It has been almost 2 years now since Stuart and I got engaged and we still have not set a date. That is partly my fault as I am determined to not get married until I am at a weight I am happy with! I have lost a little now though so feel like things are moving in the right direction and want to start thinking about things, including my hen night or hen weekend!
When it comes to hen parties, they say the second time’s a charm. Having been married before, I can tell you that my first hen party was, well, boring – meal and drink but home sober! This time I want something better, as I know the marriage will be better so why shouldn’t the hen night be too!
Rethinking the Hen Party
Hen parties are not just about pre-wedding festivities; they’re about celebrating a new chapter with the people who matter most. Unlike my first wedding, where the hen do was more of an afterthought, this time, I want it to be more of a highlight.
For me, a perfect hen weekend means good company, great food, and maybe a cocktail or two, or ten! A weekend where the laughs are plenty, and the memories are cherished long after the confetti settles. But where should this celebration take place? That’s the million-pound question and I really can not decide!
UK Adventures
The UK offers numerous fantastic options for a hen weekend that balances fun and sophistication. The advantage with a UK hen weekend is it is generally easier and cheaper for everyone. Here’s a peek at some potential destinations:
London
The vibrant heart of the UK, London has something for everyone. Whether it’s a bottomless brunch in Covent Garden or cocktails overlooking the skyline, sophisticated evenings abound. And let’s not forget the West End – catching a show whilst recovering from a hangover the next day could be the cherry on top of a classy hen do.
Edinburgh
For those who adore a mix of history and nightlife, Edinburgh is a top choice. Wander through the cobbled streets before settling in at a quirky bar. A ghost tour could add a little extra thrill to the proceedings, making it a weekend to remember. I am quite tempted by Edinburgh but as I have never been I am a bit unsure where the best bars for a good hen night would be in relation to hotels etc.
Liverpool
Liverpool is known for its lively atmosphere and friendly locals. With plenty of bars and live music venues, it’s perfect for a group looking to dance the night away. Plus, visiting The Beatles’ hometown adds a cultural twist to your celebration. I love Liverpool so it is definitely one of the top contenders I think. It is about a 3 hour drive from me (including stopping for a break) so a nice distance.
Newcastle
Known for its nightlife, Newcastle strikes a nice balance between fun and sophistication. I went to university in Sunderland so have so many fond memories of nights out in Newcastle. The Quayside offers gorgeous views and so many trendy bars and I know a night out there would be brilliant. That said, I haven’t been there for a night out since around 2003!
European Escapades
I am also considering Europe as there are so many popular destinations for an unforgettable hen weekend that I like the sound of!
Barcelona
Barcelona’s blend of culture, cuisine, and nightlife makes it a top contender. Imagine sipping sangria in the sun with the girls in Barcelona or enjoying tapas at a local eatery before dancing the night away at a stylish beach club.
Dublin
For a warm welcome and a pint of Guinness, Dublin is unparalleled. I don’t like Guinness but I love the sound of Dublin all the same! The city’s pub scene is legendary, and a live music session at a traditional Irish pub could be the perfect end to a day of cocktails. I have seen some lovely hen parties in Dublin so it does look lovely but would I rather UK-like weather or the sun?
Majorca
I love holidaying in Majorca so that is a definite contender and a short enough flight to the sun to mean the party can start as soon as we arrive. With stunning beaches and great bars, we could relax by day and enjoy a lively bar scene by night. I would be keen to find where isn’t as popular with the younger crowds though as I don’t want to stand out as older!
Albufeira
Albufeira, in Portugal’s Algarve region, is gorgeous and somewhere we only recently went on holiday so I would love to go back. It offers stunning coastlines and such a lovely laid-back vibe. Perfect for a mix of relaxing beach time and vibrant nightlife, it’s a great spot for a fabulous hen do.
The Dilemma
Now that I’ve laid out my options, the dilemma remains—should I stay closer to home or jet off to sunnier shores? Each destination has its appeal, and while a bottomless brunch in London sounds delightful, a sun-kissed weekend in Majorca is equally tempting. I have also heard some good things about Eastern European countries but wouldn’t know where to start with Poland, Romania and Croatia for a hen do!
Making It Classy
No matter where we go, I know I want this hen weekend to be free from the clichés. That means no L plates, thank you very much. Instead, I’d like a reasonably sophisticated affair think bottomless brunch, pub crawls and in bed before morning! I am too old to be getting home when others are getting up for work!
Final Thoughts
Planning a hen party the second time around is fun. This time, it’s not just about the party, it’s about celebrating with intention. It’s about an amazing weekend that reflects who I am and where I am in life. Whether I choose a local spot or a European city, I know the perfect weekend is out there waiting to be discovered. Now I just need to lose some more weight so I can feel comfortable planning the wedding too and get a date sorted!
I’d love to hear from you! If you’ve been to any of these places or have other suggestions, please share your thoughts. Your insights could be just what I need.
