Bristol Afternoon Tea

Bristol Afternoon Tea: Where Tradition Meets Taste!

Afternoon tea, as quintessentially British as Strawberries and cream, roast dinners and talking about the weather and in great supply in and around Bristol. If you're having a celebration, catching up with friends or family or just fancy it, an afternoon tea is the perfect and most delicious way to spend an hour or two. Tea, sandwiches, cakes, what's not to love?!

Bristol has a whole host of different options for different moods and budgets. The only question left to answer is which came first, the cream or the jam.

What is West Country Games?

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West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

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Experience Luxurious Afternoon Tea in Bristol

Eating cake and quaffing tea or, even better, champagne, under the guise of being elegant is a great tradition in our books and one that we are keen on upholding.

More than just the enjoyment of delicious sandwiches, the real pleasure is in the ceremony of afternoon tea; the delicate china, the pouring of the tea and the excuse to dress up and pretend to be fancy.

Bristol has a wide variety of establishments on offer from the super traditional to the quirky and modern. Whatever your style, there's no better way to pass an afternoon!

Browns Brasserie Afternoon Tea

Let’s start in Clifton with impressive architecture and an equally impressive culinary offering. When you walk into Browns Brasserie and Bar you can't help but be blown away by the building modelled on Doge’s Palace in Venice.

Now, let's talk about the highlight: the crème de la crème, the afternoon tea

With the likes of lobster and prawn brioche rolls and smoked salmon and cream cheese on whisky & thyme oatcake you know this is high class offering, finished off with the likes of elderflower & gin posset and salted caramel profiteroles.

This can be yours between 3pm and 5.30pm for £22.00 or if you want to add in a cheeky glass of Moët & Chandon Impérial or Roku Gin & Fever-Tree tonic it'll be £32.00.

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Clifton Village Afternoon Tea

Whilst we’re in Clifton, If there’s a group of 10 or more of you, No.4 Clifton Village might be the place to go.

Set in a beautiful Georgian Town House you can sit in the restaurant or al fresco in their stunning walled gardens.

With a classic, Hendricks or Prosecco afternoon tea, for £18.00 or £24.00 it’s ideal for a group and gives you the choice of making it boozy.

Perfect to break up an afternoon of shopping in Clifton's independent boutiques and antiques arcades.

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Thornbury Afternoon Tea

For a change of scenery, why not head out of the city. You want a castle, we've got you a castle, Tudor gardens and parkland, go on then, we'll chuck that in too.

At Thornbury Castle you can choose to have your afternoon tea in the Lounge, Sitting Room or Library.

Enjoy afternoon tea daily from 12:30pm-4:30pm, featuring elegant finger sandwiches, choux buns, blackberry friands, and classic scones with homemade jam and clotted cream

Prices start at £37.50 per person.

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Clifton Village Afternoon Tea

Pop on down to Hotel Du Vin with £29.95, it’s time to bring in the pastry chefs and take afternoon tea up a few notches.

Don’t expect just the classic finger sandwiches here. If the likes of Severn & Wye smoked salmon and cream cheese on dark rye bread, or egg and cress on a brioche roll take your fancy you’ve come to the right place.

This is followed by cream tea and sweet mini treats of Victoria sponge roulade, raspberry and dark chocolate tea cakes and orange and marmalade tea loaf, all topped off with a choice of teas or a glass of champagne for an additional £11.00.

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Bristol Harbourside Afternoon Tea

You think of Bristol and you think of the harbourside and what better location to relax and enjoy an afternoon tea.

If you’re spending the afternoon with people who don’t live in Bristol it would give the ideal chance for a bit of site seeing while you’re at it.

At The Bristol Hotel, for a vintage afternoon tea served on retro crockery with finger sandwiches, mini cakes and scones with clotted cream and jam it’ll cost you £25.00 or for an extra £12.00 you could have a glass of English sparkling wine or Hendricks Gin cocktail.

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Unique Afternoon Tea

Restaurants are a great environment for an afternoon tea but this is Bristol, there’s always something different in the mix.

Now this isn’t an everyday experience and it’s only available on Bank Holiday Mondays during the summer. Our next venue for an afternoon tea in Bristol is at the train station. Yeah, you heard right, well not just at the station, it’s running through the Bristol countryside.

Avon Valley Railway offers afternoon tea on a steam train.

You will have a glass of prosecco followed by a High Tea of finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream and a selection of dainty cakes and pastries and tea or coffee. Tickets cost £39.00 for this unique experience!

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Clifton Suspension Bridge Afternoon Tea

Head to the Clifton Observatory for a special afternoon tea in Bristol. Running on selected days, this venue promises a unique experience. As the name implies, get set for some breath-taking panoramic views of the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and Avon Gorge.

Enjoy your tea indoors or on the lovely patio for great photos and a memorable experience."

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Elegant Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea at The Ivy Brasserie in Clifton, Bristol, is an elegant affair. Priced at approximately £29.95 per person, it includes a selection of finger sandwiches with various fillings, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of delectable pastries and cakes.

The tea menu features a mix of classic and unique blends, with the option to add champagne for an authentic Ivy experience

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Somerset Afternoon Tea

If you enjoy a serene countryside locale for your luxury afternoon tea, we have two more places outside of the city centre that might float your boat.

Symonds at Redwood is nestled in a quaint village, offering countryside charm while being conveniently near the city center.

Leather chairs, art work on the walls and a relaxed atmosphere provide the perfect setting to enjoy your afternoon tea. Keep it traditional or add in some prosecco, champagne or gin to mix it up.

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Why Bristol for an afternoon tea?

One of the greatest things about Bristol is its ability to always surprise and offer people amazing quality and variety. Afternoon teas are easy enough to find wherever you are in the country but an afternoon tea in Bristol doesn’t have to be standard.

City, countryside, train or castle, there is something for everyone. Visiting or living in the city? Pick a beautiful venue and treat yourself

Bottomless Brunches in Bristol

Bristol Bottomless Brunch Bliss Ultimate Guide!

Bottomless brunches in Bristol have become quite the thing in the past few years. Our resident foodie Katie has been trying out some of the best.

You’ve had a great night out and even thought you prepped with a pint of water by your bed, you’re still feeling a little fuzzy headed. You’ve got two options; spend the day catching some z’s and re-hydrating or hitting up a Bottomless Brunches in Bristol, for a good ol’ dose of hair of the dog.

If option two is more your thing you’ve come to the right place for a guide to some of Bristol’s finest bottomless brunches on offer.

If you’re looking for a post just about traditional English breakfast based Bristol brunch, you’ve come to the wrong place, this will give you a taste of, as you’d expect of Bristol, a wide range of different tasty treats.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Bottomless brunches are a fad that just won't go away, Why? Because it's a brilliant concept! A delicious breakfast plus endless, guilt free cocktails and drinks, now that's something we can get on board with!

Make a proper occasion of brunch, ideal for a hen weekend or a birthday celebration. Cracking open some bubbly before noon, paired with a great breakfast spread, feels indulgently decadent.

Choose one of our top venues listed below and you will be in for a proper treat!

Bottomless Brunches Bristol Brace Browns

Brace And Browns

The award-winning Brace and Browns doesn’t need any real introduction and neither does their bottomless brunch.

Even with an updated menu, Bristol's first bottomless brunch continues to charm with its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, remaining completely irresistible!

They serve a three-course feast with a variety of starters, followed by high-quality main courses, delicious homemade doughnuts for dessert, and, naturally, lots of bubbly!

All of this comes to a mere £35.00 per person, what’s not to like!?

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The Lost and Found

The Lost and Found offers one of the best bottomless brunches in Bristol. Priced at around £35 per person, it includes a selection of brunch dishes like smashed avocado egg on toast, smoked salmon waffle and shakshuka.

The best part is you can wash all these delicious dishes down all the unlimited drinks, including prosecco, mimosas, and aperol spritzes which flow for two hours.

Located at the Triangle on top of Park Street, remember to be careful of the steep hill when you're heading back down after sipping those Bloody Marys!

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Steam Bristol

Now it’s time to get on another plane, this time we’re heading to America. Well, actually we’re heading to Steam Bristol but with this California inspired bottomless brunches in Bristol with bottomless prosecco, beer or cider for 90 minutes, you’d be forgiven for forgetting where you really are.

Dig into one of their mouth-watering mains, including; muffins topped with a sausage meat patty, egg and siracha mayonnaise, or a buttermilk waffle with delicious buttermilk chicken with hot maple butter.

You'll get a sharing board for the table too with some fried hash brown bites. For £32.50 you could have your Saturday brunch needs taken care of.

Steam Bristol spices up the summer with a bottomless barbecue every Sunday, offering plenty of delicious food and endless drinks, all enjoyed responsibly.

There are meat and veggie options, an unlimited salad bar and unlimited sangria, prosecco and cider for 90 minutes and live music. Sounds like the perfect afternoon to us.

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Tonight Josephine

For something a bit more flashy and exuberant, we’d recommend trying out Tonight Josephine down on Baldwin Street. Step through the doors and you will be blown away by the dazzling pink, neon and sparkling interior.

A favourite for hen parties, try out one of their brilliantly themed brunches such as their Harry Styles brunch or “Now that’s what I call Brunch” which features pop classics from across the ages. Expect a wild compere, plenty of drag, and games like Name That Tune and Boy Band Bingo.

Their brunch option is slightly pricier than others at £49.00 per person but we reckon for the entertainment you get, it’s well worth it!

With 90 minutes of bottomless bubbles, beer or cocktails to accompany your pulled pork or halloumi burgers or tasty chicken skewers. Dress to kill and get ready to get outrageous!

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Pieminister

Today’s the day to wake up to a Morning Glory or a Sunny Pie Up. Pieminister is the place to be with these brunch pie offerings.

A proper Bristol institution, this staple of the summer festival circuit is famous with good reason!

Go to the town center to savor the delicious pies, and if pie isn't your thing, no worries, there's plenty more to go with your unlimited prosecco, mimosas, and Aperol spritz.

The bottomless brunch lasts for one and a half hours for £25 and is served every two weeks over the summer.

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Koocha Mezze Bar

Fed up of smashed avocado on toast and crispy bacon? Take a toddle down Zetland Road, pull up a chair on a sunny outdoor terrace, and let yourself be transported to the middle east!

Koocha Mezze offers a completely different kind of brunch. This Persian, vegan restaurant offers the most mouth-wateringly delicious and alluring dishes.

You can choose between a smoky shakshuka or decadent baklava pancakes drizzled in cardamom and saffron syrup, among many other options.

Brunch plates start at £9.00 each, or to go bottomless, it costs £35.00 for a two hour sitting.

This includes all mocktails and cocktails on the list, including their divine saffron margaritas and watermelon mojitos.

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Quay Street Diner

One of the few places that offer a bottomless brunch all week round is the Quay Street Diner. With a lovely relaxed atmosphere, popular with student and young professionals alike, you could be tempted to come here every day!

You can choose from a variety of classic American dishes like buttermilk pancake stacks with crispy bacon, juicy steak and eggs, or fried chicken and waffles.

Add bottomless prosecco to your brunch for 1.5 hours for an additional £19.95 per person.

The diner offers a private dining room, perfect for large groups or celebrating a birthday or hen party.

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Whistle Punks

For a Bristol bottomless brunch with a difference... Whistle Punks really ticks all the boxes. Combine a spot of axe throwing with endless Aperol Spritzes, what could possibly go wrong!?

Fear not, the axe throwing comes first, followed by pizzas and an hour of bottomless drinks.

The whole package costs £40 and the offer only runs on Sundays. This is the ideal activity for a stag or hen party to enjoy the morning after a night out!

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Bristol’s best Pubs

Top Bristol Pubs: Where Locals Love to Linger!

Who doesn’t like a traditional pub? They’re part of British culture – so much so, they’re now woven into the fabric of daily life (and have been for hundreds of years). In fact, it was the Roman invasion that introduced the concept of the public house to our region.

It might have taken a while (say, a few centuries) for the pub as we know it to come to fruition, but in that time, they’ve become so much more than simply a house serving ale.

Throughout time, they’ve served as places of business, social reform, diversion and in the absence of the printing press, even as the local news.

Luckily for Bristolians, the city isn’t short on traditional Bristol pubs, many of which also serve delicious food and fabulous ales. Here are just a few of Bristol’s first and foremost pubs.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Bristol’s Oldest Pubs

There’s some debate over the title for oldest pub in the city, with several contenders vying for first place.

The Hatchet Inn, claiming establishment around 1606, takes its name from the woodsmen of Clifton Wood.

It’s stood the test of time, and now offers a range of delicious pub grub, as well as a tasty pint.

Another contender for the title is the Llandoger Trow, built in 1664. With its stunning Tudor exterior set on the sunny cobbled street in the heart of the city, it’s a great option for those warm, summer days.

The Bristol pub is also steeped in history; legend has it that the Llandoger Trow was a favorite drinking spot for the infamous privateer Blackbeard, as well as the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island.

A third contender for the title is The Rummer, just off of St Nick’s Market. Dating back to 1241, The Rummer’s flagstone floors and huge fireplace act as visible reminders of the pub’s longstanding history.

It now boasts its own micro distillery, brewing batches of aromatic gins and spiced rums that you can sample in the bar (along with a plethora of other spirits).

The Steam Crane

This Bristol Pub is located south of the river in Bedminster, The Steam Crane is pretty hard to miss.

The building's exterior features a classic nautical scene painting, and inside, it combines traditional pub decor with a touch of modernism.

Leather armchairs somehow blend seamlessly with the traditional fireplaces and wooden bar that you’d expect from a traditional British pub.

There’s a wide variety of beer, ales and wine available, and the food comes highly recommended by locals and visitors alike.

It’s great for larger groups, so if you’re planning a Bristol stag weekend, then the Stream Crane is a great place to start your celebrations.

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The Albion, Clifton

The Albion, a stylish twist on the traditional British pub, is a popular spot in the lively Clifton village.

Dating back to the 17th Century, experts have meticulously renovated and designed the building with impeccable taste.

It’s a winner for all seasons; lazy summer afternoons fly by in the ample courtyard garden, while winter Sunday lunches have to be experienced by the comfort of a roaring fire and accompanied by a delicious glass of red.

The Albion may not be budget-friendly, but it's a must-visit for those seeking a more upscale spot to enjoy their pint.

The food menu is seasonal, the ingredients impeccable quality and the dishes, reassuringly traditional. There’s literally something for everyone, one of our favourite Bristol pubs.

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The Jersey Lily

As far as Bristol pubs go, The Jersey Lily is young, fun and full of character. Situated on lively Whiteladies Road, the pub enjoys a relaxed atmosphere, which attracts a mixed – yet equally welcome – crowd.

The food is award-winning; sourced from local suppliers, you can sink your teeth into a huge variety of scrumptious snacks and dinners.

From tapas to share to Sunday Roasts, there’s literally something for everyone on their extensive menu. If you’re more interested in the drinks menu, then you won’t be disappointed.

There’s a huge selection of wines for all tastes on offer – as well as cocktails. If you're into live music, don't miss the Thursday acoustic sessions. Enjoy two-for-one craft cocktails with a friend!

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Coronation Tap

Known to locals as 'Cori Tap,' The Coronation Tap is an iconic pub and an essential inclusion on any list of Bristol's best pubs!

Best known for its killer cider offerings, a sample of their famous Exhibition is an absolute must for all visitors to Bristol! This drink is so potent it's only served in half pints – you'll be belting out old Bristol sea shanties in no time!

Expect a proper, traditional pub with an amazing selection of ciders to choose from and a welcoming atmosphere that will make it hard to leave.

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The Ostrich

The Ostrich, a historic Bristol pub, sits in a fantastic location right on the water's edge with a great beer garden!

On a sunny day, everyone packs the place, taking advantage of the sun-drenched benches to watch the boats sail lazily by.

Visit the charming, centuries-old pub and don't miss the skeleton in the cave near the bar while waiting for your pint.

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Bristol Booze Cruise Guide

Straddling the River Avon, Bristol is a brilliant city for events, occasions and party getaways with loads to see and do. Its unique waterside areas are beautiful in sunny weather and play host to a huge range of restaurants, bars and venues. A booze cruise in Bristol will make a memorable trip no matter the occasion for your city visit and with so much on offer, can be adapted to suit any group type, size or budget.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Make the Most of your Boozy Bristol Boat Trip

There’s a range of Bristol boat trips available to be booked through various venues and companies, each with a slightly different angle and theme. Bristol booze cruises do get booked up in advance by tourists as well as by locals so it’s best to find the trip you want and make sure you’ve paid for your party’s place at least a month beforehand. Book as early as possible to confirm your Bristol boat party!

Boozy Bristol Boat Trips

As with any city that attracts lots of visitors, there’s plenty of companies catering for tour and party groups. Bristol boat trips comes in all shapes and sizes but the most widely available format is a pub tour… by water!

These Bristol boat party trips incorporate sailing between pitstops to pubs, and usually three of them. You can find Bristol boat hire firms in both the city centre ready to sail out (and sometimes loop round back), or further out to then transport into the city. Most travel down the Avon stopping along the way and ending up at Cascade Steps in the city centre.

Providing that you’re aged over 18, in good health and have appropriate ID, there’s no limit to attending a Bristol booze cruise. Bristol boat hire companies report stag parties and hen parties as their most popular booze cruise customers, but these trips also work well for birthdays, leaving dos and celebrations!

The Best Pubs to Visit...

Bristol is home to some fantastic pubs, both traditional and a bit newer, but there’s three along the River Avon that we really rate. Look out for a Bristol boat party route that includes these three, and if it doesn’t, don’t be afraid to ask – lots of Bristol booze cruises can be amended and adapted to suit your preferences.

Pump House

The Pump House is an absolutely stunning building and it’ll take your breath away as you approach it by boat… have your camera ready for some social media pics! Situated where the city docks meets the River Avon, its now owned by a chef so you can enjoy some of the city’s best ales and beers as well as some great pub grub. It even has two rosettes for culinary excellence!

The Cottage Inn

Sitting on the historic harbour at Baltic Wharf, The Cottage Inn is run by a local brewery who specialise in beer and cider. It’s right on the river and was used as a dockside timber storage building before the docks closed and was then restored and refurbished into the pub that sits there today. You can sit outside or in, and this pub too had a kitchen full of top-notch chefs working on an ever-changing seasonal menu.

The Ostrich Inn

The Ostrich public house is nestled back in the centre of the harbourside, surrounded by hotels and restaurants. Fairly informal, its family and dog friendly, and deck chairs line the riverside for casual drinkers stopping for a break and a beverage. There’s free Wi-Fi for a quick check in on your social media profiles, and plenty of local and international beers on tap as well as an impressive spirits and wine menu. The Ostrich really does cater for everyone and makes for a great stop to continue your party without any pressure or formalities.

Where to finish off your Bristol Booze Cruise…

Once you’ve alighted and recovered from your sea legs, it’s time to find another bar to continue the celebrations. There’s no shortage of places to choose from within easy walking (or even stumbling distance) from your Bristol boat hire, but these are some of our favourites.

Millennium Square

If your group are likely to gravitate toward chain restaurants and pubs and are looking for comfort and value, Millennium Square is the right district to head toward for you. This development is home to several venues and is very commercial. You’re very likely to find a chain that you know from home so it’s the perfect place for those members of your party who may like to opt for something a little less adventurous.

King Street

King Street is a well-renowned party area with a reputation for giving celebratory groups a good time. A little more boozy than elsewhere in the city, the street is full of pubs and so is ideal for a further pub crawl; albeit this time on land! In the middle of it you’ll find King Street Brewpub, which brews beer on-site so you can really get stuck in to sampling something local.

The Waterfront

After having visited so many pubs, you’ll be needing to re-line your stomach, and the Waterfront area of the city has lots of food options; from takeaways to sit-down meals and pub grub along the way. You’ll also find several nightclubs in the Waterfront district so once your evening meal has been polished off, you can end the night in style by dancing the night away!

Sail Into the Sunset

Whatever you choose to do for your Bristol boat trip, there’s no doubt you’ll have a fantastic time. We recommend planning your trip in advance and drafting up a rough itinerary; if you don’t quite stick to schedule, so be it, but it’s always good to have an idea of favoured venues so that you know you’re not wasting your precious time away anywhere sub-par, and keep your Bristol trip memorable for all the right reasons!

Hen Party Ideas – How to plan a Hen Party

The Ultimate Guide To Organising A Hen Weekend

When your best friend calls you, you already have a feeling what she’s going to tell you. After discussing details of romantic proposals, talk turns to the hen do. She doesn’t even need to ask you to be her chief bridesmaid, you’ve both always known the line-up.

Here’s the ultimate guide to making sure that you do your friend proud with an unforgettable weekend of fun and bonding.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

The Lady Of The Moment

The most important place to start is to arrange a time with the hen to go through details. Although it is great to have a surprise weekend, you want to make sure that it’s a surprise weekend that she’s going to love.

What is the most important part of the hen do for her? Is it to make sure she has as many of her family and friends there to celebrate or to go abroad for a week long holiday for some pre-wedding sunshine?

You won’t want to have an itinerary from her but you need to know the style of weekend that she will enjoy, there’s no point booking a spa and cheer leading class type weekend if she is more of an outdoor events kind of a girl. It’s also important to make sure that her friends have similar tastes to her before you book anything as it only takes a couple of unhappy people to bring down the mood of the weekend.

Getting the details of the other bridesmaids at the start gives you a good opportunity to get to know her other close friends and to pool ideas so you have the perfect weekend for your bestie.

Party Goer List

The hen’s availability is obviously crucial but you want to have a range of dates so as many of her nearest and dearest can be there too. You’ll need to make sure that she gives you a full list of email addresses and phone numbers of the people she wants to invite.

If there are some key people it’s a good idea to contact them first to check that they will definitely be there and have a secondary list of people who are given less choice of the date as it might be difficult to find one that is perfect for everyone.

Getting In The Numbers

Weddings can get expensive for everyone, not just the happy couple. As the chief organiser the responsibility of getting as many people as possible to turn up to the hen weekend lies with you, no pressure! It’s worth considering the stage of life of the hen do attendees before you start planning luxury escapes if it’s going to exclude half of the guest list. The same goes for the destination, if that’s going to be a deal breaker for people maybe a venue not too far from home would tick all the boxes.

The chances are the most important aspect for the hen will be having all of her friends together for a good ol’ knees up so the more the merrier.

If you can secure a list of definite people or who will be at each part of the weekend if dipping in and out is an option, it will make the planning far easier. Having a budget planned at the start helps keep things under control and allows people to decide their limitations before committing and they might be less likely to drop out.

If you plan activities or book accommodation for a certain number and people do drop out it might be left to the other people share out the extra cost.

Accommodation

As a base for your hen weekend this needs careful consideration, you need to think about the type of weekend that you have planned.

Are you going to book a city break or an activity packed weekend with the accommodation just being used as a place to stumble back to in the early hours and sleep off a hangover before dragging yourselves back out for more action? If this is the case, maybe a hotel would be the best option. If you are you going to be looking for a place which is a feature of the hen weekend or a pad to relax and spend time together, a big house, camping or glamping might be better suited to you.

Just keep thinking back to the hen and the other types of people who will be partying with you for the weekend. If most of party goers are going to be city birds who baulk at the idea of getting mud on their pristine white stilettos, a weekend of camping and quad biking might not be the right approach.

Activities

A good hen weekend needs a fun activity in the day time. It’s a great time for everyone to get to know each other and gives the weekend some structure. There are so many different options that its worth exploring alternative ideas before going straight for the obvious activities that everyone has done before, you don’t want 12 cocktail making experts by the end of the weekend. Likewise, horse riding across Dartmoor followed by camping might not be the right activity if Great Aunt Maud is a key player.

Try to keep within the guidelines given by the hen as it is her hen weekend and it is all about making it as fun as possible for her, not planning your own ultimate weekend. Chatting to the bridesmaids throughout is a great way to rein it in and keep on track with your best buddy in mind.

Packages

If life is busy or you just like the idea of someone sorting it all out for you, you could always look to the experts and get West Country Weekends on board. Not only do you have experienced help and keep it simple but often you end up getting more for your money than booking everything individually. Additional benefits include:

Allocation on hotels meaning instant confirmation upon booking
VIP nightclub entry
VIP Casino entry
Private dining
Restaurants suitable to groups
Local knowledge of an area you might not know
Additional activities – add on a second activity you may not have thought of yourself
Only a £50 deposit to pay initially
Individual payment system – this means that you don’t need to collect money from the group, they just pay their share directly saving you all that annoying chasing

And Lift Off

You’ve done it, you’ve booked the ultimate hen weekend that will just serve to remind your friend of how close you are and that you possibly know her even better than she knows herself.

Sending an email to everyone before the weekend with the finer details such as timings, specific clothing for activities, fancy dress, how much cash people will need if its rural break for taxis etc will mean you have less questions to field and people will be more prepared. The hen will also need enough details to bring the right stuff and feel comfortable and you will need to bear in mind any spare clothes for her if it’s a messy activity and you don’t want to spoil the surprise.

Plan the finer details such as taxis and food arrangements so people aren’t hanging around and looking to you all weekend to make decisions, you want to be busy having fun and not having to arrange anything as you go.

Success List:

Always think back to the hen and other people going to the hen weekend
Know who are the most important people when arranging dates
Consider budgets and logistics when you decide on the destination
Get people to commit before securing bookings for accommodation and activities
Do as much booking as you can before the big weekend, people like to know that it’s all under control and when you’re away you’ll just have to worry about where the next tray of Jager bombs are coming from
Have her back – make yourself the responsible person for getting your friend home at the end of the night , put a pint of water by the bed and have hangover snacks ready for the morning after recovery.
Have fun!

Hen Do Fancy Dress Ideas

Hen Do Fancy Dress Ideas – The Best Hen Party Costumes

Everyone wants a great hen do before they embark on married life. Who doesn’t love a good time with their friends, getting a bit drunk and generally putting the world to rights? Where once you might have had a quiet evening in a local bar though, today it’s much more about cutting loose and sending the hen off in style. And what’s one of the best ways to do that? Grabbing some crazy hen do costumes and hitting the town, that’s how!

If you’re after some great hen do fancy dress ideas then you’re in the right place. We’ve pretty much seen it all at West Country Games, so we’re well-placed to give you some inspiration on hen do themes and help you plan the most epic weekend possible for the bride. If you’d like her to look classy then there are some good chic hen costumes available, but if you want to embarrass the life out of her then you’re in luck as that’s what the majority of hen do costumes are all about! We’ve put together our pick of the best.

What is West Country Games?

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West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

The Great Tradition of Hen Do Fancy Dress

Go back 50 years and hen dos weren’t so much of a thing. While the men were out drinking to celebrate an impending marriage, women often stayed at home to prepare for the big day. Luckily that’s very much no longer the case! Having a hen do is an integral part of getting married, and hen do fancy dress ideas have got weird and wonderful.

Your weekend might be a low key chill out with friends or a mental weekend in the pubs and clubs, but nowadays it’s easy to find hen costumes for both. You can go as sedate or as crazy as you like...as long as the hen is a good sport!

Fancy dress to make the hen feel good…or embarrass them!

When you’re looking for some perfect hen do costumes you’ve got two options. If you’re feeling kind (and worried about what the bridesmaid dress might end up looking like!) then go for a flattering, sexy number like a slinky air hostess. The hen will be the centre of attention for all the right reasons, and will feel a million dollars. She’ll love it.

But what about if you’re feeling naughty and want to embarrass her instead? That’s OK too! She must love her husband-to-be, she is marrying him after all, so how about building the hen fancy dress around him? Have masks made from his face, dress everyone up like him and watch her squirm!

What can you get away with for hen fancy dress?

It might be hilarious to think of a million ways to embarrass the bride, but just be careful that you don’t go too far with your hen night costumes if you’re heading out in public. Dressing her up like a porn star is going to give all your mates a great laugh but it might not go down too well in a nice restaurant!

When choosing a hen do theme it’s also a good idea to keep the bride’s sense of humour in mind. A bride-to-be sobbing in the toilets is a sign you’ve gone too far! A bit embarrassing is normally OK, but totally horrifying generally isn’t. You still want to be invited to the wedding after all!

Our top 5 original hen do themes and costumes

We’ve put together our pick of the 5 best hen do fancy dress ideas to help you on your way. Read on to find our best naughty or nice outfits, suitable for activities, dinner or dance floor! Read on and choose your favourite, whichever resonates most for your lady of the hour!

5. The Shepherdess

First up is one of the classic hen do costumes: the shepherdess. Meek and demure yet a little bit risqué if you throw in a bit of cleavage, this is a good one for ladies who want to dress up and look glam.

If the rest of the hen party all want to dress up as sheep then so much the better!

4. Pub Golf

Next we have pub golf, which is not a typical hen costume but is a great choice because of the entertainment that comes alongside. Dress up as sexy golfers with pleated skirts and long socks, grab a scorecard here then hit the pubs to hit a round of cocktails and shots!

Plus don’t forget the amazing benefit of golf-related hen costumes- you get to wear trainers with your outfit. You’ll be thanking us at 4am!

3. Air Hostess

Hen fancy dress outfit number 3 is the super-sexy air hostess. This can be made as full-on as you want with some slinky outfits and tight-fitting shirts, or a bit classier if you go along the more buttoned-up route to turn it into a chic hen costume. Expect lots of attention from everyone else in town, and maybe a few generous offers to be your pilot!

2. Pink Ladies

At number 2 on our list of hen do fancy dress ideas it’s the ever-popular Pink Ladies from the film Grease. The film is a classic and the hen night costumes are too!

We’re talking tight black trousers, spike heels or trainers, shiny pink jackets and hair as crazy as you want. This one is a good choice for mixed groups as it allows everyone to design their own outfit.

1. Farmers

Topping our list as one of the best hen do costumes around, it’s that West Country classic of dressing up as farmers! You can go wild with this one. Want to channel your inner Wurzel? Go for it.

Or have the bride as the farmer and everyone else as the farm animals? That works too! Dungarees, denim, checked shirts and straw hats are all great accompaniments to a night out.

Where to purchase your hen do fancy dress

The final step in organising the perfect hen weekend is to turn your hen do fancy dress ideas into reality. Google is your best friend as it lets you search for local fancy dress shops which might have some bargain hen costumes on offer. Alternatively, lots of retailers have online shops so check out Amazon or eBay to see what you can find. Make sure you buy the right sizes though, there’s nothing worse than an ill-fitting shepherdess outfit!

Your Hen Fancy Dress Inspiration... Done

And that’s it! Now you know how to find the ultimate hen party fancy dress costumes, all you need to do is add prosecco and some good mates. Enjoy!

Bristol’s Best Sunday Roasts

Bristol Best Sunday Roast Guide

It’s hard to beat the iconic Sunday roast while away your Stag or Hen weekend. You’re feeling a little fragile after a big night on the Saturday, you want to catch up with friends or family, you need refuelling after a hearty walk in the countryside, what’s the answer? It’s always going to be a Sunday roast and Sunday roasts in Bristol are some of the best.

When you’re up against everyone’s mum’s who make the best roast ever or Auntie Mavis who’s roast tatties are legendary, it can be a hard act to follow but we think the Bristol Good Food Awards shortlist always has some great contenders. Voted for by the people of Bristol and judged by food experts, the awards ceremony is at the end of February every year.

Time to get sampling what some of the past nominees have to offer so you can find your award winner too. If you’re not local to Bristol we’ve got you covered too as there’s Somerset cottage accommodation for you to make a break of it and sample Sunday roasts in Bristol.

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Best Sunday Roast In Bristol

Here is our run down of the best Sunday roasts in town. Get those taste buds watering and read on to discover where to book your next slap up dinner!

The Bank Tavern, 8 John Street, Bristol, BS1 2HR

So for the ultimate Bristol Sunday roast let’s start with the highly commended in 2015, The Bank Tavern.

An unassuming traditional pub tucked away in the city centre serving traditional and more contemporary dishes and most importantly, an amazing roast. All you need to go with it is some award winning ales and cider and yes, you’ve got it, they can provide that too.

Broken Dock, Millennium Promenade, Bristol, BS1 5SY

Broken Dock is a relative newcomer to the Bristol Sunday roast scene as they reopened in May 2017 with new everything; new name, staff and menus. If you’re going to open a restaurant, bagging a Bristol Good Food nomination within your first year is a great way to do it.

Browns, 38 Queens Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1RE

Browns definitely have the first impressions covered. You can’t help but appreciate the sense of grandeur as you walk up the steps towards the building which was modelled on the Doge’s Palace in Venice.

As you might imagine, the inside of the building doesn’t disappoint wither and is a stunning location to enjoy your Bristol Sunday roast.

Cowshed, 44-46 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 2NH

Although Cowshed is renowned for meat, their focus is fresh, locally sourced, seasonal produce. With big tables, this would be an ideal place to go with a group of friends or family for a Sunday roast in Bristol. They were highly commended for their Sunday roast in 2012

Nettle & Rye, 16 Kings Road, Bristol, BS8 4AB

If you find yourself in Clifton on a Sunday lunchtime, Nettle and Rye might be the place for you. With a sun trap outsides and a relaxed feel inside, maybe it’s time to take advice from the Bristol Good Food Award and visit this 2016 highly commended eatery.

Rose Of Denmark, 6 Dowry Place, Bristol, BS8 4QL

For a traditional roast of good portions, The Rose of Denmark is a great shout. Being close to the harbourside, you’re in the right place to go for a walk after your Sunday roast. No stranger to the Bristol Good Food award best Sunday lunch, The Rose of Denmark was highly commended in 2013 and 2014.

Victoria Park, 66 Raymend Rd, Bristol BS3 4QW ·

Yurt Lush, Clock Tower Yard, Temple Meads, BS1 6QH

I bet you’ve been thinking that the list feels incomplete, like I’ve forgotten a classic major category in the Bristol Sunday roast eateries. We’ve covered restaurants and pubs but that’s it, no mention of Mongolian yurts, well here it is.

Nestled in next to Temple Meads, Yurt Lush has the wow factor and is a great place if you are looking for something a bit different to impress people. It definitely isn’t just a place to go for the novelty factor as the fresh flavours and sustainably sourced ingredients speak for themselves, so does the Bristol Good Food Award for the best Sunday roast for 2016.

Best Pubs for Bristol Sunday Roast

Bristol is at the forefront of exquisite cuisine and as these nominees demonstrate, there is great variety and something for everyone, everyone who appreciates amazing Sunday roasts in Bristol that is.

Whether you live in Bristol or are visiting for the weekend, these contenders for the Bristol Good Food Award for the best Sunday roast are well spread around the city so there’s no excuse to not see what they have to offer. If so much talk of Sunday roasts in Bristol has piqued your interest but you’re not lucky enough to live in the area, why not book a weekend with friends at Bristol group accommodation and get sampling.

Things To Do in Bath: Our Top 10 Things To Do in Bath

Things to do in Bath – Our Top 10 Things to do in Bath

Bath is the largest city in Somerset, and perhaps unsurprisingly with its name, is best known for… it’s Roman baths! Probably Britain’s best-known spa town, Bath is a popular tourist destination for those within the UK and those further afield.

If you’re planning a trip to the city and are looking for things to do in Bath to keep you and/or your group occupied, then you’ve come to the right place – because we love Bath and can fill you in on all the must-dos while you’re there!

Please note that dependent on the time of year of your trip, you may find some of our suggested things to do in Bath are open for limited hours or different days of the week. We can give you all of our hints and tips but be sure to check online before you travel to avoid any disappointment. After all, you want your Bath trip to be memorable for all the right reasons.

Bath was the centre of fashionable life back in the 18^th century and it continues to offer lots today too. While you’re there, be sure to try Bath Olivers and Bath Buns… we promise you won’t be disappointed in the beauty of the town and its brilliant local sweet cuisine!

What is West Country Games?

Play Video

West Country Games embraces all the stereotypes of the West Country in one great day out, comprising of 9 totally hilarious games suitable for all sorts of groups.

If you have an upcoming, Stag do, Hen Weekend, Birthday Party or Team Building Day, then why not give us a try?

Find out more...

Our Top 10 Picks of Fun Things to do in Bath

Bath is brimming with things to do, from the historical to the active and everything in between. The choice can be overwhelming so we've put together our top ten picks of fun things to do when you're visiting the city.

1. Get involved at the West Country Games

The West Country Games are Bath’s answer to the Olympics… only a little less athletic and a lot more fun; with no training required! A favoured activity amongst stag, hen, birthday and corporate parties, the West Country Games best suit groups and can be adapted to fit all abilities, ages and appetites.

All games are countryside themed and are more novelty than they are sporty. It takes up at least an afternoon, if not a whole day, and transfers to the countryside site for the Games can be arranged!

2. Pamper yourself at the Roman Baths and Spa

As much a history lesson as a pamper session (honest!), Bath’s Roman Baths offer a variety of spa packages. One of the most popular things to do in Bath for tourists, it’s definitely worth packing your cozzie for a dip and if you have time, enjoying afternoon tea and some extra treatments while you’re there!

The Roman Baths are the ideal venue for relaxing after more active trips and activities… and they may even cure your hangover… but we can’t guarantee anything!

3. Test gins at the Canary Bar

Gin is the new black, and you can truly experience local at the Canary Bar. Run by the local Bath Distillery, this quirky little bar is a favourite amongst gin lovers and is the home of the ‘Gin Austen’ cocktail; infamous in the town!

Challenge the mixologists behind the bar to create something bespoke for you and enjoy gin cocktails straight from a teapot. The Canary Bar is very popular on the lists of things to do in Bath at night, so book a table in advance to ensure you all fit in.

4. Shop Local at the Bath Christmas Market

Obviously only around for November and December, the Bath Christmas Market is top of our list of things to do in Bath for free!

Over 150 chalets of festive shops (mostly European themed, but lots of local retailers and brands are present too) line Bath’s beautiful Georgian streets and make for a really picturesque Christmas scene. Get snap happy for Instagram and make a start on your Christmas list… win win!

5. Set Sail on the Avon with a River Cruise

Take a different view on the spa town of Bath by admiring it from the river and cruising up and down the River Avon.

Bath isn’t as busy as its neighbour Bristol when it comes to river trips, but you’ll still find some choice of firms, so have a check online to find the trip that works best for you in length and in route. Consider adding this to your itinerary of things to do in Bath at night too; it’ll give you a unique look at the town and is a nice chilled way to spend an evening.

6. Lunch on the Lawn at the Royal Crescent

One of Bath’s most impressive landmarks, the stunning Royal Crescent looks over the beautifully kept Royal Victoria Park. Now a five-star hotel and spa with a museum of Georgian life in the town, the park is the ideal place to picnic.

You can either pack your own or have the hotel’s restaurant put something more luxurious together for you, so there’s options for all budgets. If you’re not looking to spend much, nip to the supermarket and eat what you fancy on the lawn – it’s one of the most popular things to do in Bath for free and can be enjoyed year-round (although you may need to pack blankets!).

7. Catch the Rugby at Bath Stadium

Bath Rugby Union Club is one of the most popular clubs in the country and they play at The Recreation Ground Stadium (affectionately known as ‘The Rec’), right on the River Avon.

During Rugby season, the Club have exclusive use of the stadium and through the summer, its used for cricket matches. You can book tickets in advance fairly cheaply and packages are available to include meals and drinks.

8. Go Beer Tasting at the Electric Bear Brewing Co

Not far from Bath town centre you’ll find local brewers Electric Bear Brewing Co. The taproom on their Bath brewery is a favourite amongst beer fans and those who don’t like hops as much as fruit and it’s the only place you can try Electric Bear’s full range of brews!

From IPAs to stouts, there’s something for everyone and the expert staff at the taproom can advise you on different types of beers and brews in a way you won’t ever find in a usual high street bar.

9. Take Afternoon Tea at the Pump Rooms

Built in the 1790s, the Bath Pump Rooms are one of the town’s oldest attractions. Adjacent to the Roman Baths, it serves a variety of food and drinks – including water directly from Bath’s springs!

It’s a Bath institution and the afternoon tea served at the Pump Rooms is considered the best in the west country! Dietary requirements can be catered for if advised ahead of time, and tables for groups will need to be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.

The Pump Rooms is busiest around Mother’s Day and throughout December, so phone ahead.

10. Walk off your hangover in Prior Park

OK, so it’s been a few days of intense activities during your trip to the spa town, and now you need something relaxing and easy to do to rejuvenate yourself again!

One of the easiest and most accessible things to do in Bath for free is to walk around Prior Park and blow out the cobwebs. A full park as well as landscaped gardens and a house, part of the Park is owned by the National Trust, so you have the option to pay and explore the whole property if you’d like to.

Booking up your Bath Itinerary

Bath isn’t the country’s busiest tourist destination, but it’s growing in popularity and is particularly popular amongst hen, stag, birthday and occasion groups.

A quick google will bring up lots of lists of suggested things to do in Bath at night, for big parties, on a shoestring and for overseas guests… there’s no shortage of hints and tips out there, so it won’t surprise you to hear that you may find attractions and sights busy when you visit.

In order to best enjoy your trip to Bath, we recommend that you put together an itinerary of activities day by day and allow your group’s guests to pick and choose what they’d like to and what they’re able to attend. Bath is particularly busy in November and December, for Christmas shoppers, as well as between April-June before wedding season as hen parties descend upon the town.

Regardless of what time of the year you’re visiting, it’s always recommended to book ahead on activities and to make requests in advance for dietary, access or special requirements. Working under the UK discrimination legislation, Bath’s businesses will make all reasonable adjustments that they can to accommodate whoever for whatever, and most will have lots of experience in doing exactly that.

Never fear asking – go ahead, be bold and get what works best for you and your group!

Why Visit Bath?

One thing’s for sure with your trip to Bath – we just know you’re going to love the town. A picturesque Georgian street sits around every corner and with the fantastic hospitality on offer from Bath’s many businesses and locals, it will make the perfect destination for a memorable and enjoyable trip away.

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