A historic Kent castle has been named the third most Instagrammed wedding venue in the UK.

Leeds Castle, near Maidstone, has 117,000 hashtags on the social media site.

Dating back to 1119, the castle became a favourite home of Edward I in the 13th century.

In the 16th century, Henry VIII used it as a home for his first wife, Catherine of Aragon.

The castle today dates mostly from the 19th century and is built on islands in a lake. It has been open to the public since 1976.

Its grounds make it a popular choice for families to enjoy, but it’s the photogenic backdrops of the stone walls and moat which have made it a hit with those wanting something a bit different in their wedding pictures and videos.

Wedding packages can range from £10,100 to £39,900, depending on dates and months.

On its website, Leeds Castle states: “Your wedding at Leeds Castle welcomes you and your guests to architectural, exterior and interior excellence.

“With delicate details of 16th-century period design to original 20th-century interior masterpieces, you will be captivated from the moment you arrive.

“Every small to large detail is handled with care by our impeccably professional, highly experienced, and friendly team. Leeds Castle is one of the most romantic places to hold your wedding celebrations.

“With mesmerising historical gardens and dazzling architectural beauty, it is the perfect wedding venue for all seasons.”

It also claims the venue is the “ideal backdrop for stunning wedding photography and videography”.

The data, which was collected on September 26 by wedding experts Aura Print, also found that Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, near Hythe, was ranked the 21st most Instagrammed venue.

It has gathered 10,100 hashtags and there are three different wedding spaces to choose from which promise to have “endless photo opportunities”.

Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire was top of the list, with Hampton Court Palace in Surrey second.