Stag and Hen weekends

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The Big Question…UK Or Abroad?

Actually it’s not quite the biggest question.  Because somewhere down the line, someone popped the first one about marriage and the other one said yes.  Hence a wedding is on the horizon.  So here comes the second question – where and when is the stag or hen weekend?

I thought this month I’d look at the pros and cons of a UK seaside destination versus hopping on a plane to warmer climes. Especially if the organisation of this most important jolly might just have landed on your lap.  Good luck then!

So here we go then – UK seaside resorts tend to be more convenient for most people, with less travel time, fewer logistical challenge and no need for passports. You can enjoy classic beach towns with no worry about language barriers or wobbly exchange rates.

However, the one thing you really can rely on – is that our British weather can’t be relied upon.  So you might not always get the sunny beach vibe you’d hoped for. The bride or groom-to-be might not be too nuts about huddling behind a windbreak or swimming in near Arctic conditions.

In contrast, heading abroad guarantees sunnier climates. Destinations like Barcelona, Ibiza, or the Greek islands are famous for sun, sea, and plenty of partying. The downside is the longer travel times, potential language barriers and higher costs, especially with flights and accommodation.  Not all the bridal party will have the same budgets or the ability to neck multiple pina coladas.  It takes practice!  So it might be worth thinking about an all inclusive to put the cruise control on the spends.

Best chat to your mates on exactly how far you want to travel and how much you want to spend.  After all, you want to come home still besties.  Oh and not broke!!

The Best UK Seaside Destinations For A Stag or Hen Weekend Away

Well here at Serious About Events, we are inevitably biased about seaside resorts as many of our weekends take place in them.  And we know, come rain or come shine, that they will provide the backdrop to a fantastic weekend.  The UK is home to some fantastic South coast seaside destinations that make for brilliant stag and hen weekends. Brighton, known for its inclusive, vibrant nightlife and quirky charm, is a good choice for pre-nuptial parties, with beachfront bars, lively clubs, and plenty of fun activities like karaoke or drag shows. Year long, Brighton has a touch of London pace with all the advantages of non-stop sea air.

For something a bit more laid-back, Cornwall offers stunning coastal views, relaxed beach vibes and plenty of opportunities for some great seafood, spa days or surf lessons.   If the latter, pack a wetsuit and instantly look like pro.

Devon probably sits somewhere in between these two.  South Devon and in particular Torbaydos – that’s what we locals call it – offers nightlife, stunning beaches, boat trips, sports, moorland excursions, perfect for a stag or hen group seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation, particularly if you have a wide age group to please.

Top European Stag and Hen Weekend Destinations

So your gang have decided it’s to be an international adventure.  Europe, right on our doorstep, is packed with exciting destinations perfect for a stag or hen weekend. Spanish cities like Barcelona combine beaches, culture, and nightlife, making it a well-rounded choice for all ages of your party. You can spend your days exploring the city’s art and architecture and your nights sucking up sangria in trendy bars and nightclubs or enjoying tapas and people watching on the Rambla.

Or how about Ibiza?  It’s had a monster reputation for party lovers for years, with its world-famous beach clubs and wild nightlife, Amsterdam is another alternative location, with its canal cruises, quirky cafés, and vibrant nightlife scene.  Leave Paris to the lovebirds and try a cheaper stay in Lyon, particularly if your party are foodies.  The finest restaurants in France are to be found here in the City of Lights along with a cultural history and an arts scene to plunder.

Where To Go Without Breaking The Bank

For affordable trips abroad, Budapest is a fantastic option, offering cheap flights and accommodation along with luxurious thermal baths and its lively, quirky ruin bars, cobbled together in disused spaces and buildings. Kraków in Poland is another budget-friendly option, where you can enjoy rich history, great food, and affordable nightlife.

Obviously there is going to be quite a shift in budget between UK & Abroad options, this article from plan the hen, says the average UK cost of a weekend away is in the region of £300, compared with at least £350 in Europe, rising to £1,000 for longhaul.  We think that’s a bit on the conservative side.

When travelling abroad, work out the expenses ahead of time, as the complexity of travel, accommodation and entertainment can ramp up the cost significantly.  Even your suitcase can cost more than your flight.  It might be worth you thinking of booking an all inclusive break for more precise budgeting and no bill squabbles.  This would cover all meals, snacks and drinks, including alcohol and cocktails.

What Do You Want To Do When You’re Not Partying?

A stag or hen weekend isn’t just about the nightlife. During the day, you’ll want to keep everyone entertained with activities that suit the group.  Meanwhile travelling abroad brings cultural heritage and can include a more tropical vibe.

For more active stags and hens, activities like golf, paddleboarding, coasteering, or even a surf lesson are all readily available in UK seaside towns and can really ramp up the excitement on your trip.  If all else fails, try herding them off to an escape room for a bit of drama!

Alternatively, spa treatments, cocktail-making classes, or wine-tasting sessions are perfect for those looking for a more relaxed vibe. Consider the preferences of your group and pick a destination that offers a mix of activities, so everyone gets a chance to enjoy themselves during their stay.

Why Book With Serious About Events For A Stag or Hen Weekend?

Well we might as well blow our own trumpets.  Here at Serious About Events, we are absolutely at your service to take the stress out of planning a stag or hen weekend.

With 30 years of experience of organising fabulous weekends, we handle all the details, from accommodation and food to entertainment, so you don’t have to worry about anything. Our weekends are one stop shop, all under one roof. With our packed programme of optional activities including skittles and coach trips, our weekends include meals, live entertainment and an unforgettable party atmosphere entertainment programme and a chance to dress up on our traditional Saturday Night fancy dress party night.

Whether you’re looking for an action-packed weekend or a more chilled-out vibe, we offer a range of experiences and venues, from lively skittles tournaments to relaxing spas, stunning coastal venues & always a party atmosphere – you’ll have an unforgettable, affordable stag or hen weekend without the hassle, find out more about our Hen weekends here.