To book a date, a signed contract is required with a 50% deposit of the total rental cost. The remaining rental fee balance is due 120 days prior to the event date.

A deposit of $2,500 to cover any damage or additional clean-up is required 120 days before the event date. The Fells collects this separate damage deposit which will be refunded within 2 weeks after the event or applied to unpaid charges or the cost of additional site clean-up, extended site usage or damages incurred.

Your rental includes full access to the kitchen and pantry, gardens, grounds, restrooms, pavilion, and associated parking areas. A dedicated changing room is available for bridal parties. We also provide tables and chairs for your event.

The ceremony set up may begin the morning of the event while reception setup may begin the day before. Event clean-up must conclude by 11:00pm. All event items including floral arrangements must be removed from the public areas during clean-up. This includes break-down and storage of all Fells tables and chairs. Additional use of the property for other than set-up or cleanup is billed at the rate of $250 for each 30 minutes or major portion thereof.

Rental functions at The Fells generally begin at 4:30pm and end at 10:30pm. Guests may arrive as early as 4:00pm for a 4:30 ceremony. Additional site rental time is charged at a rate of $250 for each 30 minutes or major portion thereof.

Cancellations will receive the following payment refunds: 121 days on up – 50%; 91-120 days – 25%; 90 days or less – 0%.

The John Hay Estate at The Fells is a historic and ecologically protected venue that requires expert care and coordination. A professional wedding planner is essential—not just recommended—to ensure your celebration honors the estate’s legacy while running smoothly. Here's why:

• Historic & Environmental Stewardship: As part of a National Wildlife Refuge and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Fells demands thoughtful planning to protect its architecture, gardens, and natural surroundings.

• Expert Logistics: With expansive grounds and multiple event areas, a planner ensures seamless guest flow, vendor coordination, and event timing.

• Creative Vision: A planner helps design a celebration that enhances the estate’s beauty—from garden ceremonies to elegant tented receptions.

• Stress-Free Experience: Planners manage details, troubleshoot, and execute your vision so you can be fully present on your wedding day.

• Contingency Planning: Weather and outdoor variables are unpredictable; a planner prepares backup plans to keep your celebration flawless.

In short: A wedding planner ensures your day at The Fells is not only beautiful but respectful, seamless, and unforgettable.

While we do not offer on-site accommodation at the John Hay Estate at The Fells, we are happy to provide a list of recommended local lodging options to assist with your planning.

Access to the Main House and grounds is via a sloping ¼-mile long gravel driveway. Handicap parking and public restroom facility are available near the Main House and in the Pavilion. The first floor of the Main House is accessible.

As part of the National Wildlife Refuge system, the John Hay Estate at The Fells is a carry-in, carry-out facility. All trash, recyclables, and waste must be removed from the premises by the caterer or the lessee at the end of the event. Thank you for helping us protect this historic and natural site.

Due to our designation as a National Wildlife Refuge, dogs are not permitted on the grounds of the John Hay Estate at The Fells. This policy helps protect local wildlife and preserve the natural environment. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.