Get ready for the best stag do in the UK! When it comes to planning the best stag party for the groom-to-be, the UK has got you covered with all our fun and distinct cities. In this blog, we're going to prove that you don't need to jet off to far-flung destinations like Amsterdam or Ibiza for a destination stag party. The UK is where the real magic happens, whether you're gearing up for a wild night out or a whole weekend of unforgettable adventures!
Why is it called a stag do?
But first, let's tackle the name! Ever wondered why it's called a stag do? Well, it all goes back to the majestic male deer, known as a stag, symbolizing strength, masculinity, and virility. So, a stag do is all about celebrating the groom-to-be's last hurrah as a bachelor, surrounded by his closest mates, before taking the plunge into married life.
What happens on a stag do?
Now, let's talk about the fun stuff! Stag dos are all about letting loose and having a blast with the lads. Some stag dos plan activities like paintballing or go-karting, laid-back brewery tours, or even hitting the greens for a round of golf. And let's not forget the epic night out on the town, exploring the local bars and clubs until the early hours of the morning. The options are endless, and the memories? Priceless.
Who plans a stag do?
So, who's in charge of making sure the stag do goes off without a hitch? Typically, it's up to the best man and the groomsmen to take the reins. But here's the secret sauce: getting input from the groom himself is key. After all, it's his special day, and making sure the festivities align with his interests and personality ensures that everyone has a blast.
Who should pay for the stag do?
Now, let's talk finances. Traditionally, everyone chips in to cover the costs of the stag do, including activities, accommodation, and any other expenses that come up along the way. But here's the deal: it's crucial to keep everyone's budget in mind to ensure that everyone can join in on the fun without breaking the bank. Transparency and open communication about costs are key to making sure everyone feels included and can fully enjoy the celebration.
The 10 Best UK Stag Do Locations
1. London
London is a stag do paradise, offering an endless array of activities and attractions to suit every taste. From exploring iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace to immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Soho and Shoreditch, there's never a dull moment in the capital.
Why London?
- Nightlife: With its diverse range of bars, clubs, and pubs, London's nightlife scene is second to none. Whether you're sipping cocktails in a rooftop bar or hitting the dance floor in a trendy nightclub, there's something for everyone.
- Activities: From adrenaline-pumping experiences like indoor skydiving and escape rooms to more laid-back pursuits such as river cruises and sightseeing tours, London offers a plethora of fun stag do activities to keep the stag party entertained.
- Accessibility: London is easily accessible from major cities across the UK via train, bus, or car. With multiple airports serving the city, international guests can also easily join in on the festivities.
The Average Cost of a London Stag Do:
- Accommodation: £100-£200 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£30 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £5-£10 for a pint of beer, £8-£12 for a cocktail
2. Manchester
Manchester is renowned for its vibrant music scene, lively bars, and friendly atmosphere, making it a fun and centrally located UK stag do location.
Why Manchester?
- Nightlife: From the legendary clubs of the Northern Quarter to the trendy bars of Spinningfields, Manchester's nightlife caters to all tastes. Enjoy live music, DJ sets, and plenty of dancing until the early hours.
- Activities: Manchester offers a range of stag do activities, including football stadium tours, brewery visits, and go-karting experiences. For the more adventurous stag parties, there's even indoor skydiving and zorbing.
- Accessibility: Located in the heart of the UK, Manchester is easily accessible from other major cities by train, bus, or car. Manchester Airport also offers direct flights to destinations across Europe and beyond.
The Average Cost of a Manchester Stag Do:
- Accommodation: £80-£150 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£25 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £3-£5 for a pint of beer, £6-£10 for a cocktail
3. Bristol
Next up on our list of the best UK stag do locations is Bristol. The proud birthplace of Banksy, Bristol combines picturesque scenery with a lively atmosphere, making it one of the best UK stag do locations.
Why should you go to Bristol on your UK stag do
- Harbourside Vibes: Enjoy a scenic stroll along Bristol's harbourside, lined with bars, restaurants, and cafes that make a perfect spot for riverside boozing. Take a boat tour or hop aboard a ferry for a unique perspective of the city.
- Craft Beer Scene: Bristol boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and alehouses to explore. Embark on a brewery tour or simply relax with a pint of local brew in hand.
- Accessibility: Situated in the southwest of England, Bristol is easily accessible from major cities like London, Birmingham, and Cardiff. The city's airport offers direct flights to destinations across Europe.
The Average Cost of a Bristol Stag Do:
- Accommodation: £70-£120 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£25 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £3-£5 for a pint of beer, £6-£10 for a cocktail
4. Newcastle
Newcastle is famous for its legendary Geordie nightlife making it a top choice for stag dos in the UK. Take the lads out for a night on the Toon and mingle with the friendly locals.
Why Newcastle?
- Geordie Hospitality: Experience the warmth and hospitality of the Geordie locals as you explore Newcastle's bustling streets and lively bars. With its compact city center, Newcastle is perfect for pub crawls and bar-hopping adventures.
- Nightlife: From the iconic Diamond Strip to the vibrant Quayside, Newcastle's nightlife scene is second to none. Dance the night away in stylish clubs or enjoy live music in traditional pubs.
- Accessibility: Located in the northeast of England, Newcastle is easily accessible from cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, and London via train or car. Newcastle Airport offers flights to domestic and international destinations.
Average Cost:
- Accommodation: £60-£100 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£20 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £2-£4 for a pint of beer, £5-£8 for a cocktail
5. Brighton
Brighton's vibrant atmosphere and quirky charm make it a popular choice for stag dos looking for something a little different.
Why Brighton?
- Seaside Fun: Soak up the sun on Brighton Beach or take a stroll along the iconic Brighton Pier. With its vibrant seafront, Brighton offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and seaside fun.
- Lively Nightlife: From beachfront bars to underground clubs, Brighton's nightlife scene is as diverse as it is lively. Enjoy live music, comedy shows, and themed parties in this eclectic city.
- Accessibility: Located on the south coast of England, Brighton is easily accessible from London and other major cities via train or car. Gatwick Airport, just a short distance away, offers flights to destinations across Europe.
Average Cost:
- Accommodation: £80-£150 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£30 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £4-£6 for a pint of beer, £7-£12 for a cocktail
6. Edinburgh
Edinburgh's historic charm and lively atmosphere make it a fantastic choice for a stag do with a Scottish flair. Whether you and the lads are seeking a cultural stag do or a raucous UK stag weekend, Edinburgh has so many activities that every taste will be catered to. Why not plan your Edinburgh stag do to coincide with the Fringe festival? Edinburgh's infamous comedy festival.
Why Edinburgh?
- Historic Landmarks: Explore Edinburgh's historic Old Town, home to iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Discover centuries of history as you wander through cobblestone streets and medieval alleyways.
- Vibrant Nightlife: From traditional pubs serving local whiskies to stylish cocktail bars and underground clubs, Edinburgh's nightlife caters to all tastes. Enjoy live music, comedy shows, and themed nights at famous venues like The Liquid Rooms, The Mash House and Hive.
- Accessibility: Edinburgh is well-connected by train, bus, and air, with direct links to major cities across the UK and Europe. Edinburgh Airport offers flights to domestic and international destinations.
Average Cost:
- Accommodation: £80-£150 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£25 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £3-£5 for a pint of beer, £6-£10 for a cocktail
7. Liverpool
Liverpool's rich cultural heritage and legendary nightlife make it a top destination for stag dos in the UK.
Why you should consider Liverpool for your UK stag party?
- Beatles Legacy: Immerse yourself in the Beatles' legacy with a visit to the famous Cavern Club or a Beatles-themed tour of the city. Explore Liverpool's musical heritage as you discover iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
- Waterfront Views: Take a stroll along Liverpool's picturesque waterfront, home to attractions such as the Albert Dock and the Wheel of Liverpool. Enjoy stunning views of the River Mersey and the city skyline.
- Accessibility: Liverpool is easily accessible from major cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and London via train, bus, or car. Liverpool John Lennon Airport offers flights to domestic and international destinations.
Average Cost:
- Accommodation: £70-£120 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£20 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £2-£4 for a pint, £5-£8 for a cocktail
8. Belfast
Belfast's warm hospitality and lively pub culture make it a fantastic choice for a stag do with an Irish twist.
Why Belfast?
- Cultural Heritage: Discover Belfast's rich cultural heritage with a visit to attractions such as Titanic Belfast and the Ulster Museum. Explore the city's history and traditions as you stroll through its vibrant streets.
- Pub Culture: Experience the craic of Belfast's lively pubs, where you can enjoy traditional music sessions, hearty pub grub, and plenty of Guinness. Raise a toast to the groom-to-be in true Irish style.
- Accessibility: Belfast is well-connected by ferry, train, and air, with direct links to major cities across the UK and Ireland. Belfast International Airport offers flights to domestic and international destinations.
Average Cost:
- Accommodation: £60-£100 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£20 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £2-£4 for a pint, £5-£8 for a cocktail
9. Cardiff
Cardiff's dynamic blend of outdoor adventures and vibrant nightlife make it a top stag do destination in Wales. Why not plan your stag do to coincide with the St. David's Day celebrations so that you can soak up the Welsh culture while honouring to your groom-to-be.
Why Cardiff?
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore the stunning landscapes of the Brecon Beacons National Park with outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. Experience adrenaline-pumping adventures amidst breathtaking scenery.
- City Centre Buzz: Discover Cardiff's bustling city center, home to attractions such as Cardiff Castle and the Principality Stadium. Enjoy shopping, dining, and sightseeing before hitting the bars and clubs for a night to remember.
- Accessibility: Cardiff is easily accessible from major cities across the UK by train, bus, or car. Cardiff Airport offers flights to domestic and international destinations.
Average Cost:
- Accommodation: £70-£120 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£20 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £3-£5 for a pint, £6-£10 for a cocktail
10. Glasgow
Rounding of our list of the best UK stag do destinations is none other than Glasgow. Famous for its friendly locals, rowdy nights out and vibrant arts scene, a Glasgow stag do promises an action-packed event.
Why Glasgow?
- Cultural Attractions: Explore Glasgow's vibrant arts scene with visits to world-class museums, galleries, and theaters. Discover the city's creative spirit as you immerse yourself in its cultural offerings.
- Thriving Football Culture: But for football enthusiasts, Glasgow's rich football culture steals the show. Catching an Old Firm game between Celtic and Rangers is an experience like no other, with the fierce rivalry and electric atmosphere making it a must-see for any stag do.
- Nightlife: Glasgow's nightlife is legendary, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Whether you're into indie rock, electronic beats, or traditional ceilidh music, Glasgow has something for everyone. Take the lads to The Garage, Buff Club or Sub Club for a fun Glasgow night out.
- Accessibility: Glasgow is well-connected by train, bus, and air, with direct links to major cities across the UK and Europe. Glasgow Airport offers flights to domestic and international destinations.
The Average Cost of a Glasgow Stag Party:
- Accommodation: £60-£100 per night (depending on location and quality)
- Meals: £10-£20 per person for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- Drinks: £2-£4 for a pint of beer, £5-£8 for a cocktail
Where will you go on your UK stag do?
With these detailed insights into each UK stag do location, you're well-equipped to choose the perfect location for an unforgettable UK stag party. Whether you're seeking a rowdy night out or an action-packed day out, there's a UK city to cater to every type of stag do.
Gift a UK Stag Do with our Hotel Vouchers
Now that you're all set to plan the ultimate stag do in the UK, there's one more thing to consider: how to make it extra special for the groom-to-be. Cue the perfect gifting solution: hotel gift vouchers! With our hotel gift cards, you can take the pressure of the groom by gifting them a night away in the UK or abroad. Whether he's dreaming of:
- a luxury stay in London's bustling city centre
- a cozy cottage in the Scottish Highlands
- a spa retreat in Wales
- a glamorous resort in Dubai
Our hotel vouchers unlock over 750,000 hotels in over 170 countries worldwide. Plus they're valid for 2 years giving him plenty of time to redeem it. Perhaps he'll even put it towards his honeymoon. So why not take your stag do to the next level and give the groom-to-be the wedding gift of a lifetime with our hotel gift vouchers? It's the perfect way to add an extra touch of magic to his celebration and create memories that will last a lifetime.