A horse drawn carriage is one of the most requested wedding transport options in Kent. This guide covers what to look for in a licensed supplier, what to expect on the day, and why White Horse Farm Equestrian in Meopham stands out as one of the county's most established carriage companies.
Why Couples Choose a Horse Drawn Carriage
Motor cars handle most wedding transport. A horse drawn carriage does something different.
Your arrival becomes a moment in itself. Guests stop. Cameras come out. The pace slows down, and you get a few minutes between the house and the ceremony to settle before the day picks up speed.
For photography, nothing else compares. A carriage naturally creates composition, motion, and scale that a car simply cannot.
What to Check Before You Book
Not all carriage companies operate to the same standard. Before you commit, ask these questions.
Is the supplier licensed?
Carriage companies in England must hold two licences to operate legally:
An Animal Activity Licence issued by their local council. Five stars is the highest rating.
A VOSA Operators Licence for commercial road use.
Always ask to see both. If a company cannot produce them, look elsewhere.
Do they have the right carriage for your day?
Weather in Kent is unpredictable. A good supplier offers both open and enclosed options so you are not caught out.
Is personalisation included?
Coloured plumes, bows, coachmen ties, and flowers all make a difference. Ask whether these are included in the price or charged as extras.
Have they worked at your venue before?
Venue access matters. Some driveways and entrances cannot accommodate a full carriage and horse team. A supplier with local experience will know what to check.
White Horse Farm Equestrian: Carriage Hire in Kent
White Horse Farm Equestrian is based at White Horse Lane, Harvel, Meopham, Kent, DA13 0UE. They are one of a small number of fully licensed carriage companies operating across the county.
Licence holder: Emma Nuttall
Licensed by: Gravesham Borough Council
Animal Activity Licence (5 stars): No. 1900724
VOSA Operators Licence: OK1103122
They cover wedding venues across Kent, including Maidstone, Canterbury, Sevenoaks, Tunbridge Wells, Gravesend, Faversham, and surrounding areas.
Carriage Fleet
White Carriages
The white range is the most popular choice for weddings.
Cinderella Carriage
The most theatrical option in the fleet. Can be dressed with fresh flowers, bows, and plumes to match your theme.
Vis-a-Vis
A classic fully convertible carriage with red leather interior. Works open or fully enclosed, making it one of the most versatile options in the fleet.
Glass Fronted Landau
The practical choice for Kent's variable weather. The glass front keeps the bride visible even in rain, with the option to open fully in good conditions.
Twin Hooded Landau
Red leather interior with a matching hood. Particularly effective paired with black Shire horses.
Glass Coach
Two available, ideal for a convoy. Cream interiors and a flat roof that lends itself well to floral arrangements.
Traditional Carriages
For a more Victorian aesthetic, White Horse Farm offers a Black and Blue Landau and a Black and Burgundy Landau.
Group Carriages
A 12-seat white carriage and a 10-seat white carriage are available for larger wedding parties. These work well for bridesmaids, groomsmen, or guests travelling together from a single location.
Personalisation
White Horse Farm includes coloured plumes, bows, and coachmen ties at no extra cost. Artificial flowers in a range of colours are also available. Fresh flowers from your florist can be fitted to the carriage on the day.
Planning Your Carriage on the Day
Allow extra time. Horse drawn carriages travel at walking pace. A five-minute car journey can take twenty minutes by carriage. Build this into your schedule from the start.
Check venue access early. Confirm with your venue that the entrance, driveway, and turning space can accommodate a full carriage and horse team. Do this before you book.
Pick the right carriage for the forecast. No carriage can guarantee a dry arrival in Kent. If you want flexibility, the Glass Fronted Landau or Vis-a-Vis give you open and enclosed options with a single vehicle.
Brief your photographer. A carriage arrival produces strong images, but only if your photographer is in position before you arrive. Let them know the route and your expected arrival time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book a wedding carriage in Kent?Book as early as possible. Popular dates fill quickly, especially May to September. Twelve months in advance is not unusual for a Saturday wedding.Do horse drawn carriages require a licence in the UK?Yes. In England, carriage companies require an Animal Activity Licence from their local council and a VOSA Operators Licence for commercial road use. Always ask to see both before booking.What happens if it rains on my wedding day?An enclosed or convertible carriage is the safest option. White Horse Farm's Glass Fronted Landau is built for this; the glass front keeps you visible and sheltered even in bad weather.Can I match the carriage decorations to my wedding colours?Yes. White Horse Farm includes coloured plumes, bows, and coachmen ties as standard. You can also have fresh flowers from your florist fitted on the day.How long does the carriage journey take?That depends on your route. Allow roughly four times the car journey time as a working estimate. Your supplier will advise based on your specific locations.Do horse drawn carriages work for village churches and rural venues?Generally yes, though access varies. Confirm with your venue and your supplier before booking. Rural Kent venues often work well because roads tend to be quieter.Can I hire a carriage for a larger bridal party?Yes. White Horse Farm offers 10-seat and 12-seat group carriages, suitable for bridesmaids, groomsmen, or guests travelling together.
Contact White Horse Farm Equestrian
Address: White Horse Lane, Harvel, Meopham, Kent, DA13 0UE
