So you’ve been handed the hen. Congratulations, and don’t panic. A glamping hen is one of the easiest to organise, because the venue, food, beds and activities all come in one place. Here’s our step-by-step checklist, built on years of hens at Boglands.
1. Agree the vibe with the bride
Wild weekend or cosy night by the campfire? Before anything else, have a quiet word with the bride about what she’d love, and what she’d hate. It’s her day out.
2. Get a realistic guest list
Our site is private for groups of 16 to 30 hens. Make a list, then a “definitely coming” list. Remember that with a minimum of 16 paid hens, the 17th person goes free.
3. Pick one night or two
The One Night Package (€160pp sharing) covers a night in the yurts and cabins, the Glamping Feast, breakfast, a decorated venue, campfire fun and the welcome basket. The Two Night Package (€270pp sharing) adds a second night, a second feast and breakfast, and a light lunch on Saturday. As one reviewer put it, “My biggest regret was only going for one night.”
4. Lock in the date
Popular weekends go early. Check available dates, then secure yours with a €500 non-refundable deposit per night booked. Tip: collect a contribution from each hen before you pay, so you’re not out of pocket.
5. Sort the food notes early
Veggie and coeliac diets are catered for when requested in advance, so gather dietary needs when people confirm, and pass them on in good time.
6. Plan the drinks
It’s bring your own drink. Agree whether you’re doing a group kitty, a cocktail theme or everyone bringing their own favourites. Don’t forget the mixers, ice and something non-alcoholic.
7. Plan the fun (but not too much)
Archery, badminton, swingball and walks on the Grand Canal Greenway are all included. There’s a projector, big screen and speakers, so bring your Mr & Mrs questions and a playlist. Leave time just to sit and chat, because that’s often the best bit. An optional bus to the local pub or disco can be arranged as an extra.
8. Send the packing list
- Warm layers and a cosy jumper for the campfire, as Irish evenings get cool
- Comfortable shoes or wellies for the lawns and Greenway
- Your outfit, sashes and props for photos
- Phone chargers (there are sockets in all accommodation)
- Drinks, snacks and a few treats for the bride
Bedding, towels and electric blankets are supplied, so no sleeping bags needed.
9. On the day
Arrive from 3pm, settle in, and pop the complimentary bubbly. The feast is cooked for you, the campfire is lit, and bedtime is not compulsory. Breakfast is in the Banquet Room, and check-out is 12 noon.
10. Let people chip in
If family or friends ask how they can help, point them to a Hen Party Glamping gift voucher. It can go towards the booking and comes in €50, €100, €225, €250 or €500. It’s emailed within 24 hours and valid for five years.
