All hen party idea guides

100 Hen Party Ideas in Cheltenham | 2026 Guide

Hen party ideas in Cheltenham

100 Cheltenham hen party ideas: spa days, racecourse events, activities & dining. Filter by difficulty, budget & impact for your weekend.

Welcome to Cheltenham, the quintessential Regency spa town, perfect for a sophisticated and memorable hen party! Nestled on the edge of the breathtaking Cotswolds, Cheltenham offers a blend of elegant architecture, world-class dining, exciting racing heritage, and indulgent wellness experiences.

Whether your group of 8-14 women, aged 28-45, seeks refined luxury or spirited adventure, this guide provides 100 hand-picked ideas.

We've considered the preferences of our strong London and South East market, focusing on mid-range to luxury options that truly showcase Cheltenham's unique charm, while navigating common pain points like booking logistics and Festival week challenges.

16 min read

Showing 100 ideas

Spa & Wellness

Cheltenham has two genuinely excellent spa options — The Greenway for traditional country house luxury, Cowley Manor for something more design-led and contemporary. Both are in the Cotswolds countryside a short drive away, which makes them worth treating as a destination in themselves rather than a city activity.

Involved·Showstopper

Luxury Spa Day at The Greenway Hotel & Spa

Indulge in a full day of pampering, from relaxing massages to refreshing facials, within the luxurious surroundings of a stunning Elizabethan manor house just outside Cheltenham.

£50+·Full Day

HH tip

Book directly with The Greenway Hotel & Spa well in advance.

Involved·Crowd pleaser

Bespoke Spa Treatments at Cowley Manor Experimental

Experience personalised treatments in the award-winning C-Side Spa, set in a contemporary-designed, historic country house near Cheltenham.

£50+·2-4 hours

HH tip

Contact Cowley Manor Experimental's C-Side Spa for group bookings.

Easy·Solid choice

Therapeutic Hydrotherapy Pool Session

Enjoy the rejuvenating benefits of a hydrotherapy pool, perfect for soothing muscles and unwinding, at a local hotel spa in Cheltenham.

£20-£50·1-2 hours

HH tip

Check availability and book a session at The Cheltenham Chase Hotel Spa.

Easy·Solid choice

Group Yoga & Meditation Class

Find your inner calm with a private yoga or meditation session tailored for your hen party, focusing on relaxation and wellbeing in a Cheltenham studio.

under £20·1-1.5 hours

HH tip

Arrange a private class through Yoga Studio Cheltenham.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Mobile Pamper Party at Your Accommodation

Bring the spa to you with a team of mobile beauticians offering a range of treatments from manicures to massages in the comfort of your Cheltenham hen house.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Contact local mobile beauty services like 'The Pamper Pod' for bespoke packages.

Easy·Solid choice

Manicure & Pedicure Session in Montpellier

Treat yourselves to a classic mani-pedi session at a chic salon in Cheltenham's fashionable Montpellier Quarter.

under £20·1.5-2 hours

HH tip

Book appointments at Duchess Beauty in Montpellier.

Moderate·Solid choice

Aromatherapy Blending Workshop

Create your own personalised aromatherapy blends and learn about the benefits of essential oils in a relaxing workshop setting.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Inquire with independent wellness centres or therapists in Cheltenham.

Easy·Solid choice

Relaxing Facial Treatments at a Boutique Spa

Rejuvenate your skin with bespoke facial treatments designed to refresh and revitalise, available at a serene Cheltenham spa.

£20-£50·1 hour

HH tip

Schedule appointments at Chapel Spa for individual or group treatments.

Easy·Solid choice

Deep Tissue or Hot Stone Massage

Melt away tension with a therapeutic deep tissue or soothing hot stone massage, a perfect way to relax and de-stress.

£50+·1 hour

HH tip

Book with Chapel Spa or The Cheltenham Chase Hotel Spa for expert therapists.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Pre-Party Hair Styling & Make-up

Get glammed up together before your evening out with professional hair styling and make-up artists in a top Cheltenham salon.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Arrange group bookings at Blushes Hair & Beauty in Cheltenham.

Easy·Solid choice

Private Pilates or Barre Class

Engage in a private group Pilates or Barre class, focusing on core strength, flexibility, and graceful movement.

under £20·1 hour

HH tip

Contact Cheltenham Pilates for tailored group sessions.

Easy·Solid choice

Reflexology Session

Experience the ancient healing art of reflexology, focusing on pressure points in the feet to promote overall wellbeing and relaxation.

£20-£50·1 hour

HH tip

Seek out accredited holistic therapists in Cheltenham for appointments.

Easy·Solid choice

Salt Cave Experience

Breathe easy and relax in a unique salt cave environment, known for its respiratory and skin benefits.

under £20·45 mins

HH tip

Book a session at Cheltenham Salt Caves for a therapeutic experience.

Easy·Solid choice

Thermal Suite & Relaxation Room Access

Enjoy the facilities of a luxury thermal suite, including saunas, steam rooms, and a relaxation area, for ultimate stress relief.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Check day pass availability at Cheltenham Park Hotel & Spa.

Moderate·Showstopper

Bespoke Fragrance Creation Workshop

Design and create your very own signature perfume, a unique and memorable souvenir of your hen party in Cheltenham.

£50+·2 hours

HH tip

Look for independent perfumers or craft workshops in the Cheltenham area.

Easy·Solid choice

Mindfulness & Sound Bath Session

Unwind with a guided mindfulness meditation and a soothing sound bath, promoting deep relaxation and inner peace.

under £20·1 hour

HH tip

Find local practitioners or wellness centres offering group sessions.

Moderate·Solid choice

Guided Forest Bathing in the Cotswolds

Immerse yourselves in nature with a guided forest bathing experience, connecting with the serene Cotswolds landscape for a calming escape.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Contact Cotswolds AONB approved guides for a nature immersion experience.

Easy·Solid choice

Aqua Aerobics or Water Workout Class

Have fun and get active with a group aqua aerobics session, a low-impact workout in the refreshing environment of a swimming pool.

under £20·1 hour

HH tip

Enquire about group classes at Leisure at Cheltenham.

Moderate·Solid choice

Detox Smoothie & Juice Making Workshop

Learn to blend delicious and nutritious detox smoothies and juices, a healthy and fun activity for a wellness-focused hen party.

under £20·1.5 hours

HH tip

Check with local healthy cafes or wellness providers for workshop availability.

Easy·Solid choice

Relaxing Hand & Foot Rituals

Indulge in luxurious hand and foot treatments, including exfoliation, massage, and nourishing masks, for ultimate relaxation.

£20-£50·1 hour

HH tip

Book at reputable Cheltenham salons or spas like Chapel Spa.

Daytime Activities

Montpellier Quarter is Cheltenham's best daytime asset — independent boutiques, the Regency architecture and a genuinely pleasant atmosphere for a group browse. The hat-making workshop is an underrated choice that works especially well if there's a racing connection to the hen weekend.

Easy·Solid choice

Regency Architecture Walking Tour

Discover the stunning Regency architecture and fascinating history of Cheltenham with a guided walking tour, exploring areas like the Promenade and Pittville Park.

under £20·2 hours

HH tip

Book a private group tour via Visit Cheltenham's official guide service.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Private Shopping Experience in Montpellier Quarter

Enjoy a curated shopping experience in the elegant Montpellier Quarter, known for its independent boutiques, galleries, and cafes.

free·2-3 hours

HH tip

Liaise with boutiques like Bodega Womenswear for potential personalised experiences.

Involved·Showstopper

Hat Making Workshop

Unleash your creativity by designing and making your own fascinator or hat, a fun and stylish activity perfect for a hen party, inspired by Cheltenham's racecourse heritage.

£50+·3-4 hours

HH tip

Contact local milliners such as Alison Tod for bespoke workshops.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Jewellery Making Class

Learn to craft beautiful jewellery pieces, from necklaces to bracelets, under the guidance of a local artisan. A lovely keepsake to remember the day.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Enquire with local craft studios or independent jewellers in Cheltenham.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Flower Arranging Workshop

Create stunning floral arrangements using seasonal blooms, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your hen party celebrations.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Book a group session with a local florist like Daisy Chain Florist.

Involved·Showstopper

Bridal Bouquet Design Class

A specialised workshop where the bride and her party can learn to design and assemble a beautiful bridal bouquet, a truly personal touch.

£50+·3-4 hours

HH tip

Contact specialist florists like Honeysuckle Flower Co. for bespoke workshops.

Easy·Solid choice

The Wilson Art Gallery & Museum Visit

Explore Cheltenham's impressive art gallery and museum, home to local history, fine art, and the world-renowned Arts and Crafts movement collection.

free·1-2 hours

HH tip

Check opening times on The Wilson Cheltenham website for group visits.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Vintage Photo Shoot on the Promenade

Capture fun memories with a professional vintage-themed photoshoot against the elegant backdrop of Cheltenham's iconic Promenade.

£20-£50·1.5-2 hours

HH tip

Hire a local photographer specialising in group and event photography.

Easy·Solid choice

Pottery Painting Session

Unleash your artistic side by painting personalised pottery pieces, a relaxed and creative activity for all skill levels.

under £20·1.5-2 hours

HH tip

Book a table for your group at The Paint It Yourself Pottery Co.

Easy·Crowd pleaser

Escape Room Challenge

Work together to solve puzzles and crack codes in an exhilarating escape room challenge, perfect for team bonding and a dose of adrenaline.

£20-£50·1 hour

HH tip

Secure your time slot at Escape Hunt Cheltenham.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Life Drawing Class with a Twist

A fun and artistic life drawing session, perhaps with a cheeky twist, guided by a professional artist in a relaxed atmosphere.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Contact local art studios or private tutors for bespoke sessions.

Moderate·Showstopper

Perfume Making Workshop

Craft your own unique scent, learning about different notes and essences in a creative perfume making workshop.

£50+·2 hours

HH tip

Seek out independent perfumeries or craft workshops in the area.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Macaron Baking Class

Master the art of making delicate French macarons in a hands-on baking class with a local patissier.

£50+·2.5 hours

HH tip

Enquire about group classes at independent bakeries like Imperial Bakery.

Moderate·Solid choice

Calligraphy or Hand Lettering Workshop

Learn the elegant art of calligraphy or modern hand lettering, perfect for creating personalised gifts or wedding stationery.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Find local calligraphers or art tutors offering workshops.

Easy·Solid choice

Cheltenham Ghost Walk

Delve into Cheltenham's darker past with a spooky ghost walk, exploring haunted alleys and hearing chilling tales of the town's history.

under £20·1.5 hours

HH tip

Check schedules and book with Cheltenham Ghost Walks.

Easy·Solid choice

Visit to Holst Birthplace Museum

Explore the birthplace of composer Gustav Holst (The Planets) and discover Victorian life in this charming museum.

under £20·1 hour

HH tip

Visit the official Holst Birthplace Museum website for group tours.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Private Dance Class (Burlesque/Cheerleading)

Learn some sassy moves with a private dance class, choosing from fun themes like burlesque, cheerleading, or a bespoke routine.

£20-£50·1.5 hours

HH tip

Contact local dance studios like Regency Dance Centre for private group bookings.

Moderate·Solid choice

Personal Styling Session & Colour Analysis

Indulge in a fun and informative group personal styling session, including colour analysis, to help each hen discover her perfect palette.

£50+·2-3 hours

HH tip

Enquire with personal stylists at John Lewis Cheltenham or independent stylists.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Jewellery Design & Silver Clay Workshop

Learn to design and create beautiful silver jewellery using innovative silver clay, a truly unique and hands-on crafting experience.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Seek out local jewellery schools or independent artists for workshops.

Involved·Showstopper

Create Your Own Gin or Cocktail Bitters Class

Dive into the world of mixology by crafting your own unique gin blend or cocktail bitters, a fascinating and delicious activity.

£50+·3 hours

HH tip

Contact local distilleries or specialist bars for bespoke workshops.

Evening Out

The Daffodil is Cheltenham's standout — a converted cinema with good food and live jazz, and a more interesting evening format than a standard restaurant. The Ivy and The Botanist are solid for pre-drinks and dinner; the nightlife is compact but civilised.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Cocktail Making Masterclass at The Botanist

Shake, muddle, and stir your way to delicious cocktails in a lively masterclass at The Botanist, a popular Cheltenham venue on the Promenade.

£20-£50·1.5-2 hours

HH tip

Book your masterclass directly with The Botanist Cheltenham.

Involved·Showstopper

Fine Dining Experience at The Ivy Montpellier Brasserie

Savour exquisite British and international cuisine in the glamorous setting of The Ivy, located in the heart of Cheltenham's Montpellier district.

£50+·2-3 hours

HH tip

Make reservations at The Ivy Cheltenham several weeks in advance.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Jazz Night at The Daffodil

Enjoy live jazz music in the stunning Art Deco surroundings of The Daffodil, a former picture palace now serving fine food and drinks.

£20-£50·3 hours

HH tip

Check event listings and book tables at The Daffodil Cheltenham.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Private Booth & Bottle Service at Gin & Juice

Experience a chic night out with a private booth and bottle service at Gin & Juice, a stylish bar offering an extensive selection of gins and cocktails.

£50+·3-4 hours

HH tip

Reserve a booth directly with Gin & Juice Cheltenham.

Easy·Solid choice

Live Music at Smokey Joe's

Step back in time at Smokey Joe's, a retro diner and bar, for a fun evening of live music, often featuring local bands and DJs.

under £20·2-3 hours

HH tip

Check Smokey Joe's Retro Diner & Bar social media for live act schedules.

Involved·Crowd pleaser

Theatre Show at The Everyman Theatre

Catch a West End production, comedy show, or local performance at the beautiful Victorian Everyman Theatre, a cultural highlight of Cheltenham.

£20-£50·2.5-3 hours

HH tip

Purchase tickets in advance from The Everyman Theatre official booking site.

Easy·Solid choice

Stand-up Comedy Club Night

Enjoy an evening of laughs with a stand-up comedy show featuring local and touring acts at a lively Cheltenham venue.

under £20·2 hours

HH tip

Check event listings for comedy nights at venues like The Frog and Fiddle.

Easy·Solid choice

Late Night Disco & Drinks at MooMoo Clubrooms

Dance the night away with your hen party at MooMoo Clubrooms, Cheltenham's multi-room nightclub, offering a range of music and atmospheres.

under £20·3-4 hours

HH tip

Check MooMoo Clubrooms website for guestlist or VIP packages.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Wine & Cheese Tasting Evening

Sip and savour a selection of fine wines expertly paired with artisan cheeses at a cosy wine bar in Cheltenham.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Book a tasting experience at The Grape Escape wine bar.

Easy·Solid choice

Karaoke Booth Fun

Belt out your favourite tunes in a private karaoke booth, guaranteeing endless laughter and unforgettable memories for your group.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Reserve a private booth at BrewDog Cheltenham for a fun-filled session.

Involved·Showstopper

Bespoke Dinner Party with Private Chef

Enjoy a luxurious and personalised dining experience with a private chef preparing a gourmet meal in your chosen Cheltenham accommodation.

£50+·3-4 hours

HH tip

Contact local catering companies like Relish Catering for private chef services.

Easy·Solid choice

Casino Night at Genting Casino

Try your luck at the tables or slots in a sophisticated casino environment, complete with drinks and entertainment.

£20-£50·3-4 hours

HH tip

Visit Genting Casino Cheltenham for entry and table information.

Moderate·Showstopper

Burlesque Cabaret or Themed Event

Experience a dazzling evening of burlesque cabaret or a unique themed entertainment event, offering glamour and excitement.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Check local Cheltenham event listings like What's On Cheltenham for special performances.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Cocktail Tour of Montpellier Bars

Embark on a self-guided cocktail tour, sampling signature drinks at the elegant bars scattered throughout Cheltenham's Montpellier Quarter.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Plan your route via Imperial Haus, The Clarence Social, and Memsahib's Lounge.

Involved·Showstopper

Mystery Dining Experience

Immerse yourselves in a unique culinary adventure where dinner is served alongside an unfolding mystery or theatrical performance.

£50+·2-3 hours

HH tip

Look for local immersive theatre groups or restaurants offering special events.

Involved·Showstopper

Chef's Table Experience at a Michelin-starred Restaurant

Enjoy an exclusive Chef's Table experience, offering a private tasting menu and an insight into the culinary magic behind the scenes.

£50+·2-3 hours

HH tip

Book well in advance at acclaimed restaurants like Lumiere Restaurant.

Easy·Solid choice

Pub Quiz Night at a CAMRA Award-Winning Pub

Test your general knowledge and enjoy some local ales or ciders at one of Cheltenham's traditional CAMRA award-winning pubs.

under £20·2 hours

HH tip

Check quiz nights at The Sandford Park Alehouse or The Jolly Brewmaster.

Easy·Solid choice

Live DJ Set at a Vibrant Bar

Dance to the beats of a live DJ at one of Cheltenham's energetic bars, perfect for a fun and relaxed evening of music and drinks.

under £20·2-3 hours

HH tip

Check event listings for popular venues like The Frog and Fiddle.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Competitive Socialising at an Activity Bar

Combine drinks with fun games like darts, shuffleboard, or table tennis at a modern activity bar, fostering friendly competition.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Enquire about group bookings at Flight Club Cheltenham or The Stable.

Involved·Showstopper

Stargazing Experience on the Cotswolds Edge

Escape the town lights for a magical stargazing experience on the outskirts of Cheltenham, guided by an astronomy expert.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Contact the Cotswolds Astronomy Group for public or private events.

Food & Drink

Cheltenham's restaurant scene is punching above its size — The Ivy and several independent options in Montpellier are genuinely good. This is a city where a long group dinner works well as an evening centrepiece rather than just a precursor to going out.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Traditional Afternoon Tea at Queens Hotel

Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea experience with finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries in the grand setting of the historic Queens Hotel on the Promenade.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Make reservations well in advance at Queens Hotel Cheltenham.

Easy·Crowd pleaser

Bottomless Brunch at Flight Club

Enjoy a lively bottomless brunch with delicious food and free-flowing drinks, plus a game of social darts, at the popular Flight Club Cheltenham.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Book your table online at Flight Club Cheltenham.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Gin Tasting at The Gin Bar, Gin & Juice

Explore a vast selection of gins from around the world with a guided tasting session at Gin & Juice, Cheltenham's dedicated gin bar.

£20-£50·1.5 hours

HH tip

Arrange a private tasting session with Gin & Juice Cheltenham.

Involved·Showstopper

Cookery Class at Foodworks Cookery School

Roll up your sleeves and learn new culinary skills together in a fun and interactive cookery class at the renowned Foodworks Cookery School near Cheltenham.

£50+·3-4 hours

HH tip

Book a group class directly with Foodworks Cookery School.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Cotswolds Cheese & Wine Pairing

Savour the flavours of the Cotswolds with a guided tasting of local artisan cheeses paired with complementary wines.

£20-£50·1.5 hours

HH tip

Arrange a tasting at The Grape Escape or a local farm shop in the Cotswolds.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Chocolate Making Workshop

Dive into the sweet world of chocolate by learning to make your own delicious truffles and confectionery.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Enquire with local independent chocolatiers for workshop availability.

Involved·Showstopper

Private Dining Room at The White Spoon

Experience exquisite modern British cuisine in a private dining setting at The White Spoon, a critically acclaimed Cheltenham restaurant.

£50+·2-3 hours

HH tip

Book a private dining room at The White Spoon well in advance.

Easy·Solid choice

Artisan Food Market Tour

Explore Cheltenham's vibrant artisan food markets, sampling local produce, gourmet treats, and street food.

under £20·1.5 hours

HH tip

Visit Cheltenham Farmers Market on its scheduled days (Thursday/Saturday).

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Craft Beer Tasting Tour

Discover Cheltenham's thriving craft beer scene with a guided tasting tour of CAMRA-awarded pubs and local breweries.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Organise a tour starting at Sandford Park Alehouse and Brewhouse & Kitchen.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Indian Fine Dining at Memsahib's Lounge

Savour an exquisite Indian fine dining experience at Memsahib's Lounge, known for its refined cuisine and elegant atmosphere.

£50+·2 hours

HH tip

Make reservations at Memsahib's Lounge for a sophisticated meal.

Moderate·Solid choice

Gluten-Free/Vegan Baking Class

Learn to bake delicious and inclusive treats in a specialised gluten-free or vegan baking workshop.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Look for local bakeries or culinary schools offering dietary-specific classes.

Moderate·Showstopper

Sushi Making Workshop

Master the delicate art of sushi rolling and create your own fresh and flavourful sushi, a fun and hands-on culinary experience.

£50+·2.5 hours

HH tip

Enquire with local Japanese restaurants like KIBOU for private workshops.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Brewery Tour & Tasting at DEYA Brewing Co.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Cheltenham's most popular independent breweries, followed by a tasting of their award-winning craft beers.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Book a group tour directly with DEYA Brewing Co.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Personalised Cake Decorating Workshop

Learn professional cake decorating techniques and create a beautiful, personalised cake, perfect for a bridal shower or hen celebration.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Contact local cake makers like The Cake Box for bespoke workshops.

Easy·Solid choice

Gourmet Picnic Hamper for Pittville Park

Order a luxurious gourmet picnic hamper filled with local delicacies to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings of Pittville Park.

£20-£50·1.5-2 hours

HH tip

Pre-order your hamper from a local deli such as Williams Food Hall.

Involved·Showstopper

Cocktail & Canapé Reception

Host an elegant cocktail and canapé reception, either at your accommodation or a pre-booked venue, offering sophisticated bites and drinks.

£50+·2 hours

HH tip

Arrange through catering services like Relish Catering or a suitable venue.

Moderate·Solid choice

Pizza Making Class at The Stable

Enjoy a hands-on pizza making class where you create your own delicious pizzas from scratch, followed by enjoying your creations.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Book a group pizza making experience at The Stable Cheltenham.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Spirits Tasting (Whisky/Rum/Tequila)

Delve into the world of fine spirits with a guided tasting session, exploring different varieties and their unique characteristics.

£20-£50·1.5 hours

HH tip

Check with specialist shops like The Whisky Shop Cheltenham for tasting events.

Easy·Solid choice

Coffee Art & Barista Workshop

Learn the art of creating beautiful latte art and basic barista skills in a fun and interactive coffee workshop.

under £20·1.5 hours

HH tip

Enquire with local independent coffee shops like The Scandinavian Coffee Pod.

Moderate·Solid choice

Cheltenham Foodie Scavenger Hunt

Embark on a culinary scavenger hunt, navigating Cheltenham's foodie hotspots and tasting local delights along the way.

under £20·2-3 hours

HH tip

Plan your route using the Visit Cheltenham Food & Drink Guide for local gems.

Outdoor Adventures

The Cotswolds AONB starts on Cheltenham's doorstep — a guided walk through the hills is genuinely accessible and doesn't require transport if you choose routes near the edge of town. Horse riding near the racecourse is an obvious thematic choice and multiple operators cater specifically to groups.

Involved·Showstopper

Cotswolds Village Tour with Private Driver

Explore the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds with a private driver, stopping at iconic spots like Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury, without the hassle of navigation.

£50+·Full Day

HH tip

Book with a reputable Cotswolds AONB partner operator like Cotswolds Private Tours.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Guided Walk through the Cotswolds AONB

Discover the stunning landscapes of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with a guided walking tour tailored to your group's ability.

£20-£50·3-4 hours

HH tip

Hire a certified Cotswolds AONB guide for a bespoke walking experience.

Moderate·Showstopper

Horse Riding Experience near Cheltenham Racecourse

Saddle up for a memorable horse riding experience on the picturesque trails surrounding Cheltenham, perfect for all levels.

£50+·2 hours

HH tip

Book lessons or hacks at the Cheltenham Racecourse Riding Centre.

Moderate·Solid choice

Cotswolds Wildlife Park & Gardens Visit

Spend a day among fascinating animals and beautiful gardens at the Cotswolds Wildlife Park, a delightful excursion for all ages.

£20-£50·3-4 hours

HH tip

Purchase group tickets in advance for Cotswolds Wildlife Park.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Kayaking or Paddleboarding at Cotswold Water Park

Enjoy a fun and active session of kayaking or paddleboarding on the tranquil lakes of the nearby Cotswold Water Park.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Book equipment hire or lessons through Cotswold Water Park operators.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Segway Tour in the Forest of Dean

Glide through the ancient Forest of Dean on a thrilling Segway tour, combining adventure with scenic beauty.

£20-£50·1.5 hours

HH tip

Reserve your tour with Go Ape Forest of Dean (offering Segway experiences).

Involved·Showstopper

Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience

Test your aim with a clay pigeon shooting session, a thrilling and challenging activity under expert instruction.

£50+·2-3 hours

HH tip

Book a group experience at a local shooting ground like Ian Coley Shooting School.

Involved·Showstopper

Quad Biking or Off-Road Driving Adventure

Get your adrenaline pumping with a quad biking or off-road driving experience, tackling challenging terrain.

£50+·2 hours

HH tip

Contact local adventure centres like Hill End Centre for group bookings.

Easy·Solid choice

Cycle Hire & Ride along the Honeybourne Line

Rent bikes and explore Cheltenham's scenic Honeybourne Line, a traffic-free path perfect for a leisurely group cycle.

under £20·2-3 hours

HH tip

Hire bicycles from Cheltenham Cycle Hire for your group.

Easy·Solid choice

Picnic in Pittville Park

Enjoy a relaxed picnic amidst the beautiful landscapes of Pittville Park, home to the iconic Pittville Pump Room and a lovely lake.

free·2-3 hours

HH tip

Simply gather your provisions and head to Pittville Park for a leisurely afternoon.

Moderate·Showstopper

Falconry Display & Experience

Get up close with magnificent birds of prey and learn about falconry with an interactive display and experience.

£50+·2 hours

HH tip

Book a group experience at the International Centre for Birds of Prey.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Private Garden Tour of a Historic Cotswold Estate

Discover the stunning manicured gardens of a historic Cotswold estate, offering a tranquil and beautiful outing.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Arrange a private group tour at Hidcote Manor Garden (National Trust).

Involved·Showstopper

Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Cotswolds

Experience an unforgettable hot air balloon ride, soaring above the rolling hills and picturesque villages of the Cotswolds at sunrise or sunset.

£50+·3-4 hours

HH tip

Book a flight with a local operator like Bailey Balloons or Cotswold Balloons.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Alpaca Trekking in the Countryside

Enjoy a charming and unique alpaca trekking experience, leading these gentle animals through scenic countryside trails.

£20-£50·1.5 hours

HH tip

Book a trek with Cotswold Alpacas for a delightful animal encounter.

Moderate·Showstopper

Cheltenham Racecourse Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Go behind the ropes at the home of National Hunt racing with a guided tour of Cheltenham Racecourse, even outside of race days.

£20-£50·1.5 hours

HH tip

Contact Cheltenham Racecourse official group booking information for tours.

Easy·Solid choice

Geocaching Adventure around Leckhampton Hill

Embark on a modern-day treasure hunt with geocaching around Leckhampton Hill, combining outdoor exploration with puzzle-solving.

free·2-3 hours

HH tip

Download the official Geocaching app and explore trails around Leckhampton Hill.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Wine Estate Tour & Tasting at Woodchester Valley Vineyard

Tour a local Cotswold vineyard, learn about English wine production, and enjoy a tasting of their award-winning wines.

£20-£50·2 hours

HH tip

Book a tour and tasting at Woodchester Valley Vineyard.

Moderate·Showstopper

Foraging Walk & Wild Food Cookery

Discover edible plants and fungi on a guided foraging walk in the local countryside, followed by a simple wild food cooking demonstration.

£20-£50·3 hours

HH tip

Find a local foraging expert or wild food school for a unique experience.

Moderate·Solid choice

Outdoor Photography Workshop in the Cotswolds

Capture the beauty of the Cotswolds with a guided outdoor photography workshop, learning tips and tricks for stunning landscape shots.

£20-£50·2-3 hours

HH tip

Seek out local photographers offering group workshops in the AONB.

Moderate·Crowd pleaser

Archery & Axe Throwing Session

Embrace your inner warrior with a thrilling session of archery and axe throwing, a competitive and fun outdoor activity.

£20-£50·1.5 hours

HH tip

Book a group session at a local activity centre like BattleSports Glos.

Plan Your Cheltenham Hen Weekend

Quick links for the practical stuff.

Where next?

Pro tips for Cheltenham

  1. 1

    Book Everything in Advance: Cheltenham is popular, especially for larger groups. Restaurants and sought-after activities can be fully booked weeks, even months, ahead. Use Visit Cheltenham's verified operator listings for reliable choices.

  2. 2

    Consider Transport & Parking: Town centre parking is limited and costly for large groups. Utilise pre-booked taxis, minibuses, or rideshares. For Cotswolds excursions, a private hire vehicle or tour operator is highly recommended.

  3. 3

    Avoid Festival Week Unless Planned Years Ahead: The Cheltenham Festival (March) is a monumental event. Prices for accommodation, transport, and many activities triple, and bookings are often made years in advance. If your party isn't race-focused, choose another time of year.

  4. 4

    Embrace the Cotswolds: Located on the doorstep of the stunning Cotswolds AONB, Cheltenham is the perfect base for exploring picturesque villages. Partner with a local Cotswolds experience operator for hassle-free day trips.

  5. 5

    Explore the Montpellier & Promenade Charm: These iconic areas offer elegant boutiques, independent cafes, and award-winning cocktail bars. Plan a self-guided stroll, stopping for shopping, afternoon tea, or pre-dinner drinks.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best time of year for a hen party in Cheltenham?
Spring (April-May) and early Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Avoid March during the Cheltenham Festival unless you're attending the races and have booked everything years in advance, as prices and availability are severely impacted.
How easy is it to get around Cheltenham with a large group?
The town centre is walkable, especially between the Promenade and Montpellier. For longer distances or trips to the Racecourse or Cotswolds, we recommend pre-booking taxis, a minibus, or utilising local bus services. Parking for multiple cars can be challenging and expensive.
Are there good nightlife options in Cheltenham?
Cheltenham offers an elegant evening scene with excellent cocktail bars like The Botanist, Gin & Juice, and The Clarence Social, along with quality restaurants. While it's not a 'clubbing' city like London or Bristol, you'll find live music venues and some late-night options for a sophisticated hen party.
What are the typical costs for a hen party in Cheltenham?
Cheltenham caters to mid-range to luxury budgets. Accommodation can range from £50-£150+ per person per night, activities £20-£100+ per person depending on complexity, and dining £30-£70+ per person. Expect higher prices during peak seasons and race events.
Can we visit the Cheltenham Racecourse if it's not during a race meeting?
Yes! Cheltenham Racecourse offers behind-the-scenes tours and hosts various events throughout the year outside of the major festivals. Check their official group booking information for availability and to arrange a visit that offers a unique insight into its racing heritage.

Written by the Hen Hideaways team · Last updated March 2026