Set beside the Grand Union Canal at Apsley Lock in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, The Paper Mill is a welcoming pub and restaurant offering a relaxed setting for wedding receptions, celebrations and special occasions. With its waterside location, outdoor terrace, private function spaces and warm, informal atmosphere, it’s a great choice for couples looking for something a little less traditional and a lot more relaxed.

The venue can accommodate wedding receptions and private celebrations for up to 120 guests, with a choice of spaces to suit different wedding sizes and styles.

Your wedding at The Paper Mill

The Paper Mill combines the character of a traditional pub with the flexibility of a dedicated events venue. The waterside setting provides a lovely backdrop for drinks and photographs, while the venue's private spaces give couples somewhere to celebrate with family and friends.

The First Floor Restaurant is the largest dedicated event space, accommodating up to 100 guests seated or 120 standing. It has natural light and a private bar, making it particularly well-suited to wedding receptions and larger celebrations. It even has its own balcony overlooking the riverside.

For smaller, less formal gatherings, The Green Room can accommodate up to 40 guests seated or 50 standing.

If you'd prefer to celebrate outdoors, the Decking area is available for casual gatherings of up to 50 guests.

Food & drink

Food is an important part of the experience at The Paper Mill. The kitchen focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and modern pub classics, and our chefs are happy to work with you to create your dream sit-down menu or buffet option for private events.

Drinks are equally well catered for, with a range that includes cask ales, craft lagers, seasonal beers, cider, wines, spirits and soft drinks.

The setting

One of the venue's biggest attractions is its location directly on the Grand Union Canal. The terrace overlooks the water and connects with the canal path, creating a relaxed outdoor space for guests to enjoy before or after the meal.

The Paper Mill is also conveniently located opposite Apsley railway station. There is also easy access from the M1 and M25, a large car park with free parking for up to 60 guests, and a Holiday Inn next door to host your guests.

Why couples will love it:

• Canal-side location at Apsley Lock
• Relaxed, informal atmosphere
• Wedding receptions for up to 120 guests
• Choice of private function spaces
• First Floor Restaurant for up to 100 seated guests
• Private bar available in the First Floor Restaurant
• Outdoor terrace overlooking the canal
• Fresh, seasonal food and flexible buffet options
• Accessible facilities and step-free access
• Excellent transport links, including Apsley railway station
• Family-friendly and dog-friendly venue

The perfect fit for:

The Paper Mill is ideal for couples who want a laid-back wedding reception with great food, drinks and atmosphere, rather than a formal or traditional wedding venue. Its combination of private event spaces and a waterside pub setting makes it particularly suited to relaxed celebrations with friends and family.