8 of the best rural hen party locations
Hen weekends don’t always have to be partying until 4am and getting blackout drunk with your besties. Sometimes the bride prefers outdoorsy hen do ideas, or maybe she just wants to recharge ahead of the big day with a relaxing spa weekend. If you’ve been tasked with planning a low-key hen party, then look no further than our top picks for the best rural hen party locations.
Buxton
Location: Peak District
Nestled on the edge of the idyllic Peak District countryside, Buxton is a gorgeous spa town that makes for the perfect hen party destination. Just a stone’s throw away is Chatsworth House, which serves some of the best afternoon tea. For adrenaline junkies, walk, climb and hike your way around Go Ape’s treetop adventures. Then after a busy day of exploring, reward yourselves with a relaxing spa treatment at Buxton Crescent Wellness Spa.
Walking route: Take in wonderful views of Buxton and beyond on the Poole’s Cavern to Solomun’s Temple walk.
Countryside pub nearby: The Old Sun Inn is a stunning vintage-style 17th-century coaching inn.
Stow-on-the-Wold
Location: Cotswolds
Planning a rural hen weekend for your bride-to-be? She’ll love a hen do in the beautiful Stow-on-the-Wold. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, there’s plenty of hiking to be done here. But it’s not just all about the walks. Foodies will love sampling the local produce – why not book in for lunch at The Slaughters Manor Country House. A gin tasting tour at the Cotswolds Distillery should be on your list too!
Walking route: Visit the nearby picturesque villages on this 5-mile circular walk.
Countryside pub nearby: The Porch House is said to be England’s oldest inn and is full of retro charm.
Looking for a hot tub break?
Windermere
Location: Lake District
If you’re looking for a more classy UK hen party, Windermere has to be at the top of your list. Set in one of the most beautiful areas in England, there’s something for everyone in the Lake District. Spend the afternoon clay pigeon shooting or take in the views of the magnificent fells while horse riding. And your visit wouldn’t be complete without a cruise across Lake Windermere on a private boat – complete with food, wine and entertainment!
Walking route: Take a picnic and set out on the Post Knott Walk, with amazing views over Windermere.
Countryside pub nearby: The Angel Inn has gorgeous forest views from its beer garden.
Dartmoor
Location: Devon
Forget vodka shots and drinking games, visit Dartmoor with the hens and make memories that will last a lifetime. The Devonshire countryside is the perfect setting for a fun-filled weekend of outdoor activities. Organise a thrilling rock climbing experience on Dartmoor’s Tors, or hire a bike and cycle around the stunning Dartmoor National Park. If you’re after an activity that involves some drinking (it is a hen party after all!), why not round off your weekend with a visit to Alder Vineyard for an afternoon of wine tasting.
Walking route: Amble around the Pork Hill Circular route for incredible views across the national park.
Countryside pub nearby: Warren House Inn is a heart-warming traditional inn set in the middle of Dartmoor National Park.
Otley
Location: Yorkshire
Nestled on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, Otley is the perfect location for a serene and tranquil hen weekend. Spend the afternoon wandering down the charming cobbled streets, dipping in and out of antique shops and independent cafes. Book in at the Chevin Country Park Hotel for a relaxing spa day with your besties. And you’re not far from Leeds either if you do fancy a night on the town!
Walking route: Walk up to the The Chevin for amazing views over Otley.
Countryside pub nearby: The Yew Tree Inn is a friendly pub in the heart of the market town.
Norfolk Broads
Location: Norfolk
The Norfolk Broads is the perfect hen do destination for a tranquil weekend away with your besties. Hire a boat for the day and explore over 125 miles of waterways. Or try your luck on the water on a paddleboard instead! Book a hen party house with a hot tub and unwind after a busy day that’s been full to the brim with hen party activities.
Walking route: Enjoy the open views on a walk around the Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Hickling Nature Reserve.
Countryside pub nearby: Make a pit stop at The Greyhound Inn for local ales and seasonal dishes.
Aviemore
Location: Scotland
Aviemore is the perfect rural hen party location for exploring the magnificent Cairngorms National Park. While you’re there, dabble in some Scottish culture with the Mini Highland Games. Or rush down the River Findhorn on a white water rafting adventure. Make things extra special and book a private chef to prepare a wonderful dinner at your hen do house. Decorate the dining room and set the dining table with place cards, linens and candles. It’ll be an evening that the bride will remember forever!
Walking route: Reach the viewpoint on the Craigellachie Walk to see awe-inspiring views of the national park.
Countryside pub nearby: Dine al fresco along the River Spey at The Old Bridge Inn.
Shrewsbury
Location: Shropshire
Steeped in history and surrounded by the stunning Shropshire countryside, gather your besties and plan a rural hen party in Shrewsbury. For a daytime activity, book an immersive experience at Shrewsbury Prison where you’ll be processed as a criminal and attempt to escape jail. If you’re feeling crafty, The Crafty Hen organises amazing creative workshops, including flower crowns, quilting and fascinator-making. Then spend the afternoon at Bounce Studios letting off some steam in one of their dance lessons!
Walking route: Walk through the heart of the town on the Shrewsbury River Walk.
Countryside pub nearby: The Corbet Arms is a family-run country pub on the outskirts of Shrewsbury.