Cork Hen Party Ideas: The Ultimate Guide

Editor's Note (December 2025): Planning a hen do in the Rebel County? We've updated this guide with the best Cork hen party ideas for 2026, from Instagram tours to the best spots for bottomless brunch.

Ireland is a hen party destination that always provides the goods, with its historic cities, breath-taking scenery, and friendly people who are always up for the craic. As Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork provides all the necessary ingredients for a successful hen do: restaurants and bars galore, a vibrant nightlife scene, and loads to see and do.

If a Cork hen party sounds like a good idea to you, but you’re not sure what activities are available, we have produced this handy guide to the best things to do on a hen weekend in Cork.

1. A Day at the Races

If you fancy getting glammed up and having a flutter on the horses, then you should definitely consider a day at the races. Cork is home to the Cork Racecourse Mallow, which hosts both National Hunt and flat races. It is a fantastic excuse to put on your best dresses, drink champagne, and hopefully win enough euros to pay for the night out!

If you prefer something a bit more down-to-earth (and faster-paced), you could also try an evening at the dogs at the local Curraheen Park Greyhound Stadium.

2. The "Insta-Tour" of Cork

If you want to learn more about the city whilst getting some fantastic photos, then an Insta Tour is a must. This popular activity involves meeting up with a local influencer who will guide you to the city’s most photogenic spots.

From the colourful houses of the "Deck of Cards" to the stunning English Market, they will give you tips and tricks on how to get those all-important likes, while also sharing the history and folklore of the sights you see. It’s the perfect way to turbocharge your social media game while exploring.

3. Kiss the Blarney Stone

You can't come to Cork without visiting its most famous landmark. Just 8.5km out of the city lies Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago by Cormac MacCarthy.

At the top of the castle lies the famous Stone of Eloquence. As legend has it, anyone who kisses the Blarney Stone will be gifted with "the gift of the gab." It involves hanging upside down over a sheer drop (safely, of course!), which is a great photo op. Afterwards, take a stroll through the magical castle gardens—an oasis of calm before the madness of the night ahead.

4. Outdoor Adrenaline

If you want some fresh air to cure the hangover, Cork’s landscape is perfect for outdoor activities. Watersports are a great way of admiring the dramatic coastline, whether that be surfing or kayaking in the harbour.

For those who prefer dry land, Clay Pigeon Shooting is surprisingly popular with our hen groups. It gets you out into the countryside and brings out the competitive streak in the group. Go Karting and Paintballing are also readily available just a short drive from the city centre.

5. Dine & Indulge: Bottomless Brunch

No Cork hen weekend is complete without a proper feed. The perennial favourites of Brunch and Afternoon Tea are huge here.

We highly recommend booking a "Bottomless" option. For a set price, you and the girls can enjoy unlimited Prosecco or cocktails for 90 minutes alongside your meal. It is a cost-effective way to get the party started early and ensures everyone is well-fed before the main event.

6. After Dark: The Nightlife

Cork has an endless selection of pubs, bars, and clubs. If you want some expert local knowledge, we can offer a Guided Bar Tour. A local guide will take you to the top nightspots, ensuring you avoid the tourist traps and get plenty of free shots, before escorting you to a top nightclub to dance the night away.

Ready to Plan?

The Stag and Hen Experience has been creating bespoke weekends since 2009. If you want to plan a Cork hen party package, get in touch on 01202 566100 or check out our Cork Hen guide.