Do you host Open Days?
We usually hold four open days per year; however, we would love to show you around as soon as possible so you can decide if Sheene Mill might be the right venue for you. Please get in touch and we will arrange a private viewing for you. These can be held on weekdays during office hours or on weekend mornings.
Do I have exclusive use of Sheene Mill?
The venue is exclusive to you from 12 pm on the day of your wedding until 12 am so you may find that there are showrounds on the morning of your wedding.
What are your minimum and maximum numbers?
Our maximum capacities are 110 in the day and 180 in the evening. We can host more intimate weddings; however minimum charges do apply. Please refer to the pricing brochure for more information on this.
Are children included within the guest numbers?
Our packages are based on minimum adult numbers. Although, if you have less adults and some children, we can look to dissolve them into the numbers. This way the children would still get their meal and the alcohol allocation would be spread among the adults.
When will our planning meeting be?
You will be invited for your planning meeting three to six months prior to your wedding day.
How many guests can I have in the Prep Room?
Our prep room is ideal for the bride and one or two key members of the bridal party. Once you include hair and make-up artists and a photographer, the room will be close to a comfortable capacity. Guests attending the wedding must not arrive at the venue more than 30 minutes before the ceremony begins.
Do you have an example schedule for our day?
2:30pm – Guests arrive at Sheene Mill
3:00pm – Ceremony to begin
3:30pm – Drinks Reception & Photos to be taken
5:00pm – Guests to move to the Main Banqueting Room for the Wedding Breakfast
5:15pm – Wedding Breakfast served
7:00pm – Tea & Coffee in the bar/conservatory
7:30pm – Evening Guests to arrive (if applicable)
8:00pm – Guests to move back to the Main Room for the Evening Reception
8:15pm – Cake Cutting & First Dance
9:00pm – Evening Food served
11:30pm - Last orders at the bar
Midnight – Evening finishes, bar closes & guests depart (11:30pm on Sunday)
Where can gifts be stored?
We normally suggest that guests leave gifts on the large table in the Country Room as that is where guests will be passing through and mingling at various points in the day. You can bring a hamper or a post box for guests to deposit their gifts & cards if you like!
Do you have disabled facilities?
Yes. You will find these next to the Prep Room. We acknowledge in advance that these are not the most ideal location at the venue. We did the best that we could considering the shape and size of the venue which is set across various levels.
Do you have baby changing facilities?
Yes. You will find these next to the Prep Room.
Do we need wedding insurance?
Yes. We strongly advise all couples to take out adequate wedding insurance.
Does the venue have air conditioning?
There is cool and hot air conditioning in the main banqueting room, as well as central heating throughout the whole venue. During the colder months we have 3 open fires, which can be lit. If you choose for these not to be, please let us know. Our outside wedding pavilion is also heated, to ensure you stay nice and warm.
How many spaces are in the car park?
Our car park can accommodate 55 cars. We also have access to an overflow across the road.
Can a helicopter land at the venue?
It certainly can – our lovely neighbour has a large field directly next to the venue.
What happens if we need to cancel our booking?
If you wish to cancel your Booking for whatever reason, you must confirm it in writing to us. Cancellation fees will apply, please refer to the terms and conditions on the booking portal for full cancellation details. We strongly advise you to read these before confirming your wedding.
What are your venue access times?
Access to the venue is from 10:00am on the day of your wedding until 10 am the following day. Access to the Prep Room is from 8.30am if booked in advance.
What time is the Prep Room available?
If you have pre-booked the use of our Prep Room, you can arrive from 08:30am. The room is available until the start of your ceremony. We ask that all personal belongings are removed before your ceremony begins. Please note the maximum capacity of the Prep Room in the General Venue section.
When does my wedding set up take place?
You can access the venue from two hours prior to your ceremony time. There is a possibility that you can set up the day before between 11:00am and 3:00pm if there isn’t a wedding however, this can be discussed with your Event Coordinator. If access the day before isn’t possible our team will be available to assist with set up.
What time can my guests arrive?
Day guests should not arrive more than 30 minutes before your ceremony begins. If guests arrive earlier than this it risks our team not being able to finish the final touches to your wedding and will take our attention away from looking after the main bridal party.
What time does the evening end?
Last orders at the bar are at 11.30pm and the bar closes at 12.00am (11:30pm on Sunday). Our entertainment license finishes at midnight (11:30pm on Sunday). Music must stop then, and all guests must leave by 12:00am. Please make sure your suppliers are aware of the finish times.
What time can guest’s check-in to bedrooms
Check-in is available from 3:00pm. Check-out is strictly 10:00am the following morning. Guests may be able to store luggage with our reception until their rooms are ready.
What time can my suppliers come in?
Suppliers can access the venue 2 hours prior to your ceremony time. We cannot guarantee that access will be available before this time unless agreed in advance with the venue.
How do I go about contacting the Registrars?
You will need to get in touch with the Cambridgeshire Ceremonies Team to book your ceremony time with them directly. www.cambridgeshireceremonies.co.uk or by calling 0345 045 1363
What time would you suggest for the ceremony?
We recommend 2:00pm or 3:00pm as the best time to get married. This allows plenty of time for getting ready in the morning and is usually a time which is more available with Cambridgeshire registrars.
How long does a typical ceremony last?
A typical ceremony lasts around 25 minutes. This can be longer if you add any readings or personal vows. The registrars will guide you through this process all the way.
What months are outdoor weddings permitted?
You can get married outside from March to October. We can also arrange for a marquee to be erected to protect you from the sun or the rain.
We would like to get married outside but what happens if it rains?
We always ask couples who would like to get married outside (March to October only) to choose an indoor option as well. This gives a contingency in case of wet or windy weather and maximum flexibility. We usually prepare both indoor and outdoor ceremony areas allowing for a last-minute decision to be made. The Registrars do have the final say on proceeding with an outdoor ceremony if the weather is changeable.
How is my ceremony music played?
The venue staff will take play your chosen ceremony music from our sound system. We will require you have a fully charged device which is unlocked, with the headphone aux facility available.
Have you got a microphone for the ceremony?
We do have a portable speaker and wireless microphone, but we usually find that guests can hear the ceremony as we arrange the seating in a more intimate way.
Can we throw confetti?
The venue does allow the use of confetti. This must be in the form of real flower petals only. Bio-degradable and other confetti is not permitted due to the damage it causes to our lawn. Sorry, but we don’t allow confetti cannons due to Health and Safety.
Can we bring any pets?
Only registered assistant dogs can attend the ceremony, no general pets/animals are allowed for licensing purposes. However, pets/animals are more than welcome for any photo opportunities during your drink reception, providing they are outside only. You will need prior confirmation from Cambridgeshire Registrars if you wish your pet to be present at your ceremony.
Can you cater for multi-cultural or other faith ceremonies?
Yes! We are delighted to have hosted a number of Jewish, Sikh, Hindu, Celebrant and Humanist weddings. The Wedding Ceremony may be held in your choice of any of our four indoor ceremony spaces or outdoors in the garden. We also have a range of catering options to suit your needs: Fish, Vegetarian, Vegan, Kosher Friendly with Rabbinic Guidance, Masorti Guidance & Supervision.
Are there any restrictions on decorations?
We are unable to allow you to pin or stick anything to the walls/ceilings that will potentially remove any paint or damage any of the interior. The fabric of the venue and its fixtures and fittings must not be damaged, moved or re-located. You are welcome to hang bunting and fairy lights from the beams in the conservatory by wrapping or tying them around. Please be aware this will need to be done by a member of your wedding party on the day of your wedding and removed by 10am the following day, you will also need to provide a ladder.
Are we expected to set up our wedding?
Absolutely not, your event manager will coordinate your suppliers and set up your decorations (within reason), except for anything hanging or needing construction. Please ensure that you check all areas you would like to decorate before your big day as our room space can be limited.
What are the sizes of your tables?
We generally use rounded rectangle tables seating up to 11 guests each. We have lots of different sized tables depending on what kind of set up you would like for your meal. We will be able to discuss your floorplan with you during your planning meeting.
Can we have candles?
Yes, real flame candles are allowed as long as the holder exceeds the height of the flame.
What time can we access the venue to set up?
Staff will be at the venue approximately 2 hours before your ceremony time as a rule of thumb. If you have extensive decorations to setup, you will need to liaise with the venue in advance to make necessary arrangements. Please note that additional fees may be applicable.
Is it possible to setup at the venue the day before?
Sometimes! If we do not have any other events taking place the day before yours, you can. We can confirm this for you two weeks before your wedding date and you would be able to come in between 1pm and 4pm the day before.
Do my suppliers/contractors need to have public liability insurance?
Yes, it is your responsibility to check that all contractors/suppliers you employ have public liability insurance. We require their contact details and a copy of their public liability insurance before they can operate at Sheene Mill. If any supplier is using electrical equipment, PAT certificates must be provided in advance. Please note the fabrication of the venue and its fixtures and fittings cannot be damaged in any way, moved or re-located.
Can I put up my own lighting and other decorations?
Yes, but it is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with all Health and Safety Regulations e.g. fire proofing decorations and all electrical equipment is PAT tested. You will also need Public Liability Insurance. We advise that you use fully insured contractors. For large decorations for your ceremony, please get in contact with your registrar for more details on restrictions.
Can I have the white chairs in the Banqueting Room?
Our white outdoor ceremony chairs are for outdoor ceremonies or conservatory ceremonies. You cannot use these for your wedding breakfast in the main function room.
Are we allowed to have a band?
We do not allow unknown bands at the venue due to our sound limiter. We do have a list of bands who with have worked with over the years and know the venue and our sound limitations. We would be happy to supply you with their details.
Do you have a power outlet outside?
We have two weatherproof power points, one in the pavilion and another near the main function room. Due to Health and Safety, plugs need to be a standard household plug and not a transformer. Anything larger than this will not be accepted. All electrical items need to be fully PAT tested.
Can we drop off our items prior to our wedding day?
Yes, we have a place to store your wedding items 24 hours before your wedding. You will need to organise this in advance with your wedding coordinator. We cannot store any items in our fridges due to Health and Safety Regulations. We highly advise that wedding cakes and flowers are delivered on the day of your wedding. Any items left overnight are left at your own risk. Any items left behind will be disposed of. Please note that during peak season our storage space is limited.
Are chair covers included?
Chair covers are not included as standard, but we do hire these out along with an arrangement of different sash colours.
Do you have a licensed bar?
Yes, we have a licensed bar at the venue which will be opened once your ceremony is complete.
Does the bar serve draught beer/cider?
Yes, we have draught beer and cider on tap at the bar. We also have a range of bottled beers, IPAs and fruit ciders.
Do you allow corkage?
Unfortunately, we do not offer a corkage option. We work with some wonderful suppliers, and we will always strive to obtain a particular drink if we do not already stock it. Any specially ordered items would need to pay for in full before your wedding day.
Can we use our own caterers?
We do not allow outside caterers to be bought in, but we have a huge selection of food and drink options available. If you’d like something more individual our in-house chef is more than happy to discuss and create a bespoke menu.
Can we bring our own drinks?
All the various drinks required can be included in your chosen wedding package. Our licensed bar will open straight after your ceremony. All catering is provided in–house and it is not possible to bring in any food or drink to the venue, including alcoholic favours (except for traditional wedding cakes).
Are we allowed to bring in any food and drink at all?
You or your guests may not supply or bring on to the premises any food or drink except for wedding cakes, confectionery and edible favours or gifts. If you are bringing any food to the Venue, you are responsible for notifying us and your guests about any allergens and checking any potential health issues with your guests. Before you purchase food and drink supplies or make a commitment, please check with us first for approval for any item you wish to supply. Please refer to the terms and conditions on the booking portal for full details.
Do you cater for all dietary requirements?
If you are vegetarian/vegan etc. or have any allergies or dietary requirements we need to know in advance! Please collect this information from your guests well in advance so we can order the correct food in due course (due to the volume of events we host each year and to allow our kitchen to prepare in advance, this info is requested from them 1 month prior at the very latest when we finalise your details). With regret we are unable to cook any last-minute alternative meals on the day due to guests forgetting to tell the couple of their specific needs in advance.
How many options can I give my guests?
If you have opted for our three-course wedding breakfast you will have 1 option to choose for your starter, main and dessert. You will have an additional option which can be vegetarian or vegan. All dietary adjusted food will be organised in addition to these choices. If you require additional choices, it does come at an additional cost on top of the menu price for the additional work in the office (preparing ahead of the day for a smooth food service) and for our Chefs but it can be a really lovely addition to your day. We do ask that you provide your guests with name cards to put out on the tables including their food choices as we do find that guests forget what they have chosen by the time the day comes around!
What payment options do you accept?
We accept credit and debit cards at our bar. Unfortunately, we cannot accept cash. All invoice related payments must be made by BACS transfer only.
Do you have a PA system?
Yes, we have PA system outside, in the conservatory and in the banqueting room. It can only be used to play music during the ceremony, wedding breakfast or an entrance song as you are announced into the room. It is not substantial enough to provide your evening entertainment.
What time shall I tell the DJ to arrive?
We would always recommend your evening entertainment to be at the venue by 6:30pm. This may change depending on your schedule for the day.
How long will the turnover be?
Once all your guests have vacated the main function room (typically 7pm) we will aim to have the room reset for your evening celebration within 60 minutes. Please note that some dancefloors or complex DJ lighting rigs can take longer to setup.
Are there local taxi companies?
Yes. We have two main local taxi companies. Meltax 01763 212223 / Pantha 01223 715715. We strongly recommend booking taxis in advance as the demand in the area is very high. The venue is unable to organise taxis for guests as full details are required along with payment details.
Can we have sparklers?
Unfortunately, due to the age and materials used to construct the venue, no sparklers are permitted under any circumstances.
Are fireworks/Chinese lanterns permitted?
Fireworks are only permitted on 5th November or the closest weekend to that date and on New Year’s Eve. Any fireworks must be organised through Sheene Mill’s trusted supplier. Chinese Lanterns are not allowed.
What time does the evening end?
Last orders at the bar are at 11.45pm, with the bar closing and music to finish at midnight. We would recommend all non-residents have prebooked taxis. Any residents are more than welcome to have a night cap whilst we close the venue.
Is there parking on-site and can we leave cars overnight?
There is parking on-site and across the road for guests to use. Cars can be left overnight at owners’ own risk and must be collected by 11am the following day.
Do you have a sound limiter, and what is it set at?
Yes, we do have a sound limiter in place in accordance with our entertainment license which is 90 decibels. Please make sure your suppliers are aware of this and that they can play within this level.
Are smoke and haze machines permitted?
Unfortunately not as smoke and haze machines activate our fire alarms. Uplighters and other forms of clever lighting are a great alternative.
Are we required to clear our belongings at the end of the night?
All your wedding bits will be put in the reception area ready for you to collect the next morning by 10:00am. We advise the prep room is cleared before the ceremony commences; any items left will also be put in the reception area. Apart from any rubbish, please take all items with you – this includes helium cannisters as we are unable to dispose of these for you. Anything left will be disposed of.
Do you have a Bridal Suite for the married couple?
Yes we do! We have a lovely room with views across the mill pond. You can expect a king size luxury bed, roll top bathtub, Italian designer ceramics and many more features.
How can my guest’s book accommodation?
The rooms are booked by our Couples on behalf of their guests, that way you can ensure that you have your closest family staying on site. The Couple can either pay for all guest accommodation or we can invoice guests directly via email.
Are we allowed to bring in any food and drink at all?
You or your guests may not supply or bring on to the premises any food or drink except for wedding cakes, confectionery and edible favours or gifts. If you are bringing any food to the Venue, you are responsible for notifying us and your guests about any allergens and checking any potential health issues with your guests. Before you purchase food and drink supplies or make a commitment, please check with us first for approval for any item you wish to supply. Please refer to the terms and conditions on the booking portal for full details.
Can I and some of my guests stay the night before?
Rooms for the night before your wedding day can only be arranged 4 weeks prior to your date.
How many rooms can have extra people staying in them?
We have two camp beds which can be used for children staying in rooms 1, 3 or 7 only. Only 2 adults may stay in our rooms.
What time can my guests get into their rooms?
Check-in is available from 3:00pm. Check-out is strictly 10:00am the following morning. Guests may be able to store luggage with our reception until their rooms are ready. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to check guests into rooms earlier due to the time required for our housekeeping team to clean the rooms. If you have guests who are getting ready at the venue, we recommend that they shower in advance and do not rely upon their room being available before the check-in time. We will always do our very best to accommodate guests into rooms early where possible.
Is there plenty of alternative accommodation?
Yes. We are lucky to have a whole host of local Airbnb’s, guest houses and some bigger hotels in neighbouring towns Royston and Duxford. Full details can be provided by your wedding coordinator or you can look at our suppliers page.
Can we invite additional guests for breakfast the following morning?
Yes you can. This must be arranged at least 7 days prior to your wedding day as we need to order more stock and may need to make staffing adjustments.