
The Mill at Sonning
A historic mill transformed into a magical dinner theatre, offering delicious food and captivating live performances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Dinner and a show magic

The Mill at Sonning
Best Time
Dinner and a show magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic mill transformed into a magical dinner theatre, offering delicious food and captivating live performances.
"Everybody should experience The Mill at least once. It is very indulgent, food for the body and soul (literally!)."

🎯 Book Dinner & Show Together
Tickets usually include a meal and performance. Book ahead for popular shows!
✨ Arrive Early for the Bar
Enjoy the historic mill wheel ambiance downstairs before dinner. Parking attendants help!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Mill Wheel
Downstairs Bar Area
See the ancient mill wheel turning, a charming reminder of the venue's past, creating a magical atmosphere.

Intimate Theatre Setting
Upstairs Theatre
Enjoy a cozy theatre experience where every seat offers a great view of the stage and performers.

Pre-Show Dining Experience
Upstairs Restaurant
Savor a delicious meal in a pleasant atmosphere before the show, with attentive table service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Dinner & Show Package
Arrive Early for the Mill Wheel Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Dinner & Show Together
Tickets usually include a meal and performance. Book ahead for popular shows!
✨ Arrive Early for the Bar
Enjoy the historic mill wheel ambiance downstairs before dinner. Parking attendants help!
🍽️ Enjoy the Table Service
Experience attentive service for your meal before heading to the intimate theatre.
🎭 Intimate Theatre Views
No matter where you sit, you'll have a great view of the stage.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Dinner & Show Together
Tickets usually include a meal and performance. Book ahead for popular shows!
✨ Arrive Early for the Bar
Enjoy the historic mill wheel ambiance downstairs before dinner. Parking attendants help!
🍽️ Enjoy the Table Service
Experience attentive service for your meal before heading to the intimate theatre.
🎭 Intimate Theatre Views
No matter where you sit, you'll have a great view of the stage.
🎶 Check 'What's On' Listings
From musicals to comedy, see the diverse range of performances.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Mill at Sonning's unique dinner theatre experience, praising the delicious food, intimate theatre setting, and the magical ambiance enhanced by the historic mill wheel. The attentive staff and high-quality productions contribute to an overall indulgent and memorable night out, making many eager to return.
"Everybody should experience The Mill at least once. It is very indulgent, food for the body and soul (literally!).
The car park is small, but parking attendants help to get as many cars as possible. And it’s free.
You start downstairs in the bar with all the twinkly lights and view of the mill wheel which transports you back in time while you sip on a drink (or two).
Then you are taken upstairs for an evening meal. You get your dedicated table and a server who is there to make your evening comfortable. The atmosphere in the restaurant is very pleasant, there is no rush and our waitress was fantastic, very polite and friendly. Bread, butter and olives were already waiting at the table. You get to choose a main meal and dessert from the set menu (5 choices each). I had a salmon followed by vanilla pana cotta and coffee/tea in the end. That’s all included in the price of your ticket. The food arrived really quickly, it tasted delicious and we had plenty of time to chat and enjoy the atmosphere.
After the meal you proceed to the theatre, which is cozy and no matter where you sit, you will be able to see every little detail on that stage. The show was a tribute to Lionel Richie and Diana Ross. We loved it, even if the drums were way too loud, the singers were excellent, including the backing singers who danced all the way through it. Audience was engaged, singing and dancing.
It was a fabulous evening out and we have already bought tickets for our next show. We cannot wait!"
Mirjana Fowle
"Visited with my wife to see "Death in Pemberley" along with a meal.
This was my first visit and I have to say the experience was fantastic. The service in both the bar and restaurant was excellent, and the quality of the food was tip-top to match. The play followed, which was produced to an extremely high standard. Loved every moment. Excellent!"
John Cordrey
"Full marks for My Fair Lady. What a show - what fun! The choreography and execution was simply fantastic! The detail remarkable - every single actress and actor performed with an amazing range of expression even when the spotlight wasn’t on them - all entirely believable. The meal beforehand was very enjoyable and the staff did very well given how busy it was. We will be back - thank you :)"
Chris Payne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mill at Sonning is located in Sonning-on-Thames, Berkshire. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site, though it can get busy. Public transport options include nearby train stations like Reading, from which you can take a taxi or bus. Check local bus routes for direct access.
Yes, there is free parking available. However, the car park is small, and parking attendants are on hand to help maximize space during busy periods. Arriving a little early is recommended.
Taxis are a convenient option, especially if you're coming from a nearby train station like Reading. It's advisable to book your return taxi in advance, particularly after evening performances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for The Mill at Sonning are typically sold as a package that includes both dinner and the theatre show. It's best to book directly through their official website or by calling their box office. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular productions like 'White Christmas'.
Most ticket packages include a pre-show meal served upstairs in the restaurant, followed by the performance in the intimate theatre. Some special events might have different inclusions, so always check the specific booking details.
The Mill at Sonning operates primarily for evening performances, with the bar opening earlier for pre-show drinks and dining. Specific opening times can vary depending on the performance schedule, so it's best to check their website for the day you plan to visit.
Yes, The Mill at Sonning offers gift vouchers, which make for a wonderful present for theatre lovers. These can usually be purchased through their website and can be redeemed against tickets for future shows.
While specific discount codes are not widely advertised, group bookings or special promotions might be available. It's worth checking their website or contacting the box office directly for any current offers.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is described as magical and transporting, starting with the historic mill wheel downstairs and moving to a pleasant, intimate dining and theatre experience upstairs. It's considered a great night out for adults.
The Mill at Sonning hosts a variety of performances, including musicals, plays, comedy nights, and tribute acts. They are known for productions like 'White Christmas' and have hosted magicians and other entertainers.
While some family-friendly shows are performed, the overall experience, particularly the dinner and theatre package, is generally geared towards adults. It's best to check the specific show's suitability for children.
The theatre is intimate, and reviewers consistently mention that no matter where you sit, you have an excellent view of the stage and can see every detail.
Yes, the historic mill wheel is a key feature and is visible and accessible in the downstairs bar area, offering a glimpse into the venue's past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The food is generally praised, with reviewers describing it as delicious and of high quality. The menu typically offers a choice of main courses and desserts as part of the ticket package. They have transitioned from buffet to à la carte service, which has been well-received.
Historically, it was a set menu with choices for main and dessert. More recently, they have moved to an à la carte service, offering a more refined dining experience. Always check the current offerings when booking.
While specific dietary options aren't detailed in all reviews, restaurants of this caliber usually cater to dietary needs. It's recommended to inform the venue of any dietary requirements when booking your tickets.
A bar is available downstairs for pre-show drinks, often with views of the mill wheel. During dinner, table service is provided for drinks. They also offer cocktails.
Yes, afternoon tea at The Mill at Sonning is highlighted as a lovely experience in a quirky and gorgeous venue, offering a different way to enjoy the historic setting.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charm of the historic mill wheel downstairs, the cozy theatre interior, and the picturesque riverside setting of Sonning-on-Thames. The stage sets themselves can also be visually striking.
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during the performance to avoid disturbing other audience members and the performers. However, you can usually take photos in the bar and restaurant areas before the show begins.
While general photography for personal use is usually fine in public areas, professional photography or filming may require prior permission. Always be mindful of others and avoid flash photography during the performance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🥂 Couples & Special Occasions
🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Dinner Theatre Experience
The dining experience is a crucial part of the visit. While it has evolved from buffet to à la carte service, the focus remains on providing quality food and attentive table service in a pleasant restaurant setting. This allows ample time for conversation and enjoyment of the ambiance before the main event – the theatre performance. The seamless transition from dining to the theatre, located just steps away, enhances the convenience and flow of the evening.
This integrated approach creates a truly immersive and indulgent experience, making The Mill at Sonning a destination for a special night out. It's this combination of good food, a unique historical setting, and live performance that draws patrons back for repeat visits.
A Glimpse into History: The Old Mill
This historical backdrop is not just for show; it's woven into the fabric of the visitor experience. The quirky venue leverages its past to create a memorable ambiance, transporting guests back in time as they enjoy their evening. The juxtaposition of the old mill structure with the modern theatre and dining facilities creates a fascinating contrast that many visitors appreciate.
Understanding the building's origins enhances the appreciation for the transformation into a thriving cultural hub. It’s this blend of history and contemporary entertainment that makes The Mill at Sonning a distinctive and beloved venue, celebrated by patrons and performers alike, including notable figures like Dame Judi Dench.
The Intimate Theatre Experience
This intimate setting is particularly effective for a range of performances, from dramatic plays to lively musicals and comedy shows. The acoustics and sightlines are optimized for this smaller scale, meaning that subtle nuances in acting and staging are easily appreciated. It fosters a sense of shared experience among the audience, making each performance feel more personal and impactful.
Reviewers often highlight the cozy atmosphere of the theatre, which complements the overall indulgent experience of dining and entertainment. It’s this carefully curated environment, where every detail is considered, that contributes to the venue's reputation for delivering high-quality theatrical productions in a uniquely charming setting.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit