10 Sophisticated Hen Party Ideas in Bristol
Bristol, with its vibrant culture and mix of styles provides the perfect back drop for celebrating your hen party. If you’re on the hunt for elegant and unforgettable hen party ideas in Bristol, you’re in luck. From creative workshops to adventurous physical challenges and relaxing spa days we’ve curated a list of ten sophisticated hen party activities in Bristol that are sure to delight every bride-to-be. And for the grand finale? An exceptional afternoon tea with us at Ashwell & Co. Let’s dive in!
1. Bristol Balloons: Sky High Celebration
Start your hen party in Bristol with an uplifting experience and book a hot air balloon ride. As well as the famous Balloon Fiesta in the summer, you can also experience a balloon ride in the other fair weathered months. Float over the city and countryside in a hot air balloon, sipping champagne as you gaze at the stunning views. It’s a serene yet thrilling start to your hen party adventures.
2. Creative Workshops: Release Your Inner Artist
For the crafty bride-to-be, Bristol offers a wide variety of creative workshops. You can try everything from weaving and knitting to poetry, painting or jewellery making. Here at Ashwell & Co we offer a whole array of amazing ‘Crafternoon Tea’ packages in collaboration with some of Bristol’s best creatives and makers. From flower crowns to lino printing and macrame to modern calligraphy we have something for all different tastes and skill levels. Browse our full list of options here.
3. Spa Retreat: Relax and Rejuvenate
No hen party in Bristol is complete without a touch of pampering and one of our absolute favourite places in the city is The Lido Bristol for its unusual outdoor pool, sense of escapism and gorgeous treatment rooms. You can while away a few hours here and completely forget you are in the city. Indulge in massages, facials and relaxation. It’s the perfect way to unwind and chat before the big day. What’s more, they are less than 10 minutes walk from us, so why not book in for an a Private Afternoon Tea after your pampering session?
4. Cocktail Making Class: Mix and Mingle
Bristol’s vibrant bar scene offers private sessions where you can learn to make your favourite drinks. It’s a fun, interactive experience that gets everyone involved. Milk Thistle is a Bristol institution. One of the original speakeasy style bars in the city where you can be assured of both a fun and enjoyable class, but also a quality experience using great ingredients.
5. Private Boat Tour: Sail the Scenic Harbourside
The Harbourside is the heart of Bristol. Not only is it home to the beloved Arnolfini and Wapping Wharf but it is also a great spot to walk, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the water. Explore Bristol from the water with a private boat tour from Bristol favourites, Bristol Packet. If you’re looking for something more active you an also do stand up paddle boarding in the harbour.
6. Gourmet Dining: A Taste of Bristol
Bristol’s food scene is bustling with fantastic restaurants. Choose a fine dining experience that offers a taste of local and international cuisines. An exceptional meal is a sophisticated and delicious addition to your hen party itinerary. We recommend Box E in Wapping Wharf and Cor in Southville.
7. Theatre Night: Culture and Entertainment
For the culture-loving bride, night at the theatre is a must. Bristol’s theatre scene offers a range of shows from musicals to dramas to comedy. With a variety of venues to choose from you can pick a performance that suits your group and enjoy an evening of entertainment. We particularly recommend Bristol Old Vic for contemporary theatre (and the building is worth visiting alone), the Tobacco Factory Theatre and the Alma Tavern & Theatre which is just along the road from us.
8. Vintage Makeover: Go Out in Style
With a shop full of beautiful vintage fashion people often ask if they’re allowed to try the clothes on when they come for one of our parties and the answer is of course, yes. In fact we actively encourage it! If you’d like to take the vintage theme one step further you can book one of our Vintage Makeover parties and our team of hair and makeup artists will style you to perfection all ready for an evening out on the town.
9. Dance Workshop: Dance Your Heart Out!
Whether it’s Charleston, Swing or something else a dance workshop is a lively and fun way to spend your time together. Learn new moves, laugh and bond as you spend a couple of hours learning a routine together. Our dance partner Amy Young and her team of fantastic dancers will make you feel at ease as they take you through the moves until you feel like a pro. All ages and experience levels are welcome.
10. Afternoon Tea at Ashwell & Co; The Perfect Finale
Finally, culminate your hen party in Bristol with an elegant afternoon tea at Ashwell & Co. This quintessentially British experience is the perfect way to relax and spend time together as a group as you reminisce about your adventures. Our fantastic afternoon tea is fully homemade, including the clotted cream and the menu changes seasonally. It includes sandwiches, freshly baked cakes, scones with clotted cream and jam, a selection of fine tea and perhaps a glass of Prosecco for that extra sparkle. It’s an intimate and chic setting that offers the perfect ending to your hen party activities in Bristol.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, Bristol offers a unique blend of activities that cater to all tastes and preferences. From the thrill of a balloon ride to the charm of afternoon tea at Ashwell & Co, your hen party in Bristol is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Gather your friends, pack your bags and get ready for a memorable and exciting celebration in the heart of this beautiful city.
