Planning a hen party in Ireland? Want glam nights, mad memories, and maybe a sore head or two? You’ve landed in the right place, babes.
Here’s our official countdown of the top 10 hen destinations in Ireland. These spots are tried, tested, and fully approved by brides, bridesmaids, and their partners-in-prosecco.
Let’s count it down—from great craic to someone hold my heels level.
10. Athlone
Smack bang in the centre of the country, Athlone is the unexpected gem on the list. Its riverside views are lovely, but the real gold lies in its unhinged nightlife.
Top Activities:
Boat Party – Party like a Viking on the Shannon!
Pizza & Prosecco Night – A fun, food-filled evening.
Archery & Clay Pigeon Shooting – For competitive hen groups.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🍻 Sean’s Bar – Ireland’s oldest pub!
🎶 The Prince of Wales Bar – Cocktails and live music.
9. Limerick – The Underrated Gem 🍻🎯
Why Limerick?
Limerick has great nightlife, fun activities, and affordable prices, making it a budget-friendly yet lively option for hens.
Top Activities:
🎯 Axe Throwing – Unique, fun, and surprisingly addictive!
🧑🍳 Bake-Off Challenge – A hilarious hen version of the famous show.
💄 Makeup Masterclass – Get glam before the big night.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🎤 Dolans Pub – Fantastic live music.
🔥 House Limerick – A classy cocktail spot.
🕺 The Red Hen – A lively late-night bar.
8. Killarney – The Scenic Hen Getaway 🏞️🍸
Why Killarney?
Surrounded by stunning scenery, Killarney offers a mix of outdoor adventures and a lively town centre—perfect for brides who love nature and nightlife.
Top Activities:
🚣 Kayaking on the Lakes of Killarney – A scenic and peaceful activity.
🧖♀️ Luxury Spa Day at The Europe Hotel – Relax with stunning views.
🐎 Jaunting Car Tour & Afternoon Tea – A traditional and classy experience.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🎶 The Grand Killarney – Live bands and late-night fun.
🍹 The Shire – Lord of the Rings-themed cocktails!
🕺 McSorley’s Nightclub – Dance the night away.
7. Carlingford – The Adventure Hen Party 🏰🎯
Why Carlingford?
This charming medieval town is Ireland’s best hen party destination for outdoor lovers, offering hilarious adventure activities and great nightlife.
Top Activities:
🎯 Crystal Maze Challenge – Fun, competitive team games!
🏹 Archery Combat & Zip Lining – A thrill-seeker’s dream.
🚤 Lough Boating Experience – Enjoy the stunning scenery on the water.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🍻 P.J. O’Hare’s – A must-visit traditional Irish pub.
🔥 Taaffes Castle Bar – Party inside a 16th-century castle!
6. Westport – The Ultimate Outdoor Hen Party 🏞️🍹
Why Westport?
For adventure-loving brides, Westport offers stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and great nightlife.
Top Activities:
🏞️ Climb Croagh Patrick – A challenge with breathtaking views.
🛶 Kayaking on Clew Bay – Explore the coast with your hen squad.
🏖️ Beach Horse Riding – A unique and picturesque experience.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🍻 Matt Molloy’s – Traditional music and a buzzing atmosphere.
🥂 The Towers Bar – A fantastic cocktail spot.
💃 Cosy Joe’s – Great tunes and a lively dancefloor.
5. Waterford – The City of Surprises 🍾🎶
Why Waterford?
A hidden gem for hen parties, Waterford offers great-value activities, a lively pub scene, and stunning coastal views.
Top Activities:
🍸 Cocktail Making Class – Shake up some fun.
🛶 Stand-Up Paddleboarding – Try something new on the water.
🎤 Silent Disco Pub Crawl – Party with wireless headsets!
Best Nightlife Spots:
🔥 Kazbar – Stylish and full of energy.
🎶 Geoff’s Café Bar – Perfect for a relaxed drink before the madness.
4. Cork – The Perfect City Hen Party 🍷🎷
Why Cork?
Cork is a city full of character, offering incredible food, fun activities, and a buzzing nightlife scene.
Top Activities:
🥂 Bottomless Brunch – A fabulous way to start the day.
🛥️ Private Yacht Party – Cruise along Cork Harbour in style.
🍷 Wine Tasting Experience – Sip and swirl with your hens.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🎶 The Oliver Plunkett – Live music and great vibes.
🍹 Cask Cocktail Bar – Chic and stylish drinks.
🔥 Rearden’s Nightclub – A must for party-loving hens!
3. Kilkenny – The Hen Party Favourite 🍾🎯
Why Kilkenny?
Kilkenny is one of Ireland’s top hen destinations, offering amazing nightlife, fun activities, and a medieval charm.
Top Activities:
🏹 Paintball or Archery – For competitive bride squads.
🖌️ Draw a Nude Life Drawing – A cheeky and fun activity.
🚲 Pedal-Power Pub Crawl – A hilarious way to explore the city.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🍷 Left Bank – Stylish and lively.
🎸 Langton’s – A bar, club, and restaurant all in one.
2. Carrick-on-Shannon – Ireland’s Ultimate Party Town 🚢🎉
Why Carrick-on-Shannon?
This riverside town is built for hen parties, with booze cruises, fun bars, and an unbeatable party atmosphere.
Top Activities:
🚢 Booze Cruise – The ultimate party on the water.
🍻 Brewery & Distillery Tour – Sample local craft drinks.
🎭 Murder Mystery Dinner – A night of intrigue and laughs.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🍹 The Barrelstore – Stylish cocktails and music.
🕺 The Basement – Late-night clubbing at its best.
1. Galway – The Ultimate Hen Party Destination 🎶🍻
Why Galway?
Galway is Ireland’s party capital, offering a vibrant mix of pubs, live music, cocktails, and fun activities—making it the ultimate hen party destination.
Best Nightlife Spots:
🎸 The Quays – The perfect spot for live music.
🔥 Electric Garden – A stylish club with great DJs.
Final Thoughts
No matter what kind of hen party you’re planning, Ireland has the perfect destination for you. Whether you want a wild weekend or a relaxing getaway, The Happy Hen is here to make planning stress-free.
👰 Ready to book your 2025 hen party? Contact The Happy Hen today! 🎉