So, your wedding planning is sorted, and the big day is fast approaching. After a no-doubt stressful period, you deserve nothing more than to let loose with your besties.
While taking the party scene by storm during a European city break is becoming more popular than ever for couples planning their hen and stag party, there are so many pros to having your hen party in the UK.
For one, it’ll likely open up your desired guestlist with everyone being able to attend - whether due to costs or convenience - and for those not set on what you want to do yet too - the UK has a wealth of diverse options for every kind of bride and her hens.
From some much-needed R&R at a spa break with your best girls (wedding planning is exhausting, tell us about it) to a fun and boozy activity in the capital. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite hen party destinations in the UK.
For many of us, when you think of a hen party, what comes to mind is a big night out on the town (and a guaranteed headache the next day), but that’s not for everyone. Although by the time your hen party comes around, most of the wedding planning would be done (hopefully anyway…), you still have your special day to come, and what better way to prepare than a complete pamper?
Donnington Valley is a luxury privately owned hotel, complete with a serene spa, scenic 18-hole golf course and award-winning restaurant. Spa treatments range from a rejuvenating facial to a melt-worthy full-body massage - perfect for treating yourself! With an 18m swimming pool, steam room, sauna, aroma room, monsoon shower and sun terrace on offer too - wedding planning stress who?
If the spa is a bit too lowkey for your liking, but you’re still up for a luxurious pamper session - why not head to Beauty Club London? Beauty Club London is a one-stop shop for all your beauty needs. Whether you’re after a bouncy blow dry, quality hair extensions, colour for summer or a fresh mani, you can get it all done here by a team of experienced stylists.
Better yet. Ever wanted to get your beauty treatments in, all while sipping on a delicious cocktail? Well, at Beauty Club London, that’s exactly what you’ll get. Sitting in the heart of central London, head to the salon for pre-drinks and pampering before your big night out hen-style in the city. We’re sure the tasty cocktails, lively music and glittering disco ball will get you in the mood.
Fancy something different for your pre-wedding celebrations? You’re in luck. While spas and pamper eves are timeless, and we’ll never get enough of them (if we’re being honest), your hen party is also the perfect time to really push the boat out (wink wink) and treat your hens to a brand-new experience they’ll remember forever.
Enter sauna boats and floating hot tubs! While we haven’t strayed too far from the inherent relaxation attached to soaking in a tub of cosily warm water, why not mix the party you’re after with everything you know and love about a spa experience? Whatever the weather, the toasty 38°C water ensures you’ll have a perfect experience in all weather - necessary for the unpredictable nature of UK weather. Whether you want to cruise along the Thames enjoying a glass of bubbly (or two) or even have a BBQ on the river for summer-bound brides - this promises to be a fabulously unique experience.
If, for you, hen parties done right are synonymous with getting slightly more than tipsy, then there are so many creative hen-party-approved activities that beat a simple night out. In an era where bottomless brunch reigns supreme, it's time to think outside the boat and explore some creative hen party activities for a guaranteed good time with your bridal party by your side. While not a destination as such, this Tipsy Cocktail Class is perfect as it comes to you!
Invite and host up to 50 guests from anywhere in the UK and get the ultimate cocktail-making lesson under the guidance of an expert mixologist. You get to make a generous four cocktails each, with a tasty selection to choose from, and the experience includes a range of fun drinking games, too.
So, whether the hen party destination is your home, turned party palace, or a rented venue booked especially (like a staycation country house) - let the boozy fun come to you!
Hen parties can have a wholesome side, too! If your idea of a perfect Tuesday night usually sees you on the sofa at 8pm sharp, then The Big Bakes experience is an ideal hen party destination. Picture yourself vying for one of the infamous Paul Hollywood handshakes, showcasing your baking prowess in the ultimate test of culinary skill.
Step into the iconic tent and channel your inner star baker alongside expert patisserie chefs, all while immersed in the look and feel of a real-life Bake Off challenge. With space for up to 24 hens, you and your squad can team up to indulge in some friendly competition. For an extra fun touch, select venues offer the option to enjoy drinks before, during, and after your baking session, but remember to keep your focus - nobody wants to finish last.
Curious about what delectable delights await you? Keep an eye on The Big Bakes website and social media channels for updates on the monthly theme. Whether you've got a knack for cakes, biscuits or bread, the theme could very well dictate when you choose to host your hen party extravaganza.
Staycations for a hen do’s are a classic concept - gather your entire bridal party for a weekend of bubbles, pampering, fun activities and real quality time. Why have a hen night when you can organise an overnight stay or even a luxurious weekend break? Whether your vibe is country house-esque or you prefer something more modern, we know you’ll fall in love with the Middleton Lodge Estate.
This 200-acre privately owned estate near Richmond in North Yorkshire is just the hen party destination you need for a perfect countryside getaway. Whether you want to live it up in one of 30 hotel rooms or prefer your own self-catered cottage to ensure all your besties are in one place - there’s something to suit everyone.
Better yet, don’t forget to browse their available events on the website for all the hen entertainment you need in one place. From visits to the spa (obviously) to a BBQ masterclass workshop or the outdoor theatre - Middleton Lodge Estate is perfect for brides who want a good mix of relaxation and fun.
Okay, since we’ve covered the best hen party destinations for brides in desperate need of some R&R - what about the brides who are up for a really good time? If you’re just as obsessed with Mamma Mia and Abba as we are - what better place to head than Mamma Mia! The Party?
Complete with live music, an authentic Greek taverna for delicious Mediterranean food, and a showstopping performance - what's not to love? Better yet, you can end the night with a fabulous party, where you can get up and dance under the glistening disco ball! A night full of fun if you ask us.
So, for those looking for a hen party destination where you can dance, dine and have the time of your life - you’re in the right place!
For those currently searching for an ultra-fun hen party destination, there are so many amazing things you can get up to right on your doorstep in the UK! While hen party destinations abroad are always a hoot, don’t dismiss what the UK has to offer, too. Whether you’re after something relaxed like a spa retreat or something boozy like a cocktail-making class - we hope our favourite ideas have inspired a do your besties will love!
To get the party going on your big night, don't forget to download our ultimate hen party playlist on Spotify, browse more hen party activity ideas, or, if you're yet to pop the question to your bridesmaids-to-be, discover our favourite bridesmaid proposal gifts.