Alternative Hen Party Ideas

Whether you’ve been tasked with organising a party for the bride-to-be, or you’re after hen do ideas for your own special occasion, it’s always fun to do something a little different. Here are four great alternative ideas to help you get in the groove for an exciting and memorable hen party.

Outdoor pursuits



If you want to introduce a little action and adventure to your hen party, there are few more beautiful places than the Scottish Highlands. We all know what Loch Ness is most famous for, but there’s much more going on besides the legend of Nessie. In addition to the usual pursuits of the iconic mythical monster, there are plenty of outdoor activities you can get everyone involved in during your stay in this stunning part of Scotland. Monster Activities offer everything from whitewater rafting to clay pigeon shooting, abseiling and archery, all surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Book your stay at Leonardo Hotel Inverness and you’ll be right on the doorstep of Loch Ness, but still in a town with lots of bars and restaurants for a drink at the end of the day.

Sporting fun



Continuing with the active theme, perhaps your group will enjoy a day of sporting fun on your hen do. The University of Exeter has recently benefitted from a £20 million investment, bringing their facilities right to the forefront of the UK’s sports scene. For £39 per person, you get a gym pass for the Russell Seal Fitness Centre, use of the Cornwall House swimming pool, a two-course sports nutrition lunch and two hours on one of the university’s pitches or courts.

Leonardo Hotel Exeter is only a mile from the University of Exeter’s Streatham Campus, and even closer to the city’s Central train station.

Cocktail masterclass



Most hen parties involve their fair share of alcohol, but why not learn how to craft your own cocktails to complement your ability to quaff them? Places like All Bar One in Milton Keynes offer courses where you get your very own trained mixologist who shows you the ropes. Packages start from £25 per person, which gets you a three-cocktail masterclass, and go up to £35, where you’ll also learn how to make a Bellini and receive a selection of canapés.

Leonardo Hotel Milton Keynes is just a few hundred feet from All Bar One, so there’s only a matter of steps to navigate back to your hotel after your drink-making session.

Vintage makeover



Hen parties are all about feeling special and beautiful, so what better way to spend the day than at a beauty parlour that celebrates all things vintage. Vintage Victory Rollers in Swindon began life as a monthly vintage fair, and now have their own salon where you can get a wonderful makeover featuring flawless makeup and classic hairstyles. For £30 per person you get a vintage updo each, while it’s £45 for the full works with makeup. Plus, you can add extras like a burlesque taster session, knicker bunting workshop and hair fascinator workshop for an even more complete experience.

Under a mile from Leonardo Hotel Swindon, enjoy your pamper party at Vintage Victory Rollers before a night out on the tiles.

Rollercoaster Mayhem



Fancy a thrill before the big day? Put those pre-wedding nerves into perspective when you take on some of the white-knuckle rides at Drayton Manor Theme Park. From flipping upside down on stand-up rollercoaster Shock Wave, to the sky soaring spins of Maelstrom and the water-faring adventures of Storm Force 10, this adrenaline-fueled day out if sure to be memorable. When you’re not all tackling the big rides, the park’s on-site zoo is the perfect place to unwind in slightly more peaceful surrounds.

Just a 30-minute drive from Leonardo Hotel and Conference Venue Hinckley Island, you’ll be back in time for a pampering come the end of the day. But if a night out’s in order, you may prefer the 30-minute drive to Leonardo Hotel Birmingham.

Enjoy a hen-do you won’t forget, when you book a stay with Leonardo Hotel.