Our team has just got back from an amazing work trip. If you’re planning a hen party in Belfast, you won’t be disappointed. This is the place to be. From heart-pumping activities to cocktails that could knock your socks off, it’s got it all. Here’s a run-through of our trip, what we got up to and a few tips if you’re thinking of booking your hen do here.
Accommodation
We based ourselves at the Hampton by Hilton Belfast City Centre. The rooms were spacious, clean, and comfy with the kind of beds you just sink into after a day of exploring and high-energy activities. The hotel is about a mile from the city centre, which means it’s close enough for a walk into the hustle and bustle but far enough that you can actually sleep at night. It’s in a quiet area near the train station, which is handy if anyone’s arriving by rail or if you fancy popping out for a day trip.
Breakfast at the hotel was a solid start to the day with a range of goodies including bacon, eggs, sausages, toast and fruit. We also loved the little touches that made it feel friendly rather than corporate. There was plenty of space to hang out, grab a coffee or just get ready for the day’s activities. It was a great base if you want comfort without losing that city vibe.
Adrenaline and Fun at Colin Glen
First on our list was Colin Glen Forest Park, and we were not disappointed. This place is an absolute gem if you’re after some outdoor thrills. We began with the climbing wall. It was tougher than it looks but it’s a brilliant team challenge and makes for some great laughs when people inevitably slip or get stuck halfway up.
After the climbing wall, we began the Skytrek high ropes courses. They have two levels, one at 20ft and the other at a heart in your mouth 40ft. It sounds scary, and trust me, it is, but it’s also exhilarating. The staff were friendly and encouraging, and they made sure we felt safe every step of the way. There’s nothing quite like hanging twenty feet in the air, pretending you’re a ninja warrior on a mission.
We also had a go on the Black Bull Run, Ireland’s first and only Alpine Coaster, where you can reach speeds of up to 25mph, which was great fun. We finished our day at Colin Glen at the driving range with a premium bay, where we enjoyed unlimited golf balls and a snack box for an hour. There’s no better way to blow off some steam.
Colin Glen is spread across several sites so there’s plenty of variety and you never feel like you’re doing the same thing twice. We left buzzing and slightly achy in the best way.
Dinner and Drinks at Granny Annies
After all that fresh air and adrenaline, it was time to refuel at Granny Annies. This place is quirky in the best way, featuring cute and eclectic decor and welcoming vibes. We ordered cocktails and were not disappointed, perfect for some cheeky Belfast hen party indulgence. Dinner was just as impressive, tasty and generously portioned for someone who’s just spent the day running around outdoors.
The atmosphere is lively but not chaotic, so you can relax and chat without shouting across the table. We enjoyed live music and a DJ during our time there.
Unique Experience at Prison Island
The next day, we switched things up and headed to Prison Island Belfast. It’s a bit like the Crystal Maze for real life with over thirty rooms filled with challenges that test your brain, agility and teamwork. We had an absolute blast, splitting into teams to go head to head. It’s perfect for a group, especially hens, because you’re all working together, strategising and having a laugh.
After Prison Island, we tried Quiz Boxing. It was a fast-paced quiz that made us feel like we were on a TV gameshow. After a quick photo session, we stood at individual podiums with touch screens and big buttons and answered a range of questions with topics chosen by our group. It was hilarious and competitive.
Then came axe throwing. This was great fun and actually surprisingly satisfying. There’s something so liberating about hurling an axe at a target and hearing it hit the mark. The instructors were brilliant, giving full tuition and making sure everyone was safe while still letting us get properly into it.
Cocktail Making at River Rooms
To wind down in the evening, we headed to River Rooms for a cheeky cocktail making session. Making your own cocktails is always fun, especially when you can get a bit competitive over who’s made the tastiest or best looking one. The session was laid-back with lots of time for conversation as we enjoyed our drinks.
The two course meal afterwards was just the right touch, filling us all up. The River Rooms staff were welcoming and attentive, and the space itself is cute and stylish without being too formal, perfect for a relaxed evening with your mates.
Belfast Pub Crawl
One of the highlights of our trip was the Belfast pub crawl. It packed in five different pubs, each with its own vibe with plenty of live music and even a bit of Irish dancing. We got around 45 minutes at each pub which was just enough time to grab a drink and enjoy the craic before moving on.
In two of the pubs, we got a free shot when we bought our first drink, with a choice of whisky, Irish cream or apple sours. Between the rounds, the guide dropped in bits of history of the pubs, so you actually learn something on the night out.
We recommend wearing comfy shoes on the crawl. Pubs were around a five minute walk from each other but weekends in Belfast are very busy so we found ourselves without seats in most of the venues.
Why Belfast is Perfect for a Hen Trip
Belfast is a fantastic destination for a hen weekend. It’s got a mix of adrenaline, culture, nightlife and relaxation, so everyone is happy, whether they want action packed days or just a chance to sip cocktails and giggle.
What we loved was the variety. One day you’re dangling in the trees at Colin Glen, the next you’re puzzling your way through Prison Island, and then topping it off with cocktails and a meal at a stylish city spot. It keeps the energy high, gives everyone something to talk about, and creates memories that are genuinely hilarious to look back on.
Another plus is the size of the city. It’s big enough that there’s always something to do, but small enough that you’re not spending all day on buses or trains. Most places are walkable or a short taxi ride away, which is perfect when you’ve got a group to manage.
Top Tips for Planning a Belfast Hen Do
- Book activities in advance. Places like Colin Glen and Prison Island can get busy, especially at weekends, so it’s worth securing your spot early.
- Comfortable shoes and casual clothes are your best friends. Between climbing walls, zipping through forests, and axe throwing, high heels are not your friend.
- Don’t underestimate the power of a cheeky cocktail. Belfast has some brilliant bars and it’s a fun way to wind down after high energy activities.
- Spread out your activities. We found that mixing outdoor challenges with indoor games and a nice meal worked perfectly. Everyone got a turn at what they loved without anyone feeling exhausted. Make sure to schedule down time.
- Capture the memories. Take photos, but don’t get so caught up in it that you miss the fun. Some of our best laughs came from unplanned moments and the sheer chaos of a group on the loose.
Final Thoughts on Our Trip to Belfast
Our Belfast trip was everything you want in a weekend away. Comfortable, convenient accommodation, exciting activities, good food, brilliant cocktails and lots of laughs along the way. It’s a city that’s welcoming, fun, and full of surprises, making it perfect for hens looking for something different from the usual spa weekends or city breaks.
From high ropes to crystal maze challenges, from cocktail making to axe throwing, we left Belfast with sore arms, happy hearts and lovely stories to tell. If you’re looking for a hen weekend that mixes adventure and indulgence, Belfast should definitely be on your radar. If our trip has inspired you, check out our Belfast hen party activities now.
