The space

Set in the countryside near York, Hoxne Cottages is a brilliant choice for hen groups who want the best of both worlds: relaxed private accommodation with hot tubs and BBQs, plus easy access to one of the UK’s most atmospheric cities for cocktails, dinner and day-to-night celebrations.

The accommodation is made up of four individual cottages, available together for exclusive use, so your group has the whole site to yourselves. That set-up works especially well for hen weekends because it gives everyone room to spread out, get ready at their own pace and enjoy a little downtime, while still having shared spaces for drinks, games and group meals.

Sleeping up to 16 guests across eight bedrooms, Hoxne Cottages suits groups who like the idea of staying together without squeezing into one busy house. Each cottage has its own front door, living area, kitchen, bathroom facilities and private outdoor hot tub, so smaller friendship groups can have their own base while the wider party comes together throughout the weekend.

Inside the house

Each of the four cottages has an open-plan living layout, making it easy to chat, pour a glass of fizz, put on a playlist or settle in for a cosy evening after a day in York. Comfortable sofas and wood burners create a warm, homely feel, especially for autumn and winter hen weekends when you want somewhere inviting to come back to after cocktails or sightseeing.

The kitchens are well equipped for self-catering, whether you are planning a relaxed brunch, a grazing table, a pre-night-out dinner or a late morning recovery breakfast. Each cottage has its own kitchen and dining area, giving the group plenty of fridge space and flexibility. On request, tables can be arranged in Rose Cottage so everyone can sit down together for a shared meal, which is ideal for a hen dinner, games evening or a surprise celebration for the bride-to-be.

Bedrooms are arranged across the cottages, with two bedrooms in each. The set-up includes comfortable king and twin-style sleeping arrangements, giving a practical mix for groups of friends. Each cottage also has walk-in shower facilities, with two cottages offering corner baths as well, so there is plenty of space for getting ready before a night in York.

Rose Cottage is designed with accessibility in mind, with ramp entry, wider internal doors, a large wet room and a bigger parking space, which may be helpful if anyone in the group has reduced mobility. It is also dog friendly, useful for groups who want to bring a four-legged guest along for the countryside part of the weekend. A workspace is available too, handy if anyone needs a quiet corner for planning, playlists or a quick check-in before the celebrations begin.

Hen weekend highlights

The standout feature for a hen group is the hot tub set-up: each of the four cottages has its own private hot tub. That means no waiting for one tub to free up and no need to cram everyone into one space. You can split into smaller groups for a chilled soak, rotate between cottages, or use the tubs as a relaxed pre-dinner or post-walk ritual with drinks and catch-ups.

Outside, the decked areas offer seating and BBQ facilities, giving you a lovely setting for an informal evening at the cottages. Think grilled food, easy sharing dishes, garden drinks and a playlist while the bride-to-be opens gifts or takes part in a few low-key hen games. The garden and outdoor spaces add to the rural feel, so the weekend does not have to revolve around going out every hour of the day.

The layout is also great for mixed-energy groups. Some guests can enjoy hot tubs and early nights, while others head into York for bars and late drinks. Those who want a quieter morning can stay in their own cottage, make coffee and relax, while the rest of the group gathers for brunch or a walk. It is social without feeling crowded.

For activities at the property, you could arrange a pamper session, private chef-style meal, cocktail making, craft workshop, yoga, life drawing or a themed games night, using the open-plan living areas and shared dining arrangement as your base. The exclusive-use nature of Hoxne Cottages makes it easy to personalise the weekend around the bride’s style, whether she prefers countryside calm, city nightlife or a bit of both.

Location & getting around

Hoxne Cottages is located in Strensall, a village just outside York, so you get a peaceful countryside setting while keeping the city within easy reach by car or taxi. York is the big draw for many hen parties, with its historic streets, independent restaurants, cocktail bars, traditional pubs and plenty of daytime activities. It is a great city for groups who want character as well as nightlife, with options ranging from afternoon tea and river cruises to escape rooms, ghost walks, shopping and long lunches.

Closer to the cottages, Strensall Common Nature Reserve offers lovely walking routes, and the village has local pubs if you want something simple and nearby. For a more polished day out, Harrogate is also accessible for boutique shopping and afternoon tea at Betty’s. Outdoorsy groups can explore the Howardian Hills National Landscape, with scenic tracks and trails for walking or cycling.

For getting around, planning taxis or a minibus into York is recommended for nights out, especially if the group is travelling together. There is parking on site, including a larger space at Rose Cottage, which makes arrivals and day trips straightforward for guests coming by car.

Enquire today

If your hen group is looking for exclusive-use accommodation near York with hot tubs, BBQ space, flexible cottage-style living and easy access to city celebrations, Hoxne Cottages is a fantastic option to consider.

Send an enquiry with your preferred dates, group size and any plans you have in mind, and the host can help confirm availability, sleeping arrangements and the details you need to start shaping the weekend.