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10 Hen Party Ideas That Aren't the Usual Spa Day

15 Jan 2025
5 min read
10 Hen Party Ideas That Aren't the Usual Spa Day

Planning a hen party and tired of the same old spa day suggestions? You're not alone. While there's nothing wrong with a relaxing spa treatment, today's hen parties are all about creating unique memories that reflect the bride's personality.

1. Cocktail Making Masterclass

Learn to shake, stir, and muddle like a pro. A cocktail making class is interactive, fun, and gives everyone new skills to show off at future parties. Plus, you get to drink your creations. Available at most of our hen party houses, this activity works brilliantly in Brighton or Bath.

2. Life Drawing with a Twist

Whether it's a professional model or one of the classic 'butler in the buff' sessions, life drawing adds a cheeky edge to your hen party. It's surprisingly relaxing and guaranteed to create some hilarious moments. This is one of our most popular hen party experiences.

3. Dance Workshop

From burlesque to street dance, learning a routine together is a brilliant bonding experience. Many instructors can even choreograph something special for the bride. Check our experiences page for available dance workshops in your chosen destination.

4. Private Chef Experience

Why go out when you can bring a Michelin-trained chef to your holiday house? Enjoy restaurant-quality food without leaving your pyjamas. Our private chef service is perfect for groups who want to enjoy fine dining in the comfort of their own space.

5. Outdoor Adventures

For the active bride, consider coasteering, paddleboarding, or even a wild swimming session followed by hot chocolate and cake. Our properties in Bournemouth and Cornwall are perfect for outdoor activities.

6. Perfume Making Workshop

Create a signature scent that will forever remind you of this special weekend. It's creative, luxurious, and everyone leaves with a unique gift. This activity works particularly well in cities like Bath with its spa heritage.

7. Food Tours

Explore a new city through its food scene. From Brighton's indie cafes to Bath's historic tea rooms, a guided food tour combines sightseeing with eating. Read our Brighton guide for the best food spots.

8. Glamping Experience

Luxury camping with proper beds, hot tubs, and fire pits. It's the perfect middle ground between adventure and comfort. Browse our unusual and quirky properties for unique glamping options.

9. Pottery or Art Class

Channel your inner artist. Whether it's throwing pots or painting canvases, creative activities are wonderfully therapeutic and you'll have keepsakes to take home. Many of our group houses can arrange art workshops.

10. Murder Mystery Evening

Turn your hen party into an interactive whodunnit. Professional companies will come to your holiday house and transform your evening into an immersive theatre experience. Perfect for houses with games rooms.

The best hen parties are the ones that reflect who the bride really is. Don't feel pressured to follow trends – pick activities that will make your group laugh, bond, and create memories that last long after the wedding. Need help planning? Check out our complete hen party planning checklist or learn about how to book your perfect house.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best alternatives to spa days include cocktail making masterclasses, life drawing sessions, dance workshops, private chef experiences, outdoor adventures like paddleboarding, perfume making workshops, food tours, glamping, pottery classes, and murder mystery evenings.
Activity costs vary widely. Cocktail making classes typically cost £35-50 per person, life drawing £25-40, and private chef experiences from £50-100 per person. Most activities can be booked to come to your accommodation.
Yes, most activities like cocktail masterclasses, life drawing, dance workshops, and private chefs can be arranged to come directly to your hen party house, making logistics easier for the group.
Creative activities like cocktail making, perfume workshops, pottery classes, and murder mystery evenings work for all fitness levels. Food tours and private chef experiences are also inclusive options.
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