London Hen Do Ideas: Best Activities & Free Things To Do

London is one of those cities where people quite often have a strong opinion. Those who love it, like REALLY love it. It’s iconic, busy, fun, and full of everything you’ve ever wanted. It is our capital city for a reason, and it is definitely one of the best places to host a UK hen weekend simply due to the sheer amount of things you can do.

However, we know that a weekend in the capital can be expensive. That’s why we’ve combined our knowledge of the best-value paid activities with a guide to the best free things to do. Whether you are looking for luxury experiences or budget-friendly sightseeing, here is your ultimate guide to a legendary London hen do.

5 Best Value London Hen Activities

Here at The Stag and Hen Experience, a question we are often asked is: "What are the best value activities?" There are a wide variety of entertaining diversions available for your London hen party, so we have debated, discussed, and deliberated to bring you our top 5 picks.

1. The Chocolate Cocktail Club

In our experience, hen parties love chocolate and cocktails, so the Chocolate Cocktail Club is a must-visit. Starting as a pop-up and now finding a permanent home in Farringdon, this is the UK’s first and only dedicated chocolate cocktail bar. On offer are magnificent creations such as “The Chocotini” (chocolate liquor, dark crème de cacao, and chocolate milk) or the "Chocolate Orange" (Baileys, Kahlua, Cointreau). With its indulgent menu and cosy atmosphere, it’s heaven incarnate for sweet-toothed hens.

2. Thames Rockets

Want to see the sights but add some adrenaline? The Thames Rockets experience uses Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) with 880-horsepower engines capable of speeds up to 30 knots. These bright red boats take you on a leisurely cruise past the London Eye and Parliament before opening the throttle in the high-speed zone past Tower Bridge. Propelling you across the water with a pumping soundtrack and a stand-up tour guide, this is a stand-out experience for a last weekend of freedom.

3. Clays Bar (Indoor Shooting)

Clay Pigeon shooting is a classic activity, but usually impossible in central London. Enter Clays in Moorgate. This concept bar offers cocktails and indoor clay pigeon shooting using state-of-the-art simulators. There are no live firearms—just realistically balanced shotguns and massive 4K screens in private "pegs" (booths). It offers eating, drinking, and shooting without the bruised shoulders, making it one of the best interactive activities in the city.

4. Bottomless Brunch

If Prosecco was an activity, it would be a Bottomless Brunch. London offers a smorgasbord of themes—from Beyoncé and Lady Gaga brunches to Drag, Comedy, or even Garage music themes. Whether you want a Spanish feast or classic eggs benedict, the premise is the same: a delicious meal accompanied by unlimited bubbles, cocktails, or beer for a set time (usually 2 hours). It is the ideal way to cure a hangover and move seamlessly into the next night's partying.

5. FunnyBoyz Drag Cabaret

A visit to FunnyBoyz finishes off our best-value list. This new concept in Drag Cabaret, brought to you by Linda Gold, offers hilarious shows, cheesy music, and comedy Bingo. Entry often includes a glass of bubbles, popcorn, and your very own Drag chaperone to ensure the hens have the night of their lives. It is an inclusive, high-energy way to start your big night out.

5 Free & Cheap Things To Do

London is an expensive city; this is a fact. However, there are still a wide variety of things you can do for free to break up the paid activities. Here are our top recommendations for saving money while soaking up the culture.

Tour the Street Art in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is a bohemian, artsy district in the East End that has become a Mecca for street artists like Banksy, SHOK-1, and Cityzen Kane. If you want great photos for Instagram, why not join a Free Walking Tour? These tours meet at locations like Shoreditch High Street Station and guide you through the famous works. While the tour is free, tipping the guide is recommended if you enjoy it (and you will!). It’s the perfect way to clear your head and see the edgy side of the city.

Watch the Changing of the Guard

If you want pomp and ceremony, the world-famous Changing of the Guard is a must. Taking place between Buckingham Palace, St James’ Palace, and Wellington Barracks, this 45-minute ceremony features soldiers in traditional bearskin hats and marching bands. It is totally free to watch and remains one of the most memorable displays of British pageantry available.

Visit World-Class Museums

If it’s a rainy day, London’s free museums are a lifesaver. You can browse them at your own pace without spending a penny (though donations are welcome).

• The British Museum: Founded in 1753, it houses over 8 million works documenting human culture, including Egyptian Mummies and the Rosetta Stone.
• The Natural History Museum: Famous for its dinosaur skeletons and the giant blue whale, this is a stunning building that offers great photo ops.
• The V&A (Victoria and Albert): The world’s leading museum of art and design, perfect for those who love fashion and creativity.

Relax in the Royal Parks

London is surprisingly green. A personal favourite is Greenwich Park, where a climb to the top offers unparalleled views of the skyline—perfect for a picnic with a bottle of wine. Hyde Park is huge and makes you feel like you’ve left the city behind, while Richmond Park offers the chance to spot wild deer. For wildlife lovers, St James’ Park is teeming with pelicans and owls right in the city centre.

Explore Somerset House

Somerset House was originally a Tudor palace and is now a creative hub for the arts. You can arrange a free tour to learn about its history or simply wander the courtyard and admire the Neoclassical architecture. It also features "The Miles Stair," a spiral staircase that is an architectural masterpiece and a great Instagram moment.

Summary

To put it bluntly, a London hen do gives you the chance to truly embrace every part of this amazing city. Once you combine the free sightseeing with our amazing package activities—like luxury accommodation and VIP nightlife—you have the recipe for the perfect weekend. So, if you like the idea of a hen do in our Capital City, check out our London guide for more inspiration and ideas.

The Stag and Hen Experience has been creating bespoke weekends since 2009. If you're looking to plan a trip, get in touch on 01202 566100 or via email at [email protected]. One of our expert organisers will help you put together a fantastic itinerary for you and your group.