Wondering where in London to celebrate? A hen party in Covent Garden is always a great choice! From amazing shops to buzzing nightlife, famous sights to mouth-watering restaurants, this iconic district promises fun and laughter. Let’s explore why it’s one of the best spots in England’s capital to host the bride-to-be’s last weekend of freedom.
Why Have a Hen Party in Covent Garden?
Welcome to Covent Garden, the heart of London's West End, its iconic theatre district, and a fantastic destination for a hen party! Located in the borough of Westminster, this historic and fun district has been a hub of entertainment and shopping for centuries, attracting visitors from around the globe with its unique charm and energy.
From the moment you set foot onto the cobbled streets, you'll have a smile on your face. Whether you're strolling through the bustling market stalls, checking out the gorgeous architecture of the Royal Opera House, hitting the nightclubs and swanky bars, seeing a theatre show or tucking into delicious street food from around the world, there's never a dull moment here. And don’t forget to watch one of the street performances! They’re bound to blow you away. With so much to do, a Covent Garden hen party is the stuff dreams are made of!
Covent Garden Hen Party Shopping
If you’re a group of shopaholic hens, you’ll be happy to hear that Covent Garden is a shopper’s paradise, jam-packed with quirky pop-ups, vintage shops, designer boutiques and stalls selling handmade goodies. Whether you're hunting for the perfect party outfit, searching for unique souvenirs or simply indulging in a bit of retail therapy, you're sure to find exactly what you're looking for.
Covent Garden began as a bustling fruit and vegetable market in the 17th century and has since evolved into a must-visit area that attracts shopaholics from around the world. Take a stroll through the famous Apple Market where you'll find artisan crafts and antiques, or explore the upscale beauty of the Royal Opera House shops for something totally luxurious.
One of the best things about shopping in Covent Garden is the massive variety of shops and things to buy. Major brands like Chanel, Burberry, and Tiffany & Co. rub shoulders with charming local shops offering bespoke items you won't find anywhere else. It's the perfect blend of sophistication and individuality, ensuring that every shopping spree is a unique experience.
If you’re after a bit of hen party pampering, you’ll find a range of beauty stores here to help you look even more gorgeous than normal. Once your shopping bags are full, you can relax and unwind at one of the chic cafes or bars here. They’re a great spot to catch up, laugh and people watch.
Covent Garden Hen Party Nightlife
One of the very best parts of Covent Garden is its vibrant nightlife, making it the perfect place to paint the town red for your hen party. This lively district offers an eclectic mix of pubs, bars and nightclubs, all within walking distance so you can wear whatever shoes you like! From trendy cocktail bars and traditional London pubs to glamorous clubs, there are so many options when it comes to celebrating in style. Whether you're sipping Champagne at a rooftop bar, dancing the night away to live music or enjoying a few quiet bevvies with your hens, Covent Garden has something for everyone.
Start your evening on Maiden Lane, home to some of Covent Garden's most iconic spots. The Lamb & Flag, fondly known as The Bucket of Blood due to its wild history, offers a cosy, traditional pub atmosphere. It's the perfect place to kick off your hen party with a glass of wine in hand. If cocktails are more your style, head to Dirty Martini on Hanover Place. Their extensive cocktail menu, featuring everything from classic martinis to quirky creations, is sure to get the party started.
For those looking to dance the night away, Covent Garden doesn’t disappoint. Wyld by Nature is the place to be for a glamorous experience. With its chic decor and top DJ sets, it promises a night of high-energy fun. Alternatively, head to Blame Gloria on Bedford Street for 70s and 80s-inspired decor and a dance floor where you can throw some serious shapes.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, Neal's Yard offers a selection of charming bars tucked away in a picturesque courtyard. The fun yet relaxing atmosphere, paired with a selection of craft beers and organic wines, makes it a great spot to unwind and chat with your hens.
And don’t forget about live entertainment! Being so close to London’s famous West End is a great bonus, making Covent Garden the perfect place to watch a theatre show. Whether you're into musicals, comedies, dramas or something in between, there's always something exciting happening on stage.
Eating Out in Covent Garden for a Hen Do
Covent Garden is home to some of London's best cafes and restaurants with a huge variety of cuisines to choose from. Whether you're craving Italian, Japanese, American or good old-fashioned British pub grub, you'll find loads of options here to fuel your hen party at a range of prices.
Head to King Street to find some of the most famous eateries. For a touch of luxury, head to The Ivy Market Grill. This iconic spot is known for its glamour and a menu that features British classics with a modern twist. It's an ideal place to kick off your hen party with style, enjoying delicious cocktails and indulgent desserts. You might even spot a celeb!
If you're after something a bit more casual, Neal's Yard is the place to be. This courtyard is home to several fantastic spots, like Homeslice where you can grab giant slices of wood-fired pizza perfect for sharing. It's a great, relaxed setting to unwind for your hen do in Covent Garden. Alternatively, head to Floral Street for a taste of the Mediterranean at Dishoom where you can savour Bombay-inspired dishes in a retro setting. Their delicious small plates are perfect for sharing.
If you’re on a budget, that’s not a problem. Grab a quick and tasty bite at Shake Shack in the Market Building. You’ll enjoy a burger and fries in a fun, informal meal. For dessert, make sure to visit Laduree on the Covent Garden Piazza. Famous for their amazing macarons, it's a sweet way to end your meal.
The Best Covent Garden Hen Party Ideas
We’ve got the lowdown on the most popular hen do ideas in Covent Garden. Whatever you’re into and whatever your budget, we’ve got something to make you smile and make memories.
1. Cocktail Making
Start your evening with a cocktail masterclass at one of Covent Garden's chic bars, where you'll learn how to shake, stir, and sip like a pro under the guidance of expert mixologists. This activity is available at a huge number of Covent Garden bars. Try out cocktail making at TGI Fridays, complete with tasty sharing towers. You’ll learn how to create three of their classic cocktails each, drinking everything you make and playing games. Then, it's off to the dance floor for a night of non-stop fun and fabulousness at one of Covent Garden's top clubs or late night venues.
2. Afternoon Tea
If you’re after a bit of relaxation during your hen do, afternoon tea is a great activity, also injecting a bit of class. We highly recommend a traditional afternoon tea at Brigit’s Bakery at Chandos Place. This gorgeous tearoom will spoil you rotten with a mouth-watering menu including finger sandwiches, pastrami and gherkin burgers, sundried tomato savoury muffins, lemon tart, chocolate cupcakes and more. You can even add a glass of fizz for that special touch.
3. Bottomless Brunch
There are more places to brunch here than you can shake a stick at! Head to Inamo in Covent Garden for their Asian bottomless brunch where you’ll get unlimited booze and unlimited sushi and Asian tapas. You can also play on their interactive gaming tables for an extra bit of fun. Alternatively, head to Oche for their West End bottomless brunch with darts. Here, you’ll have free-flowing drinks, five courses of tapas, a DJ and a lively game of darts.
4. Themed Dance Class
Feeling like a boogie? Why not spice things up with a themed dance class? A professional dance teacher will take you under their wing and teach you some sultry moves to help you to unleash your inner diva as you shimmy and shake your way through a fun-filled afternoon of dancing and laughter. Themes include Lip Sync Battle, Beyonce, Spice Girls, Grease, ABBA, pole dancing, burlesque and more. It's the perfect way to bond with your hens as you strut your stuff.
5. Party Boats
Party boats are the ultimate way to celebrate a hen do in Covent Garden. You’ll sail along the iconic River Thames with the city lights and famous sights around you. Pass the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament and much more. Grab a drink, tuck into tasty food and dance to a DJ spinning your favourite party bangers. Expect a non-stop fun atmosphere as you let your hair down with your hens. Dress to impress and enjoy a party like no other!
6. Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are great fun for hen parties, injecting some competitive spirit and teamwork into your weekend. You’ll be shut in a themed room where you’ll be set challenges, puzzles to solve and codes to crack with your besties. Race against the clock to escape; you’ll only have one hour! It's a unique experience that’ll get you all unleashing your inner Sherlock Holmes and Watson. Do you think your group has what it takes to beat the room?
7. Male Strippers
Of course, no hen party would be complete without a bit of cheeky entertainment! Treat yourselves to a male strip show for a night of giggles and gorgeous hunks! They’ll undress and perform for you on stage, getting everyone hot under the collar. They’ll even get up close and personal with the bride-to-be! Whether you're into dance, comedy, implied nudity or even the full Monty, Covent Garden has something to tickle everyone's fancy.
8. Spa Days
Start your day off right with a luxurious spa day at one of Covent Garden's top spas or wellness retreats. From indulgent massages to revitalising facials, swimming pools to jacuzzis, you'll be pampered from head to toe as you relax and unwind with your closest friends by your side. Every bride-to-be deserves to feel like a queen on her special day so a spa day is always a popular choice.
9. Nude Life Drawing
Nude life drawing classes add a naughty twist to your day out. Unleash your inner artist as you sketch a live nude model, enjoying plenty of giggles, creative fun and a great view! This relaxed, tongue-in-cheek activity guarantees laughter and banter as you watch the male model de-robe and pose before your very eyes. You’ll get full tuition from a professional art teacher who’ll help you to create something you’re proud of, making this quirky art class suitable for anyone.
10. London Theatre Shows
Take advantage of Covent Garden’s proximity to the West End theatres and get yourselves to a show. From dazzling musicals and sassy burlesque performances to thrilling circus acts and hilarious comedy clubs, there’s something for everyone in this famous district. Who wouldn’t enjoy a night of live entertainment? It’s a great way to kick off the celebrations and bond with each other.
Arrange Your Covent Garden Hen Do Now
So, there you have it, the best Covent Garden hen party ideas. Get ready to paint the town red in one of London’s most exciting neighbourhoods. From chic cocktail bars and West End show to a huge amount of fun group activities, anything can happen here. With world-class entertainment, shopping, dining and pampering, it’s bound to be a hen do to remember forever.
