Last Night of Freedom has over 25,000 stag and hen weekends under their belt, and 2016 was the biggest year yet. As it has drawn to a close, Lauren Green rounds up the most popular hen party destinations of 2016.
1. Newcastle
The undisputed northern nightlife hub has clinched the top spot for the second year in a row. Newcastle’s cosmopolitan centre can be split into several exciting and alluring drinking districts, including the illustrious Diamond Strip (better known for its stint on Geordie Shore), the Quayside overlooking stunning attractions on the river bank and the opulent Grey Street.
This wonderful city even features one of the UK’s biggest shopping centres, the world-famous Metrocentre. Plus, with so many fabulous hen party activities in Newcastle it’s little wonder this city is firmly in the heart of our hens.
2. Dublin
Delicious Dublin is lively and, quite frankly, outrageous. A never-ending party of iconic and boozy attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Whiskey to name but a few. For this, Dublin has retained the coveted second spot for another year.
Of course, special mention goes to the legendary Temple Bar. It’s Dublin’s most famous son and home to a huge amount of traditional pubs, swish bars and clubs that don’t stop until dawn. The Fair City thoroughly deserves its title.
3. London
After a fourth place finish in 2014 and 15, London has made it into the top three most popular hen party destinations of 2016. Landan Taan has seen a whole new wave of activities take centre-stage. From the likes of a WAH Nail masterclass and a London Bus afternoon tea, to a graffiti workshop in East London and a cocktail class at the A-list haunt, Juju. Plus, it has stolen the crown of marvellous Marbs.
4. Edinburgh
Wee Edinburgh has been in our top 10 hen party destinations for the past decade, and it’s not slowing down. The Scottish capital is fun, flirty, overindulgent and charming. Edinburgh is swimming in breathtaking architecture, features some of Britain’s biggest and best shopping districts and has a nightlife that would rival any European capital (we’re looking at you, Grassmarket). We’ll see you there.
5. Manchester
Knocked out of the top 10 in 2015, but Manchester is back with an almighty bang at number five. Manchester, the undisputed ‘King of the North’, is oh-so-cool and confident, with music in its blood and a trail of bars and clubs in its wake. This city of diverse and vibrant areas and cultures has a swarm of hen party activities to choose from and will leave you with unforgettable memories.
6. Liverpool
Liverpool is another new entry to most popular hen party destinations of 2016 top 10, after losing its spot in 2015. Scousers are renowned for their love of partying, and Liverpool is a heady mix of energy, atmosphere and architecture. There’s so much to see in so little time, such as the bustling Albert Dock, the notorious Concert Square and the spectacular Seel Street and Hardman Street. You’ll never walk alone…
7. Marbella
Marvellous Marbs may have dropped from third to seventh, but the sun is still shining in the Costa del Sol paradise. Marbella is the celeb destination and hosts some of the biggest and most exclusive clubs known to man. It’s decadent, opulent and sun-kissed — and the activities just get better. You can sail on your own catamaran or celebrate in a beach club; the choices are endless.
8. Nottingham
Nottingham has been a mainstay in our top ten hen party destinations lists for as long as we can remember. Robin Hood and his merry band of gentlemen set up camp in Nottingham, and so have thousands of our hens. The activities are packed full of fun and action, and bars, pubs and clubs line the cobbled, quaint streets.
9. Cardiff
Cardiff has been in the top 10 for two years in a row, and is bursting at the seams with hen parties from across the globe. The city is a haven of chic cocktail bars and clubs. From Greyfriars Road, set under the shadow of the iconic Cardiff Castle, to St Mary Street and Cardiff Bay. Cardiff is synonymous with some of the best celebrations in the UK.
10. Leeds
Yorkshire’s rose and party capital. Leeds is a northern hotbed of busy shopping districts, cool music venues, slick cocktail bars and giant clubs. The stunning city appears in the most popular hen party destinations of 2016 after dropping off the board two years ago. We are proud to see it sail back into the ranks. The activities are once-in-a-lifetime and the vibe is perfect for your hen weekend.
Guest post by Lauren Green of Last Night of Freedom
