Hen Party Ideas & Planning Guide UK 2025

UK hen parties cost an average of £250 per person for local weekends and £750 for European getaways (2025)¹. The maid of honour typically organises the celebration 4-8 weeks before the wedding, with attendees splitting costs including the bride's share. From spa days in Bath to party weekends in Barcelona, modern hen dos balance tradition with personalisation.

What Is a Hen Party?

A hen party is a pre-wedding celebration for the bride organised by her bridesmaids and close friends. The term "hen party" (or "hen do") is uniquely British, distinguishing it from American bachelorette parties and Australian hens' nights. The celebration can range from a single evening out to a multi-day destination weekend, with the bride affectionately called "the hen."

The tradition evolved from Victorian-era tea parties to today's diverse celebrations. Modern hen parties reflect the bride's personality rather than following rigid formulas. Some brides prefer quiet spa retreats, whilst others want adventure activities or nightclub-hopping city breaks.

UK terminology includes "hen do," "hen night," and "hen weekend" depending on duration. The celebration traditionally occurs after the engagement but before the wedding, serving as the bride's final celebration of single life with her closest female friends and family members.

Popular UK Destinations

Liverpool emerged as the top UK hen party destination in 2024, averaging £87 per night for accommodation². Brighton and Edinburgh follow closely, offering distinct vibes that cater to different celebration styles. Destination choice typically depends on budget, group size, and the bride's preferences.

Budget-conscious groups favour Liverpool and Newcastle for affordable nightlife and accommodation. These northern cities combine reasonable costs with vibrant entertainment districts, making them ideal for larger groups. Liverpool's music heritage and Newcastle's legendary nightlife create memorable celebrations without premium pricing.

Southern destinations like Brighton and Bath command premium prices but offer beach access and spa facilities. Brighton's bohemian atmosphere and Bath's Georgian elegance appeal to brides seeking refined celebrations. London provides unmatched variety but requires careful budget planning at £350-500 per person for weekend breaks.

European Getaways

Dublin leads European hen party destinations with flights from £34 return and total costs of £200-400 per person³. Prague and Barcelona follow as perennial favourites, offering affordable luxury compared to UK prices. European getaways typically require 3-4 months advance booking for optimal pricing.

Budget airlines serve major hen party destinations with frequent weekend departures from UK airports. Ryanair and EasyJet dominate routes to Dublin, Prague, and Barcelona, with Friday evening and Sunday return flights specifically timed for weekend breaks. Early booking secures best fares, whilst last-minute bookings can double costs.

Prague and Budapest offer premium experiences at budget prices, whilst Barcelona and Amsterdam command higher costs. Eastern European destinations provide spa facilities, quality dining, and nightlife at 40-50% below Western European prices. This price difference allows budget-conscious groups to afford destination weekends.

Visa requirements, travel insurance, and currency exchange add planning complexity for European trips. UK citizens require valid passports for EU travel post-Brexit. The maid of honour should verify all attendees have current passports at least 3 months before booking to avoid costly cancellations.

Activity Ideas by Category

Afternoon tea costs £15-30 per person, whilst cocktail making classes range from £35-55 including drinks⁴. Activity selection should balance the bride's preferences with budget constraints and group interests. Mixed activity itineraries combining relaxation and entertainment satisfy diverse groups better than single-focus celebrations.

Spa & Wellness (£50-215 per person)

Spa days average £99-215 depending on treatment packages and venue luxury level. Budget spa packages include sauna, pool access, and one treatment, whilst premium packages add multiple treatments, champagne, and gourmet meals. Popular treatments include massages, facials, and manicures timed for pre-wedding pampering.

• Half-day spa package: £50-80 (pool, sauna, one treatment)
• Full-day spa retreat: £99-150 (multiple treatments, lunch)
• Luxury spa weekend: £180-215 (overnight, treatments, meals)
• Mobile spa party: £40-60 (at-home treatments)
• Yoga and wellness retreat: £120-180 (instruction, meals, accommodation)

Adventure & Active (£30-150 per person)

Outdoor activities range from £30 for basic experiences to £150 for premium adventure packages. Adventure activities suit active brides and create bonding through shared challenges. Weather contingency plans are essential for outdoor UK activities.

• Surfing lessons: £40-65 (board hire, instruction)
• Zip-lining or high ropes: £35-60
• Coasteering: £45-75 (wetsuit, guide included)
• Horse riding: £50-90 (2-hour trek)
• Clay pigeon shooting: £80-150 (instruction, equipment)
• Kayaking or paddleboarding: £30-55

Creative & Classes (£25-70 per person)

Creative workshops provide memorable keepsakes whilst accommodating all skill levels. These activities work well for mixed-age groups and create talking points beyond typical party chat. Classes typically include materials and refreshments in pricing.

• Flower crown making: £35-55
• Pottery or ceramics: £40-70
• Life drawing: £25-45 (model, materials, prosecco)
• Perfume blending: £55-85
• Cocktail making: £35-55 (ingredients, shakers)
• Cooking class: £50-90 (ingredients, dinner)

Nightlife & Parties (£40-120 per person)

Bottomless brunch averages £40-60, whilst club entry with drinks packages costs £50-90. Nightlife activities dominate traditional hen parties, though many modern groups combine daytime activities with evening entertainment. VIP packages include queue-skip, reserved seating, and dedicated service.

• Bottomless brunch: £40-60 (2-hour food and drinks)
• Private cocktail bar hire: £400-800 (group of 10-15)
• Club entry with drinks: £50-90
• Drag show or cabaret: £30-65 (ticket, drink)
• Karaoke room hire: £80-150 (group rate)
• Dance class (salsa, burlesque): £25-45

Budget-Friendly Options (£10-35 per person)

Budget activities under £35 per person enable larger groups or multi-activity itineraries. These options suit brides prioritising time together over expensive experiences. Combining budget activities with home accommodation significantly reduces total costs.

• Afternoon tea at home: £10-20 (DIY or caterer)
• Beach day: £0-15 (travel, deckchair hire)
• Picnic in park: £8-15 (prepared food)
• Movie night: £12-18 (cinema or home screening)
• Scavenger hunt: £5-12 (printed materials)
• Games night: £15-35 (drinks, snacks, games)

Budget Breakdown

The average UK hen party costs £250 per person for local weekends and £750 for European destinations (2024-2025)¹. These averages mask significant variation based on destination, duration, and activity selection. Transparent budgeting prevents financial stress and ensures all invited guests can afford attendance.

Group size significantly impacts per-person costs when splitting the bride's expenses. A group of 8 adds £35-80 per person for European weekends, whilst a group of 15 adds only £20-50. Larger groups benefit from economies of scale but complicate logistics and activity coordination.

Hidden costs include pre-departure shopping (£20-50), airport parking (£30-80), and souvenirs (£15-40). The maid of honour should clearly communicate total expected costs including these extras. Creating a shared expense spreadsheet prevents payment confusion and ensures fair cost splitting.

Planning Timeline

Begin hen party planning 3-4 months before the wedding to secure optimal availability and pricing. This timeline allows for destination research, group consultation, and early-bird booking discounts. Shorter timelines work for local events but significantly reduce European destination options.

3-4 Months Before

Consult the bride privately to understand her vision, budget limits, and guest list preferences. Some brides want surprise elements, whilst others prefer full planning involvement. Clarify non-negotiables (activities to avoid, people who must attend) before proceeding.

Create a WhatsApp group excluding the bride if planning surprises, or include her for collaborative planning. Poll attendees on budget tolerance, preferred dates, and destination preferences. Avoid assuming everyone can afford expensive options without checking first.

Research destinations and activities, obtaining quotes for group bookings. Many venues offer group discounts for parties of 8-12. Compare all-inclusive packages against self-planned itineraries to identify best value.

2-3 Months Before

Book accommodation and transport once budget and dates are confirmed with attendees. Secure group bookings for flights, trains, or coaches. For European destinations, book accommodation in central locations near nightlife to minimise taxi costs.

Reserve activity slots, restaurant tables, and any special experiences requiring advance booking. Popular activities like cocktail classes and spa days book up months ahead for weekend slots. Obtain written confirmations for all bookings.

Collect deposits from attendees to secure bookings. Request 30-50% upfront with remainder due 4-6 weeks before the event. Use payment apps like Monzo, Splitwise, or Revolut to simplify collection and tracking.

4-6 Weeks Before

Finalise the itinerary with specific timings, meeting points, and what to bring. Share a detailed schedule including accommodation address, activity addresses with postcodes, emergency contact numbers, and dress codes.

Order decorations, matching accessories, games, and any personalised items. Popular items include matching t-shirts (£8-15 each), sashes (£3-8), L-plates for the bride (£2-5), and photo props (£10-25 for sets).

Collect final payments from all attendees. Chase outstanding balances firmly but diplomatically. Consider whether to absorb small shortfalls or request additional contributions.

1-2 Weeks Before

Confirm all bookings, checking for any last-minute changes or special requirements. Verify dietary restrictions for meals and accessibility needs for all attendees. Confirm final headcounts with venues.

Create an emergency contact list with all attendees' phone numbers. Designate a second-in-command who knows the full itinerary and can step in if the maid of honour faces emergencies.

Pack an emergency kit including paracetamol, plasters, safety pins, phone chargers, and hangover remedies. For overnight trips, add travel-size toiletries, tide pen, and fashion tape.

Day Before & Day Of

Send a reminder message with next-day logistics, weather forecast, and final instructions. Include meeting time and place, what to wear, and what to bring (passports, comfortable shoes, etc.).

On the day, arrive early to handle check-ins, resolve issues, and greet attendees. Stay relatively sober to manage logistics and care for any attendees who overindulge. Take photos throughout to create lasting memories.

Who Pays for the Hen Party

Attendees split all costs equally, with the bride's share divided among the group. This British convention differs from some cultures where the bride pays her own way or one person funds the entire celebration. The maid of honour collects and manages payments, requiring transparency and organisation.

Communicate total estimated costs upfront before sending official invitations. State clearly that attendance implies financial commitment to avoid awkward situations where invitees accept then balk at costs. Provide a detailed breakdown showing exactly what the amount covers.

Adjust plans if key attendees genuinely cannot afford the proposed budget. It's better to modify plans than exclude close friends or create financial hardship. Consider two-tier options: essential attendees do the full weekend, whilst others join for dinner or final night.

Payment Collection Best Practices

Use dedicated money collection apps to track who paid what amounts when. Monzo shared tabs, Splitwise, or Revolut groups provide transparent ledgers visible to all attendees. This prevents "I already paid" confusion and simplifies reconciliation.

Request deposits 2-3 months before to secure bookings, with balance due 4-6 weeks before. Some organisers collect the full amount upfront to avoid chasing payments. Be clear about refund policies if attendees drop out.

Keep detailed receipts for all expenditure, sharing a final reconciliation after the event. Some groups overpay slightly to create a buffer for unexpected costs. Refund small surpluses (over £20 per person) but consider absorbing minor overages rather than requesting £3.50 top-ups.

Handling Budget Constraints

Prioritise activities and accommodations the bride values most, making other elements more budget-friendly. A bride who loves spas might prefer a budget hotel with a luxury spa day rather than premium accommodation and basic activities.

Offer payment plan options for attendees who need to spread costs. University friends or younger bridesmaids may need 3-4 months to save. Sensitivity to financial situations strengthens friendships rather than creating resentment.

Consider alternatives if multiple attendees cite budget concerns. Switch from abroad to UK, weekend to single night, or luxury to budget accommodation. The celebration's spirit matters more than expensive backdrops.

Hen Party Traditions

Traditional British hen party symbols include L-plates, veils, and sashes identifying the bride. These originated in the 1960s-70s when hen parties emerged as counterparts to stag dos. Modern celebrations adapt traditions to suit the bride's personality, with some embracing kitsch whilst others skip traditional elements entirely.

Classic Elements

L-plates symbolise the bride as a "learner" at marriage, a humorous tradition from 1970s hen parties. The large red-and-white plates attach to the bride's outfit, making her instantly recognisable. Some groups use personalised versions replacing "L" with the bride's name or wedding date.

Matching t-shirts or accessories create group identity and facilitate recognition in busy venues. Typical designs include "Bride Tribe," "Team Bride," or personalised names. Cost-effective options include custom temporary tattoos (£0.50-1 each) or badges (£1-2 each) instead of full t-shirts.

Photo props and games encourage interaction and create shareable social media moments. Popular props include oversized sunglasses, moustaches, speech bubbles, and inflatable items. Brides who dislike attention may prefer subtle matching accessories over obvious hen party branding.

Popular Games

"Mr & Mrs" quiz tests how well the bride knows her partner, creating humorous moments. The maid of honour secretly collects the groom's answers beforehand, then quizzes the bride publicly. Incorrect answers trigger fun forfeits like drinking, dancing, or silly challenges.

Scavenger hunts send groups around the destination completing bride-related challenges. Tasks might include "find someone named [groom's name]," "get a free drink," or "take a photo with someone dressed as a bride." Points determine the winner, with prizes for top performers.

Truth or dare adapted for hen parties includes wedding-themed questions and challenges. This works well during downtime at accommodations or between activities. Keep challenges fun rather than embarrassing to avoid discomfort.

Modern Twists

Contemporary hen parties increasingly skip traditional games in favour of meaningful experiences. Brides aged 30+ particularly favour sophisticated celebrations over games perceived as juvenile or embarrassing. A luxury dinner followed by cocktails may replace scavenger hunts and dares.

Personalised gifts replace generic hen party tat, with attendees receiving useful keepsakes. Instead of plastic tiaras, consider silk robes (£15-30), personalised candles (£8-15), or custom tote bags (£6-12). These items serve purposes beyond the single event.

Photo books or video messages from guests create lasting mementoes. Some groups hire photographers (£200-400) for professional shots, whilst others designate one person to capture candid moments. Creating a shared photo album allows all attendees to contribute memories.

Modern Alternatives

One in three UK brides now opts for low-key celebrations instead of traditional raucous parties (2024)⁵. Modern alternatives reflect changing attitudes about wedding celebrations, with emphasis on quality time over quantity of alcohol. These alternatives particularly appeal to introverted brides, older brides, or those uncomfortable with traditional hen party elements.

Wellness Retreats

Yoga and meditation weekends replace nightclub-hopping for health-conscious brides. These typically cost £180-350 per person for accommodation, classes, and healthy meals. Locations include countryside retreats, coastal venues, or dedicated wellness centres.

Wild swimming, hiking, and outdoor activities suit adventurous groups. Lake District, Scottish Highlands, or Pembrokeshire Coast locations offer stunning backdrops for active celebrations. Budget-friendly camping options (£30-60 per person) create affordable alternatives.

Cultural Experiences

Theatre trips, museum visits, and culinary tours provide sophisticated celebrations. London's West End, Edinburgh Festival, or Stratford-upon-Avon offer culture-focused weekends. These suit brides who prefer intellectual stimulation over traditional partying.

Vineyard tours in English wine regions combine tastings with countryside scenery. Sussex, Kent, and Hampshire vineyards offer tours (£25-45) with multi-course lunches (£35-65). Some include overnight accommodation in vineyard guesthouses.

Intimate Gatherings

Small dinner parties for 4-8 closest friends offer meaningful alternatives to large groups. Private chef experiences (£50-90 per person) or high-end restaurant bookings create special evenings without overwhelming logistics. These work well when friendship groups span different life stages.

Afternoon tea at luxury hotels provides elegant, non-alcoholic celebration options. Classic venues like The Ritz (£75-95), Claridge's (£75-85), or regional luxury hotels offer refined experiences. Some brides prefer this for older relatives or pregnant friends.

At-Home Celebrations

Home-hosted parties eliminate accommodation costs whilst providing intimate settings. Hire mobile services like cocktail bartenders (£200-400), private chefs (£400-800), or beauty therapists (£40-60 per person) to create spa experiences at someone's home.

Garden parties suit summer weddings, with outdoor games, barbecues, and relaxed atmospheres. Hire marquees (£300-800) for weather protection. These allow flexible timings and suit brides wanting partners and children present.

Tips for the Organiser

The maid of honour should start planning 3-4 months before with a private conversation with the bride. This foundational discussion prevents misalignment between expectations and reality. Ask directly about budget limits, guest list must-haves, and activities to avoid.

Communication Strategies

Create separate WhatsApp groups: one with the bride (collaborative planning) and one without (surprises). Clearly label groups to avoid accidentally sharing surprise details. Use polls for decision-making to ensure majority preference drives plans.

Set clear RSVP deadlines, with consequences for late responses. State "RSVPs needed by [date] to secure bookings. After this date, we cannot guarantee availability or pricing." This creates urgency without seeming aggressive.

Manage expectations around budget transparency and payment schedules. Some groups share detailed expense spreadsheets, whilst others prefer the organiser to handle finances privately. Determine the bride's preference early.

Logistics Management

Book accommodation with flexible cancellation policies where possible. This protects against dropouts or emergencies. Group bookings often require 20-30% non-refundable deposits, so factor this into payment collection timing.

Create detailed itineraries with backup plans for weather-dependent activities. Share postcodes for all venues, not just names. Include estimated travel times between locations to prevent schedule overruns.

Designate a second-in-command who can step in if the organiser faces emergencies. Share all booking confirmations, the full itinerary, and payment tracking with this person. This prevents catastrophic failures if the organiser becomes ill.

Dealing With Difficult Situations

Address budget complaints privately and individually rather than in group chats. Some attendees may feel embarrassed admitting financial constraints publicly. Offer payment plans or alternative participation options discreetly.

Manage personality conflicts by assigning different accommodation rooms or activity groups. If two attendees have history, prevent forced proximity. The bride's celebration shouldn't become relationship counselling.

Handle drunk attendees discreetly, removing them from public situations before incidents occur. Designate a sober person to walk someone back to accommodation. Prevention beats dealing with messy consequences.

Self-Care for Organisers

Delegate tasks to willing bridesmaids rather than managing everything alone. Assign specific responsibilities: one person handles decorations, another manages games, a third coordinates transport. This prevents organiser burnout.

Set a personal budget for organising costs separate from attendance costs. Decorations, emergency supplies, and unexpected expenses add £40-80. Some groups reimburse organisers for these extras, whilst others consider it part of the role.

Remember to enjoy the celebration rather than obsessing over logistics. Once the event begins, minor hiccups rarely matter. The bride will remember laughs and bonding, not whether the coach arrived 10 minutes late.

Sources and References