Photo Locations London Hen Do: Best Spots for Memorable Girls' Night Shots

When you’re planning a London hen do, a celebratory night out for a bride-to-be with her closest friends. Also known as a bachelorette party, it’s not just about drinking and dancing—it’s about creating moments you’ll want to remember forever. And the best way to do that? Great photos. Not staged selfies, but real, joyful, messy, glitter-filled snapshots that tell the story of your night. The right photo locations, specific places in London known for their visual appeal, lighting, and unique backdrops. These spots are chosen for how well they frame people, mood, and movement turn a good night into a keepsake you’ll flip through years later.

London’s got more than just the usual bridge and bus stop backdrops. Think covered rooftop bars, venues with glass domes, heated terraces, and city views that stay perfect even when it rains—perfect for golden hour shots without freezing your toes off. Or wander through women-led South London spots, like The Begging Bowl, Kudu, and Nandine, where bold interiors, colorful murals, and community energy make every corner a photo opportunity. You don’t need a professional photographer. Just a group with good lighting, a phone, and a spot that doesn’t look like every other Instagram post.

Some of the best shots happen in places you wouldn’t expect. A quiet alley in Shoreditch with graffiti that pops. A neon-lit doorway near Soho after midnight. The glitter-dusted counter at a drag bingo night, where laughter, costumes, and unexpected moments create the kind of chaos that makes for perfect candid photos. Even a burlesque dance class, where confidence, movement, and playful outfits turn a studio into a living photo album can give you visuals you’d never get at a standard bar. And if you’re into something a little different? Try All Star Lanes, a bowling alley with retro vibes, diner food, and karaoke booths that turn your group into a 1980s music video. It’s not just a venue—it’s a set.

What makes a great photo location for a hen do? It’s not just pretty. It’s practical. Can you move your group easily? Is there enough light after dark? Can you actually hear each other over the music? The best spots balance style with comfort—like those conversation-focused venues, where the noise level lets you actually talk, and the lighting is warm enough to flatter every skin tone. And don’t forget the weather. London doesn’t always cooperate, so having a backup plan like a weather-proof rooftop bar, with indoor seating and a view that still works under glass saves the night.

You’re not just taking pictures—you’re building a memory book. That’s why the right location matters more than the camera. The best photos come from places that feel alive, not just filtered. Whether it’s the glow of a cocktail bar in Covent Garden, the wild energy of a drag show in Camden, or the quiet charm of a hidden garden terrace, these spots give your group something real to hold onto. Below, you’ll find real recommendations from people who’ve been there—no fluff, no tourist traps, just the spots that actually work for a night out with your favorite people.