The space

Set in the rolling countryside of the Scottish Borders, Hillhouse Farm Escapes is a brilliant choice for a hen weekend that wants space, fresh air and a proper sense of occasion. Based near Lauder and around 30 minutes from Edinburgh, it gives your group the best of both worlds: a peaceful farm setting for catching up, celebrating and slowing down, with city days out and southern Scotland adventures within easy reach.

The accommodation is spread across two neighbouring properties, Bracken House and Highfield House, sleeping up to 18 guests across 9 bedrooms. That layout works especially well for hen groups because everyone can stay close together without feeling on top of each other. You can gather as one big party for meals, drinks and activities, then split naturally between the two houses when people want a quieter cup of tea, a lie-in or a bit of downtime before the evening plans begin.

Outside, there is plenty of room to enjoy the setting, from garden areas and outdoor seating to farm tracks made for a morning walk after the night before. The wider venue has a relaxed, private feel that suits everything from a low-key countryside celebration to a weekend with catered dinners, activities and a special meal for the bride-to-be.

Inside the house

Hillhouse Farm Escapes is made up of Bracken House and Highfield House, each with its own kitchen, dining area and lounge. Bracken House sleeps 10, with a sofa bed available for 1 additional guest, while Highfield House sleeps 8, with 2 campbeds suitable for additional children if needed. For a typical hen group, the 9 bedrooms give you a helpful mix of sleeping arrangements and enough space for everyone to settle in comfortably.

Having two kitchens is a real bonus for group weekends. Keep breakfast supplies, bubbles and snacks well stocked, prep a relaxed brunch across both houses, or use one kitchen as the main hub while the other becomes the quieter morning coffee spot. The dining and lounge spaces in each house mean you are not limited to one room all weekend, which is ideal if part of the group wants to play games while others get ready or chat over a drink.

For bigger shared moments, the barn offers a fantastic informal dining space and works beautifully for a BBQ, grazing table or relaxed evening feast. If you would like a more formal sit-down meal, a small marquee can be arranged at an additional charge for dining for up to 24 guests. That makes it a lovely option for a dressed-up hen dinner, a themed supper, or a special toast to the bride without needing to leave the property.

The hosts can recommend trusted local caterers, whether you are thinking canapés and cocktails, a hearty celebration dinner, or something easy and relaxed after a day out. A mobile bar can also be arranged, giving you the fun of a private bar experience without the logistics of taxis at the end of the night.

Hen weekend highlights

This is a venue that lends itself to a full hen itinerary without making the weekend feel over-planned. Hot tubs are available to hire if required, so you can add a spa-style element to the stay: think prosecco, robes, playlists and a slow afternoon soaking in the countryside views. It is an easy win for a bride who wants a treat without booking a formal spa day.

The garden and outdoor seating areas are ideal for welcome drinks, group photos, chilled afternoon games or a pre-dinner toast. In warmer months, a BBQ in or around the barn creates a relaxed party atmosphere, especially if you bring decorations, a playlist and a few hen party games. There is enough space for the group to make the weekend feel personal, whether that means a tasteful bride-to-be dinner, a country-themed activity day, or a relaxed reunion with friends who have travelled from different places.

For groups who like activities, Hillhouse Farm Escapes has plenty to offer. You can get involved in a sheepdog demonstration, try clay shooting or archery, or arrange other country sports for a fun, competitive afternoon. The tennis court is another great feature for a light-hearted tournament, especially if you split into teams and add prizes for the bride squad.

If your group prefers something gentler, the hosts can help arrange tastings, flower workshops and other group sessions. These work really well for mixed-age hens or groups where not everyone wants a late night. You can build a weekend that feels sociable and celebratory, with space for both lively moments and calmer ones.

Location & getting around

Hillhouse Farm Escapes is located near Lauder in the Scottish Borders, a scenic area known for market towns, countryside walks and easy access to both coast and city. Lauder gives the stay a rural base rather than a busy nightlife setting, so it is especially suited to groups who want private celebrations, hosted activities, catered meals and quality time together at the property.

Edinburgh is around 30 minutes away, making it simple to plan a city day out for shopping, sightseeing, cocktail bars, restaurants or a bigger night out. You can enjoy the buzz of the capital, then return to the space and privacy of your countryside base. For many hen groups, that balance is exactly what makes the weekend run smoothly: no need to choose between peaceful accommodation and access to a lively city.

The surrounding Scottish Borders also has plenty to explore. Melrose is within reach for independent shops, cafes and pretty streets, while North Berwick and the coast make a lovely day trip if the group fancies sea air and beach time. Great beaches can be reached within around 45 minutes, so a coastal walk or relaxed lunch by the water is very doable.

For getting around, it is best to plan transport in advance, particularly if you are heading into Edinburgh for drinks or arranging activities off site. Once you are at the property, there are farm tracks right from the door for walks and cycling, so you do not need to travel far for fresh air and countryside views.

Enquire today

If you are planning a hen weekend for a group that wants room to celebrate, eat together and enjoy the Scottish countryside, Hillhouse Farm Escapes is well worth a closer look. With two houses, 9 bedrooms, outdoor space, optional hot tub hire, activity options and the chance to arrange catering or a mobile bar, it is a flexible setting for a bride-to-be who wants something more personal than a standard hotel stay.

Send an enquiry with your preferred dates, group size and any ideas you already have for the weekend. The host can help you understand the layout, optional extras and local recommendations so you can start shaping a hen celebration that suits your group.