For outdoor pursuits and tasty treats...
DEER PARK
Set within 80 acres of glorious grounds, the 18th century Deer Park Country House Hotel offers a heady blend of English rural charm, decadent delights and exhilarating activities for a spoilsome hen do. Thanks to a partnership with Outdoor Adventure Consultants, hens can savour an adrenaline-fuelled flight through the trees courtesy of the new zip wire and stoke up that competitive spirit with a spot of archery, fishing, giant Jenga or clay pigeon shooting. Round off the action by tucking into gourmet pizza baked in the al fresco wood-fired oven or a scrumptious afternoon tea.
www.deerparkcountryhotel.co.uk
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For luxe in the country...
COMBE HOUSE
The luxurious climes of Combe House provide the perfect space to unwind and revel in the spoils of Devon's idyllic countryside. Located in a sprawling 3,500-acre estate, the 600-year-old Combe Thatch House is the latest addition to the charms of this stirring place. The house, which has already scooped a Conde Nast Johansens 'Award for Excellence', accommodates up to eight guests and sits in a secluded woodland setting, offering tranquility, privacy and first-rate facilities for a very special hen celebration. Boasting sumptuous bedrooms, a sunny conservatory and spacious garden - not to mention free roam of the grounds' ancient orchards and lulling brooks - hens will escape to a world of pampering and relaxation in supreme style. A delectable dinner served in Combe House's candlelit Georgian Kitchen is sure to prove a treasured highlight.
For glamping and giggles...
BABES IN THE WOODS
Become a 'bushcraft babe' courtesy of Babes In The Woods where you get to enjoy some 'woodland lounging' whilst acquiring a host of skills. Sprinkled with luxe touches (think champagne and cream teas) and fabulous Californian dome accommodation nestled amidst breathtaking woodland, this is all about connecting with your gaggle of girls while making cherished memories in the process. The whole weekend is tailored to the season and your preferences; you might handcraft a spoon, woodland jam or hedgerow wild herb ointment, while the ancient bushcraft and survival skills may include making a shelter, creating fire or campfire cooking. Imagine foraging in the stunning woodland surrounds, tucking into a delicious al fresco feast, giggling with your pals around a campfire and dancing beneath the stars.
www.babesinthewoods.co.uk
For leisure and laidback...
HIGHBULLEN
An escapist's dream, Highbullen Hotel, Golf and Country Club is tucked away in a 125-acre estate in rural North Devon. Affording sprawling vistas across the Mole Valley and Exmoor, hen weekend locations don't come more enticing than this. Offering luxury accommodation through spectacularly refurbished rooms, the hotel provides both informal and fine dining options along with a bevy of relaxing areas and leisure activities including golf, tennis, croquet, fishing and shooting. Take a dip in the indoor or outdoor swimming pool, unwind in the Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room or indulge in a selection of massage and beauty treatments. Active hens may choose to work up an appetite in the fully equipped gym or enjoy a hike through the stunning wild surrounds. Retire to any of the gorgeous rooms, or indulge in pizza and bubbly back at private self-catering lodge, Stable Cottage, to round off a truly spellbinding stay.
www.highbullen.co.uk
For spa heaven and city sophistication...
BATH BOUTIQUE STAYS
Offering a collection of beautiful boutique style properties scattered throughout the cobbled streets of Bath, hens can take their pick from Bath Boutique Stays' selection of first rate accommodation for a very fabulous hen weekend. Gravitas House, for example, can house up to ten people, presenting super chic and comfy surrounds. A converted Georgian shop, it boasts a snug lounge, a fully equipped modern kitchen and four beautifully styled bedrooms piled with Egyptian cotton linen. A peaceful spot with the excellent gastro pub The Chequers and the nostalgic charms of Bea's Vintage Tea Rooms on the doorstep - not to mention the centre of Bath, Thermae Bath Spa and the famous Royal Crescent just a short walk away - the location couldn't be better to take advantage of the city's alluring variety of scenes.
www.bathboutiquestays.co.uk
words Hannah May
Copyright Wed magazine 2013
