Are you looking for a fun and adventurous activity that beats the stereotypes when it comes to planning a hen weekend? Well this is certainly a great option, allowing you to take out the anger on those targets and see who would be the ultimate Viking warrior. This activity has really boomed over the past few years, popping up in bars and venues all across the country, as you get the chance to hurl an axe at a giant target, not something you do every day!
Axe throwing might take place indoors or outdoors, either in a bar, meaning you can follow this up with some drinks and some food, or at an activity centre, where you'll have outdoor targets, which is great for the summer time. The outdoor centres have a number of activities available in the same area, which can be great if you want to get your moneys worth, however the bar means you're still close to other venues, whether it's a restaurant or an escape rooms.
Your group will have a couple of targets, and you’ll take turns throwing the axes, with an instructor guiding you on the best technique to make each throw count. It might take a few tries to get the knack, but if you’re booking somewhere like Whistle Punks in Bristol, you’ll likely get around a 70-minute session to fully dive into it. Your organiser can confirm the details for you.
If you’re planning a hen party in Bristol, the experience usually includes several rounds over a 75 minute slot with your own set lane per group to crown the real axe-throwing champion! You’ll have a wooden target set up and all the kit ready for lots of competitive fun.
There might be different sizes of axes to choose from, so you can find the one that feels just right. Heavier axes tend to stick better, but they’re trickier to handle, so it’s all about finding the right balance. You’ve got an hour to master your form—get ready to feel like a Viking!
You’ll be standing about four metres from the target, ensuring safety for everyone around. Sessions start with a quick safety briefing, and then you’re all set to get throwing. Who’s bringing the drinks?
No, please don’t! Why do you even have an axe? And especially don’t bring it abroad—that’s just asking for trouble at the airport! All the equipment is provided, so you just need to show up ready to have a good time (and maybe bring some fun forfeits for the friend with the worst aim).
Absolutely! Axe throwing is almost as much fun to watch as it is to play. Anyone can sit back and enjoy the show, with plenty of laughs as people take their turns (and maybe completely miss the target!). We’ve even launched axe throwing in Brussels recently, so if you’re up for something a little different, it’s definitely worth considering.
Yes, when it takes place in a bar, they have a set lane which is booked out for your group for a set period of time. There may be other lanes relatively close by, but you will have full reign of your lane for say 75 minutes on average, but this may vary by location.
All venues have different rules, but the majority don't allow you to drink while throwing the axe, while you also can't turn up completely inebriated. Of course, you can always ask once you get there, as there is a difference between the set rules and what the staff are ok with, but we'd just generally recommend staying sober beforehand. I mean, wielding an axe while drunk as a skunk doesn't sound like the best plan.
While you can generally wear what you like, you might want to think about anything that might restrict your movement. You will generally be standing still, with your arm stretching behind you and then lunging forward, if you feel you can do that in what you're wearing then you're generally fine. Most venues don't have too many hard rules on this, but if you decide to go to an activity centre instead then you might want to consider what other activities you might want to book and the fact that you will be outside in an area which might be muddy.
This activity requires a lot of hand to eye co-ordination, it's a fun game that will involve a physical aspect, but you're not going to be working up a sweat, so you don't have to worry about packing some deodorant and perfume in the handbag as you don't really move around at all. Plus, you're each taking a go, so you have a rest period between goes, meaning you shouldn't get too tired or worn out at all. Having said this, considering the type of activity, it might be difficult for senior members who struggle a bit with flexibility. However, it would be completely fine if they were to watch and cheer everyone on.
Booking a weekend for your best friend can feel like a colossal task. Where to go? What to do? Who’s in? How to pay for it all?
Well, relax! We’re the original hen do experts, and we’ve got all the answers. We’ve mastered the art of hen dos over the years, and now it’s your turn to join the club.
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