Hen Party Planning Checklist for Brighton | 2026 Guide

Set a realistic budget for the entire hen weekend.

Factor in Brighton's higher costs for peak season accommodation, popular activities, and dining. Be transparent with all attendees.

Finalize the guest list and get everyone's contact details.

Aim for confirmation from all potential attendees to get an accurate headcount for bookings.

Choose preliminary dates and a backup date.

Brighton experiences significant price spikes and limited availability during major events like Pride (August) and other summer festivals.

Elect a chief bridesmaid or lead planner.

Designate one person to manage bookings and communication to avoid confusion.

Brainstorm activity ideas specific to Brighton.

Consider popular local options like cocktail making, beach yoga, shopping in The Lanes, or a boat trip from Brighton Marina.

Start researching accommodation options for 10-20 people.

Be aware of Brighton's competitive market and potential Airbnb restrictions on parties.

Discuss the hen's preferences for the weekend.

Understand what the bride wants from her Brighton hen party – relaxed or full-on party mode.

Create a rough itinerary outline.

Map out potential timings for key activities, meals, and travel between locations.

Research travel options to Brighton.

Most groups arrive by train from London, which is efficient and avoids parking issues.

Set up a payment collection system.

Decide how guests will pay for their share of the costs.

Consider hen party theme ideas.

A fun theme can add an extra layer of excitement to the Brighton experience.

Check for any dietary requirements or allergies.

Essential for booking meals and ensuring everyone can enjoy the Brighton food scene.

Discuss evening entertainment preferences.

Brighton offers diverse nightlife, from lively pubs on West Street to drag shows in Kemptown and nightclubs.

Start a mood board or Pinterest board.

Visually gather ideas for decorations, outfits, and activities specific to a Brighton theme.

Delegate specific tasks to other bridesmaids.

Share the planning load, assigning research for particular Brighton activities or restaurant bookings.

Look into potential party supplies and decorations.

Consider what will be needed to decorate the chosen accommodation.

Review cancellation policies for potential bookings.

Understand the terms for accommodation and activities in case plans change.

Confirm the hen's availability for the chosen dates.

Double-check with the bride-to-be that the dates work for her.

Book the chosen accommodation.

Secure your group-friendly house or serviced apartment immediately due to Brighton's competitive market.

Book train tickets to Brighton.

Secure group discounts if available and ensure everyone has their tickets well in advance.

Book your primary hen party activity.

Secure popular activities like a cocktail masterclass, pole dancing, or a boat trip.

Book your secondary activities.

Secure other planned events like a beach yoga session or an escape room challenge.

Make dinner reservations for both nights.

Especially for large groups, popular Brighton restaurants book up quickly.

Book a drag bingo or comedy night.

Brighton is famous for its entertainment, and these are popular hen options.

Pre-book any special transportation required in Brighton.

Consider airport transfers if flying, or larger taxis for group movements within the city.

Confirm all bookings and get written confirmations.

Double-check dates, times, and numbers with all activity providers and accommodation.

Purchase any necessary hen party props or costumes.

Order items that are not easily found locally or require customization.

Create a detailed itinerary with timings and locations.

Share this with the group so everyone knows what to expect and where to be.

Allocate roles for games or activities.

Assign tasks like 'photographer' or 'game master' to specific bridesmaids.

Consider booking a prosecco or cocktail reception upon arrival.

A celebratory start to the Brighton hen weekend.

Finalize the hen party playlist.

Curate music suitable for different parts of the weekend, from pre-drinks to dancing.

Book a dedicated space for pre-drinks if not at accommodation.

A specific bar area can be a good meeting point before a night out.

Secure a table or area at a nightclub for Saturday night.

Especially for large groups, this can save time and guarantee entry.

Confirm spa treatments or pampering sessions if part of the plan.

Ensure all group members have their times booked.

Plan a souvenir shopping slot in The Lanes.

Allow time for the group to explore Brighton's unique independent shops.

Inform all guests about payment deadlines.

Clearly communicate when final payments are due for activities and accommodation.

Send out the final itinerary to all guests.

Include all timings, addresses, contact numbers, and any essential reminders.

Confirm all bookings one final time.

Call or email accommodation, restaurants, and activity providers to re-confirm.

Create a shared document or folder with all important information.

Include booking confirmations, emergency contacts, and the itinerary.

Prepare a welcome pack for the hen.

Include a personalized card, a small gift, and any themed accessories.

Assign a point person for emergencies during the weekend.

Designate one bridesmaid to handle any unexpected issues.

Confirm travel arrangements for each guest.

Ensure everyone knows their train times and how to get to Brighton.

Charge all phones and power banks.

Essential for navigation, photos, and communication.

Pack a small 'emergency kit'.

Include pain relievers, plasters, safety pins, and a portable first-aid kit.

Organize hen party games and accessories.

Ensure all props and instructions for games are ready.

Buy snacks and drinks for the accommodation.

Stock up on essentials for arrival and downtime.

Brief the bridesmaids on their roles and responsibilities.

Ensure everyone knows what they need to do to support the hen.

Download useful apps for Brighton.

Consider ride-sharing apps, local taxi apps, and maps.

Prepare a small bag for the hen.

Include essentials for the first night or a change of clothes for an activity.

Review the budget and make any final adjustments.

Ensure all payments have been collected and accounts are balanced.

Send a fun 'countdown' message to the group.

Build excitement for the upcoming Brighton hen weekend.

Check the Brighton weather forecast.

Pack appropriate clothing for beach days or nights out.

Plan for any last-minute gifts or treats for the hen.

Small surprises can make the weekend extra special.

Finalize any shared playlists for the weekend.

Ensure music is ready for different moods and activities.

Travel to Brighton.

Ensure everyone arrives at Brighton Station on time and together, if possible.

Check into accommodation.

Arrive, unpack, and familiarize yourselves with the house or apartment.

Decorate the accommodation.

Set up any themed decorations and banners to surprise the hen.

Have a welcome toast for the hen.

Kick off the celebrations with prosecco or cocktails.

Begin the first scheduled activity.

Head out for your initial Brighton adventure, whether it's shopping or a class.

Enjoy lunch at a pre-booked restaurant or casual spot.

Fuel up for the afternoon's activities.

Continue with afternoon activities.

Engage in more hen-party fun, like beach games or a scavenger hunt.

Take some memorable group photos.

Capture the fun moments throughout the day.

Allow downtime for freshening up before the evening.

Ensure everyone has time to get ready for the night out.

Start the evening with pre-dinner drinks.

Gather at a designated bar for cocktails or prosecco.

Head to your dinner reservation.

Enjoy the pre-booked meal with the group.

Move on to evening entertainment or clubbing.

Dance the night away at a pre-booked venue or explore Brighton's nightlife.

Ensure everyone has a safe way to return to accommodation.

Plan for taxis or ride-shares.

Have an emergency contact list readily available.

Keep important numbers, including local taxis and the lead planner's, handy.

Collect any necessary funds for activities or meals.

Manage payments efficiently as planned.

Capture videos and candid moments.

Beyond photos, short videos can capture the lively atmosphere.

Prepare for the next day's activities.

Quickly review the itinerary for the following day.

Distribute any hen party favours or small gifts.

Give out tokens of appreciation to the attendees.