Cardiff Hen Do - Cardiff Hen Party Guide

hen do in cardiff

The city of Cardiff is a great place to celebrate a hen weekend. There are several options that will suit a Cardiff hen do tastes and budget.

Cardiff is one of the most popular destinations in the UK for a hen party, filled with a variety of activities for everyone, from Welsh Games to making Welsh Cakes!

The city has a lot to offer a hen group, including world-class nightlife, stunning sightseeing, and plenty of culture.

Make Cardiff your Hen destination!

Cardiff's Best Hen Do Activity!

Your Cardiff Hen Do would not be complete without a visit to Welsh Games.

Cardiff's most popular hen do activity offers some hilarious competitive fun in the form of 9 hilariously Welsh-themed games competing in your own group during a day out that you will all remember for years to come...

You will compete in your own group with a dedicate host to take you around all the games and keep score as well as entertaining you all!

hen cardiff

Cardiff Hen Weekend Ideas

hen activity cardiff

For your Hen party Cardiff, why not head to the sixth best shopping destination in Britain, packed full of girl-friendly goodies and jammily good times.

Following a magical revamp and face lift, Cardiff has become a highly popular venue for a hen party weekend. The Bay is now a modern and chic place to chill, eat and party, while enjoying the glorious views out across the water.

This is a great place to start your Cardiff hen do off with a distinctive and glamorous bang!

Kick off your Cardiff Hen Do in style

Cardiff Hen Weekend Guide

Being named Maid of honour is a prestigious accomplishment, but a title that comes with a host of responsibilities. As well as being at bridezilla’s beck and call on the biggest day of her life, you’re also graced with the daunting task of planning the Cardiff hen Weekend.

A party that often sees groups of women from different walks of life coming together to celebrate – with a huge emphasis on having huge amounts of fun. Quite a daunting challenge.

We’ve created a quick rundown on planning the perfect hen party in Cardiff, so you can spend less time stressing over the details and enjoy more time with your hen before she takes the plunge.

Planning your Cardiff hen weekend

Knowing where to start planning such an important event can be tricky, especially for larger groups of hens. But the sooner you start weighing up your options and making decisions, the easier it will be to organise in the long run. One of the main factors to consider is numbers – how many hens are you looking to accommodate?

This will dictate where you’re going to eat, sleep, and the types of activity you can plan. It’s your choice whether or not to consult with the hen regarding invitees; asking if there’s anyone who shouldn’t be invited is a cunning plan and can spare you any awkward moments on the day.

Once you know the numbers, it’s time to consider accommodation and activities. Get these nailed quickly – it’s surprising how fast things book up for hen party’s in Cardiff.

It’s normal to start booking things about three months in advance – sometimes even longer if you’re planning the hen in a busy season.

Then you can get an accurate idea of costs per head. Asking people for a deposit not only helps with reservations (some restaurants, hotels or activities might ask for money up front), it also ensures the flakier hen members have committed.

cardiff hen party

Luxurious Cardiff Hen Weekend

If you’re looking for a generous dollop of luxury in your Cardiff hen weekend, then you’ve come to the right place. Cardiff has several gorgeous spas to choose from, where you can recharge your batteries before your party night out.

You can laze pool-side with your fellow Cardiff hens, bubble yourself chilled in the Jacuzzi, steam yourself beautiful in the sauna or get smothered in mud, but in a good way. It’s the perfect antidote to your Cardiff hen do night shenanigans later on.

Just as Shakespeare never said “massage is the food of life” and “to spa, perchance to dream”.

Hungry Cardiff Hen Night

After all that exercise, you’re probably starving. Step over then to St David’s, where you’ll find the restaurant quarter, Eastside. As you might now expect from a capital city, your Cardiff hen party is well catered for over two floors, with a variety from American Diner to Italian, Japanese to classic comfort food, and all your favourite cafes.

Back outside, Mill Lane is home to even more places to tantalise hens’ tastebuds. There’s a smorgasbord of eateries and bars here – from South American to Italian, Indian and just around the corner you can enjoy, Spanish, Thai and Portuguese, am must for any Cardiff hen do.

Peppered throughout the streets between the castle and the train station and down by Cardiff bay, there’s a wide array of restaurants and cafes too. It’s nice to see that traditional Welsh cuisine is making a comeback here, with some restaurants offering Cardiff hen weekend parties home-grown delicacies made with leeks, lamb, cheeses, crab, seaweed and cockles.

Enough delicious fare to satisfy even the hungriest hen party in Cardiff on a weekend break!

Shopping Cardiff Hen Party

Cardiff certainly delivers for hens who are looking to spend a little time spending some money!

With no less than six iconic Edwardian and Victorian shopping arcades, you will be spoiled for choice.

Wander through the variety of shops in the Castle Quarter and Morgan Quarter to enjoy boutique shopping at its best, if shopping is on the Cardiff hen party list.

For designer stores and the big high street brands, head to St David’s. Quite frankly, it’s huge! There’s 1.4 million square feet of retail space to explore. That’s a whole lot of shoes!

cardiff hen weekends

Mixing it up Hen

Cocktails are never out of fashion. But why stick to just supping them, when you can get involved and make your own?!

Several venues in Cardiff offer the chance for any Cardiff hen do parties to learn from a master mixologist.

With a dash of this and a shake of that, you’ll soon be muddling your own Mojitos and crafting your very own Cosmopolitans. Then you can get on with the delicious business of quaffing them.

Cardiff Hen Party Time

Hen party Cardiff nights are nothing short of fabulous. There’s a rocking array of live music venues, vibrant clubs, comedy venues, and of course the arena and Millennium Stadium, where you’ll find major gigs and shows.

There’s certainly something to entertain every Cardiff hen do into the wee small hours. St Mary Street and Mill Lane are the main destinations and just round the corner on Womanby Street is the legendary Clwb Ifor Bach.

If all those reality shows have made you want to sing, or maybe scream, there are some great karaoke venues too. Perfect for the budding Shirley Basseys or Cerys Matthews among you!

While you’re out and about, you could spot Dr Who being filmed, and if you’re very lucky, he might just show you his sonic screwdriver. Now, what Cardiff Hen party could resist that?!

Where to stay in Cardiff

The city of Cardiff offers a variety of options when it comes to hen do accommodation.

There are many hotels, houses & B&Bs, and camping sites available, we would suggest getting in there early though, especially if there is an event on at the Millenium stadium as beds disappear fast!

sandringham hotel cardiff

Sandringham Hotel

Located slap-bang in the city centre, Sandringham Hotel is a great choice for your Cardiff hen party. The family-run establishment was originally built in the 1880s and its impressive façade has lost none of its charm.

The hotel has decent-sized rooms and serves a delicious breakfast – just what your hen party will need after a heavy night out on the tiles!

nosda hostel cardiff

Nosda Hostel & Bar

One for the bargain-hunters, Nosda Hostel offers clean, comfortable and friendly accommodation for large hen parties.

With free breakfast included in your stay and a lively atmosphere (in part thanks to the well-stocked bar), Nosda is a centrally located gem where a gaggle of up to 22 hens can share a room.

the royal hotel cardiff

The Royal Hotel Cardiff

Just a stone throw from the train station, the Royal Hotel is a convenient option for your Cardiff hen party.

The self-proclaimed ‘urban retreat’ has 60 bedrooms on offer, all of which have been tastefully decorated in a contemporary Italian style.

hafod lodge

Hafod Lodge, Llantrisant

If your Cardiff hen party is happy to stay a little further out of the city centre, Hafod Lodge more than makes up for the compromise in location.

Only a 20-minute drive out of Cardiff, this party house gives hens the chance to relax, unwind – and party in stunning surroundings. The house boasts an outdoor heated pool, hot tub, as well as all the mod cons you need to throw yourself into the hen party spirit.

cardiff boutique townhouse

Cardiff Boutique Townhouse

For classier Cardiff hen weekend accommodation, try the Cardiff Boutique Townhouse. Just a short walk from the bars and restaurants near Millennium Stadium, this plush townhouse is a real-life bachelorette pad – for you and 19 other lucky hens.

Guests benefit from Sky TV, a pool table, stylistic bathrooms and a large lounge area, where your Cardiff hen do can really begin.

What to do in Cardiff

Cardiff is a city with plenty of hen do activities and great nightlife on offer, whether you're looking to party until the wee hours of the morning or merely a night out to remember, Cardiff has you covered.

The city is close to the sea and mountains, so there are many things to do and see on a hen do, with numerous options for those looking for something a little more active or classy.

welsh games hen activity cardiff

Welsh Games

Forget the dull, drab city streets and get ready to embrace hilarious hen-party fun like you’ve never seen before! Welsh Games is a fantastic choice for any Cardiff hen party wanting a little more bang, wallop and bounce for their buck.

Nine wild Welsh-themed games will have your hen party in stiches. Sheep shenanigans, Drunk Dragons and Duffin Daffyd are only a sample of the incredible (often inflatable) activities your group will enjoy. You even get your own group Activity Host to snap the best – and most ridiculous – moments throughout the day.

afternoon tea cardiff hen

Champagne Afternoon Tea

Who said hen parties have to be raucous? Well, not to start with, at least. One for the more refined bride-to-be, there’s nothing quite like the shear indulgence of a champagne afternoon tea. Chapel 1877 offer a scrumptious afternoon tea menu (with the choice of upgrading to premium champagne), as well as a selection of finger sandwiches and cakes.

A great way to set the tone of the event – even if it inevitably gets lowered throughout the duration of the evening!  It’s definitely our top tip for a Sunday Cardiff hen party lunch.

dirty dancing

Dirty Dancing Dance Class

It might be 30 years old, but Dirty Dancing is still very much a cult classic. That’s why its no surprise the Dirty Dancing dance class is a popular choice for hens of all ages.

Whether you’re obsessed with the movie or hold a flame for the late Patrick Swayze and his hypnotic hips, it’s one for the whole group. You’ll get your own private venue, choreographer and you’ll even get the try the lift.

Just remember, nobody puts Baby in the corner on this Cardiff hen weekend!

gin tasting cardiff

Gin Tasting

Who isn’t a fan of Mother’s ruin? Start your Cardiff hen do with a classy – if somewhat boozy – activity that everyone’s bound to enjoy.

You’ll get to try a range of gins, a welcome drink and even have your own professional mixologist to guide you through the experience.

And best of all, watch how the quieter members of the group slowly come out of their shells with a few sssshamples of the good stuff.

hen escape room

Escape Rooms

These themed activities are a blast and provide a fun way to engage your hen group indoors.

Most of the Escape Rooms are located in the heart of the city, and each one of the companies on offer features a different theme.

The games are designed to be challenging, where you have to solve a series of puzzles, riddles, and codes before the time runs out.

Places to eat in Cardiff

No Cardiff hen do would be complete without a delicious meal to line stomachs and bring your hens together over food, a drink or two and general frivolities.

For foodies, Cardiff is a culinary gem. With its many restaurants and cafés, it's easy to indulge in a variety of tasty dishes. From traditional British grub to innovative cooking, there's something for everyone here.

This guide will help you find the best places to eat in Cardiff, from online menus and restaurant photos to special offers.

the chapel

The Chapel 1877 Restaurant & Bar

With an incredible presence and an established reputation, The Chapel 1877 is a great place to enjoy a decent meal in the heart of the city.

As the name suggests, the restaurant is set in an old Chapel building, which has been tastefully restored with an Italian Gothic–themed interior.

Definitely our top tip for a bite to eat on a Cardiff hen weekend.

las iguanas cardiff

Las Iguanas

If you’re looking for delicious food and cocktails at a decent price, Las Iguanas has everything you could want.

Funky Latin vibes, freshly-made cocktails and an excellent atmosphere in the city centre – Las Iguanas has it all.

There’s even a happy hour, where selected cocktails come 2-4-1, even by the pitcher.

pier

Pier 64

For a classier vibe to your hen do, try Pier 64 for a swanky, slightly upmarket dining experience. Overlooking the picturesque marina, the venue has everything the discerning hen could want.

Quality cocktails, excellent food and a suave atmosphere make this the perfect choice for a fancy dinner your hens are likely to remember.

shaam nights

Shaam Nights

If you fancy trying something a little more adventurous, head to Shaam Nights for a refreshingly unique meal.

Forget the usual British or Indian cuisine – the inspiration for this restaurant comes from Syria, something you don’t see everywhere.

It’s elegant, authentic and offers set menus for larger Cardiff hen groups.

vivo latino cardiff

Vivo Latino 

Vivo Latino Cardiff is an upscale Latin American-themed bar and restaurant that serves an eclectic blend of cuisines.

It's located in a convenient location close to the city centre and is perfect for the food-lover looking for a casual dining experience, perfect for a hen do!

The drinks menu is also impressive. There are several cocktails to choose from, such as the Canchanchara, a classic Cuban drink. Another noteworthy item is the barrel-aged Old Fashioned.

Cardiff’s party bars

Once the daytime activities are out of the way and your hens are warmed up, it’s time to party!

Here are a few options to start the night on the right foot – and keep you going until the last woman’s left standing!

mill lane

10 Mill Lane

Cocktails are the order of the day in this popular bar in central Cardiff. If you’re running low on Cardiff hen do party ideas, this is a great spot to sate the appetite for most hen-goers.

A lively bar that serves an eclectic range of cocktails (many of which are on a 2-4-1 offer) also has a lively party atmosphere, making it a great choice for a Cardiff hen do of all sizes.

While you're there, you can also enjoy some bespoke Welsh artwork. This is a great spot to catch a live band.

feet tall

10 Feet Tall

Set over three floors, this funky bar and restaurant offers everything you could want for a Cardiff hen Do with style and glamour.

Bring your hens together (quite literally!) by ordering a few of their famous punch bowls from their extensive menu. You can relax, eat or dance the night away – or why not try all three!

10 feet tall is one of the only places in the city where you can snag a table without a reservation, making it perfect for a casual lunch or a quick snack before the sun goes down!

hen coyote ugly cardiff

Coyote Ugly

If you’re thinking of the famous bar-dancin’ film, you’re on the right lines. Coyote Ugly Saloon is something out of the ordinary for your Cardiff hen weekend.

While the scantily clad barmaids might not be everyone’s cup of G&T, the party atmosphere makes it a great place to come and enjoy a drink or two. Or three or four.

Think... Bartop dancing bartenders, and body shots!

pryzm cardiff hen bar

Pryzm

A classic venue around the country for larger groups, Pryzm is famed for its eclectic mix of much-loved music from a range of popular genres.

Your groups can literally walk from room to room, enjoying everything from 80's classics to modern RNB, perfect for any Hen party in Cardiff.

You can also reserve some VIP seating, sometimes wise if there are quite a few of you, then you can throw down those bags in a pile and hit the dancefloors!

marys bar

Mary's Bar 

Mary's is a great place to sample some of the best cocktails in Cardiff, with a plethora of performers for a night of raucous fun.

As for decor, the interior is a riot of colour. Some of the more extravagant displays include the Tiger Bar with gold brushed walls and animal print accents.

Among the most popular performers are the Ru Paul drag racers, who make regular appearances at the club.

Where to Party in cardiff

Cardiff's thriving nightlife and music scene has lots to offer you on your Cardiff hen do. Its clubs have an incredible variety of styles and personalities, perfect for a party weekend away!

Here are our top picks of Nightclubs and late bars...

the live lounge

The Live Lounge

The Live Lounge Cardiff is one of the city's most dynamic and exciting venues.

It features performances by solo artists, bands, and DJs until 4am on any given night of the week. And while you're there, you can indulge in some of the best cocktails in town.

If you like the music, you can dance the night away on the big dance floor. Or head to the basement for some live DJs, there's plenty of dancing going on!

the philharmonic bar

The Philharmonic Bar

The Philharmonic bar is one of Cardiff's most iconic venues, and one of the most unique.

Located on St Mary's Street, it is a cosmopolitan nightclub and venue, offering DJs playing the latest dance music as well as In addition to some live performances.

The Phili (That's what the locals call it!) boasts a rooftop terrace, a club area and five different party rooms. There is also a VIP room that offers guests a private experience, perfect for a hen do treat!

clwb Ifor bach hen

Clwb Ifor Bach 

The Ifor Bach is an award-winning live music venue that plays host to regular music performances with three floors, each featuring a different musical genre. This means the venue has a good mix of mainstream and alternative tunes!

One of the main attractions of the club is the dance floor, located on the top floor of the building where you can hear some locals speaking their native tongue!

hen tiger tiger

Tiger Tiger

Tiger Tiger in Cardiff is a funky retro establishment that offers a variety of themes for a night on the town. From the multicoloured lights of Decadia to the velvet seating of the Round Room, there is something to suit all tastes!

If you're into dancing, Tiger Tiger is a surefire way to have a good time, with a decent collection of revolving DJs to keep the party flowing, it's certainly the place to hang out on a hen weekend for many!

metros nightclub

Metros Nightclub

Metros nightclub in Cardiff has been around for more than two decades. This quirky venue is home to a number of club nights each week with a great dance floor, and a decent selection of drinks at the bar.

While it is not the largest in the city, Metros has been able to maintain its popularity by simply being awesome!

Local tips...

As well as the usual hen party ideas in Cardiff, why not think outside the box? If you’re staying the weekend, considering a more serene and less boozy activity for one of the days could be a wise move.

Why not take your hens on a boat trip up the river Taff and enjoy the beautiful Welsh countryside. Make sure you stop for lunch at Pettigrew Tea Rooms, where you can indulge in a delicious afternoon tea with a huge variety of sandwiches on offer.

When to visit...

Cardiff is a fantastic city to visit all year round; the stunning bay area for drinks and dining, St David’s extensive shopping facilities and a friendly and welcoming vibe are all massive draws for Wales’ capital city. But there are a few golden rules in regards to when you should plan a Cardiff hen do.

Rugby is a passion for any Welshman and as a result, when the home nation is playing in the capital, things can get a little wild! When matches are scheduled in Millennium Stadium, Cardiff is packed.

Finding places to eat or sleep can be very tricky unless you book you Cardiff hen party well in advance, so it’s worth checking out the rugby schedules and trying to plan around these events. The Six Nations is the main event, which runs from February to March, and even if games aren’t being played in the stadium, crowds will still flock to the local rugby haunts to celebrate victory and morn defeats in their thousands.

The Millennium Stadium also hosts other events that draws crowds from all over Wales, and even from across the boarder. Keep an eye on the listings for any major events that might bring people to the city, as this could affect availabilities and waiting times for pubs, bars and clubs.

The seasonal weather is also something to consider. Obviously this depends on the date of the wedding, but if at all possible, it’s much more pleasant to walk around the city in the warmer seasons of spring and summer.

If you’re stressing about how to entertain your Cardiff hen party, then we’re here to put your mind at rest. We’ve come up with a range of Hen party ideas in Cardiff to inspire even the trickiest mix of hens!