London Hen Dos: Your Ultimate Guide

Guide to London Hen Dos Thistle Piccadilly Blog Image

 

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes.

If you’re planning a hen do in London, you’re in for a treat! This vibrant city is brimming with incredible activities, from immersive theatre experiences to scenic boat cruises on the Thames. Whether your group is seeking high-energy entertainment or a more relaxed outing, there’s something for every bride tribe. Highlights include Magic Mike Live, a dazzling Great Gatsby Experience, and unique dining options like Korean Grill Kensington and a whimsical afternoon tea bus. With a little insider knowledge, you can curate unforgettable memories that celebrate this special occasion in style.

 

Table of Contents:

Magic Mike Live at the Hippodrome Casino

For: Cheeky, high-energy evenings

Looking for that mix of risqué fun and legendary showbiz sparkle? Magic Mike Live, on stage at the Hippodrome Casino, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Steamy routines, dazzling acrobatics, and just enough audience participation to keep everyone on their toes – this is hen night entertainment with plenty of stories to take home.

Groups can book VIP tables or balcony seating for a treat. You’ll be right in theatreland, which is ideal if you’re staying at Thistle Hotel Piccadilly, a quick stroll away. Fancy a pre-show dinner? Chinatown’s buzzing restaurants are just around the corner.

 

Feast in style at Korean Grill Kensington

For: Foodies, vegans, and halal-friendly hens

Gather your group and head south to Korean Grill Kensington (KGK), for a show-stopping table barbecue. It’s interactive, glamorous, and great for bringing everyone together. Try the Chef’s Feast menu (a favourite for sharing) and you’ll find options for all dietary needs, including vegan and halal.

Book a private corner and grill at your table, or simply let the staff guide you through the delicacies. The elegant setting is perfect for photos (and Instagramming the whole thing, if you like).

 

Sing, dance, repeat with ABBA Voyage

For: Iconic tunes and next-level visuals

No hen do London would be complete without a proper boogie, and ABBA Voyage is the dancefloor reborn. Step into a world of light effects, digital avatar performances, and gleaming retro energy, all soundtracked by hit after hit.

It’s a world-first concert experience with high-tech staging. Buy your tickets in advance (groups are welcome), and if there’s time after, keep the good vibes going at a local bar. Let reception at Thistle Piccadilly book you the best taxi or help with dinner reservations – you’re not far at all.

 

Reach new heights: Up at The O2

For: Adventurous hens and thrill-seekers

Sometimes the best bonding experiences come from a burst of adrenaline. Climbing the dome of The O2 is an adventure and offers one of London’s best panoramic views. Choose a sunset slot for truly stunning city snaps.

Everything’s organised for you – safety gear, guides, photos at the top. All you need is a sense of fun (and a sturdy pair of trainers). It’s outdoors but manageable in most weathers.

 

Channel Your inner adventurer at the Crystal Maze Live Experience

For: Teamwork, friendly competition, and retro TV nostalgia

Revel in puzzles, laughter, and surprise twists at the Crystal Maze Live Experience. Inspired by the cult show, your group tackles challenges as a team, collecting crystals and reliving the golden days of telly. It’s energetic, wholly interactive, and works before an evening out.

Since it’s ideal for groups of all sizes, book a time that slots into your itinerary with plenty of post-game banter.

 

Saddle up at Moonshine Saloon

For: Themed cocktails and immersive roleplay

Bring the wild west to London with Moonshine Saloon’s cowboy-inspired cocktail experience. Expect fancy dress, creative games, and the thrill of ‘smuggling’ in your own spirits for the bar team to whip into bespoke cocktails. Actors keep your group on their toes.

It’s the perfect choice for hens wanting something quirky before a big night out, book ahead for the best time slots.

 

Party on the Thames: Booze cruises

For: Open-air fun, city views, and dancing

Get everyone outside and onto a boat with a Thames booze cruise. Several operators run themed sailings. Think silent discos, live DJs, or even Bollywood parties, offering city skyline views with music, cocktail bars, and plenty of dancing.

It’s a fun, weather-resistant option for large groups and a regular sight on London hen do weekends.

 

Laugh out loud: London’s comedy clubs

For: Groups who love a giggle

Sometimes, the simplest hen do ideas London has are the most timeless. Comedy clubs are dotted all over the city. Headliners at Leicester Square Theatre or hidden gems like Top Secret Comedy Club just a stroll from Thistle London Piccadilly.

Ticket prices are usually group-friendly, and you’re never far from a pub or restaurant for after-show antics.

 

Bottomless brunches and drag extravaganzas

For: Food, fizz, and fabulous entertainment

A bottomless brunch is fast becoming a London hen do tradition. Expect prosecco, fry-ups, or pancakes – often with an extra helping of drag cabaret, quizzes, or even group cooking classes. For hens who want to start the day with a bang (and keep going through sunset), book early at one of Soho or Covent Garden’s most popular haunts.

Options abound; some change weekly or offer private booths for bigger groups.

 

Afternoon tea: ABBA on wheels

For: Quirky sightseeing, delicious bakes, and pop soundtracks

Why stay still when you can roll through London, tea in hand, with ABBA’s classics as your soundtrack? The Here We Go Again Afternoon Tea Bus Tour serves a full cake stand of treats aboard a colourfully decorated bus. See Westminster, Big Ben, and other landmarks as you sing along.

All dietary needs are catered for, and you can book an entire table for your group. Don’t forget your camera, the photo ops are plenty.

 

Floral feasting at The Ivy Chelsea Garden

For: Picture-perfect lunches and seasonal glamour

If your idea of the perfect London hen do is a meal surrounded by flowers and style, reserve a table at The Ivy Chelsea Garden. Arrive during the Chelsea Flower Show and you’ll find the restaurant bursting with colourful displays, but it’s beautiful year-round. Enjoy classic cocktails, British dishes, and a sense of occasion.

Advance booking is a must, especially in spring and summer.

 

Where to stay: Why Thistle London Piccadilly is the perfect base

A London hotel can make or break your hen do. Thistle London Piccadilly, nestled between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus, is in the thick of local life, and just steps from theatres, Chinatown, and the West End’s brightest lights. Here’s why it’s a group organiser’s favourite:

  • Central location: Walk everywhere. Bars, clubs, bakeries, and Covent Garden’s brunch haunts.
  • Flexible room choices: Twin, triple, and family rooms to suit every shape of party.
  • Early check-in (when available): Ideal for glamming up before you head out.
  • In-room breakfasts and on-site restaurant: Perfect for post-party Sunday mornings.
  • Friendly staff ready to assist: Need restaurant bookings or taxis? Sorted.

Book directly through Thistle London Piccadilly for best group rates, exclusive perks, and a central base that puts your party in easy reach of every activity in this guide.

Whether you want high-energy dancing, a spot of pampering, or a playful afternoon tea with a twist, London’s got something just right for your hen do. At Thistle Hotel Piccadilly, we’re always happy to share local secrets and help you plan an itinerary that’s personal, practical, and full of excitement. Book a stay and let the city (and our team) take care of the rest.

FAQs: Hen dos in London

  • London’s lively all year, but late spring to early autumn offers the best mix of events, outdoor options, and lighter evenings. For floral feasts or garden venues, May and June (especially during the Chelsea Flower Show) are unbeatable.

  • Most top hen do activities London are popular, so aim for 6-8 weeks ahead, especially for theatre shows, themed brunches, and immersive experiences. Booking ahead also often secures better group rates.

  • Absolutely. Many (like afternoon teas, comedy clubs, and theatre shows) welcome guests of all ages. Just check the venue’s age guidelines, especially if alcohol is served or audience participation gets cheeky.

  • Yes. Many venues and the team at Thistle London Piccadilly can help organise flexible arrangements – group dining, room layouts, activities bookings, and more.

  • You don’t have to be staying at a hotel to enjoy these hen do ideas. Book an activity, then drop by for a drink at our bar or tea in our lounge – perfect for a city-centre meet-up.

  • For updated events, restaurant tips, and things to do, there are excellent resources. Start with destination roundups like Visit London’s homepage or look at Secret London’s main site for the freshest ideas.