Belfast to overtake Dublin as Ireland’s most popular destination for hen parties
Bookings for Belfast hen trips has risen by 161 per cent since lockdown
Last updated 10th Jul 2023
Belfast is set to take the reign as Ireland’s hen party capital as demand for hen trips in the city since lockdown has been greater than anywhere else in Europe.
Figures released by ‘Last Night of Freedom’ a company which organises stag and hen parties state that Belfast hen bookings has risen by 161 per cent.
Amongst the Belfast stag and hen scene is ‘Wee Toast Tours’, a company which offers party bikes to celebrate the brides and grooms to be.
Jennifer Kenna, the Managing Director of ‘Wee Toast Tours’ said, “I think it’s great news, but it is a reflection on the economy and the economics of the situation”.
Matt Mavir, the Managing Director of ‘Last Night of Freedom’ said, “It isn’t surprising that hens are flocking to Belfast rather than Dublin. It is cheaper and the craic is just as good.”
Jennifer shares other aspects of Belfast that hens love, “I think it’s more than the ticket price, I think of course they are so well welcomed here in Belfast.”
“They feel comfortable, they are excited to explore the city. They have been told by their friends and family about their great experiences and word of mouth is a fantastic marketing tool”.
Offering a cost-of-living perspective on the matter, Jennifer expresses that, “We are feeling the increase in pressure and that is reflective in the price. We are price sensitive at Wee Toast Tours but at the same time trying to cover our overheads just like anyone else”.
The 'Wee Toast Tours' owner highlights the positive impact Belfast's hospitality has on bride and grooms to be.
She says, “I think that the market in Belfast and folks in hospitality are looking after people very well with a lot of care and appreciation. We like to celebrate with families, and they feel it when people come to see us and they really connect, and of course enjoy the wonderful Belfast craic”
Looking to the future of Belfast claiming the title as Ireland’s most popular hen destination, Jennifer states that, “I think that it will only continue to evolve as a market that looks after the wedding sector very well.”