How to plan a joint hen and stag weekend (sten do) in Somerset

What is a sten do?

A sten do (sometimes called a hag do) is a joint hen and stag weekend: the couple celebrate with both sets of friends in one place, instead of two separate weekends. It suits couples who share a friendship group, and saves guests paying for two trips.

Choose one house for everyone

Keeping the whole group under one roof means nobody misses the best bits. Look for a dining table that seats everyone, enough bathrooms for getting ready, and both couples’ rooms and single beds.

Every Little Upton house has its own hot tub, sauna and games, and seats its full group together indoors. The Pictureworks sleeps up to 22; Upton Bourn Lodge sleeps up to 23; The Threshing Barn sleeps up to 18; Vedalworks sleeps up to 24.

Plan the beds before you split the cost

Mixed groups usually need a blend of couples and friends who would rather have their own bed. Rooms can be made up as super-kings or singles, so agree the layout early and tell us before you arrive.

Split the day, share the evening

A simple pattern works well: two or three options during the day, then everyone back together for dinner.

1. Friday: arrive from 4pm, settle in and order in or cook an easy supper.
2. Saturday daytime: treatments at the house for those who want them; a walk to Harry’s Cider, about 500m away, or an activity on the lawn for others.
3. Saturday evening: one long dinner, by a private chef or cooked together, then games and music indoors within the house rules.
4. Sunday: breakfast, pack up and check out by 10am.

Activities both sides will enjoy

Cocktail-making, archery and laser clay shooting can come to the house as paid extras, booked directly with suppliers. Pool tables, table football and table tennis at every house, darts at Upton Bourn Lodge and The Threshing Barn, and karaoke hire at any house make easy evening tournaments.

Celebrate within the house rules

Music and celebrating are welcome inside after 10pm; outdoor quiet hours run from 10pm to 8am and hot tubs close at 10pm. Unauthorised parties and extra visitors are not allowed. Tell us about any plans before booking.

Before you make plans.