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Leeds Hen Do

Why Have a Hen Party in Leeds?

Leeds is an amazing city for a hen do. It’s lively, compact and jam-packed with everything a group of girls could dream of for a last weekend of freedom. The city is full of character and culture, from its quirky street art and Victorian buildings to the buzz of its student scene, which makes it feel young, fresh and a bit cheeky. 

The nightlife here is epic, but that isn’t all it has to offer. It’s a great place to get outdoors, home to Roundhay Park, one of the biggest urban parks in Europe, and the gorgeous Yorkshire Dales National Park is close enough to drive to for a day out. 

There are also loads of fun activities to keep hen parties in Leeds entertained all day long. Think cocktail making classes where you get to shake, stir, and sip, indulgent spa sessions for some much-needed pampering and burlesque and dance workshops to help you to unleash your inner diva. Foodies will love the mix of quirky cafes in the Corn Exchange and stylish restaurants in Trinity Leeds, plus the bars in between are perfect for sneaky pre-drinks.

Leeds is small enough that you can fit in all your favourite hen party activities without spending half your time in taxis. You’ll wander through buzzing streets, explore bars and pubs, grab a cheeky selfie in front of a historic backdrop and end the night in a club without worrying about getting lost.

Top 10 Hen Party Activities in Leeds

1. Cocktail Making: Get your shakers ready, ladies! Leeds is full of fabulous cocktail masterclasses where you’ll be mixing, muddling, shaking, and sipping your way through a range of seriously tasty drinks. A professional mixologist will guide you through the art of making cocktails. Expect two to four drinks each, hilarious games and a bit of friendly competition. Once you’ve mastered the techniques, you can even add a sit-down meal to turn it into a full-on party package. It’s perfect for warming up before hitting the city’s clubs.
   
2. Bubble Mayhen: Do you want a hen activity that’s bonkers and brilliant? Bubble Mayhen is absolutely hilarious. You’ll each strap into a big, inflatable, one-woman zorb to bounce off your mates and compete in wacky games that’ll leave everyone in stitches. It’s energetic and ridiculous, exactly what you want for a hen do in Leeds that’s full of laughs. You’ll play Bump the Bride, Bulldog and more, getting those competitive juices flowing.
   
3. Dickorate Ceramic Penis Painting: Time to get cheeky and unleash your artistic side as you become the Picasso of peckers! In this 90-minute session, you’ll decorate your very own ceramic penis using glitter, jewels, googly eyes and paint. Your friendly tutor will guide you through the saucy session while keeping the mood light and fun. There’s no judgment here, just lots of laughs, blushing and some hilariously dodgy creations to take home. It’s the perfect way to bond with your besties and leave with a ridiculous souvenir.
4. Themed Dance Class: Shake it, shimmy and throw yourself into a themed dance class that’s tailor-made for hens. Choose from over 40 themes including 80s, 90s, Spice Girls, Beyonce, Lip Sync Battle, burlesque and more. A professional instructor will teach you all the moves before your group puts on a show-stopping performance. It’s the perfect way to let loose, have a laugh and warm up those muscles before hitting a club later tonight.
   
5. Nude Life Drawing: Channel your inner artist with a very cheeky twist. In a nude life drawing class, you’ll sketch a live, totally naked male model while a professional tutor teaches you how to capture every detail. And we do mean everything!. It’s light-hearted and hilarious, perfect for a Leeds hen do that fancies getting a bit saucy. Expect red faces, giggles and masterpieces that might not be appropriate to put on the fridge!
6. Bottomless Brunch: This is the ultimate hen party indulgence. Gather your girls for a mid-morning feast with unlimited drinks and very tasty food. Whether you’re craving pancakes, a full English breakfast, burgers or even pizza, there’s a menu to suit everyone. Sip on bottomless cocktails or prosecco as you toast the bride-to-be and her last weekend of freedom. It’s a great chat, catch up, treat yourselves and fuel up for the fun day ahead.
7. Male Strippers: Treat the bride-to-be to a night she’ll never forget with a professional male stripper. Leeds has some of the cheekiest and hottest performers who’ll bring comedy, dancing and their gorgeous bodies to the party. You can even hire them to make a private appearance at your accommodation or home, making the experience extra personal and unforgettable. Surprise the bride and see her face turn red!
8. Bar Crawl: Leeds has seriously good nightlife that’s perfect for a hen crawl with a huge range of top pubs and bars. Follow your friendly guide through the city’s best spots, enjoy shots, drinks and fun games along the way. You’ll visit a range of watering holes from quirky pubs to swanky cocktail bars. You won’t have to worry about research or planning; just gather the hens and let someone else take care of the route. With a choice of private and public crawls, it’s the ultimate way to paint the town red!
9. Olympic Shames: Bring out your inner athlete in the most ridiculous way possible. Olympic Shames is a hilarious competition of outrageous challenges, from the Wobbly Sausage Relay to Balloon Hump Off and Pecker Jousting. You’ll be split into teams and compete in side-splitting games that test coordination, balance and your ability to keep a straight face. We always struggle with that bit! This quirky activity is perfect for a hen group that loves silliness and a bit of cheeky competition.
10. Murder Mystery: For a hen party that loves drama and detective work, a murder mystery in Leeds is a brilliant choice. Step into the shoes of an investigator, piece together clues, interrogate suspects, and race to unmask the killer before time runs out. Professional actors guide the twists and turns, and it’s a fantastic mix of suspense, comedy, and group fun. Everyone can get involved, and it’s a unique way to make memories while testing your sleuthing skills.

Hen Party Nightlife in Leeds

Leeds nightlife is diverse with something for every vibe. Whether you’re after classy cocktails, banging clubs, quirky local pubs or live music venues, the city has you covered. Here are some of the most popular pubs and bars for hen parties in Leeds. 

Call Lane: Call Lane is Leeds hen party HQ. The street is buzzing, jam-packed with bars, making it really popular with hen and stag groups. The area’s charm comes from its mix of old and new, where historic architecture meets modern venues, giving the street a character all of its own. Here, you’ll find famous chains such as Revolution, where you can let your hair down and enjoy reasonably priced drinks in a fun atmosphere. Wherever you end up, you can expect an awesome party vibe that gets everyone in the mood to celebrate. It’s a place where your hen crew can really let loose and feel like the city is all yours for the night.

The Corn Exchange: The Corn Exchange is a historic and stylish area of the city. It’s perfect for brunches or pre-drinks, full of independent bars and restaurants with loads of character. It’s an area where hens can explore at their own pace and enjoy a slightly more relaxed, stylish vibe before hitting the busier streets. The arches make the perfect backdrop for hen selfies, so strike a pose, ladies! 

Greek Street and Surrounding Area: If your hen crew likes a bit of adventure, the side streets off Call Lane are full of hidden gems. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of relaxed sipping, laughter-filled stops and maybe even a few surprises along the way. Wandering these streets feels like uncovering Leeds’ best-kept secrets, with plenty of opportunities to pause for a cheeky drink or two (or more!). 

Briggate: Briggate is Leeds’ main shopping street by day and comes alive at night. The wide pedestrianised street makes it nice and easy to walk from one area to another, and its mix of local pubs and casual bars offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy each other’s company and actually hear each other talk. Briggate is perfect for hen groups who want variety in one place. Its central location also makes it a convenient meeting point for starting or ending a night out.

Chapel Allerton: For a slightly calmer start to the evening, Chapel Allerton has a village-like feel with boutique bars, craft beer pubs and stylish restaurants. It’s ideal for a relaxed meal or drinks before the main party in the city centre or for just having a more laid-back night out with a more intimate, chilled-out vibe while still being fun. It’s also great for a sophisticated hen party in Leeds.

The Best Time of Year for a Leeds Hen Party

Leeds is great fun for a hen do all year round, but the time of year can make a difference on what’s on and the kind of vibes you’ll get. Here’s what to expect through the seasons.#

Spring (March to May): Spring is a fabulous time for a hen do in Leeds. The city starts to wake up after winter and the weather is warming enough for outdoor drinks and picnics in Roundhay Park or Temple Newsam. March sees early events like the Leeds International Film Festival, while April and May are full of food and drink festivals. It’s a great time to visit for a bit of indoor pampering and outdoor activities. The spring evenings are long enough to hit bars and clubs without the bitter chill of winter, making it a really flexible time for hens.

Summer (June to August): Summer is peak hen season and Leeds absolutely comes alive. Music festivals like Leeds Festival draw a massive crowd and street markets and outdoor bars are perfect for day-drinking and people-watching. Sunny evenings are ideal for rooftop cocktails and alfresco dining and, of course, bars in Call Lane and Briggate stay buzzing well into the early hours. Expect the city to be sunny and slightly wild, exactly what you want for a hen do.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is still a great time for hen parties in this northern city. The cooler weather is an excuse to get cosy indoors with brunches, spa days, and indoor activities like escape rooms, cocktail masterclasses and immersive experiences. Leeds also hosts the West Indian Carnival in September, a colourful, lively event that’s really fun for hens who love a bit of culture and dancing. Halloween events in October offer a cheeky theme for costumes and spooky cocktails. What will you dress up as?

Winter (December to February): Winter in Leeds is magical. Christmas markets, festive cocktails and ice skating transform the city into a winter wonderland. Trinity Leeds and the Corn Exchange are beautifully decorated, making them perfect spots for seasonal brunches or drinks. Clubs and bars are still buzzing, and there’s something about the cold weather that makes cocktails, dancing and cosy gatherings feel even more cute. A winter hen party in Leeds is all about festive fun, sparkly outfits and long nights in with the girls.

Getting to Leeds for a Hen Do

Train: Leeds is very well connected by rail, which makes it super convenient for hen parties coming from anywhere in the UK. If you’re travelling from London, trains leave frequently from London King’s Cross, taking around two hours 15 minutes. The quickest services are direct but some require one change. Trains from Manchester take just over an hour and Birmingham is around two hours away. From Edinburgh, you’re looking at around three hours 15 minutes.

Because Leeds is a major city on the UK rail network, services are frequent, especially during the day, but peak times can get busy. If you’re travelling with a group, it’s worth booking tickets in advance and aiming for off-peak slots to save a bit of cash. Arriving at Leeds train station puts you right in the city centre, which is perfect for heading straight to an activity, shopping or grabbing your first cocktail of the day.

Aeroplane: Leeds Bradford Airport is the closest airport to Leeds city centre and is just under a 30-minute drive from the city centre. It has a range of domestic and international flights, so if your hen group is flying in, you can be in the heart of the city in no time. Taxis are readily available outside arrivals and there are also bus services directly to the train station and city centre.

For groups coming from other UK airports, such as Manchester, Birmingham or London Heathrow, you can combine train and coach travel. For example, from Heathrow, take a train into central London and then onward to Leeds via King’s Cross. The journey usually takes around two hours and 20 minutes, depending on connections. If you’re bringing luggage, give yourself extra time for to pick it up as well as transfers and possible delays.

Coach: National Express and Megabus offer regular services to Leeds from cities across the UK, including London, Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle and Birmingham. Coaches are a budget-friendly option for big hen groups in Leeds, but journeys are slower than trains. From London, you can expect the coach to take around five hours. Book early, especially for weekend trips, as summer, bank holiday and festival weekends can fill up fast.

Car: Leeds is easy to reach by car, with excellent motorway links including the M1, M62 and A1(M). From London, expect around a four-hour drive, Manchester is around one hour and 45 minutes and Edinburgh is around a four-hour drive. Parking in the city centre can be tricky, especially on weekends, so plan ahead. There are several multi-storey car parks near Leeds train station, Trinity Leeds shopping centre and the Corn Exchange, but these fill up fast during peak times so make sure to do your research. 

Getting Around Leeds During Your Hen Do

Walking: Leeds city centre is compact and very walkable, which is perfect for hen parties. Many of the best bars, restaurants and activities are within 10 to 15 minutes of each other. Walking lets you soak up the city’s atmosphere, spot hidden gems and even enjoy some cheeky photo ops along the way. Areas like Call Lane, Greek Street, Briggate and the Corn Exchange are all close together, so a bar crawl is easily manageable on foot. Make sure everyone wears sensible shoes at least until the evening starts!

Public Transport: Leeds is served by a good bus network that covers both the city centre and surrounding areas like Chapel Allerton, Headingley and Horsforth. Services run frequently during the day and there are night buses available for late returns from clubs, although frequency reduces after midnight. The main bus companies are First Leeds and Yorkshire Tiger, and most routes allow contactless payments or mobile tickets, making it easy for a group. Check timetables in advance if you’re planning a night out, especially on Sundays when services are more limited.

Taxis and Uber: Taxis are a girl’s best friend for getting around quickly, especially after a night of cocktails or when the heels are no longer your friend. Leeds has loads of black cabs and app-based services like Uber. For larger groups, pre-booking a taxi is highly recommended. Taxi fares are generally reasonable, though evenings and weekends can be pricier, so factor that into your hen do budget.

Party Buses and Private Minibuses: For a stress-free night out, you could treat yourselves and consider hiring a private minibus or party bus. These services drop you off at all your chosen venues, eliminate the stress of walking in heels and keep your group together. It’s more expensive than public transport, but for a hen party, the convenience and safety usually make it worth it. Plus, you’ll arrive wherever you want to go in style! 

Driving in Leeds: Driving in Leeds city centre isn’t ideal for hen parties. Streets can be narrow and busy and parking is limited. If you do drive, use one of the city’s multi-storey car parks and be prepared that you might have to walk a little to get to the action. For trips outside the centre, such as Headingley, Roundhay Park or the countryside, driving can be very handy, but for a night out, it’s usually easier to rely on walking, buses or taxis. 

Travel Tips for Hen Groups

Book early: Train, coach or plane tickets should be booked as soon as your date is fixed. Groups of more than four will benefit from group bookings to save money.

Plan routes between hotspots: Leeds city centre is compact but has winding streets and hidden bars. Mapping a rough route avoids confusion and wasted time.

Mix walking and transport: Walk where it’s scenic or convenient, then hop on a bus or taxi for longer trips or when heels are involved.

Time for photos: Leeds is full of Instagram-worthy spots, such as the Corn Exchange, Call Lane street art or Briggate arches, which are all perfect for group selfies.

Night return options: Make sure that everyone has a way back home or to your accommodation safely. Night buses, pre-booked taxis or private minibuses are essential for late returns. Always stick together. 

Plan for weather: Leeds weather can be unpredictable. It is in the UK after all! It’s always a good idea to bring a light jacket or umbrella, especially if you’re planning to walk between bars or explore the city on foot during the day.

Things to Do in Leeds

Leeds is full of things to keep a hen party entertained all day and night, and there’s something for every kind of group. If your hens love shopping and people-watching, the city centre has you covered. Trinity Leeds is the ultimate shopping playground with high-street favourites, chic cafes and bars perfect for a cheeky pre-shopping cocktail. For a more independent vibe, the Corn Exchange is a must. Its stunning arches are home to quirky boutiques, artisan shops and stylish eateries that are perfect for a hen group looking for something a bit different.

For those who love culture and history, Leeds has plenty to explore. The Royal Armouries Museum is great if your hens fancy a bit of drama and medieval weaponry. Leeds Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute offer a quieter, more artsy escape. Temple Newsam House is a beautiful historic mansion with sprawling gardens, ideal for a daytime stroll, some fun hen group photos or even a picnic if the weather is on your side. Roundhay Park, one of the biggest city parks in Europe, is perfect for a sunny afternoon with space for games, picnics or a cheeky drink by the lake. Trust us, it’s beautiful. 

If your group prefers experiences over sightseeing, Leeds has loads of quirky options. Escape rooms, immersive experiences, cocktail making workshops, burlesque lessons and dance classes are all fantastic ways to bond and get a bit silly. For foodies, guided tours of the city’s street food markets or a cheese and wine tasting session can be a delicious addition to your hen party itinerary. Even a riverside walk along the Aire with stops at some of the bars and pubs can be a mini adventure full of laughs and photo opportunities. No matter what your vibe is, Leeds offers a huge range of activities, culture, food, drink and cheeky fun that’ll make your hen party totally and utterly unforgettable.

Celebrities from Leeds

Leeds has produced its fair share of famous faces including the much-loved Spice Girls singer Mel B, radio DJ Chris Moyles, singer Corinne Bailey Rae and Olympic gold medal-winning boxer Nicola Adams. Indie band Kaiser Chiefs, 80s legends Soft Cell and rockers Alt-J were formed in Leeds. Who will you spot on your Leeds hen do? 

Leeds Hen Party FAQs

1. What’s the best area for a hen night in Leeds?
   Call Lane is the ultimate destination for hen nights in Leeds, jam-packed with cocktail bars, pubs and late-night clubs. The Corn Exchange is perfect for pre-drinks, brunches, and Instagram-worthy photos. Briggate is ideal for pub crawls, rooftop bars, and live music, while Chapel Allerton offers boutique bars and a slightly calmer start to the evening. If your hens love variety, you can plan a route combining all these areas for a day-to-night experience.
2. Are there hen party packages in Leeds?
   Yes! Many bars, cocktail lounges, and activity centres in Leeds offer bespoke hen packages. These often include a combination of drinks, food, and experiences such as cocktail-making classes, burlesque workshops, or spa sessions. Packages can be tailored to your budget and the size of your group, making it easier to plan a stress-free hen do. Book early, especially on weekends, to secure your preferred dates.
3. Can we do daytime activities before the night out?
   Absolutely. Leeds is full of fun daytime hen activities. Think spa days for relaxation, cocktail-making workshops to unleash your inner mixologist, burlesque or dance lessons for a cheeky challenge, escape rooms for team fun, and food tours for the foodie hens. You can mix these with a brunch in Trinity Leeds or the Corn Exchange, or even a picnic in Roundhay Park or by the River Aire if the weather is nice.
4. Where are the best cocktail bars in Leeds?
   Some of the most popular cocktail bars for hens include The Alchemist for dramatic drinks, Evil Eye Lounge for quirky and colourful cocktails, Revolution for a fun, lively vibe, and Laynes Espresso for caffeine-fuelled pre-drinks. Smaller hidden gems on Greek Street and the side streets off Call Lane offer intimate spaces perfect for group photos and a bit of cheeky fun.
5. How late do clubs in Leeds stay open?
   Most clubs in Leeds are open until 2am-3am on weekends, with some late-night venues going even later. Call Lane is the busiest area, with lots of clubs that are popular for dancing until the early hours. Briggate also has rooftop bars and live music venues that stay lively late into the night. Always check opening hours before your hen do, as times can vary depending on the night of the week or special events.
6. Is Leeds easy to get to from London and other UK cities?
   Yes. Leeds is around two hours 15 minutes from London King’s Cross by direct train. Manchester is just over an hour, Birmingham roughly two hours, and Edinburgh around three hours 15 minutes. National Express and Megabus also run regular coach services from all major UK cities, which is a budget-friendly option for large groups. Leeds Bradford Airport is ideal for international or domestic flights.
7. Can we hire a private party bus or minibus in Leeds?
   Definitely. For large groups, hiring a private minibus or party bus is a fantastic way to travel between bars and clubs safely and in style. It minimises walking in heels, keeps everyone together, and allows you to plan a precise route for the evening. Prices vary depending on the number of stops, duration, and vehicle size, so book in advance.
8. What are fun hen activities in Leeds?
   Leeds is packed with hen-friendly activities. Try cocktail-making or mixology classes, burlesque workshops, pole dancing or dance lessons, spa days, escape rooms, immersive theatre experiences, food tours, and afternoon tea sessions. You can even do themed activities, like a retro 90s dance class inspired by local celebrities or a comedy night tribute to Leeds’ comedians.
9. Are there themed workshops for hen parties in Leeds?
   Yes! There are lots of themed workshops tailored for hens. Burlesque and dance workshops are extremely popular, as are cocktail-making masterclasses. Some companies also offer arts and crafts, pottery, or mixology with a twist. These sessions usually last one-two hours and can include drinks, snacks, and photos for your hen party memories.
10. Is Leeds safe for a hen party at night?
    Yes. Leeds is a lively, friendly city, but like any city, it’s wise to take precautions. Stick together, pre-book taxis if travelling late at night, keep an eye on drinks, and plan routes in advance. City centre areas like Call Lane, Briggate, and Greek Street are very busy and generally safe for groups, but smaller side streets may be quieter. Following these tips ensures a safe and fun hen do experience.