This article contains paid-for content created in collaboration with The Grand York
The hen do is becoming an increasingly important chapter in getting married for brides. As such, the responsibility to arrange the perfect weekend can put a lot of pressure on the maid of honour. Don’t panic though, planning a hen do doesn’t have to be a stressful uphill struggle. If organising a weekend abroad sounds too challenging, consider planning a weekend away in the UK, and look no further than the largest county, Yorkshire.
From the well-known cities of York (quaint and historic, it’s perfect for gals who want a relaxing weekend), and Leeds (a bustling hub for bubbly brides who love to party), to under-the-radar places like Knaresborough (where you’ll find active brides who enjoy long walks and being at one with nature), Yorkshire has it all.
Whatever your vision, the towns and cities of Yorkshire can help you pull off a hen party that the bride will remember forever. Here’s what they can offer:
York
Pamper weekends offer an alternative from the average hedonistic hen do; it is the ideal opportunity to spend time with the bride and her closest friends and family, sip champagne and relax ahead of the big day. With so much to plan and arrange, brides-to-be can often get bogged down and forget the most important thing – to enjoy themselves. By inviting everyone along for a low-key weekend, you can be sure she’ll be grateful for a bit of pampering. Spa weekends should also please all of the hens, including the mother of the bride and the mother in law.
Where better to retreat to than the ultimate in luxury stays, and one of the only 5* York wedding venues, The Grand York. The stunning Edwardian building has a tranquil and relaxing spa in its vaults, and pamper packages that are designed to melt stress away. A stone’s throw from many of York’s historic attractions, such as York Minster and The Shambles, you can weave in and out of the many bars and restaurants, while also taking in some culture.
Leeds
Leeds city centre has become increasingly vibrant in recent years and will suit fun-loving brides who like to party. There’s an eclectic selection of bars and restaurants where you can bring the group together with a dining experience, cocktail-making class or bottomless brunch before celebrating the bride-to-be in style and dancing the night away.
Late-night drinking may not be to everyone’s taste, so be sure to carefully consider the daytime activities. Leeds Grand Theatre often has matinee showings, Leeds Arena is occupied by music artists most weekends and there are plenty of other fun activities such as mini-golf, ping pong and shuffleboard so that you can carefully curate a well-balanced weekend!
Knaresborough
The leafy green and peaceful town of Knaresborough is the dream hen destination for a chilled-out bride who appreciates nature. The market and spa town in the Borough of Harrogate is situated on the beautiful River Nidd.
The town is synonymous with rowing, and you really can’t visit without taking a trip down the river in the iconic green and red rowing boats. The boats can seat up to ten people, so depending on how big your group is, you could end up with some friendly rivalry.
Once you’re all rowed out, continue exploring by walking up to the castle to hold a raven, or opt for a livelier afternoon by visiting the quaint and traditional bars for a pub crawl to ramp up the fun factor.