The space

Stanton House is made for hen groups who want the beauty of the Cotswolds without compromising on space, comfort or things to do. Set in Upper Swell, just outside Stow-on-the-Wold, this detached Cotswold stone barn conversion brings together countryside charm, sociable interiors and brilliant on-site activities for a weekend that can be as relaxed or as lively as you like.

Sleeping up to 12 guests across six bedrooms, with the option to accommodate a further 2 guests on full-size single mattresses, the house works beautifully for groups of up to 14. It is a strong choice for hens who want a full weekend together rather than splitting across multiple cottages or hotel rooms. The layout gives you a generous central hub for meals, drinks, games and planning the day ahead, while still offering plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms so everyone has room to get ready.

The setting is a real highlight. You are surrounded by classic Cotswold scenery, pretty villages, walking routes and country pubs, with Stow-on-the-Wold close by for brunches, browsing and drinks. Cheltenham is also within reach if your group wants a bigger night out, cocktails, shopping or a day at the races. Back at the house, the games room, tennis court, Padel court, garden and BBQ mean you can build a full hen weekend without needing to over-plan every minute.

Inside the house

The heart of Stanton House is the large open-plan ground-floor living space, which combines the kitchen, dining area and lounge. This is exactly what hen groups need: one easy, sociable area where everyone can gather for breakfast, fizz, grazing boards, pre-dinner drinks or a cosy evening in. The kitchen makes self-catering simple, whether you are cooking as a group, arranging a private chef or setting up a low-effort brunch before heading out for the day.

The dining area is ideal for those key hen weekend moments, from a themed dinner to a relaxed celebratory meal. Because the lounge sits within the same open-plan space, nobody has to disappear while food is being prepared, and the group can move naturally from dining to games, speeches or a film night.

Bedroom arrangements are well suited to mixed group needs. On the ground floor, there are two four-poster bedrooms, each with its own en suite bathroom facilities: one with an en suite bath and shower room, and another with an en suite shower. These rooms are lovely options for the bride-to-be, bridesmaids or guests who prefer ground-floor accommodation.

Upstairs, the first floor is accessed by two separate staircases, which helps create a sense of space within the house. One staircase leads to two twin bedrooms, both with en suite shower rooms. The second staircase leads to a large double bedroom and a large twin bedroom, which share a bathroom. This gives the group a practical mix of doubles and twins, with several en suites to make getting ready easier before a meal out or celebration at the house.

For anyone who needs to check in with work before fully switching off, there is workspace available too, making it easier for guests arriving at different times or extending the stay.

Hen weekend highlights

Stanton House is especially good for hen groups because the entertainment is built in. In a separate building on the farm, you will find a games room with a snooker table and table tennis, giving you an easy rainy-day plan or a fun after-dinner tournament. It is a great space for breaking the ice if not everyone in the group knows each other yet, and it keeps the weekend lively without having to leave the property.

Outside, the tennis court and Padel court are brilliant for a friendly competition. You could organise a bride squad tournament, pair guests up for doubles, or keep it casual with a few games between brunch and drinks. Boule and croquet sets are also kept at the house, adding a more relaxed garden-party feel for groups who prefer something low-key.

The garden gives you room to enjoy the countryside setting, sip morning coffee, set up party decorations or gather for photos before heading into town. With a BBQ available, summer hen weekends can easily include an outdoor feast, from casual burgers and salads to a more styled garden supper. It is also a dog-friendly property, so if the bride wants to bring a much-loved four-legged guest, that may be possible too.

There is no need to rely on a hot tub or spa to make the weekend feel special here. Instead, Stanton House offers active, sociable and flexible spaces that suit a wide range of hen styles: countryside walks and pub lunches, games and tournaments, home-cooked dinners, private chef evenings, cocktail making, pamper sessions in the lounge, or a chilled Sunday BBQ before everyone heads home.

Location & getting around

Stanton House is located in Upper Swell, a peaceful Cotswold spot just outside Stow-on-the-Wold. This gives your group the best of both worlds: a rural base with space to spread out, plus easy access to one of the Cotswolds' best-loved market towns. Stow-on-the-Wold is ideal for a relaxed hen itinerary, with independent shops, cafes, pubs and scenic streets for a gentle afternoon out.

The wider Cotswolds area is packed with pretty villages and walking routes, making the house a great base for groups who want fresh air and countryside views as part of the weekend. You can plan a walk followed by a pub lunch, visit nearby villages for coffee and photos, or simply enjoy slow mornings at the house before heading out later in the day.

For groups wanting a livelier option, Cheltenham is within reach and offers a wider choice of restaurants, bars, shopping and nightlife. It is a good choice for a Saturday night out, a celebratory lunch, a cocktail bar crawl or a day activity before returning to the calm of Upper Swell. As with most countryside stays, it is worth planning taxis or private transport in advance, especially for evenings out and larger groups.

Enquire today

If Stanton House sounds like the right fit for your hen weekend, send an enquiry with your preferred dates, group size and any plans you already have in mind. The host can confirm availability, sleeping arrangements for up to 14 guests, and any details you need to shape a Cotswolds celebration that suits your group.