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Group holidays: The best destinations for groups

A holiday with a big group of friends or a vacation with extended family have to be some of the most memorable trips you can take. Understandably, the planning behind this type of holiday can be intense; don't worry, though, you've come to the right place!

We've rounded up all our best and cheapest group holiday deals right here. So, whether you're planning a stag or hen do in Portugal, an adventurous group holiday in Egypt or something closer to home, like a group glamping staycation or a spa and wellness retreat right here in the UK, we really do have something for everyone - and for every budget.

We've gathered some of our favourite group holiday destinations both in the UK and abroad. What are you waiting for - it's time to start assembling your favourite people for a trip of a lifetime.

The best UK destinations for a city break group holiday

Missed your mates on your last solo trip? A group getaway is just the ticket and what could be better than heading off to one of the UK's buzzing cities? This is especially the case for anyone planning a nightlife-heavy stag or hen do or for groups who want plenty of things to do and see.

Not only is a UK city break more convenient (and frequently cheaper) than a holiday abroad, this is also a great eco-friendly travel option if you are trying to cut down on flying. Plus, there'll be a whole lot less admin when it comes to the planning side, which is always a bonus.

From vibrant capital cities to coastal party hotspots, here are some of our favourite UK cities for a fun-filled group holiday or stag/hen do.

Glasgow

While many travellers may be tempted to head straight to Edinburgh, culture-rich Glasgow offers a whole lot of fun for anyone planning a group holiday. If you're looking for something refined, check out what’s on at the Gallery of Modern Art or catch a show at the Citizens Theatre. For something outdoors, jump on the train to Pollok Country Park or explore the glasshouses at Glasgow Botanic Gardens.

Glasgow's nightlife scene is excellent; adults-only Fore Play Crazy Golf is a hit for stag and hen dos as is Super Bario, where you can play old-school arcade games late into the night. There are plenty of other fun group activities too, from escape rooms to bubble football and cocktail-making classes. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking one of the many exciting day trips from Glasgow.

While central Glasgow has a number of budget options for groups, such as renting out privately owned homes or booking a dorm room in a hostel, we'd recommend staying just outside the city to expand your options.

London

A group holiday in the UK's capital city may not be the cheapest venture, but London always delivers and this is especially the case for groups wanting an action-packed trip. There's so much to see and do; take to London's many free museums and art galleries, like the Natural History Museum and National Gallery, or visit world-renowned attractions, such as the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Borough Market.

This city's nightlife is second to none, which makes it a particularly fun choice for stag and hen weekends. There are escape rooms, unusual vehicles to hire including the London Beer Bike, comedy clubs and quirky brunch sessions.

Like most cities, you'll find cheaper accommodation deals if you look within the outskirts but there are some central and affordable hostels in London, as well as other budget-friendly rentals.

Belfast

Northern Ireland's capital city is a fantastic choice for a group holiday; not only are there plenty of things to do in Belfast itself but there are some memorable day trips for those who are feeling adventurous. Get your culture fix at places like Titanic Belfast, Ulster Museum or the Lyric Theatre. Once you've explored the city, hop on a Game of Thrones-themed day trip or pay a visit to the Giant's Causeway.

You can also find a wide range of group activities in Belfast. Why not try your hand at axe throwing at Axe Yard? Or go all out and embrace your inner child at Let's Go Hydro? If those don't take your fancy, there are also escape rooms, cocktail-making classes and bottomless brunches to choose from.

In terms of nightlife, Belfast's Cathedral Quarter is considered to be one of the best areas and is therefore a great place to stay during a group holiday.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Also simply referred to as Newcastle or, if you're a local, 'the Toon', this city is a hotspot for group getaways all year round. Newcastle is packed with places and activities that will keep you and your friends busy. Catch some live music at the otherworldly Sage Gateshead, visit the iconic Angel of the North and marvel at the Gateshead Millennium Bridge.

For something a little different (and indulgent), go on a food walking tour with Triple A, opt for a bottomless brunch or take a brewery tour. Finish off your days by experiencing the famous Geordie nightlife; there are many venues that'll allow you dance until the sun comes up.

You can easily find group accommodation that suits all budgets in Newcastle, both near the city centre and the popular Quayside area. You can find even cheaper deals just outside the city near the coast.

Bristol

It may not be as renowned as some of the other destinations on our list, but Bristol has a lot to offer anyone travelling as a group. The city is full of history, with attractions like SS Great Britain, Bristol Museum and Art Gallery and Clifton Suspension Bridge. But Bristol also has its fair share of quirkier offerings, with the group-friendly favourites of boutique bowling at the Lanes and Smoke and Mirrors, a magic-themed theatre-pub.

The West Country Games is extremely popular for stag and hen dos, as are activities like stand-up paddleboarding, go karting and axe throwing. Bristol is also conveniently located for exploring further afield; the Cotswolds, southern Wales and Mendip Hills are all great day trips.

Like most cities, you can find affordable hostels in the centre, although you'll find cheaper private accommodation on the outskirts of Bristol.

Brighton

Want to escape to the seaside for your group holiday? Colourful and vibrant Brighton is your perfect match. Not only are there so many things to see and do, such as the Royal Pavilion, the British Airways i360 and Brighton Palace Pier, but you'll also have the opportunity to spend the day at the beach. That, and Brighton is conveniently located, with a train journey of just one hour from London.

Groups are spoiled for choice with all the fun activities on offer; have a go at tag archery with Archery Tag South, go on a ghost walk or have a unique and immersive cocktail experience at Alcotraz.

Brighton is home to a range of accommodation that will suit most budgets. The areas of North Laines, Kemptown and Hanover are all top spots for a group holiday.

The best UK destinations for an adventurous group holiday

If a city break doesn't work for your group, then how about an escape to the great outdoors? The UK is packed with breathtaking regions that are renowned for their countryside views, charming villages and wealth of adventurous activities. Whether you're keen on visiting a national park or one of the official Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you'll be setting yourself up for a bucket-list group holiday.

It's often even easier to find accommodation for larger groups in these places, especially if you're open to camping or settling into a spacious Airbnb (you can still find some luxury options too, though). Just remember to book ahead if you have your eye on a particularly popular area. Here are some of the best UK spots for an adventurous group holiday.

Wye Valley

Straddling the border between England and Wales, the Wye Valley is an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and it's a spectacular location for a group getaway. This region centres around the River Wye; Symonds Yat Rock, Tintern Abbey and Hay-on-Wye are all worth a visit here. One of the UK's most beautiful woodlands, the Forest of Dean, is located nearby. If your group enjoys hiking, you'll be absolutely spoiled for choice by the wide range of walks available - ideal for a group of different athletic abilities.

In terms of accommodation, you can find everything from camping and glamping sites to spacious cabins and cosy cottages.

Don't miss: A group hike along the Forest of Dean's Sculpture Trail, which takes you on a winding 4.5-mile loop through woodland that hosts unique nature-inspired sculptures and artworks.

Cornwall

Tucked in southwest England, Cornwall is a year-round favourite for all holidaymakers - and groups are no exception to this rule. Tintagel Castle, St Michael's Mount and Minack Theatre are some of the top attractions and while hiking and cycling are popular activities, water-based activities are the biggest draw for visiting groups.

There are many budget-friendly options out there, but why not make the most of your trip by booking a stay in one of the area’s many historical buildings, like a restored Victorian farmhouse or a stone cottage right on the seafront?

Don't miss: Make as the locals do and take to the waves! Get your group to sign up to a group surfing lesson or two before joining the seasoned surfers at spots like Fistral Beach or Gwithian Beach.

Brecon Beacons

This spot is a must-do for seasoned hikers and for those of an adrenaline-seeking persuasion; after all, a visit to Brecon Beacons National Park truly immerses you in nature. Easily accessible from both Swansea and Cardiff, your group will be blissed out once they arrive in this unforgettable place. You'll be walking or cycling beneath towering mountains by day and at night, thanks to this region's minimal light pollution, you'll be seeing the stars like you've never seen them before.

There are many accommodation options both near the park and in the surrounding area; splash out and stay in places like a refurbished medieval barn or a stone-roofed country house.

Don't miss: If you’re feeling up to the challenge, the iconic climb up Pen y Fan - the highest peak in southern Wales - will reward you with excellent views.

Peak District

Just a stone’s throw away from busy places like Manchester, Sheffield, Leeds and Liverpool, the beautiful and diverse Peak District National Park is a great option for groups of city dwellers who want to escape to nature. Explore the miles and miles of cycling trails available or go on foot to discover the wide range of walks, from special village trails to wilder nature trails.

There's no end to the gorgeous properties you can rent for groups, from converted barns to old-school manor houses and more budget-friendly family homes.

Don't miss: If your legs need a break from cycling or hiking, take a tour through Chatsworth House, a restored manor house that's also known as the 'Palace of the Peak'.

Need more trip inspiration?

The best group holiday destinations in Europe

Happy to venture a little further for your next group holiday? Europe is packed with destinations that are guaranteed to give you and your travel buddies a great time - no matter what you're into! Not only that, but you can find some impressive budget-saving deals for some of the most popular destinations.

Whether you're planning a raucous stag or hen do or a big gathering of friends or family, there are some European destinations you can count on time and again. And we've gone ahead and rounded up all these destinations for you. Read on for some inspiration - which destination sounds like your perfect fit?

Bansko, Bulgaria

Bulgaria may not be the first place you think of when planning a ski holiday, but with its bargain prices on everything from equipment hire to group accommodation, Bansko is ideal for a budget ski getaway with friends. A weekend ski pass for 2-3 days can be found for as little as £50-£90, which is a great deal less than what you’d pay at big-name ski resorts in France and Switzerland. You can also find round-trip flights from major UK airports to hub cities in Bulgaria for as little as £30 throughout the winter, and it’s even possible to book last-minute holidays at those prices!

Freiburg, Germany

For a journey that’s just as beautiful as the destination, hop on the Eurostar from London to the colourful city of Freiburg. After a little under eight hours of travel through picturesque French countryside, you'll arrive in Germany and disembark to discover narrow streets lined with pretty pastel houses. The real reason to head to Freiburg, however, has to be its proximity to the Black Forest and its many hiking trails. Our top choice: the meandering Breisgau wine path, which takes you through vineyards and small villages where your group can stop and sample the local specialities.

Le Touquet, France

With a train journey of just three hours from London, Le Touquet is an eco-friendly choice that minimises your travel time and maximises your beach time. This French seaside town boasts beautiful and wide golden-sand beaches where you and your group can stretch out and relax in the sun. You can find group accommodation a short walk away from the beachfront for less than £20 per person per night. That means you'll have some extra cash to spend on local seafood delicacies or nights out at the many bars and clubs in the area.

Budapest, Hungary

If you’re looking for a city break that won’t break the bank, Budapest is your perfect match. You’ll find drinks for less than £1, delicious and cheap street food like sugary chimney cakes and crispy lángos and, importantly, comfortable group accommodation for less than £10 per person per night right in the city centre. There are so many group-friendly activities too; plan an afternoon at one of the city's thermal baths, where you and your mates can relax for hours, then head over to Szimpla Kert, an old factory building that has been converted into a pub, music venue and open-air cinema.