So, the big day is coming up, all that's left now is to organise the all important hen night. We've all seen them- up and down the country groups of women out on the town - letting their hair down for the bride's last night of freedom, but if this sounds like your idea of hell, you may want to consider a more tame hen party.

There are a huge number of hotels throughout Britain that specialise in catering for groups of hens and can put together an excellent package for you, whether you decide that a bit of pampering is in order, or whether you would just like a sophisticated night of fine dining followed by a luxurious night's rest, there are a huge number of things you can do without tearing up the town or waking up with the hangover from hell!

Perhaps you would like to travel a little further afield. Stags are infamous for their trips abroad, taking advantage of the big party cities across Europe and beyond, and hens are following suit. But if this party atmosphere isn't for you, maybe you'd like to consider a trip to one of Europe's cultural centres - take in the Parisian cafe culture, appreciate the art and architecture of Barcelona, indulge in the high fashion of Milan or just soak up the sun with cocktails by the pool.

If this all seems a little bit too pricey for you, you can always opt to do something at home; you could arrange a Body Shop party or a murder mystery evening complete with props and fancy dress or if you fancy a bit of pampering  you could purchase  your own supplies for a home spa - face masks, good friends, wine and music will all combine to give you a lovely, relaxing night.

Or maybe you fancy something a little more active, there are loads of outdoor pursuits companies out there who are more than happy to put together a package for hen parties; maybe you'd prefer to do a spot of orienteering or archery, clay pigeon shooting or canoeing. They're all fun ways to spend the day with your nearest and dearest before the big day whilst straying from the more traditional, booze filled night on the tiles and the dogged morning after!