FAQ's

Who are Sophisticated Hen?

The Sophisticated Hen was 4 people coming together and realising that we can offer brides to be that little something special for their hen weekend. Getting married is a once in a lifetime experience for most people and we decided that using the experience we have from running our own houses, we could put together a great weekend to suit just about every hen, friend, bridesmaid and mother in law.

Will there be a strict itinerary that we have to follow?

The simple answer is no. Our job is to make your weekend go as easily as possible. We'll help you organise everything that you need to whether that's the properties, the entertainment or the food. Our activities are designed to meet your individual requirements so you can do as little or as much as you want to.

Our philosophy is simple. Your hen weekend is about friendship, celebration and enjoyment. Our job is to make that happen with as little effort and stress for you as possible.

If you choose more activities over the weekend then, of course, you will have less time to sit around and relax, but that is entirely up to you. Each hen party is different and ultimately we'll help find the right one for you. 

How much is the deposit?

We require a 25% deposit upon booking with the remaining balance due 3 months before arrival.  This is the same for accommodation and activities.  

Can I just book a property through you?

The Sophisticated Hen is about providing a hen weekend to remember. if it's just a lovely property in the countryside that you are after, then that's what we'll deliver. If you want to add a few activities, some spa treatments, or some catering to make that weekend more special, then then we can help you do that. It really is that simple!

What methods of payment do you accept?

If you are booking and paying online we accept all major credit and debit cards apart from American Express. If you would prefer to pay by cheque or balance transfer please contact us to arrange the booking.

What is the breakages/damages policy?

Any major breakages/damages caused directly by persons staying at the properties over a value of £50 will be charged to the group leader. We accept that minor breakages such as broken glasses do occur, and deal with each case individually.

Are towels and bed linen provided?

Yes, all the beds will be fully made with two fluffy white towels per person. Bathrobes and flip-flops may be required for the hot tub and these are not provided at any of the houses.

Are there any extra hidden costs?

No, everything such as VAT, heating, electric, is included in the fee. Wood for log burners will be initially supplied and after that may require an additional purchase. Any holiday extra such as catering or spa treatments will be charged for in addition to the cost of the accommodation.

Where do I pick the keys up from?

We will endeavour to meet you at the properties ourselves, to give you the keys and show you around the property, otherwise, we will arrange to leave the keys for you at the house. You will be sent arrival instructions, in the lead up to your stay, detailing where the keys will be.

What are the arrival and departure times at the properties?

The standard arrival time is 3pm and departure time is 10am. However, if we don’t have guests in directly before you arrive, we will endeavour to get the house ready the day before and you will be welcome to arrive whenever you want on your start day. Likewise, if we don't have guests arriving directly after your stay, you will be welcome to leave later on that day (subject to cleaning rotas). 

Departure times on Sundays are anytime up to 3pm.  We will contact you a few days before your start day to finalise arrival and departure times.

What happens if I cancel?

Please refer to our Booking Terms for full information regarding our normal cancellation policy. If the cancellation is due to government restrictions associated with COVID-19 then you will be given the option of moving your booking to another date or to receive a full refund.

Are pets allowed?

We only allow dogs at our properties and ask that we are notified before booking - usually a maximum of 2 dogs per house, which may be stretched slightly according to the size. We ask that you keep them downstairs, off the furniture and carpets as well as cleaning up after them both inside and outside during your stay. We don't charge extra for dogs.

What level of equipment do you supply in the houses?

Please click here to download a PDF of whats included in the properties. We supply 2 toilet rolls per toilet, some washing up liquid, dishwasher tablets, black bin bags, handwash, salt, pepper, some cooking oil, coffee, tea, sugar - but only in limited supply to get you started, you may need to bring some of the above with you if you have a large group.

Kitchen equipment consists of; pots & pans, frying pans, cooking trays, serving dishes, all plates, crockery, knives & forks, glasses (wine, tumblers & champagne) for the capacity of your chosen property, food processor, scales, rolling pin, jugs, cheese grater and much more. All the basics will be there, but if you require anything specialist you may need to bring this with you.

Do you provide Highchairs, Travel Cots and Stairgates?

We can by prior arrangement provide high chairs and travel cots. Stairgates can be supplied for Apple Cottage. Woodlands Farmhouse and Lower Hedge Farm have wide stairs with bannisters that make them impossible to fit however, they do have doors that can be shut to prevent access to the stairs.

Do I have to book my activities/catering with you?

No. We can offer you lots of different activities and catering options as well as through our activity booking partners Tobooka but of course, you are welcome to bring your own service providers to the houses. We do ask that if you are doing this that you send us their Public Liability Insurance details just so we know they are covered in case anything does go wrong.

Do I have to book everything at the same time?

The simple answer is no. If you want to just book accommodation then that is absolutely fine by us. If you want to add catering or activities then you can do this at any time. Obviously, the more organised you are and the further in advance you book these additional options, the more likely you are to get what you want.