Where in the UK is best to go for a stag do?
Date published: 8 Aug 2025
Planning a stag do to remember (or not, depending on how many pints are involved)? From iconic party cities to adventure-packed countryside retreats, the UK is full of epic stag party destinations. At Big Cottages, we’re the pros in big party houses, so here’s our guide to the best places for a UK stag do – with things to do, where to drink and places to stay.
Newcastle
Why go? Newcastle is infamous for rowdy nights out, friendly locals and cheap pints – a rite of passage for any stag.
Top things to do:
- Brewery tour at Wylam Brewery
- Play Junkyard Golf, laser tag… or just pub hop along the Bigg Market
- Stadium tour of St James’ Park (ideal for football-mad grooms)
Where to eat and drink:
- Meat sweats at Meat:Stack or beers at The Bridge Tavern
- Start in Quayside bars then hit Collingwood Street (aka ‘The Diamond Strip’)
- End up at Digital, Tup Tup Palace, or Flares if you’re keeping it cheesy
Where to stay: Ridley Lodge sleeps eight and lines up a stellar games room with a retro Xbox, all a 40-minute taxi ride from the Toon.
Liverpool
Why go? Legendary nightlife, live music and excellent drinking culture, served with Scouse humour.
Top things to do:
- Go wild at Everton or Liverpool stadium tours
- The Beatles Story, then booze cruise on the Mersey
- VR or karting sessions for lads who want competition
Where to eat and drink:
- Hearty scran at Baltic Market
- Bar hop along Seel Street and Concert Square
- Finish at Baa Bar or Level for serious shapes
Where to stay: The Georgian Townhouse sits just on the outskirts of the city centre, so you get the best of both worlds. After a night on the town, give the ping pong table a whirl.
Cornwall
Why go? Ideal for stags wanting daytime adventure and evening antics with sea views.
Top things to do:
- Surf lessons at Fistral or coasteering in Newquay
- Fishing, paddleboarding and private BBQs on the sand
- Brewery tours or Healey's Cornish Cyder Farm
Where to eat and drink:
- Cocktails at Belushi’s or gin at Tom Thumb in Newquay
- Try fish & chips at Rick Stein’s, Padstow
- Beach clubs and tiki bars for sunset pints
Where to stay: You’ll be a minutes’ walk from the surf when you stay at Edge 14, in Newquay. It sleeps 18, with a hot tub and BBQ – what more could you want?
Bristol
Why go? Banksy, brilliant beer, and boat-based clubs – Bristol is arty with a wild streak.
Top things to do:
- Cider sampling at The Orchard or Bristol Dry Gin tour
- Banksy street art walking tour, paddleboarding at the Harbourside
- Crazy golf, escape rooms or axe throwing before the pub
Where to eat and drink:
- Pizzas and craft beer at the Hen and Chicken
- Cocktails at The Milk Thistle
- Hit the Triangle, King Street and Harbourside bars
Where to stay: Hidden Well is a super-modern barn conversion with a hot tub and plenty of space for 10 stags. Plus, you’re a 20-minute taxi from Bristol.
Peak District
Why go? Ideal for stags wanting fresh air, proper pubs and party houses without noise limits.
Top things to do:
- Quad biking, clay-pigeon shooting, mountain biking
- Hike (or pub stroll) to Chatsworth House or Mam Tor
- Craft brewery tours near Bakewell and Buxton
Where to eat and drink:
- Country pub grub at The Devonshire Arms in Buxton
- Real ales in Bakewell pubs
- Private chef or BBQ back at base
Where to stay: This 7-bed cottage in Tideswell is a top choice. After a pub lunch, retreat to the games room for some pool, or soak in the outdoor hot tub.
Edinburgh
Why go? A stag weekend full of whisky, banter and proper Scottish nightlife.
Top things to do:
- Blend your own whisky at Johnnie Walker Princes Street
- Conquer Arthur’s Seat (hangovers permitting…)
- Axe throwing, escape rooms or spooky ghost tours
Where to eat and drink:
- Dirty burgers at Bread Meats Bread
- Booze crawl on Rose Street
- George Street clubs or underground Cowgate venues
Where to stay: A hot tub, 10 bedrooms (sleeping up to 24!), a games room, and the option of karaoke – you’re onto a winner with Blossom Mansion. It’s only 10 minutes’ drive from the centre of Edinburgh, too.
Cardiff
Why go? Compact, fun, and full of lively pubs – Cardiff’s ideal for no-fuss stag chaos.
Top things to do:
- Principality Stadium tours – one for rugby fans
- White-water rafting or a party cruise around Cardiff Bay
- Beer school at Tiny Rebel Brewery
Where to eat and drink:
- Tapas & beers at Bar 44
- Hit St Mary Street and Greyfriars for big nights
- Live Lounge & Clwb Ifor Bach for dancing
Where to stay: With a cinema room, bar, hot tub and indoor pools, it’s like The Locks was made for stags. And it’s only a 25-minute trip into Cardiff.
Ready to plan the ultimate stag? Browse our stag-friendly stays across the UK.
