The space

Set near Oxton and Lauder in the Scottish Borders, Highfield House is a welcoming country house made for hens who want space to relax, eat together and enjoy a weekend that can be as chilled or as active as you like. Originally built in the 1800s as shepherds quarters and thoughtfully renovated in 2022, it has that lovely mix of countryside character and modern comfort, with generous rooms, a large garden and sociable spaces for the whole group.

The house sleeps 8 guests across 4 bedrooms, with camp beds available by arrangement for 2 additional guests, making it a strong choice for smaller to mid-sized hen groups. It is also dog friendly, so if the bride-to-be wants to bring a much-loved four-legged guest, this is a great option to consider.

This is not a city-centre party pad, and that is very much part of its charm. Think slow breakfasts, fizz in the garden, an afternoon hot tub session if you choose to hire one, and an evening around the dining table with food, games and plenty of catching up. For groups who love fresh air, the setting is a real highlight, with walking and mountain biking routes close by and an on-site tennis court available to book at no extra charge.

Inside the house

Inside, Highfield House is designed for easy group living. The large living room gives everyone somewhere comfortable to gather after a day out, with plenty of seating, a smart TV and a round table that works brilliantly for board games, cards, hen party quizzes or planning the next day’s activities. WiFi runs throughout the house, so playlists, streaming, group chats and travel updates are all easily covered.

The kitchen is well equipped for a self-catered hen weekend, with a range cooker, dishwasher and plenty of crockery, glassware and utensils. Whether you are making a big brunch, laying out grazing boards or arranging for a private chef or local caterer, the set-up is practical and sociable. The oak dining table seats up to 10 guests with an extension leaf, giving you a proper group dining space for celebratory meals, speeches, games or a themed supper.

There is also a downstairs WC and cloakroom, plus a separate laundry room, which is handy for longer stays, muddy walks or outdoor activity weekends. Upstairs, the main bedroom has a king-size bed and its own en suite shower room. The remaining bedrooms include a twin room and additional flexible rooms suited to group stays, served by a family bathroom with a bath and shower.

A downstairs annex adds even more flexibility, with a further shower room, an extra living area and a second kitchen space. This can work especially well if the bride, maid of honour or part of the group would like a little more privacy, or if you want separate areas for getting ready, quiet time or storing party supplies.

Hen weekend highlights

Highfield House has lots of ingredients that work beautifully for a hen celebration without feeling overdone. Hot tubs are available to hire if required, so you can add a spa-style moment to the weekend with bubbles, robes and a relaxed afternoon in the fresh Scottish Borders air. Just be sure to request this in advance so arrangements can be confirmed.

The large open garden at the rear of the house is ideal for welcome drinks, garden games, morning coffee or a low-key photo moment before heading out. There is also a barn suitable for barbecues and informal meals together, which gives the group a fun all-weather-feeling space for casual dining and relaxed evening plans.

For activity-loving hens, the on-site tennis court is a brilliant bonus and can be booked at no extra charge. You could organise a friendly doubles tournament, bride-versus-bridesmaids match or just a fun hour before lunch. Walks and mountain biking routes from the door also make this a great choice for outdoorsy groups who would rather spend the day exploring than sitting still.

Evenings can be whatever suits your group: dinner around the big oak table, cocktails in the lounge, a film on the smart TV, a quiz about the bride, or a cosy night in before a bigger day out. If your party is larger, nearby Bracken House on the same site sleeps 10, and groups booking more than one property may be able to hire a small marquee for communal dining or activities, with local caterers available.

Location & getting around

Highfield House sits close to Oxton and Lauder, giving you a peaceful countryside base with practical access to local amenities. A local pub is within a mile, which is ideal for an easy drink or meal without committing to a full night out. Lauder and the surrounding Scottish Borders villages offer a slower pace, pretty scenery and a welcoming local feel.

For hens who want to mix countryside time with city energy, Edinburgh is around 22 miles away, opening up a wide choice of bars, restaurants, cocktail spots, brunch venues, shopping and nightlife. It is a good option for a planned day or evening out, especially if you pre-book taxis or a minibus so everyone can travel together and enjoy the celebration without stress.

The location is particularly suited to groups who like the idea of a rural house party weekend with optional adventures. You can walk straight from the door, plan mountain biking, book the tennis court, enjoy a garden afternoon or arrange a catered meal back at the house. It gives you more privacy and space than a hotel, while still keeping bigger town and city options within reach.

Enquire today

If Highfield House sounds like the right fit for your hen weekend, send an enquiry with your preferred dates, group size and any extras you are considering, such as hot tub hire, catering, use of the tennis court or additional accommodation on site. The host can confirm sleeping arrangements, availability and the best set-up for your celebration.

Share a little about the kind of weekend you have in mind, whether that is a relaxed countryside stay, an activity-filled break or a mix of garden drinks, group dinners and a night in Edinburgh. From there, you can shape a hen party that feels personal, comfortable and easy for everyone to enjoy.