Running off to stag parties in unknown countries can often be a bit of a gamble—even if it’s just in and around the United Kingdom. What if the clubs are totally not up to par, not to mention even barely decent?
Well, worry not, mates, because we’ve got you covered! Plan the best and brightest of British sendoffs with these U.K. stag do destinations that’ll leave the entire posse happy and yearning for more. From seaside stunners and cultural havens to the best spaces to go pubbing and clubbing, here are the ‘cream of the crop’ European spaces to go bonkers in. Gentlemen, get ready to explore ten U.K. Destinations for an unforgettable Stag Party.
The Top U.K. Stag Party Destinations
1. Newquay
Miles of seas, sandy beaches, and rugged rocks are right at your doorstep in this oh so blue capital of Cornwall’s northern coast where it’s always fun to get wet ‘n’ wild. Think palm trees, gorgeous surfers, and plenty of party action at one of the sunniest spots in the South West with always-awesome activities for extreme sports junkies. It’s indeed possible to spend an afternoon at the beach, a night full of dancing in the town's most exciting VIP clubs, and then sleeping it off for two days in a comfy surf lodge to get rid of that nasty hangover and party fever-- for under £140. It’s a stag weekend deal that nobody can afford to pass up for sure!
2. Brighton
"London-by-the-sea" is definitely a smart choice if you and the guys are torn between a party in town or by the beach. Plus, this one’s so much trendier than Newquay and is a mind-blowing mix of classic seaside fun and contemporary culture clashes all in the heart of the U.K.’s biggest land of clubbing. It’s the ultimate destination for an epic stag do that’s as lively, colorful, creative, and filled with trendy bars, cool comedy clubs, award-winning restaurants, hopping casinos, quirky shops, landmarks, attractions, and bonkers party people—not to mention fine locally brewed ale—that’s just a mere couple hours from London. People say it’s a miniature London that, weather-wise, is always a few degrees warmer and never short of cool stuff to do during the day. There’s even more to do after sun sets so get ready.
3. London
This European capital really does have it all. Catch a show at the West End, enjoy vintage tea at a grand hotel, sip a glass of bubbly while watching the sun set over the Thames, or take a charter bus tour to see sites and hear sounds – whatever experience you and the chaps are looking for, London will provide.
Plus the city’s world-class clubs, pubs, and bars are guaranteed to provide killer nights no matter where in the city you happen to be. Funk it up in Camden’s streets full of markets and boozers. Posh it up at Primrose Hill with the likes of Kate Moss or in Brixton for some chuckle-worthy gigs and comedy clubs. There’s also, of course, Soho, which is home to some of London's best strip clubs, bars, restaurants, theatres, and jazz joints such as Ronnie Scott's. The city has anything and everything to send your groom off in grand style. It’s good enough to house the Royal family and is definitely good enough to host a stag party to remember as well.
4. Leeds
Live music is the pumping pulse in this nightlife and shopping aplenty party destination where tons of activities in the ‘Knightsbridge of the North’ or surrounding Yorkshire Dales areas are sure to keep you and the lads busy all day (and night) long. It sure is a fine balance of historic and contemporary attractions, as well as some of the best outdoor pursuits in the North, including full access to the legendary "Awesome Foursome", an extreme sports center package that will satisfy even the most hardened of adrenaline junkies. Your stag senses will be tingling and needing to recuperate after whizzing along at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour or bungee jumping 150 feet. Get prepped for some major high.
5. Newcastle
A city of bridges, river views, and glamorous culture, a stag do in this self-indulgent haven is bound to be memorable. Plus, if you happen to be a premier footballer or golf lover, this is the place for both you as well as your balls—no pun intended. It’s the football capital of the North East that’ll provide five-a-side football matches to forever remember as well as tons of green space to rough it up and play in. There are plenty of unique ways to be thoroughly entertained right here.
6. York
Situated between London and Edinburgh, this medieval city with a cracking backdrop is surrounded by Yorkshire's rolling hills and provides a first class send off like no other. It’s vintage in some places, but modern where it counts, and upholds its Viking past with a stomping nightlife scene. The city's two universities help keep the locals young, alive, and always willing to provide a stag night that can be as classy and teacake-filled as utterly cheesy and supremely messy.
If you prefer the latter, do the notorious pub-crawl at Micklegate by starting off in the Punchbowl and then supping down several pints at The Parish. Finish with classic chat up lines, suspiciously colored shots, and some retro dancing at Reflex or Flares. If something a bit more upmarket is in order, try the cosmopolitan bars and clubs of The Quarter or along the River Ouse like The Living Room—it’s tons of fun by the riverside indeed.
7. Liverpool
Looking to blast into the past by getting down to the sound of the Fab Four at the Cavern Club or taking a magical mystery tour? Head on over to this amazingly cool and frenetically paced city that just so happens to be the very birthplace of The Beatles. Make your last stand a Liverpool stag weekend and celebrate in a town famous for not only its musical heritage, but football and nightlife scenes as well.
From Abbey Road to Anfield and The Albert Docks, this one’s jam packed with cool stuff to suit all tastes. It’s the ultimate no-brainer for culture, clubbing, boozing, schmoozing, football, and chest-beating activities that won’t make for a single word of complaint when on the way back home. Plus, everything from food and drink to travel and accommodation are all nicely priced so you won’t need a bank account the size of Sir Paul's to have a killer stag do in hotspots such as Hope Street, Hardman Street and Bold Street-- which all come alive just after the sun goes down. Really, the party never stops.
8. Edinburgh
Known as the jewel of Scotland, it’s a fortress on top of a volcanic rock surrounded by picturesque streets brimming with to-die-for shopping, a buzzing nightlife, and world-famous culture. Scots certainly know how to host a stag weekend, and with top-notch food, booze, activities, and accommodations, this land of whisky and wild women will guarantee a good time.
Explore the cobbled streets, crowded pubs, swanky four-star apartments, and ample selection of Speyside classics or Lowland malts to sample from. Also, don’t forget to take advantage of the countryside scene that surrounds the city with rolling hills, dramatic mountains, and beautiful beaches that are made to order for stags who are hoping to get some outdoors action. Get those adrenaline levels sky high with some white water rafting or high cliff jumping. Then head back to the Royal Mile just in time for a pint, a shot, and to burst some burly bagpipes.
9. Blackpool
After decades topping the stag-do party destination lists, this one’s still going strong with Kiss-Me-Quick hats on the seafront, white-knuckle rides, and all-night partying, even today. You and the mates can enjoy classic seaside fun with a side order of mega-clubs, chic bars, and burlesque shows that will make you all feel like big kids again—at least for a weekend or so. A sea and a storm of bright lights, glitter balls, and constant buzz make this fancy town stand out from the rest, and rightfully so.
You and your guys can fancy a few activities during the day and then get loud and lively during a night out. It’s always been a groom-to-be’s first choice and will most likely continue to lead the pack for first-class entertainment. There’s even Pleasure Beach, one of Britain's top attractions offering wristbands entitling you and the boys unlimited rides for an entire joy-filled day. Brilliant.
This article was written by Pamela Chan.
Image by Atanas Chankov.