Hen Weekend Ideas in Swansea
Take your girls to Wales’ city on the sea, Swansea, for a hen party to remember! The country’s second city sits on the five-mile sweep of Swansea Bay and is a fantastic base to explore south-west Wales, as well as enjoy the bustling city.
Swansea city centre is compact, easy to explore on foot and pedestrian friendly. Swansea’s Viking roots and long, eventful history make its museums a must-see, and its shopping and nightlife are well known for their variety and vibrancy. Swansea city centre boats over 230 shops, including all the usual high-street names and some fab independent boutiques. Check out Eden for sparkly jewellery and accessories, and Attica for quirky clothes, gifts and homewares. Swansea Market, with over 100 stalls, is the largest indoor market in Wales where you can buy local delicacies such as laverbread, welshcakes (we recommend them!) and cockles.
While Swansea has a long history, the city has evolved rapidly. The centre has extended seaward into the spectacular Marina and Maritime Quarter which is great for a wander with lots of places to eat and drink, great views and attractions including the National Waterfront Museum, which tells the tale of Wales’ industrial and maritime heritage, the Dylan Thomas Centre which is all about Wales’ most famous literary figure, and Swansea Museum.
Dominated by the tallest building in Wales, the 107-metre Meridian Quay Tower, you can enjoy panoramic views from the Grape and Olive restaurant. For other dining options, head to Mosaic in the high street for fab fresh food and quirky decor, Orissa for an unforgettable Indian and the Pant-y-Gwydr which serves authentic French cuisine prepared using traditional recipes.
When it comes to heading out in the evening, Swansea has a vibrant range of bars, pubs and clubs. Wind Street is the centre of Swansea’s nightlife and has everything a bar-hopping hen party could need, while Kingsway is home to dozens of nightclubs. Try Kon-Tiki for fresh cocktails and a taste of the exotic, Lava Lounge for 80s and 90s music, No Sign Bar for great wine and live music, and Monkey Cafe is one of our favourite Swansea venues – an eatery and nightclub with a great atmosphere.
If you’d rather picnic in the great outdoors, Singleton Park with its spectacular botanical gardens is one of Swansea’s best parks. Hire a pedalo for a trip round the boating lake or indulge your inner kid with a round of crazy golf.
Exploring the gorgeous coastline and countryside around Swansea is recommended. The Gower Peninsula is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where you can walk through historic woodlands, over golden beaches and in lush countryside. Take to the waves with waterskiing, surfing or kayaking, available at a number of beaches. The fishing village of Mumbles is one of the most picturesque seaside villages in the UK, and is known for its many independent shops, great dining, art galleries, medieval castle and the Mumbles Mile pub crawl! Try Joe’s famous ice cream parlour for a delicious post-walk treat.
Be taught a lesson!
‘Lush’ Charm School Dance Classes for Hen Parties
Planning on revelling in Swansea’s famed nightlife? Pick up some brand new dance moves first! Charm School offer fabulous hen party dance classes across the UK, and Swansea is one of our favourite destinations. Whether you and your hens love a bit of vintage burlesque or some retro Flashdance fun, our dance lessons are fun, feel-good and a brilliant hen weekend activity. Take a look at our sultry syllabus today!
Claire T, for 80s hen party, Cardiff, March 2013Back at the hotel after dance lesson with Janey… was brilliant we all had a fabulous time… Janey was fantastic. I shall certainly recommend Charm School.
