Avoid the usual party hotspots and say goodbye in style by visiting some of the best under-the-radar locations
Forget Brighton – try Torquay
Brighton isn’t afraid to flaunt its ‘kiss me quick’ hats and lollipops in the shape of body parts, but if that all sounds a bit old-fashioned to you, you might prefer Torquay, another seaside town on the south coast. It’s famous for its watersports, so why not treat the girls to an adventure by parasailing and waterskiing? Follow up a wet and wild weekend courtesy of Go Hen with a relaxing pamper day.
Forget Cheltenham – try York
Ladies’ Day at Cheltenham Races is all very nice, but other racecourses can give it a run for its money: dig out your fascinators, ladies, and head for a weekend away in York. Its historic racecourse is a fabulous place for your own race day. Book a box at York Racecourse, place your bets and be wined and dined in comfort as you keep your fingers crossed for a windfall. Come on, Scotch Corner, mama’s got her heart set on a Vera Wang gown for her big day!
Forget Barcelona – try Madrid
If enjoying a Spanish beer and nibbling on free tapas (that’s right, I did say free) has got your hen radar beeping, Madrid is the place for you. Don’t get me wrong, Barcelona is amazing, but Spain’s capital has scores of bars where every drink order is accompanied by a portion of tortilla, cured meats and even sandwiches or mini-burgers! They say eating is cheating, but it’s not cheating if it’s free, right? Hit up El Tigre on the Calle de las Infantas for tasty eats.
Forget Marbella – try Montenegro
If you’d rather run for the hills than into the arms of the TOWIE crowd, sunny Montenegro will be much more up your street than overpriced Marbella. On the same stretch of coast as Croatia, it has beautiful beaches, clear waters and breathtaking mountains. If you’re looking for a real treat, book a couple of nights at the four-star Queen of Montenegro hotel for luxury and spa relaxation you’ll never forget.
Forget Ibiza – try Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal’s hilly capital, is a metropolitan coastal city known for its café culture and soulful fado music. But it is also home to some super-hip clubs – and what better way to spend your last weekend of freedom than busting out some moves? If you visit here, you’ll have to get on the list for Lux. Partly owned by John Malkovich, it’s the country’s coolest club and has been known to entertain the likes of Cameron Diaz and Madonna. Ooh-er!
Forget Dublin – try Cork
Dublin used to be the best place in Ireland for a stag do but it now faces strong competition from Cork. This friendly town in the far south of the country is the place to head for some thoroughly good craic. While you’re there, take the chance to learn as you drink, with an informative booze-up at the Jameson Experience. The whiskey-making operation of the brand lives in the green surroundings of Midleton, Co Cork, in buildings dating from the 1800s.
Forget Krakow – try Bratislava
Krakow has been done, mate! It’s time to swap Poland for Slovakia and bask in the beauty of its capital, Bratislava, whose cobbled streets and impressive squares are full of welcoming bars. This is also the place for brilliant outdoor karting. Tag along with the European Stag Company, grab your helmet and race your mates. The Bratislava kart track is one of the best in Europe, so get your game face on for this one.
Forget Blackpool – try Nottingham
Live at the Top of the Tower may be one of your favourite Peter Kay shows, but that’s no reason to make Blackpool your stag destination. Why not transport the gang to Nottingham? Robin Hood’s city has a lot more to offer than just tights and Sherwood Forest. Ever fancied a game of bubble football with the lads? It’s simple – like playing football while encased in a roll of bubble wrap!