couples with confirmed dates, please call the office to arrange a time for re-visits.
Book Your Visit
Thanks for your interest in visiting us!
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