Hen Party Houses in York

Officially voted as the best place to live in the UK by The Sunday Times, it’s no surprise that York is a popular hen party destination for all ages. Here, you’ll find cobblestone streets that are packed full of independent shops, galleries, pubs, theatres and more. The area has a rich history, dating back to the Viking times and there’s a colourful events calendar each year with festivals for food, arts, music and comedy. 

What’s more, it’s super easy to get to meaning none of the group should complain! And, if you’re looking for something a little lively, you’re never too far from cities like Leeds and Manchester where you’ll be able to experience a traditional hen party night out. Alternatively, close by to York, there’s plenty of towns and villages that enjoy a slower pace of life – and the nearby Yorkshire Dales is a must if your bride-to-be likes to get her heart racing. One thing’s for sure, a hen party in York really does have something for everyone and we guarantee it won’t be your last time there…

If you’re travelling by air, Manchester and Leeds airport is the easiest connection to York as there’s a direct train to the city centre. Those coming from London are best jumping on a train though – just don’t forget to pack a boozy brunch for the journey. For those hens on a budget, you’ll be pleased to know that the National Express and Megabus coaches also run here but they do take much longer compared to car or train. On the bright side, that’s more time for drinking… Once you’re in the city centre, it’s super easy to get around but we guarantee someone will get their heels caught in the cobbles. Yep, York wasn’t exactly built for killer shoes.

York City Centre

York is a magical city in every sense of the word. In fact, it has more attractions per square mile than any other city in the UK – and that’s a lot. Think museums, galleries, theatres, shops, bars, restaurants, hidden gems and historic buildings. One of the best things to do on your visit (apart from sitting in a bar and drinking gin) is to walk along the City Walls. While we’re not expecting you to partake in any learning on your hen do, the views from up here are incredible and there are a few fantastic picture opportunities. Harry Potter fans should also head to The Shambles, York’s most famous street that served as the set for Harry Potter when he was looking for a wand. Of course, while you’re here, why not stop for a pint at Ye Old Shambles Tavern or go hunting for a wand in the many Harry Potter stores? Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of wizards as there’s plenty of other things to do – including shopping, going to the theatre and even a cocktail making session.

Harrogate

If you can pull yourself away from York, one of the best nearby towns is Harrogate. It’s a former spa town and has lots of beautiful gardens, stately homes and more to keep you busy. But one of our favourite places to go is Betty’s Tea Room – a well-known cafe serving up delicious scones and afternoon tea. Once done, why not head to the Valley Gardens and if the weather’s on your side, take a picnic blanket and sit back for a few hours. Shoppers will also be pleased with the variety of brands – both independent and high-street – and there’s also plenty of bars and restaurants to keep you refuelled.

Nort York Moors

From Low Dale to High Moor, from the shady forests to the dramatic coast, the North York Moors is a beautiful place with magnificent landscapes. If your bride-to-be is more comfortable outdoors and loves nothing better than getting her walking boots on, this is the place for her. It’s not just about hiking and outdoor adventures though. There’s also stately homes, historical abbeys, museums and great food and art. The bustling market towns are full of friendly locals too and are perfect for exploration, sampling delicious foods and drinks, and shopping. 

Shopping

York really does have something for everyone and, if shopping’s your sport, you won’t be disappointed. In fact, it promises a unique shopping experience and is the perfect place for some retail therapy. For high fashion lovers, Coney and Parliament Street are the best options as well as Coppergate. The Stonegate and Swinegate areas offer a mix of shops for both food and clothes, and the Petergate and Gillygate areas are where you’ll find independent shops. The Shambles market is also a great place for picking up a few unusual treats.

Restaurants & Food

With such a long history behind it, it’s hardly surprising that York has some incredible pubs. But if you’re looking for something a little more modern, you’ll be spoilt for choice too. Here, you can taste dishes from all over the world as well as more traditional meals. York has a wide array of restaurants ranging from tea rooms to globally-inspired fine-dining experiences. Some of our favourites include Kennedy’s Bar and Restaurant, Market Cat, Sotano and Fossgate Social.

Nude life drawing

BEST FOR BEING A BIT CREATIVE

This hen party activity combines drinking games, giggles and a really hot model! Could a hen party activity get any better? As your model strikes the final pose, your bride-to-be will even be invited up – something we’re sure she’ll love you for! Sketch away, have a laugh and create artful masterpieces that can be taken home to remember your weekend by.

Shopping

BEST FOR INDULGING IN SOME RETAIL THERAPY

Shopping is great but have you ever tried a personal shopping experience?! Your dedicated fashion stylist will come up with a brand new outfit – complete with accessories and shoes and you might even find a new style that you’d never have been brave enough to try. Of course, after a busy morning, a champagne lunch somewhere fancy is a must!

A private chef experience

BEST FOR THOSE INSTAGRAM SNAPS

You’ve gone to all that trouble of finding a luxury hen party house so why not stay in and enjoy it for one evening? Plus, you don’t need to worry about what’s for dinner as there’s plenty of chefs that will come and take care of everything. They’ll design a menu, serve up a delicious feast and even do the washing up afterwards – all while you sit back and keep the glasses topped up. If you can’t be treated like a queen at your hen party, where else can you?!

Cocktail making

BEST FOR LEARNING SOME NEW SKILLS

Now, this is something you absolutely cannot afford to miss. The girls are going to go crazy over this and your bride even more. York has some fabulous masterclasses in cocktail making but you may need to book ahead to secure your venue of choice. Our favourites include Fancy HANKS, The Botanist, All Bar One, and Revolution. Spend an hour shimmying and shaking, while mixing up a delicious drink and, at the end, you even get to taste them all. Winning!

Dance class

BEST FOR HAVING A LAUGH

Not only is dancing a great way to have a bit of fun but you might pick up a few new moves for the big day and it’s guaranteed to help your bride to forget about her stresses for just one afternoon. Plus, when it comes to themes, you’ll be spoilt for choice in York. Think salsa, street and even Irish dancing – and there’s musical themed ones too like Beyonce, 90s and Michael Jackson.