A VICTORIAN COUNTRY HOUSE RESTAURANT AND EXCLUSIVE HIRE VENUE FOR WEDDINGS, PRIVATE PARTIES, WAKES & MEMORIALS.
Click here to view upcoming restaurant opening dates
Video Venue Tour Videography by Talking Fly
Welcome to The Knowle—a beautiful Victorian Country House set within 14 acres of landscaped gardens, orchards, and peaceful lawns. Family owned since 1980, we offer a warm, elegant setting for weddings, private celebrations, memorial events, and relaxed dining.
As you sweep down the tree-lined driveway, the House reveals itself—a striking Victorian residence surrounded by seasonal colour, sculpted topiary, and 14 acres of tranquil gardens. Whether you’re joining us for a wedding, a family gathering, or a quiet meal, The Knowle offers a sense of calm, privacy, and timeless charm.
OUR HISTORICAL CONNECTION TO CHARLES DICKENS
The Knowle Country House was built by Joseph Hindle, vicar of the parish of Higham from 1829 to 1874. Reverend Hindle was living at Gads Hill Place at the time Charles Dickens purchased Gads Hill in 1856. Dickens allowed the vicar to live there until The Knowle was completed in 1857, probably using bricks from the old Rochester Bridge (further details can be found on our “History” page).
Dickens became a frequent visitor to The Knowle, and it is said that he enjoyed High Tea in our Octagonal Room (also called the Charles Dickens Room). This heritage adds a unique historical richness to the house—a quiet thread of literary history woven into the fabric of the venue.
Click here to view upcoming restaurant opening dates
Country House Wedding Venue & Restaurant
Hello and welcome to The Knowle – our beautiful Victorian Country House. We are an independent restaurant and exclusive hire wedding/events venue. Trading since 1980 under the same ownership of Michael & Lynn Baragwanath.
As you sweep down the driveway you will be greeted by our beautiful Victorian House with amazing gardens set in 14 acres of grounds, displaying wonderful displays of topiary and flowers all seasons.
Our Heritage
The Knowle Country House was built by Rev. Joseph Hindle in the mid 19th Century, he was the Rector of Higham from 1829 to 1874. It is noted that he was living at Grads Hill Place at the time Charles Dickens purchased it in 1856, Dickens allowed him to live there until March 1857 when The Knowle became completed. Dickens later became a frequent visitor to The Knowle and it is said that he used to have High Tea in our Study.
Video Venue Tour Videography by Talking Fly
