We’re a friendly, family-run business. Our family has farmed at Court Lodge for five generations, moving from dairy farming in the 1980s to a mixed farm currently. Over the past 20 years, we have converted our traditional hay barn into an events space, and our old farm courtyard into award-winning office units. The farm now operates from a modern yard beyond the house. The Black Barn is a very special wedding and party venue that lies in the heart of the pretty village of Stansted in rolling North Kent downland. Surrounded by apple and cherry orchards, with grass kept short by our small flock of Shetland sheep, the barn opens on to a traditional English garden. It can feel as though you’ve stepped back in time in our hidden valley yet we are within easy reach of London, Sevenoaks and the Medway towns. We only run a small number of events each year to ensure you get an exclusive service in a location that feels like a well-kept secret.