Best Top Tips for Planning a Hen Party in London

Planning a hen party can be both exciting and daunting, especially when you want to make the event unique, memorable, and perfectly tailored to the bride. 

We’ve compiled some top tips and tricks for planning the ultimate hen party in London — ideas that go beyond the typical activities and offer fresh perspectives that are practical, fun, and easily achievable.

1. Start with the Bride’s Personality, Not the Trend

Before diving into venues, activities, or themes, take a moment to think about the bride’s personality. What does she truly enjoy? If she's more of a wellness enthusiast than a wild party girl, a yoga hen party or spa day might be perfect. 

If she loves a bit of drama and fun, you could plan a dance workshop where the group learns a choreographed routine to her favourite song. 

For those brides with an adventurous streak, consider activities like axe-throwing or an escape room challenge. Tailoring the day around what the bride loves will make the experience far more personal and memorable.

Pro Tip: Secret hobbies

Has the bride ever mentioned a secret hobby she wishes she could pursue? Maybe she's always wanted to try pottery or aerial yoga. Use this insight to plan a surprise activity that’s both unexpected and enjoyable.

2. Venue Hacks: Private and Affordable

Finding the right venue in London can be tricky, but here’s a pro tip: look for private venues with flexible booking options. 

Venues like those offered by East London Hen Parties are perfect—they have a private studio with garden access, so you can host activities like yoga, dance classes, or even fitness boot camps in a beautifully secluded setting without breaking the bank. 

Plus, if you book a package through a provider that owns the space, you’re often paying less than going through a third-party venue hire.

Pro Tip: Make it a full experience

Choose venues that offer multiple facilities—like a garden, kitchen, or lounge area—so you can create a full day or weekend experience. Kick off with a yoga session in the morning, followed by a picnic in the garden or an afternoon cocktail-making class.

3. Unique London Experiences for Hens

London offers an array of quirky, alternative hen party ideas that stray from the usual pub crawl. Here are some that might not be on your radar:

• Floating Hot Tub on the Thames: Book a Skuna Boat for the bride and hens to soak in a floating hot tub on the Thames. It’s a unique, quirky, and relaxing experience.

• Moo Canoes on the Canal: If the bride loves nature or something more active, rent Moo Canoes for a scenic adventure through Hackney Wick.

• Murder Mystery Hen Parties: Add some intrigue with a professionally hosted murder mystery dinner, where each guest plays a character. Companies like Murder Mystery Events will help you plan the perfect night.

Pro tip: Check for off-peak deals

Look for off-peak booking times or group discounts to reduce costs. For instance, weekday afternoon bookings at many London venues are often far cheaper than weekend slots.

4. Catering to Everyone in the Group

Hen parties often bring together a diverse group of people, so consider this when planning activities. Some may prefer low-key activities while others are up for something more lively. Here’s how to accommodate everyone:

• Mix High-Energy with Low-Key: Start the day with a high-energy fitness or dance class, then cool down with a relaxing yoga session or afternoon tea. This balance keeps the group entertained without overwhelming anyone.

• Bespoke Hen Party Bags: Create personalised goodie bags for each guest with items they’ll love. Include things like a hangover recovery kit, personalised T-shirts, or even small pamper items.

Pro tip: Cater to dietary preferences

When planning meals or snacks, don’t forget to ask for dietary preferences well in advance. London is packed with restaurants offering a variety of cuisines (vegan, gluten-free, halal), so you won’t be short of options. In Hackney Wick Crate Brewery and The Breakfast Club are great brunch options that offer diverse menus to suit everyone’s tastes.

5. Games with a Twist

Skip the cliché hen party games and add a fresh twist. Here are a few ideas:

• Personalised Trivia: Create a trivia game based on the bride’s life. This can be funny, nostalgic, and deeply personal. Include questions like “Where did she meet her partner?” or “What’s her most embarrassing moment?”

• Hen Party Treasure Hunt: Design a scavenger hunt around London landmarks or in a local park like Victoria Park. Include fun tasks like snapping selfies at iconic locations or solving riddles related to the bride’s favourite spots in the city.

• DIY Perfume Workshop: For a chic and memorable activity, book a perfume-making workshop where each guest creates a custom scent.

Hack: Digital invites and planning apps

Save time and hassle by using apps like Paperless Post to send out invites, track RSVPs, and communicate easily with all guests. Planning apps can help you stay organised and keep track of expenses.

6. Budget-Friendly Ideas

Hen parties don’t have to cost a fortune. Here’s how to make the most of your budget:

• Group Discounts: Many London venues and activity providers offer group rates. For example, bottomless brunches often come with reduced prices for larger parties.

• DIY Decor: Save on venue decor by going the DIY route. Create a photo wall with Polaroid snapshots, or craft hen party banners and props.
  Not only is it cheaper, but it’s also a fun bonding activity to do with the bridal party beforehand.

• Split Costs: Make sure everyone chips in for shared costs. Apps like Splitwise can help you track who owes what and ensure a fair split.

7. Plan for the Unexpected

No matter how much you plan, things don’t always go according to schedule. Here’s how to be prepared:

• Backup Activity: Always have a backup activity in case your main plan falls through. For instance, if you’ve planned an outdoor yoga session and the weather turns, make sure there’s an indoor alternative like a nearby spa or cosy café.

• Emergency Kit: Pack an emergency kit with essentials like safety pins, extra makeup, aspirin, and mints. Trust me, it will come in handy!

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Final Thoughts

Planning a hen party in London is an exciting challenge, and with these unique tips and tricks, you're sure to create a day that's unforgettable for the bride and her friends. From venue hacks to quirky London activities, remember that it’s all about tailoring the experience to the bride’s personality and keeping everyone engaged with a mix of fun, relaxation, and laughter.

For the ultimate personalised hen party experience, check out East London Hen Parties for bespoke dance classes, yoga workshops, and more. With our private studio and expert instructors, you’ll have the perfect setting for an unforgettable celebration!