10 Essential Derby Hen Do Ideas & Activities

Updated December 2025

Derby might not be the top of everyone’s list for a Hen do, but you have to give it its due—it has everything you need for a top weekend. From a beautiful Gothic cathedral with amazing views to a booming nightlife scene, there are loads of things to do on a Derby hen party.

Here are our 10 essential ideas for a legendary weekend in the Midlands.

1. Cocktail Making Masterclass

The Vibe: Shaking & Sipping.

A classic for a reason. Head to one of Derby's top bars (like *Revolution de Cuba*) for a private masterclass. You'll learn to mix, muddle, and shake your own drinks under the guidance of a professional mixologist. Best of all, you get to drink everything you make!

2. Tank Driving

The Vibe: Heavy Metal Fun.

For hens who want something truly unique, why not try **Tank Driving**? You can take charge of a 55-tonne metal behemoth and learn how to drive it over a rough terrain course. If you are lucky, you might even get to crush a car with it! It is the ultimate experience for petrolheads.

3. Nude Life Drawing

The Vibe: Cheeky & Creative.

Unleash your inner artist with a **Nude Life Drawing** class. A male model (usually a bronzed Adonis!) will pose for you while you attempt to capture his likeness on paper. It’s tasteful, hilarious, and always a highlight of the weekend.

4. Old School Sports Day

The Vibe: Nostalgic Competition.

Revisit your childhood with an **Old School Sports Day**. You’ll be split into houses to compete in classic games like the egg and spoon race, sack race, and tug of war. It’s a great way to burn off some energy and get everyone laughing before the night out.

5. Bottomless Brunch

The Vibe: Day Drinking.

Start your Saturday right with a **Bottomless Brunch**. Enjoy a delicious meal accompanied by 90 minutes of unlimited Prosecco or cocktails. It’s the perfect fuel for a big day in the city.

6. Visit Derby Cathedral

The Vibe: Gothic Grandeur.

Free Activity: Take a moment to visit **Derby Cathedral**. It has the second-tallest perpendicular church tower in England. If you’re feeling energetic, you can climb the tower for amazing panoramic views over the city.

7. Crafternoon

The Vibe: Relaxed & Arty.

If you fancy a more chilled afternoon, book a **Crafternoon**. We can organise an expert teacher to guide you through Fascinator Making, Perfume Making, or even Knicker Customisation. It’s a lovely way to create a keepsake for the wedding.

8. White Water Rafting

The Vibe: Wet & Wild.

For adrenaline junkies, tackle mother nature by trying out **White Water Rafting** at the nearby water sports centre. You’ll work together to navigate the rapids—just make sure you don't mind getting wet!

9. Friar’s Gate Nightlife

The Vibe: Party Central.

When the sun goes down, head to the famous **Friar’s Gate** area. This is the main hub of Derby’s nightlife, populated by a huge array of bars and clubs. Whether you want a quiet drink in a local pub or to dance the night away in a cheesy pop club, this is the place to be.

10. Derby Arboretum

The Vibe: Park Life.

Free Activity: If you have some downtime, take a walk through **Derby’s Arboretum Park**. It is a listed park which is said to have been the inspiration for the world-famous Central Park in New York. It’s a great way to blow off the cobwebs and cure a hangover.

Ready to Plan?

The Stag and Hen Experience has been creating bespoke weekends since 2009. If you want to plan a package in the UK or abroad, get in touch on 01202 566100 or browse our full range of Derby Hen Inspiration to get started.