Total Wedding Guide: Your Bristol Hen Party

The party capital of the South West is calling – and it’s got plenty on offer! So call the girls, set a date (or several) and get ready for some well-deserved fun. Planning a wedding is no easy feat, especially if you’ve a larger event in mind, and a hen party can be just the thing to take the edge off in the run up to the big day itself. It doesn't have to be boozy. It doesn't have to be abroad. Bristol is home to dozens of activities and events for you and your crew to enjoy, from comedy nights, to salsa, to boat trips with an open bar.

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1. Nightlife and Bright Lights

In the mood for a boogie? Bristol has dozens of club nights, gigs and bars open every night of the week for you and your ladies to peruse. Wander along the river, queue up and then get to partying. There’s Thekla by the river, Timbuk2 in the city centre, Basement 45 and many others to suit all your club night needs.

2. Comedy and Chill

Looking for something a little less intense? Smoke & Mirrors' comedy nights are a great way to relax, as is The Comedy Box, or Riproar, or all three! Just be sure your mates don’t book an open mic or you’ll find yourself on stage, God forbid.

3. Tarot and Mystique

Nothing says friendship and bonding quite like a group séance. Bristol has dozens of clairvoyants and mediums all about town, available online for review and booking. If you’re on the hunt for a hen night with a bit of character, look no further than crystal balls, tarot readings and insight into the marriage to come.

4. Booze on the Water

Who needs limos when you’ve got cruises? Bristol has numerous boats available for hire, many with open bars, sound systems and disco lights galore. Enjoy a party on the open water with your own exclusive guest list, cocktail in hand.

5. Escape Room

Adventure. Daring. Problem-solving danger. Live out your Lara Croft fantasies to the max in one of Bristol’s many escape rooms, each with their own, unique theme. You and your hens will be trapped – unless you solve each riddle and make it to the end. Best enjoyed while sober.

6. Life Drawing

Who says hen nights can’t be classy? Put your artistic talents to the test with a life drawing session, model on stage and pencil in hand. Compare results at the end if you dare.

7. Spa Indulgence

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Spas are expensive – but with group deals and packages galore, Bristol can set you and your hens on a journey to cloud nine, for an hour or two at least. Spend an afternoon in the warm glow of luxury, pampering and pruning, while you prepare for the big day.

8. Bottomless Brunch

Not an evening kind of gal? Book the girls in for a bottomless brunch, champagne included, and get to gossiping. Brace and Brown, Steam, and The Prince Street Social all have deals on offer, most often complete with avocado on toast.

9. Archery

Bristol has plenty for the sportier sort, too. Get to target practice and hit the bullseye at a local archery range following the usual safety briefing, of course. Whether your crew is full of veterans or beginners, you’re sure to have a laugh.

10. Salsa

It takes two to tango, but salsa suits hen parties of any size. There are all kinds of dance classes dotted about Bristol, and what could be more sensual and exciting than a lesson before the big day?

Your hen party is exactly that: yours, and with so much on offer around Bristol city you and your mates can tailor it to perfection. Choose one activity, or five, or a whole long weekend’s worth, and be sure to take plenty of photos along the way.