When it comes to planning a hen party, many of us default to the classic formula: cocktails, dinner, and dancing. But what if that’s not quite right for every bride? We’ve previously explored ideas for abroad hen parties, booze-free celebrations, and even opting out altogether. Today, we’re shaking things up with our top 14 unconventional alternative hen party activities. These offbeat yet cool ideas will likely be new experiences for your hen and her guests.
If you think your bride is the type to appreciate something a little unexpected, then look no further – all the inspiration you need awaits below.
Alternative Hen Party Ideas
Host a Picnic or Beach Party
While planning an outdoor hen party in a cool climate can be a calculated risk, the potential rewards are well worth the gamble. The freedom to let your imagination run wild with décor, food, and drinks is unparalleled, and the stunning surroundings will undoubtedly contribute to the desired atmosphere. However, it’s essential to have a solid backup plan in place, as the weather can quickly turn.
To mitigate this risk, secure a nearby location that aligns with your theme, whether it’s a bridal party member’s home, rental apartment, or event space. For inspiration, draw from the work of Fashion Editor turned Event Stylist Grace Cahill, who offers expert design guidance through her platform Styled With Grace. Additionally, consider incorporating unique entertainment options like Bam Karaoke Box to keep the celebration lively.
Enjoy a Once-in-a-Lifetime Meal
When it comes to planning a hen party, the meal aspect often takes center stage. While traditional sit-down dinners are still popular, modern celebrations are increasingly centered around unique culinary experiences. Consider treating the bride and her squad to a high-end dining experience in their hometown – not only is this a cost-effective option but also a great way to enjoy a leisurely lunch without breaking the bank.
Alternatively, you could opt for a trendy pop-up eatery, book a food tour that’s sure to delight, or reserve a private dining room at a favorite restaurant. For an added twist, use the hen party as an excuse to take the bride on a culinary adventure she’s always dreamed of – with affordable options available in destinations like San Sebastian and Berlin, the possibilities are endless.
Head to a Music Festival
A hen party at a festival is an unforgettable experience that requires meticulous planning. Securing tickets can be a challenge, as they often sell out up to a year in advance. However, once you arrive on site, the entertainment takes care of itself. In our opinion, smaller festivals are ideal for hen parties, offering a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Some of Ireland’s best options include Beyond the Pale in Co. Wicklow, All Together Now in Co. Waterford, Another Love Story in Co.
Meath, Body and Soul in Co. Meath, and Sea Sessions in Co. Donegal. In the UK, we recommend The Great Escape, Green Man, Wilderness, End of the Road, and How the Light Gets In. For a unique and memorable experience, consider hosting your hen party at Roundwood House.
Rent a Luxurious Country House
A luxurious countryside retreat offers the ultimate relaxation experience for discerning hens. Imagine spending quality time in a sophisticated manor, surrounded by opulent surroundings and indulging in gourmet cuisine, lively conversations by the fire, leisurely strolls through the countryside, and perhaps even engaging in outdoor activities. This type of getaway is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Our favorite aspect of a country house retreat is that it simplifies the planning process if you choose the right location. We highly recommend Roundwood House in Co. Laois, Ireland, but we’ve also curated a list of chic country house rentals and hen party locations for those looking to plan their own getaway.
Pay Homage to a Beloved TV Show or Film
While bachelorette parties often conjure up images of wild nights out, there’s no reason why a hen party can’t be just as fun and playful. If your bride-to-be has a passion for a particular TV show or film, you can incorporate elements of that into the celebration. This might be as simple as playing themed games before dinner, encouraging guests to dress up as their favorite characters, or even booking a private screening at a local cinema.
For a more unique experience, consider renting out a filming location or theme park attraction inspired by her favorite show. The possibilities are endless! We’d love to see how a group of friends might celebrate with themes like RuPaul’s Drag Race, Game of Thrones, The Greatest Showman, or Sex and the City.
Do a Wine (or Beer! or Gin! or Whiskey!) Tasting
Elevate your hen party experience with a thoughtful tasting! While many brides-to-be prioritize their favorite drinks, a curated tasting can truly take things to the next level. Whether hosting an intimate gathering at home or opting for a more elaborate affair, there are various ways to make this happen. For a relaxed, in-home celebration, you can set up the tasting yourself, ensuring each guest has a suitable glassware option.
Alternatively, consider hiring a professional who offers mobile tastings, providing expert knowledge and a unique experience. Many vineyards, breweries, distilleries, and specialty bars offer private tasting services, which often include non-alcoholic options for those who don’t drink. Ireland is home to excellent options like Ely Wine Bar’s tastings, Listoke gin school, and The White Hag International Brewery Festival.
In the UK, you might enjoy Furleigh Estate, Buckfast Abbey, or Hampshire Wine School, as well as Humble Grape wine tasting or The Little Gin Company tasting. A thoughtful tasting can be a memorable addition to any hen party.
Go to the Races
Experience the thrill of a racing festival without being a horseracing enthusiast! The electric atmosphere is infectious, making it an ideal excuse to dress up with friends. Many racecourses offer VIP packages, but you can take it to the next level by combining your visit with a luxurious spa hotel stay.
Ireland and the UK host numerous events throughout the year, with options like Leopardstown, Punchestown, Fairyhouse, The Curragh, Naas Racecourse, Galway Racecourse, Limerick Racecourse in Ireland, and Cheltenham, Ascot, Aintree, and Newmarket Racecourse in the UK. Imagine sipping champagne and enjoying world-class racing with friends – it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Go on a Relaxing Yoga Retreat
When the big day is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to unwind and get your muscles stretched out. For many brides-to-be, an exercise-based hen party is the ideal way to de-stress before saying ‘I do’. Whether you’re looking to rent a house for the weekend with an instructor or opt for a package deal that includes meditation, country walks, and/or beauty treatments, there are plenty of options to suit your group’s style.
In Ireland, some popular choices include Yoga Mara Wellness Escapes, which also specialise in Zen Hens. Other local options include Lisnavagh, The Courtyard, Burren Yoga, Cloona Health Retreat, and Cliffs of Moher Retreat. If you’re looking to take your hen party abroad, there are some incredible destination yoga retreats in Spain, Portugal, Greece, and beyond that offer a mini sun holiday experience.
Step Back in Time (sort of!)
For hen parties that are as elegant as Downton Abbey and Bridgerton, historical reenactment is the perfect way to get the party started! In Ireland, Clonard House’s Victorian Escapade is a must-visit, where guests can experience life as both domestic servants in the early 20th century and their wealthy employers.
Meanwhile, in the UK, you could take a Bridgerton tour of Bath or indulge in a murder mystery package like Miss Mapletree’s Perfect Murder, allowing your hen party to fully immerse themselves in a bygone era.
Have a Craft Afternoon
As the big day approaches, many brides and their entourage discover a hidden talent for crafting, driven by the desire to create something special for their wedding. Why not take this creative energy to the next level with a fun-filled crafternoon that keeps everyone engaged? This activity is perfect for all ages, as it encompasses various hands-on projects like flower arranging, pottery, and wreath-making.
For an immersive experience, consider booking in-studio workshops or mobile craft services that come directly to you. In Dublin, we highly recommend Flower Pop for its stunning flower crown and wreath-making sessions. Alternatively, Hullabaloo operates nationwide with its mobile craft workshops. If you prefer a DIY approach, Paint at Home Pottery kits from Hullabaloo are an excellent option.
The photo above, courtesy of Gemma G Photography via One Fab Day, perfectly captures the joy and creativity that comes with such an activity.
Have a Mixed Gender Hen (or Sten)
If your bride-to-be has a tight-knit group of friends that includes both guys and girls, she may not be thrilled about separating the two on her special night. To cater to her preferences, consider organizing a mixed-gender celebration. Not only will this allow her to share the experience with all her closest friends, but it can also create a unique and memorable atmosphere. For more insights into the pros and cons of hosting a co-ed hen party, take a look at our previous post.
In addition, we’ve put together some fantastic ideas for making the most of this special night, which you can find here.
(Pent)House Party
Why not relive the nostalgia of your youth with a luxurious spin? Many hotels offer opulent suites and rooms where guests can host their own exclusive soiree. Take it up a notch with amenities like foosball tables, outdoor terraces, or even airstream caravans! For instance, The Dean Dublin boasts a chic loft space with its own bar, while the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Golden Lane, Dublin 2, features a world-class outdoor area.
The Morgan Penthouse takes it to new heights with its own airstream caravan. In Cork, the Clayton Hotel offers an impressive split-level Penthouse suite, complete with private dining and drink stations. For more ideas on planning the ultimate hen party, check out our comprehensive list or tune in to the One Fab Day podcast.
