Whether you’re looking for a boozy bash, a classy affair or a unique adventure, it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily we’ve rounded up some of our favourite hen do ideas to help inspire you.
Relax with a spa day
Listen, wedding planning can be a lot and brides may simply need some time to unwind with her gal pals. After all, hen party ideas don’t get much better than preparing for the upcoming nuptials with a nice revitalising facial, deep tissue massage and glass of Champagne. There are hundreds of spas across the UK, with prices to suit every budget.
Revitalise Pamper Day with Treatment for Two with Virgin Active Health Clubs
Revive your body and mind with a pamper day for two at a Virgin Active Health Club. You’ll choose from six locations across the UK, with full access to the facilities including a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym.
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Indulge in afternoon tea
Luxurious surroundings, decadent bites and a glass of bubbly or unlimited tea - it’s hardly surprising that afternoon tea has been topping the ranks of hen ideas for decades. The timeless British dining tradition has taken multiple variations across the years, from cream to Champagne to vegan and beyond, meaning the bride has total freedom to tailor the tea to her preferences.
Afternoon Tea for Two at The Harrods Tea Rooms
To enjoy afternoon tea at Harrods is to experience an unforgettable level of luxury and attention to detail. A treat that channels the glamour of 1920’s and 1930’s high society to spectacular effect, it’s no coincidence that Harrods continues to reign supreme amongst London’s afternoon tea scene.
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Trampoline in a cave
Marriage might be for adults, but some brides never want to grow up and that’s where Zipworld’s Bounce Below comes in as one of the most unique hen do ideas around. Hidden in a former Victorian mine, trampolining is taken to a whole new level with six levels of trampoline like nets, slides and more.
Bounce Below
Take several giant trampoline-like nets, surround them with some protective netting, tunnels and slides, then put it all in a cavern deep beneath the ground. It’s cave diving mixed with bouncing around, and you can enjoy it all with this Bounce Below experience for one.
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Go kayaking
Throw away tradition and redefine hen party activities by going kayaking. A brilliant choice for one last hurrah, kayaking involves glorious scenery, a bit of light exercise and the chance to explore areas that can only be reached by boat. Perfect for ladies who’d rather be above the waves than in them, professional instructors can offer a fun introduction to this vastly growing popular sport.
Go on a getaway
For the ultimate hen weekend ideas, you’ll want to pack your passport, grab a bikini and gather your nearest and dearest ready to fly out on an adventure. Whether you’re after a city break with a spot of sightseeing or a beach getaway where you can just unwind and let Vitamin D work its magic on your skin, you can’t go wrong with a girls’ weekend away.
Sweeten the party with a chocolate masterclass
If you like hen do ideas with a sweet twist, a chocolate masterclass is sure to hit the spot. Classy, sophisticated and great fun, chocolate making hen parties are sure to be memorable. Expert chocolatiers will engage you with the magical backstory of cocoa, before you get the opportunity to taste signature chocolate and discover the science behind creating the perfect bar.
Original Chocolate Making Workshop for Two with My Chocolate
Cut, dip and decorate your own chocolate creations with this Original Chocolate Making Workshop, in London, Brighton or Manchester. Together you’ll learn new chocolate crafting skills and gain knowledge which you can later use to impress your friends and family at home.
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Tour a vineyard
Anything involving wine gets our vote when it comes to hen activities and the best way to step up wine tasting is by visiting a vineyard. The good news is that the UK is home to a vast array of award-winning vineyards, run by passionate teams of Sommeliers who love nothing more than sharing their knowledge of the popular tipple.
Winery and Brewery Tour for Two with Tastings
Discover how wine, ale and liqueurs are made with this fantastic Winery and Brewery Tour for Two. Surrounded by stunning Oxfordshire countryside, you’ll take a behind-the-scenes tour with a knowledgeable guide to learn the ins and outs of grape pressing, fermentation, bottling and labelling.
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Try an escape room
Looking for out-of-the-box hen do activities? The solution is simple: escape rooms. They’ve taken the world by storm and rightfully so. Offering a unique challenge to hens, work together to solve puzzles and unravel the mysteries hidden within the scenario, which can range from saving humanity from obliteration to solving criminal cases. With an hour in the room, it’s a great test to see if your girl gang can handle the stress before the big day is looming.
Experience virtual reality
Embrace your inner technophile and give your hen do an edge by taking the group out on a VR adventure they won’t be able to stop talking about. Housing some of Europe’s biggest VR centres, each person in the party will have the chance to experience a state-of-the-art virtual reality simulator and play a variety of mind-bending games. No prior experience is needed, simply turn up ready to have your world turned upside down.
Embark to cocktail glory
Shake, muddle and stir your way to the perfect hen party with a cocktail-making class, led by expert mixologists. An easy activity that everyone can enjoy, let the hens mingle while they learn how to create some of their favourite cocktails and pick up insider tricks of the trade. Alternatively, cocktail-making can be a fun addition to a hen do at home - each attendee can make their own concoction to bring to the party and wow everyone with.
Go to the races
A day at the races conjures up images of Champagne, glamorous ladies dressed to the nines, excitement and a general day of frivolity - essentially everything a hen party should be. Whether you bet on the horses, enjoy the wining and dining or make the most of the opportunity to dress up, a day at the races is sure to be thrilling and help add an element of class to the hen do.
Have a movie night
Does the leading lady love the cinema? How about a private screening of her favourite movie, accompanied of course by all the best snacks. There’s plenty of venues across the UK who regularly host themed movie nights. Encourage everyone to put on their glad rags and spend the night immersed in the magic of cinema. Perfect for a more laid-back but equally enjoyable hen do.
Cooking class
Perfect for the foodie bride and her gang. A cooking class is one of the tastiest hen do activities possible. Professional chefs will teach you to whip up a storm in the kitchen before it’s time to tuck into your finished creations. Whether you have a particular cuisine in mind or just want to spend some time brushing up on your cooking skills, it makes for a great culinary experience.
Go Ape
Perfect for brides after more unique hen party ideas, Go Ape offers the ideal sky-high send-off. A brilliant bonding activity, get your adrenaline pumping flying down ziplines, tackling high-rope courses, leaping off Tarzan swings and more. There are over 35 cherry-picked locations across the UK, including some of the country’s most spectacular forests meaning there’s plenty of venues ready to host your action-packed day.
Glamping
Glamping offers all the fun of camping and being at one with nature, but with a bit of luxurious home comforts to make the whole experience a lot smoother - which is why it’s one of the most ideal hen weekend ideas. Sleep under the stars in a family-size tent, shepherd hut or even a Mongolian yurt - it’s entirely up to you. Every part of the country has its own little hidden gem, the hardest part is deciding where to go.
Two Night Devon Yurt Break for Six
Camp with a difference in a self-catering Hems Yurt for six people. Staying in a yurt is a memorable glamping experience, with full sized beds and a wood burning stove so you can relax in style. The yurt is authentic Mongolian and is furnished for your comfort.
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Hot tub bash
A trend that’s been sweeping the nation when it comes to any occasion to celebrate is hot tub parties. Mark the upcoming wedding in style by bobbing down the Thames in a hot tub. Bring plenty of booze, hire an ice bucket to keep your drinks cool and you’ve got everything you need for a great day.
Cheese tasting
If the way to the bride’s heart is cheese, she’ll be delighted for her hen do to involve plenty of it. Treat the taste buds to a tantalising selection of cheeses as cheese experts reveal all there is to know about each variation, and make recommendations depending on what you like.
Food tour
More unique hen party ideas for the foodie bride, food tours will not only unearth your chosen location’s culinary delights but it can also be tailored to the bride’s personal preferences. The UK is brimming with all kinds of varieties from Indian-inspired to French and beyond, but we’re particular fans of Harrogate’s Secret Food tour.
Axe Throwing
Whether your bride has some pent-up emotions to release before the big day or just likes activities with an element of danger, axe throwing is the epitome of unique hen party ideas. Learn how to sling axes with the experts, before enjoying a bit of friendly competition with a tournament to hit targets.
Get creative with an art class
Roll up your sleeves, grab your art supplies and get ready for the most creative hen do idea around. Don berets, white aprons and paintbrushes and get ready for an art class full of brush strokes, giggles, games and more.
Go bowling
When it comes to hen night ideas, sometimes the classic choices really are the best. A hub of stylish retro themed fun, bowling alleys encompass friendly competition, plenty of tasty snacks and drinks.
Dinner with a view
Make the most of the occasion by treating your bride-to-be to a special dinner out at one of London’s iconic landmarks like Fenchurch at Sky Garden. Not only will you be able to enjoy phenomenal food but you’ll get to soak up spectacular views across the city while you eat.
White water rafting
In case you hadn’t guessed, we’re all about unique hen party ideas and this next suggestion is no different. If your bride’s a thrill-seeker, get fast and furious with a white water rafting hen party. With a vast array of white water rafting packages available up and down the country, you’ll be truly spoilt for choice when it comes to where to host the hen do.
Get the party started with bottomless brunch
A dining trend that’s taken over the UK, bottomless brunch is a fun way to get the hen party started nice and early. Take your pick from a range of themed brunches such as ABBA, Beyoncé and 90s throwback or why not book a brunch with a show? From circus performances to drag and cabaret productions, there’s plenty of entertainment on offer.
Sing your heart out at karaoke
It’s a hen party classic for a reason - who doesn’t love singing their heart out? A great way to send her into married life, grab a private booth, plenty of drinks to get the vocal cords warmed up and the rest is history.
Immerse yourselves in the glittering West End
Theatre buff brides will love nothing more than the excuse to catch a West End show with their gang. With the majority of theatres returning to a full programme of show performances, there are some unforgettable productions for you all to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the great deals combining theatre tickets with an afternoon tea or dinner!
Go on a yoga retreat
If there’s ever a good time to reconnect with your mind, body and soul through yoga, it’s right before a wedding. The ideal way to decompress in the run up to the big day, rent out an idyllic country house and hire an instructor or go for a pre-packaged deal which may include yoga and a whole host of other meditative practices.
Pizza making party
Hen night ideas don’t get much tastier than a pizza making party. Feel like authentic Italian chefs as you learn the secrets and techniques behind making great pizza. Following live demonstrations from the experts, get hands-on creating your own pizza, adding whatever toppings your heart desires. There’s also sure to be plenty of fun games and drinks to toast with while you wait for your pizza to cook.
City helicopter tour
Take your hen party to new heights with an unforgettable helicopter tour. Guaranteed to be an unforgettable send-off into married life, get ready for the ride of a lifetime donning headsets and getting a unique bird’s eye view of the world below.
Climb the O2
Continuing on with the idea of taking hen parties to new heights, up the ante by getting everyone together to celebrate by climbing one of the capital’s iconic landmarks, the O2. Reaching a height of 52 metres above the ground and with a reward of incredible views at the top, it’s sure to be an unforgettable send-off for the bride.
Pottery Painting
Ideal for any crafty bride, pottery painting is proving to be one of the most popular hen party ideas. Collaborate as a group on a tea party set for the happy couple, individually paint your own ceramic creation or personalise a plate that can serve as the perfect memento of the hen do.
Level up your cocktail game
Don’t just head to a normal cocktail bar, a hen party calls for something unique, like Alcotraz, a secret speakeasy prison-style bar. Accompanied by your gang of partners in crime, you’ll all don orange jumpsuits as you head for life behind bars. Smuggle in liquor past the guards for the “prison inmates” to turn into delicious cocktails.
Add some speed to the occasion
If it’s fast and furious hen party ideas you’re after then look no further than an exhilarating jet boat ride. Hold on to your hats as you’re whisked down the Thames, cruising past some of the capital’s most iconic attractions, reaching speeds of up to 30 knots.
Treasure hunt
A treasure hunt doesn’t sound like the most obvious of hen party activities but it’s actually a super entertaining adventure that everyone can enjoy. Whether you plan your own and make the points to visit notable places in the happy couple’s story or explore a new city together with a pre-made one, it’s a great way to spend time together.
Get ready, set, bake!
If your bride is known for her love of baking, a cupcake decorating party is sure to go down a treat. Discover the art of cake decorating, master icing techniques and let your imaginations run wild with a vast array of sprinkles, glitter, different coloured icings and fabulous decorations at your disposal.
Cat cafe
You don’t have to reinvent the wheel when it comes to unique hen do ideas. Instead take traditional ideas like an afternoon tea and give it a fun twist. Animal lovers will relish the opportunity to have afternoon tea surrounded by lots of furry cat friends. There’s a vast array of cafes across the country who offer such an experience and it’s sure to be the perfect hen party for any cat lover.
Harry Potter
If the bride’s a Potterhead, there’s surely nowhere else she’d rather spend her hen do that immersing herself in all things Harry Potter. See the actual props, costumes and effects from the Harry Potter film series and of course treat yourselves to some butter beer.
Comedy night
One of the most hilarious hen night ideas ever - bring everyone together for a night of laughs ahead of the upcoming nuptials. Witness some of the UK’s finest comedians work their magic on stage and enjoy sets from up-and-coming comedians.
Treat your nails
Any hen do activities that help take the stress away from the big day are always a good idea. That’s where Hunky Dory serves as the perfect venue for the hen party. Far more than your run-of-the-mill nail bar, Hunky Dory ensures your nails are pampered to perfection whilst you sip on a drink from the extensive menu and gossip away.
Don’t talk about the Flight Club
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: nothing bonds hens quite like a bit of healthy competition. Heading to one of four (and counting) London Flight Club venues, a myriad of dart activities awaits. There’s even some event packages ready and waiting, taking all the stress out of hen party planning.
Augmented Reality Outdoor Escape Game
A game-changing achievement in the escape room world, this adventure is the epitome of unique hen do ideas. Combining the latest augmented reality and GPS technology, hens will journey across London, undertaking a range of tasks and games using an iPad and battle pack full of gadgets.
Play ping pong
The home of Ping Pong, Europe's largest purpose-built social ping pong club Bounce is a popular choice for hen ideas. Each of the two venues has a quirky characteristic - the 1820s gin palace of Farringdon and the private playroom at Old Street. Visitors can enjoy an array of pastimes including old-school ping pong, wonderball, beer pong, shuffleboard and more.
Alice in Puzzleland Escape Room
When you think of hen party activities, you probably wouldn’t instinctively think of escape rooms. But there’s so much more to it than just finding a key - it takes teamwork, courage and speed to beat the clock. This Alice in Wonderland themed escape room will see players solve mind-bending puzzles in just 60 minutes to save the Mad Hatter.
TOCA Social
Regardless of football interest, the TOCA Social is the perfect venue to host a one-of-a-kind hen party, able to cater events for all sizes, abilities and tastes. Located just inside the O2, the world’s first interactive football and dining experience features seven playing boxes in addition to premium food and beverages.
Outdoor Escape Game In Edinburgh for Two
Perfect for bolstering a hen weekend ideas itinerary, this puzzle-filled tour will see the group decipher riddles and solve clues interwoven into Edinburgh itself. Along the way, meet zany characters, discover outlandish facts and of course, stop for some respite at one of the city’s many independent pubs and cafés.
The Big London or Birmingham Bake
The Big London Bake or Big Birmingham Bake have all the ingredients you need for delectable hen party activities. There are 12 baking stations in the marquee and just 90 minutes to whisk, roll and drizzle your way towards a winning bake.
Sherlock: The Official Adventure Game for Four Adults
If the bride’s a fan of one of the world’s favourite detectives, hen do ideas don’t get much better than involving the escapades of the man himself. Stepping into the shoes of the greatest detective, it’s down to you to solve mind-bending puzzles using content from Sherlock cast members.
Have a board game night
Sometimes the obvious choices really are the best. Keep things simple and host a hen party board game night at home. You can go for the classics like Cluedo or Monopoly or alternatively keep things themed with games like Mr & Mrs and Hen Charades.
Glow UV Urban Axe Throwing at Game of Throwing
For unique hen do ideas, make a beeline for London’s Game of Throwing. In an exclusive private lane, expert axe masters will offer training before it’s down to the group to sink steel across a variety of mini games and ultimately, a tournament to crown a champion.
Watch a sports game
Stags don't have to have all the fun when it comes to sporting events. If the leading lady is a die-hard football, rugby or even cricket fan, why not incorporate it into the evening? Gather your teammates and head to a stadium for a game. You can even make a day of it and follow it with a tasty dinner or drinks nearby.
Indoor Skydiving
This might not be your first hen do idea but it's certainly a way to send the bride off in style: indoor skydiving. Imagine a wind tunnel, turned upright, so that the air travels upwards. Now imagine being caught in that powerful updraft. The closest sensation to skydiving without actually jumping out of the plane, this introduction offers each participant two flights in a completely safe indoor environment.
Tomb Raider: The LIVE Experience
Whether the bride's a hardcore gamer or just after a hen party with a difference, Camden’s Tomb Raider promises to be an extraordinary day out. The bride tribe will work through puzzles, climb through the Costa Rican jungle and more, whilst live actors bring the renowned franchise to life.
Super Bario
Indoor gaming fun has levelled up thanks to Glasgow’s Super Bario bar. Pints and pinball, cocktails and Crazy Taxis have made this bar one of the Scottish city’s absolute favourites. It’s a veritable treasure trove of classic games, making for a hen party to remember.
The Ultimate Hen Do with Champagne Picnic Hamper and Retro Bike Hire
The ultimate send-off, this hen do idea features an entourage of brightly coloured bicycles accessorised with 'Team Bride' balloons. Each of you can pedal along and there's a locally-sourced seasonal Champagne afternoon tea picnic hamper to keep the party going.
Unlimited Sushi at inamo
Here at Virgin Experience Days, we’re firm believers that the best hen parties involve food. This one's all about eating as much sushi as possible in 1 hour 30 minutes. Not to mention, inamo’s world-first interactive tables are worth a visit, featuring a selection of games including virtual air hockey, puzzle race and beyond.
Go to a funfair
Just because she’s about to head down the aisle, doesn’t mean she can’t indulge her inner child every once in a while. From face painting to spinning teacups to candy floss, there’s something for every member of the hen party to enjoy. With game stalls too, make things interesting and see who can win a prize first (or at all).
Go Karting
Nothing says you’ve got out-of-the-box hen do ideas down-pat like go karting. And go karting is the perfect adventure to get competitive in - the UK’s home to some of the best tracks in the world including Three Sisters. Crush lap times, channel your inner racers and document the day with photo opportunities galore.
Go Karting for Two
Enjoy a ride to remember with this exciting go karting experience for two. You and a friend will have a blast racing around a purpose-built track in a couple of small but powerful go karts. These karts pack some punch, so give it all you’ve got as you hurtle your way up to the chicane then whizz your way around corners at controlled speeds.
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Pickering's Gin Peacocktail Tour at Summerhall Distillery
If the bride's something of a gin connoisseur, she'll thrive from spending her hen party at Summerhall Distillery. Situated in Edinburgh, she'll fall in love (again) with the small-batch distillery, discovering how Pickering’s gin is made and the original recipe. It wouldn't be a hen party without plenty of G&Ts and bespoke cocktails, too.
Dance Class
For girls who want to practice their moves before the big day, a fun dance class might be just the solution. There's an array of themes to choose, from hip-hop to ballroom and not to mention, a whole host of therapeutic benefits that might help the bride release any angst in the lead-up to the big day.
An Abseil and Slide Experience at the ArcelorMittal Orbit
Thrill-seeking hens will delight at the prospect of this abseiling and slide experience. Heading to London's Wembley Park, the ArcelorMittal Orbit boasts incredible views of the capital's skyline and a 40-second slide. Oh and not to mention, the heart-stopping abseiling descent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you make a hen do special?
Whether you're the bride yourself or the maid of honour, it's understandable you want to ensure the hen do is special. The easiest way of doing this is ensuring the lady of the hour is doing something she loves surrounded by her closest friends and family. Of course adding fun additions like costume is a simple way to make the hen do activity different.
How do you make a classy hen do?
Hen parties have come a long way from the L plates and tacky bunting. First things first, if you want to keep the hen party classy, it's important to choose the hen party activity wisely. Popular choices for classier events would be afternoon teas or Champagne brunches on a steam train.
Who pays for the hen on her hen do?
While there's no rule set in stone, typically the bridesmaids or the bride's family will pay for any activities during the hen party.
Are hen dos supposed to be a surprise?
With the majority of hen nights, the bride is usually consulted to ensure the activity is something she wants to do and also to allow her the freedom to choose when she wants the party to be thrown. With that being said, bridesmaids can throw a surprise hen party, depending on the bride's personality.
What should I bring to a hen party?
This greatly depends on the hen party activities. Again there's no set rule but many women opt to bring the bride a gift, a drink or something she can use for the big day.
Is it OK to wear white to a hens party?
In many places, it's customary for the bride to wear white and therefore it should be avoided at all costs unless the bride has specified otherwise.
When should you start planning a hen do?
There's no real rule when the planning should begin and it's definitely an antiquated idea that the hen party must be the night before the big day. Nowadays, hen parties are planned about a month or so out from the big day to avoid any last-minute stresses.
Summary
Still not found the perfect hen do idea? No worries! Check out our extensive range of hen do experiences, guaranteed to help you throw a hen do with a difference.
