Planning a hen weekend for 2026 and torn between Liverpool and Dublin?
At GoHen, the UK’s leading hen party planners, we’ve compared everything from nightlife to price-per-pint to help you figure out which city deserves your bride tribe.
Is Dublin or Liverpool Better for a Hen Party?
Based on our expert comparison, it really boils down to budget and vibe.
Liverpool is more affordable and hassle-free for a hen weekend and has more self-catering accommodation options.
Dublin could be a better choice if you want a change of environment and more of a sense of adventure, or a getaway feel on the hen weekend.
However, considering the cost of flights and the capital city costs, you might get more bang for your buck in Liverpool rather than in Dublin.
Still undecided? Compare nightlife, activities, cost, and vibe below…
- Which City Has Better Nightlife?
- Which City Has Better Hen Activities?
- Where Will My Money Go Further?
- Which City Matches Your Vibe?
- FAQs
Which City Has Better Nightlife?
If your group loves drag shows and loud, unforgettable nights, Merseyside’s nightlife is spot on.
But if you prefer vibey cocktail bars, chart anthems, and dressed-up dancefloors, Dublin’s your city.
Verdict:
- Liverpool – Best for 24/7 party nights
- Dublin – Best for dressy cocktail nights
Liverpool Nights Out…
- Concert Square & Baltic Triangle
- Drag Queen Karaoke & Bingo Lingo
- Kaiser Keller & Alcotraz Cocktail Experience
Dublin Nights Out…
- Temple Bar
- Prosecco & Platters
- Comedy Club & Irish Show
Which City Has Better Hen Activities?
It all depends on what kind of vibe you’re after!
If you’re a bigger group, you might have a wider choice of things to do for hens in Liverpool such as karaoke bars and cocktail-making classes.
However, there’s a lot more exploring and sightseeing you can do in Dublin, and also some unique activities you won’t be able to do anywhere else, such as an Amphibious Viking Tour and visiting the famous Guinness Brewery.
Verdict:
- Liverpool has more private hire options and more variety for bigger groups
- Dublin has more unique local activities that are great for making memories
Where will my money go further?
Liverpool is more affordable overall, with cheaper accommodation, drink prices and travel costs, while Dublin is pricier due to flights and capital city premiums.
Verdict:
- Liverpool is lower-cost overall
- Dublin is pricier, but worth it if budget allows
🏠 Accommodation
It could be tricky to find self-catering accommodation in Dublin, which is why most hens stay in hotels near the city centre and Temple Bar. Liverpool, on the other hand, offers a range of central, hen-friendly self-catering apartments packed with perks.
Verdict:
- Liverpool – Affordable houses & hen-friendly apartments
- Dublin – Mostly hotels, with limited self-catering options
💡 We always recommend sorting out the accommodation as early as possible to ensure the best finds, prices, and availability.
🛫Travel
Depending on where you’re based, you’ll likely drive or take the train to Liverpool, while flying is required for Dublin.
- Liverpool – Train-accessible from most of the UK
- Dublin – Flights are required
You may still find good deals on flights depending on your airport and how early you book. We recommend checking Skyscanner and Trainline for up-to-date prices on flights and trains.
🍸 Drink prices
Central areas like Temple Bar (Dublin) and Concert Square (Liverpool) tend to be more expensive. Head to the outskirts for better value and more local vibes.
- Liverpool – £4.83 per pint on average (Office of National Statistics)
- Dublin – €6.90–€9.20 per pint (Irish Independent)
What can £235 get you in each city?
For £235 in the kitty, Liverpool typically includes four activities, while Dublin is likely to tap out at three.
- Liverpool – 4 activities, central accommodation
- Dublin – 3 activities, but more of an adventure
Which City Matches Your Vibe?
According to Tom, our Dublin Specialist:
“Brides who choose Dublin usually want a city break with a twist. Those heading to Liverpool want a weekend that’s all party, all the time.”
Verdict:
- Liverpool is a top pick for party-first hens
- Dublin is ideal for explorer hens who want culture & charm
Our city guides are a great source of information that can help you pick the destination that’s right for you.
FAQs
Is Dublin or Liverpool better for a hen party?
Depends on the vibe and the budget!
- Liverpool = better value, easier travel
- Dublin = more adventure & atmosphere (but pricier)
Are Dublin and Liverpool Hen-Friendly?
Both cities are hen-friendly. Liverpool’s Concert Square and most Temple Bar pubs in Dublin allow fancy dress, but high-end cocktail bars lean smart-casual, so make sure to swap inflatables for sashes before you queue
Can a Group of 15–20 Hens Stay in One House in Either City?
It’s possible in both cities, but much easier in Liverpool.
If you’re firm on staying in a self-catering house, then Liverpool won’t disappoint.
How far in advance should we book our hen weekend for each city?
According to our Dublin hen do guide, in 2024, hens enquired for their event approximately 212 days (7+ months) before their event was due.
Similarly, groups headed out to Liverpool last year enquired on average 207 days before their hen dos (as per our Liverpool hen do guide).
Therefore, there really isn’t much difference in how long it takes to plan and prepare for a Dublin trip compared to a Liverpool one.
Generally, if you’re looking for a more last-minute deal, Liverpool would be the way to go.
In any case, we recommend enquiring as soon as you know where you’re headed. Hopefully, this guide has helped you decide!
No matter which city wins your heart at the end, we will be here to make sure that you’ll have a great time!
Are You Ready to Plan Your Hen Weekend?
Let’s make it official! Whether it’s Dublin or Liverpool, we’ll build your perfect hen weekend, minus the planning stress.
Drop us a speedy hen enquiry today and one of our Destination Specialists will be on hand to send you a free quote that will help you with any questions you might have.
Alternatively, you can call us on 011225 424700 and chat to them over the phone.
