Our Ultimate Hen Party Activity Guide for 2024

Welcome to the ultimate hen party planning guide for 2024! If you've been handed the sacred duty of organising a hen do, or you're the lucky bride-to-be plotting your final fling before the ring, you're in the right place. We're about to embark on a wild ride through the most hilarious, memorable, and downright fabulous hen party ideas that the UK has to offer. So, let's not dilly-dally; grab your notepad, a cuppa (or something stronger), and let's dive into the world of hen party extravaganza planning!

 

The Hen Do Evolution: More Than Just a Night Out

Gone are the days when a hen do was just a night out on the town. In the era of Instagram and TikTok, where every moment is captured and shared, hen parties in 2024 demand creativity, uniqueness, and a touch of madness. We're seeing a blend of tradition and innovation, where activities range from the tranquil and heartwarming to the adrenaline-pumping and truly hilarious. This shift is not just about the activities themselves but about creating an experience that strengthens bonds, makes new memories, and sends the bride off into married life with a bang. And let's face it, who doesn't love an excuse for a party that's a little out of the ordinary?

 

First things first - Budgeting

Planning a hen do can be as much about managing a budget as it is about managing expectations. The average cost of a hen weekend in the UK hovers around £155, but if you're looking to jet off abroad, you might be looking at £185 (minus flights)​​. But fear not! Whether you're counting your pennies or ready to splurge, there are ways to make sure the hen do is memorable for all the right reasons. 

Splurge Smart, Save Smarter

First off, it's all about balance. A luxury yacht might sound extravagant, but when split between a group, it suddenly becomes less of the Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous and more within the realm of possibility. Similarly, hen do activities like the alpaca experience, or an inland surfing adventure can provide unique experiences without breaking the bank​​.

DIY & Deals: A Hen's Best Friends

For those on a tighter budget, the world of DIY and deals awaits. Crafting your own decorations, personalising homemade party favours, or even hosting a spa day at home with DIY face masks and mani-pedis can slash costs significantly. Keep an eye out for group deals on activities, accommodation, and even transportation. Many companies offer discounts for large groups, and some activities might even throw in a free spot for the bride!

Collecting Contributions: The Modern Way

Gone are the days of awkwardly chasing up friends for cash. Utilise digital payment platforms for an easy, stress-free way to collect contributions. Setting up a dedicated hen do fund can help manage finances transparently, ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding what's being spent and where.

 

Here’re a few digital payment platforms to make life easier:

Monzo: Shared Tabs & Pots

Monzo, a popular digital bank, offers features like Shared Tabs and Pots, which are perfect for managing group expenses. Shared Tabs allow you to split bills and keep track of who owes what, while Pots can be used to collect money from everyone in the group. These features are handy for organising and tracking hen do contributions and expenses.

Shared Tabs: Ideal for tracking who's paid their share of a joint expense.

Pots: Great for pooling money together in a dedicated space within your Monzo account.

Splitwise: Our favourite

While not exclusively UK-based, Splitwise is widely used in the UK for splitting bills and expenses. It allows you to create a group, add expenses paid by different people, and calculate who owes what to whom. It simplifies the process of managing shared expenses, making sure everyone pays their fair share. Payments can then be settled offline or via linked payment services.

Revolut: Group Bills

Revolut is another digital banking option that offers a Group Bills feature, allowing you to easily split expenses and manage group payments. It’s especially useful for international groups, as Revolut handles currency exchange seamlessly, making it ideal for hen dos. 

 

The Most Popular Hen Do Activities in the UK 2024

In 2024, hen dos in the UK are all about creating unforgettable experiences that blend laughter, luxury, and a dash of the great outdoors. From hilarious comedy clubs to cosying up under a blanket of stars in chic, glamping sites, these activities top the list for good reason. They offer the perfect mix of entertainment and relaxation, ensuring every hen has the time of her life.

Comedy Club Cackles

Diving into a night filled with laughter is a fabulous way to break the ice among hens who might not know each other well. Comedy clubs are a staple for hen dos because, let's face it, nothing bonds people faster than shared laughter (or cringe) at a raunchy joke. Picture this: a room full of hens, cheeks flushed from laughter (and maybe a bit of Prosecco), creating memories that will be the talk of the wedding.

But why stop at just watching? Some comedy clubs offer workshop experiences where you can learn the art of stand-up – imagine delivering a line that gets the whole room roaring. Prices can vary, but for a night of giggles, you're looking at anywhere from £15 to £30 per ticket, depending on the fame of the venue and the comics performing.

Glamping Under the Stars

Think of glamping as camping's posh cousin, twice removed. It's all the beauty of the great outdoors but with actual beds and, more importantly, Wi-Fi. Perfect for the hen who loves the idea of connecting with nature but draws the line at sleeping on the ground. Sites across the UK offer luxurious tents, yurts, and even treehouses, with prices ranging from £100 to £400 per night, offering a slice of the countryside without compromising on comfort.

 

Out of the Box hen party ideas

2024 is all about pushing limits and diving into hen do activities that are as unique as they are memorable. For those looking to steer clear of the beaten path, why not take a walk on the wild side with alpacas or channel your inner mermaid in a swimming lesson? These ideas are perfect for hens craving something a little different and a lot of fun. 

Alpaca Walking Extravaganza

Yes, you read that right. Walking with alpacas has become a thing, and honestly, we're here for it. It's not every day you get to stroll through picturesque countryside with a fluffy companion by your side. These gentle creatures make for an unforgettable experience and even better selfies. Alpaca farm visits can cost around £20 to £35 per person, including a walk and sometimes a farm tour.

Mermaid Swimming Lessons

For the hen who's convinced she was a dolphin in a past life and fancies something a little different, mermaid swimming lessons are a real, splashtastic hen do activity. Don your own mermaid tail and learn to glide through the water with the grace of Ariel. It's a unique experience that's as fun as it is Instagrammable. Sessions typically range from £30 to £50 per person, including tail rental and instruction.

 

Cost Saving and Homemade Activities

Who says unforgettable hen dos have to break the bank? In 2024, DIY and homemade activities are all the rage, offering creative, fun, and affordable alternatives to traditional outings. Whether mixing up some delicious cocktails or indulging in a pampering spa day at home, these ideas prove that a little imagination goes a long way in creating memorable moments.

DIY Cocktail Crafting: A Mixology Adventure

Imagine this: You're in the kitchen, surrounded by a mix of spirits and mixers that look like the aftermath of a unicorn party gone wild. This is where the magic happens. Welcome to your DIY cocktail crafting session, where the rules are made up and the measurements don't matter. You're about to embark on a flavour journey of mixological proportions that could lead to the discovery of the next big cocktail sensation. Or, at the very least, a concoction that tastes suspiciously like cough syrup but with a kick.

Here’s the plan: Each hen brings a secret ingredient, from the exotic to the bizarre. Think dragon fruit meets elderflower syrup with a dash of chilli flakes. The goal? To create a signature cocktail that embodies the spirit of the bride-to-be – literally. You'll laugh as you try to decipher whether what you've just made is fit for human consumption or better used as a biohazard. But remember, every great invention started as a wild idea, and with enough enthusiasm (and perhaps a bit of liquid courage), you'll craft something that's both unique and drinkable. It's a budget-friendly idea of tastes and toasts, where the only limit is your creativity and your willingness to risk a slightly fuzzy head in the morning.

If you’re looking for a cocktail to tickle your taste buds, check out The Mystical Mojito Marvel. This isn't just any mojito recipe, it’s a concoction so delightful that it might just make you believe in magic.

Ingredients:

• Enchantment in a Bottle: Also known as white rum, about 60 ml should do the trick. It's the spirit of the party, after all.
• Liquid Sunshine: Squeeze the life out of 1 lime (lovingly, of course) to get that zesty zing.
• Sweet Whispers of the Forest: Aka 2 teaspoons of sugar, to whisper sweet nothings to your taste buds.
• Mint Leaves Danced Upon by Moonlight: Or, you know, about 10 fresh mint leaves. The more, the merrier, as they bring the magic with their refreshing aroma.
• Sparkling Essence of Clouds: Club soda, to top it all off and add that bubbly personality.
• Ice Cubes Carved from Glaciers: Or just regular ice cubes, but let's keep the fantasy alive.

Instructions:

• Muddle with Might and Magic: In a sturdy glass, muddle the mint leaves with the sugar and lime juice. This is where the potion begins to take form, as you coax the flavours out to play.
• The Spirit Awakens: Pour the enchantment (white rum) over the muddled mixture, stirring to combine the elements of earth, water, and fire.
• Chill in the Heart of Winter: Add the glacier-carved ice cubes to the glass, filling it to the brim with the coolness of a thousand winters.
• Breathe Life Into Your Creation: Top it all off with the sparkling essence of clouds (club soda), giving your potion the breath of life.
• Garnish with a Whisper of Green: Slap a mint leaf between your hands to awaken its spirit and place it on top of your mystical creation. Add a lime wheel as the crowning glory, and you're ready to sip.

Home Spa Day: The Ultimate Pamper Party

Now, let's set the scene for a home spa day that's more rejuvenating than finding out your ex’s new partner has a questionable fashion sense. Transform your humble abode into a sanctuary of serenity, a palace of pampering that offers an escape from the madness of wedding planning. This is your DIY spa day, a chance to treat the bride-to-be (and yourself) to some well-earned relaxation without the eye-watering prices of a fancy spa retreat.

Start by creating homemade face masks that promise to brighten, tighten, and possibly terrify anyone who didn't know the spa day was happening. Avocado for hydration, honey for its antibacterial qualities, and oatmeal for exfoliation – or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a bit of everything for the ultimate mystery mask. Then, move on to manicures and pedicures, where the only rule is that there are no rules. Neon pink polish with glitter? Why not! It’s all about feeling fabulous.

As you lounge in your DIY haven, cucumber slices over your eyes, and laughter in the air, you’ll realise something great. This blissful experience, this day of giggles and pampering, didn’t require a small loan to enjoy. It was all about the company, the simple pleasures, and the chance to unwind and connect before the big day.

 

Head on Down to Tenpin

When it comes to throwing a hen party that'll be remembered for all the right reasons (and a few hilarious wrong ones), Tenpin is your secret weapon. Imagine a place where the cocktails flow as freely as the laughter, where strikes and spares are celebrated with the same enthusiasm as a bride-to-be saying, "I do." Welcome to Tenpin, the ultimate destination for hen parties that are more about strikes and less about strife.

Bowling: The Main Event

Bowling at Tenpin isn't just an activity,  it's ideal for any hen party to get the laughter flowing. Whether you're a gutter-ball guru or a strike specialist, the lanes at Tenpin are waiting. And with prices that won't break the bank, you can afford to let the good times roll. Just remember, wearing the bride-to-be's veil while bowling is not just encouraged; it's practically a requirement.

Laser Tag: Unleash Your Inner Warrior

After you've shown the pins who's boss, it's time to suit up and step into the laser tag arena. This is where you'll find out who in your party is a secret agent in disguise and who's more likely to get lost on the way to the bar. It's fast, it's furious, and it's the perfect way to work up a thirst for cocktails.

Escape Room: The Great Escape

Think you've got what it takes to solve puzzles under pressure? The escape room at Tenpin will put your hen party's wits to the test. It's a thrilling race against the clock where the only way out is through teamwork, intelligence, and possibly a bit of blind luck. Success has never felt so sweet, especially when there's a cocktail waiting as your reward.

Karaoke: Sing Your Heart Out

Karaoke at Tenpin is where you'll discover hidden talents (or confirm a lack thereof). It's all about belting out the classics, from power ballads that tug at the heartstrings to pop anthems that get everyone on their feet. Whether you're the next Beyoncé or more of a shower singer, it's your time to shine.

Ladies, grab your mics – it's time to unleash your inner rockstar with the Karaoke Rockstar Package:

What's Included:

Exclusive Karaoke Booth: Get your own private stage where the spotlight shines just on you and your crew. It's like your own VIP concert, where you're the stars of the show.

Massive Song Library: Dive into a treasure trove of tunes, from golden oldies to the latest chart-toppers. Whether you're into ABBA or Ariana Grande, we've got your playlist covered.

State-of-the-Art Sound System: Feel every beat with our top-notch sound system that makes even the most questionable singing sound like music to your ears.

Mood Lighting: Set the scene with lighting that matches your star power. Whether you're feeling moody blues or fiery reds, we've got the hues to match your tunes.

Drinks on Tap: What's a rockstar without their rider? Enjoy a selection of drinks to keep those vocal cords lubricated and the party vibes flowing.

Prison Putt: Break Free

Exclusive to Sheffield, Prison Putt takes mini-golf to a whole new level with its prison theme. Navigate your way through cells and avoid the guards to make your great escape. It's quirky, it's fun, and it's a story you'll be telling long after the wedding bells have rung.

The Bar: Cocktails and Fun

No hen party is complete without a trip to the bar, and Tenpin's got you covered. From classic cocktails to prosecco, the drinks menu is designed to get the celebrations started. Whether you're toasting to the future or drowning your sorrows after a particularly disastrous round of laser tag, there’s a drink with your name on it! 

Across the UK: A Party Near You

With locations across the UK, there's a Tenpin waiting to host your hen party, no matter where you are. Prices vary by location and activity, but you can expect competitive rates that leave plenty of budget left for those all-important cocktails.

These hen do ideas are not just activities; they’re adventures. Adventures that will lead you down the path of hilarious memories, closer friendships, and stories that you’ll retell for years to come. Whether you’re mixing up a storm in the kitchen or slathering yourself in homemade beauty products, the essence of a great hen do lies in the laughter, the shared experiences, and the joy of celebrating the bride-to-be. So, here’s to a hen party that’s as unique, fun-filled, and unforgettable as the woman you’re all there to honour. Cheers!