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50 Brighton Hen Do Ideas & Activities for the Ultimate Brighton Hen Weekend

Planning a hen do in Brighton just got easier with our complete guide that includes what to do and the best places to eat and drink in town

a group of people walking up and down Brighton Palace Pier
Unsplash / Evgeny Klimenchenko

a group of people walking up and down Brighton Palace Pier
Unsplash / Evgeny Klimenchenko

Planning a hen party always starts with finding the perfect location, and if you're planning a Brighton hen do, you've picked a corker of a town to travel to.

There's something for everyone here, with so many hen do activities in Brighton to choose from, you could celebrate here for weeks and not get bored!

Because there's so much on offer, we've rounded up 50 of the best Brighton hen do ideas for you to choose from. Our edit includes the best hen do activities in Brighton, where to eat, places to drink and the best hen do accommodation, too. 

50 Brighton Hen Do Ideas & Activities for the Ultimate Brighton Hen Weekend

There is so much to do in this vibrant seaside city, no matter what style of hen party you want or your budget. From drag brunches to stand-up paddleboarding and axe throwing to vintage afternoon tea, you'll find the best Brighton hen do ideas below, including our top tips for bottomless brunches, rooftop bars and secret speakeasy spots.

We've even included an example itinerary for those wondering what to do in Brighton on a hen weekend - how lovely of us!? 

Ready to plan the best hen do in Brighton, ever, for your pal? Let's go! 

What to Do in Brighton on a Hen Do?

As much as two days of cocktails on the beach sounds like a dreamy plan, a great Brighton hen do involves some fun activities. Here are our favourite hen party activities to do in Brighton during your stay, with something to suit every kind of group.

1. Visit a Brighton Comedy Club

a view of Brighton comedy club Komedia at night time from the street outside

If you and the crew love a laugh, and want to add some fun hen do activities to your Brighton itinerary, we'd recommend taking a trip to Brighton Komedia, one of the town's hottest comedy clubs. 

Not only can you view the newest comedic talents here, but you can eat and drink while you do it, with party packages and deals for eight or more people available, offering savings of up to £7 per person.

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2. Catch a Live Show

Brighton is home to two brilliant events spaces with a huge variety of shows and acts on offer almost every night.

Between the Brighton Centre and the Brighton Dome, you can see everyone from Busted and JLS (hello throwback tunes!), to Michael McIntyre and Ricky Gervais. You can even catch variety acts like Diversity and ABBA tributes here - the options are literally endless.

Planning a Brighton hen do around an event also gives you an entire evening of entertainment readily planned, often for less than you'd each spend out in the bars!

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3. Indulge in Relaxing Massages

During your Brighton hen weekend - perhaps the morning after drinks on the town - why not treat yourselves to some luxury Swedish massages at Beauty Secrets.

For just £70 per person, you can enjoy a 55 minute full body massage which is entirely tailored to your preference - you tell the team which areas you want them to focus on them, and then sit back, relax and enjoy the experience. 

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4. Design Your Own Perfumes

three women on a Brighton hen do making and smelling their own perfumes

We love the idea of perfume making as a hen do activity, as everyone loves wearing it and it's one of those activities where each person gets to take something home with them - what a bonus! 

This Brighton hen do idea includes a group consultation with a trained perfume expert, a chance to create your own fragrance and a gift-boxed 20ml sample of your bespoke scnet. 

There are 20 locations across the UK where you can do this, one of which is right in the heart of Brighton.

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5. Go Under the Sea

Why not spend an afternoon at the Sea Life Centre in Brighton, which is the oldest operating aquarium in the world? You’ll find an underwater world filled with fascinating creatures – see everything from sharks to seahorses and ride the UK’s first glass bottom boat.

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6. Escape from Alcotraz

three women in orange jumpsuits stand facing to the side in front of a penitentiary sign at Brighton bar Alcotraz

Alcotraz Cell Block One Three is the coolest speakeasy in town. Hidden below the unsuspecting Brighton Seafront is a secret prison speakeasy where you'll don orange jumpsuits, smuggle liquor past the warden, and mixologist "inmates" will create you quirky and bespoke cocktails in your own prison cell while you get pally with the guards.

It's seriously unique and serious fun, offering you and the group an immersive cocktail experience for almost two hours. 

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7. Rib Ride around the Pier

Adrenaline junkies will love this. Go on a 30 minute powerboat ride on a rib around Brighton Marina with Seaboat Experience Days – a bumpy ride that will have you screaming and shrieking, but loving every minute of it.

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8. Party at 450ft High

A picture of the Brighton seafront with the Brighton i360

Take in the amazing views of Brighton from the BA i360 Viewing Tower on the seafront. Their events team can plan you a VIP day, from a private party in a Sky Bar pod to a magical three-course dining experience with all of Brighton below you to a raucous BBQ on the beach or afternoon tea by the sea. 

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9. Go Wine Tasting

Did you know Sussex boasts many vineyards, meaning many of the bars and restaurants stock locally sourced wine for you to enjoy? If you know the nearlywed is partial to a tipple, why not organise a day or evening of wine tasting at Ten Green Bottles in the town centre? 

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10. Shake It Off

a bartender demonstrating mixology at a Brighton hen do activity

You can't do wrong with a cocktail masterclass and this Brighton cocktail making and mixology course is one of the best. This full day's cocktail making course will teach you all the skills you need to rival a top mixologist, helping you to understand the spirits and liqueurs used to make your favourite tipples.

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11. Take a Sailing Cruise

Whilst hen partying it up in Brighton, it'd be borderline criminal not to head out onto the water and enjoy a private sailing cruise on the East Sussex waters. This particular boat cruise can be enjoyed by a maximum of 10 people and lasts three hours - what a great way to spend your day!

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12. Enjoy Chocolate Making

several hands dipping and making chocolate at a Brighton hen party activity

Groups will a sweet tooth will love this Brighton hen do activity. For just £55 per person, up to 11 of you can enjoy a private chocolate making class where you can experience making your very own chocolate treats and taste test a range of chocolates for two whole hours.

The class caters to nut free, gluten free and dairy free participants so no one will be left out.

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13. Go Kayaking Down the River

Head to the River Ouse in Brighton and take a kayaking trip from Lewes to Hamsey Weir with your very own private kayaking instructor. The team there can teach you how to use the equipment and do great value group hire packages.

The Sussex kayaking trip takes around two and a half hours and can be enjoyed by up to 11 of you. 

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14. Try Tea Blending

three women in a Brighton tea shop taking part in a tea blending workshop

Are you the kind of group who just loves a good cuppa? If so, you'll love this Brighton hen do idea - it's tea blending. This tea blending workshop is perfect for groups of up to 10 who want to enjoy unlimited tasting and blending of their favourite brews. 

You get to taste, create, name and package your own blends, and each participant will get some goodies to take home with you as well. It's a great activity to do in the daytime before a big night out, and also works as a super alternative for groups who want alcohol-free activities.

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15. Sing at a Bottomless Karaoke Brunch

Is it even a Brighton hen do if you don't do a bottomless brunch at some point? And for sing-along-lovers who love belting one out, this bottomless karaoke brunch is the perfect pick. 

As part of the package, you and the group will have your face done up by a glitter makeup artist before you all take part in some party games, eat and drink as much as you like, and sing your hearts out in your own private karaoke booth. Did someone say Whitney?

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16. Try Cheeky Life Drawing

If you want to add a naughty twist to a creative class, why not book a life drawing session for your Brighton hen do?

Nude Life will send a model to your accommodation (or they can help you arrange a venue) who'll kick off by serving you a few drinks before stripping down for you to draw - all materials included.

It's classy, creative and a great giggle for the entire group.

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17. Experience a Silent Disco Walk

A woman wearing headphones with a group of people enjoying a Brighton hen party silent disco in the street

The 'Boogie Shoes' silent disco walking party is unlike anything your hens will have done before. Dance, walk and skip your way around Brighton to the sound of disco and pop classics on your own private headphones.

Lead by hostess Mama Roo, there's be live commentary and fun surprises along the way, as well as a playlist to get you in the mood for a day of dancing.

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16. Attend a Bougie Drag Brunch

Are there three better words than 'bottomless drag brunch'? We think not! And in Brighton you have plenty to choose from, including the Bougie Drag Brunch and Boy Toy Drag Brunch events which offer amazing entertainment and ridiculously fun drag from some of the UK's finest talent. Expect lots of laughter and Prosecco on tap.

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17. Meet the Dreamboys

a topless man performing at a brighton hen party performance of dreamboys

Get the Magic Mike experience in Brighton by paying a visit to the Dreamboys. After the sexy show, you can even meet the male strippers after the show and have your photo taken with them.

They perform on Saturday nights at Pryzm nightclub and there's even the option to add on a meal and activity there first, including a dance class, cocktail making or life drawing. 

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18. Soar Over the City

For a totally breath-taking experience, why not organise a hen party helicopter ride over Brighton and the Sussex Downs? Helifly.co.uk has a range of flights to suit all budgets, although this does suit smaller hens better as the maximum number of passengers the helicopters can hold is three or five.

No harm in the others sipping Champagne while they wait to take in the sights, though.

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19. Throw an Axe

Two women throwing axes against wooden walls at a brighton hen do

Tribe Urban Axe Throwing is calling out for a visit. Adventurous hens will love slinging at axe and even joining in the daily tournaments to win a spot in the hall of fame. They're currently at the North Laines Brewhouse so you can take in a brewery tour and tasting too. 

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20. Paint Some Pottery

Not everyone wants action, adventure or alcohol on their hen party, and that’s fine.

If the hen likes to get creative, what about a pottery painting section at the Painting Pottery Café?

Everyone can get together, paint their pottery and take it away as a keepsake at the end – the hen receives a larger piece which everyone can sign as a memento. Your fired pottery can also be sent on to the hen organiser if you can't take it home then and there.

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21. Take on a Treasure Hunt

Get everyone outside with an organised outdoor treasure hunt or escape room from Pier Pressure. It’s basically all the fun of an escape room mixed with a sightseeing tour of Brighton - an ideal ice breaker and a great way to immerse yourself in the vibrant streets, shops and cafes of the city.

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22. Enjoy Some Burlesque

a man breathing fire while a woman hangs from a rope on stage at a Brighton hen party burlesque show

Proud Cabaret in Brighton hosts some of the most jaw-dropping burlesque and cabaret dinner shows in the world! As well as a delicious meal and expert cocktails, you'll be wowed by their acrobats, fire breathers, drag beauties and burlesque performers. You can get just drinks tickets too to watch the show if you've got dinner plans elsewhere.

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23. Spook Yourselves on a Creepy Ghost Walk

If you know the bride-to-be likes a thrill and enjoys creepy horror films and spooky ghost stories, why not organise a frightening ghost walk?

Led by a master storyteller in full Victorian costume, take on the Ghost Walk of the Lanes and learn the colourful and spooky history of Brighton's famous Lanes, visit 10 scary sites and hear a multitude of haunting tales. You can book onto their public walking tours or make a private booking.

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Where to Eat in Brighton on a Hen Do? 

An army marches on its stomach - and that's especially true for a Brighton hen party army! A good meal before you head out for the night will save you the next morning, as will a great bottomless brunch if you decide to go for hair of the dog.

The Best Bottomless Brunches for a Brighton Hen Do

inside a modern restaurant in Brighton with greenery as decor

24. Big Mac Bao Bottomless Brunch

Red Roaster has won awards for its boozy brunches so that should give you an idea of how good the food is here. Think Big Mac bao, crispy chilli eggs, and fish tacos, with tasty vegan options too. You get unlimited mimosas and spritzes for 90 minutes.

25. Bottomless Brunch Pubs

The Tempest Inn is one of the best pubs on the seafront and they have a fab bottomless brunch every Saturday and Sunday with bloody Mary's and mimosas on offer. Sister pub The Mesmerist also do a cracking one too at £23 per person.

26. Bottomless Pizza Brunch

The West Hill Tavern are an independent, family-run pub with a great vibe and some of the best pizza around. If your hen loves sourdough pizza, they'll go wild for their bottomless brunch which includes a pizza, bottomless Prosecco and seasonal mimosas. 

27. Floating Bar Bottomless Brunch

The Watershed is a floating bar and restaurant at Brighton Marina Yacht Club. It's a super-fun seaside experience with two hours of bottomless bubbles.

28. Saucy Topless Bottomless Brunch

Want booze and entertainment? The Boy Toy Brunch at Przym includes topless waiters, sexy male dancers and circus performances, as well as a two-course brunch and 90 minutes of bottomless Prosecco.

29. Drag Bottomless Brunches

For drag brunches, check out Proud Cabaret and Bougie Drag Brunch.

The Best Restaurants for Dinner on a Brighton Hen Do

inside a modern restaurant in brighton decorated with a navy blue bar and leafy armchairs

30. Seafood & Craft Beer

The Urchin is a fab gastropub in Hove that focuses on shellfish and craft beer. Try some of the best oysters around and go for whatever is on the specials board - it'll be delicious.

31. Asian Fusion & Sunday Roasts

No.32 is a relaxed and stylish restaurant in the iconic Laines. Think Asian fusion casual dining and an excellent Sunday roast.

32. Vegan & Veggie Dinner Spot

Vegan or veggie? Food For Friends is an award-winning vegetarian and vegan restaurant that's been around since 1981. It's got insanely good local and organic food and a whole list of natural, biodynamic wines.

33. Indian Feast Restaurant

Indian Summer are an awesome Indian restaurant with killer cocktails and an epic biryani and thali menu.

34. Authentic Italian Pizza

Fatto a Mano is a smart neighbourhood pizzeria with insanely good flavour toppings and a good vegan selection too. You'll feel like you've stepped into Naples, but you can also get it delivered straight to your hen house for a tasty treat at home.

35. Fine Dining & Tasting Menus

If your hen is a real foodie, they'll love fine dining restaurant Isaac At which is one of the coolest restaurants in the city. Splash out on their tasting menu for a real treat.

Likewise, Etch is a fancy fine dining restaurant from a former MasterChef: The Professionals winner and it has a monthly seasonal tasting menu which is sure to impress.

36. Dinner & Cocktails

The Flint House is a cool, buzzy spot with a large dining room and outdoor spaces so it's great for large groups. There's also a glamorous first-floor cocktail bar and rooftop terrace.

37. Pub Dinner Spots

Brighton is packed with great gastropubs that are great for evening meals and Sunday roasts. Look at Earth and Stars, The Tempest Inn and The Lion and Lobster.

We'll always support going to somewhere local and independent, but if you need a large group booking, sometimes chains can accommodate you easiest. Look at Las Iguanas, The Breakfast Club, Revolution and The Rum Kitchen.

38. Beachfront Eats

If you're after somewhere to grab a quick, tasty lunch, head to Shelter Hall. This seafront food market has seven different kitchens serving up everything from Neapolitan pizza to Malay curry to fried chicken to grilled meats. Book in advance or walk-in and get a delicious lunch while listening to live music.

Where to Drink in Brighton on a Hen Do?

a picture showing people sitting outside drinking in a pub garden in Brighton

Once your stomachs are lined, it's time to hit the bars, and luckily for you, there are dozens upon dozens of hen party bars to choose from n Brighton. From sea-front shacks and cosy pubs, to rooftop bars and cocktail spots in the lanes, you will be completely spoilt for choice in this town. 

39. Rooftop Bars in Brighton

Rooftop terraces are dreamy in the summer and Brighton has some fab ones including The Mesmerist, the quirky Mrs Fitzherberts, Bohemia Brighton and No.32.

40. Speakeasy Bars

As for speakeasy spots, you're spoilt for choice. We've already mentioned Alcotraz, but try Shimmer @ The Gin Tub, Twisted Lemon (and the new Twisted Lime), and Speakeasy @ The Wick.

41. Brighton's Best Nightclub

Patterns is one of the funnest nights out in Brighton, with a cool beachfront bar, club and restaurant. There's always live music or top DJ sets so you'll get in the party spirit quickly.

42. Swanky Cocktail Bar

The Plotting Parlour on the edge of Kemptown does insanely delicious cocktails and features cool frescoed walls and a gold bar.

43. Cocktails & Entertainment

The much-loved Maggie Mae's offers fab entertainment, live shows, addictive cocktails, and a dance floor calling out for you to boogie. 

44. Live Music & Drinks

The Joker is a pub/bar which has live music most nights, an upstairs club called the Devil's Disco, and a dark, sultry vibe.

45. Craft Beers & Street Food

The North Laine Brewhouse is great for hens who like craft pints, knockout food and a party vibe. Similarly, BrewDog Brighton is fab for a casual pint or two. 

46. Cheap & Cheerful Spots

For great value drinks and dancing, you'll always have fun at Be At One and Revolution

Where to Stay in Brighton on a Hen Do? 

If you're after something really special for your Brighton hen do, check out our roundup of the best hen party houses in Brighton which cater to large groups looking to stay in luxury.

But for hotel options and some more budget-friendly picks, these are our top recs for where to stay on a Brighton hen do. 

*All prices are based on prices for a two night stay (Friday - Sunday) in August 2024.

46. Square Townhouse

inside one of the king size suites at the Townhouse Brighton hotel showcasing mirrored doors, grey carpets and modern furniture

Enjoy the luxuries of a seafront Brighton home during your hen party stay at Square Townhouse, located in the heart of buzzing neighbourhood Kemptown. Snug double rooms and cozy king size suites are available for you to slumber in, all with glorious views over this bustling hen party town.

Price: Approx £107 per person per night

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47. The Grand, Brighton

a large suite at brighton hen party hotel the grand with windows overlooking the sea

If you want a Brighton hotel that exudes elegance, grandeur and sits in one of the most prime locations in town, look to The Grand for your hen do stay. The décor in this historic hotel is classic and up-market, and each room is dressed with Egyptian cotton linen for you to recover in after a heavy night on the town. 

Price: Approx £175 per person per night

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48. Block-74

a small cosy room at brighton hen do hotel with a double bed, white linen and a light oak panelled wall

Block-74 is an affordable Brighton hotel perfect for hen party groups. It's accommodation is easily accessible - all you need is a pin code - and is rated highly by customers for cleanliness, location, comfort and value for money.

Price: Approx £77 per person per night

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50. Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton

a smart bedroom with sea views and a desk in brighton hotel

Groups looking for a bit of luxury (whilst remaining on a budget) on their Brighton hen do will love the Leonardo Royal Hotel in Brighton. Located just 400 meters from Brighton's famous pier, the location of this hotel is unbeatable, putting you right at the heart of everything that's going on. 

There's also a steam room, indoor swimming pool, sauna and other luxurious facilities for you to enjoy without even leaving the hotel. 

Price: Approx £105 per person per night

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Brighton Hen Party Itinerary 

With all these exciting hen do activities in Brighton to choose from, on top of the brunches, bars and restaurants, it can be tricky to know how to balance it all out.

So, if you're wondering what to do in Brighton on a hen weekend, and how to plan the perfect trip, our example itinerary should help.

Day 1: 

3.00pm - 4.00pm: Meet at the property for arrival drinks and check in.

4.00pm - 5.00pm: Give the group time to unpack, meet their roomies and get ready.

5.00pm - 7.00pm: Pre-drinks and hen party games at your Brighton hen party house.

7.00pm - 9.00pm: Dinner at one of the town's best restaurants.

9.00pm - Late: Hit the town with the group.

Day 2: 

9.00am - 10.00am: Casual coffee, breakfast and a group debrief of the night before.

10.00am - 11.00am: Get ready for the day.

11.00am - 4.00pm: Day time activities in town (tours, brunches, sports etc) including a light lunch.

4.00pm - 5.00pm: Back to the hen party accommodation to get ready for the evening.

5.00pm - 7.00pm: Early dinner as a group.

7.00pm - 9.00pm: Evening activity (show, brunch, gig etc).

9.00pm - Late: Hit the town with the group.

Day 3: 

10.00am - 12.00pm: Group brunch and check out.

And there's plenty more advice where that came from! Check out our edit of the best hen party games for you to play as a group, as well as these cheeky hen do dares for those who want to spice the weekend up.