4
Dec,2025
Planning a hen party in London? If you want to turn the night into something unforgettable, skipping the standard bar crawl and booking a VIP table at a top club is the move. But here’s the truth: not all VIP tables are created equal. Some are overpriced gimmicks. Others? Worth every pound. This isn’t about flashing cash-it’s about knowing where to sit, what you’re actually paying for, and how to avoid the traps that turn a dream night into a stressful mess.
What You’re Really Paying For
A VIP table in London doesn’t just mean a corner seat. It’s a package. Most clubs bundle drinks, bottle service, dedicated staff, and sometimes even entry for the whole group. But the fine print matters. At places like Ministry of Sound or The Arches, a basic table for 6-8 people starts at £600-£800. That usually includes 2-3 bottles of premium vodka or champagne, mixers, and a host to manage your table. No cover charge. No waiting in line. Just walk in, sit down, and the drinks keep coming.
But here’s what most people don’t realize: you’re not paying for the table. You’re paying for the experience. The staff who know your name. The security that lets your group in without hassle. The sound system that drops bass right where you’re sitting. The fact that you won’t be elbowing strangers for a drink at 2 a.m. That’s the real value.
Top Clubs for Hen Parties in London
Not every club is built for a group of 10 women in matching tiaras. Some are too dark, too quiet, or too strict. These are the ones that actually get it right:
- The Arches - A warehouse-style space under London Bridge with a dance floor that shakes. Their VIP area has plush sofas, private lighting, and a dedicated cocktail menu. Perfect if your group loves energy and space.
- Ministry of Sound - The global name in clubbing. Their VIP tables here come with soundproofed booths, a personal DJ request line, and bottle service that includes free shots for the whole group. Ideal if you want a club with serious credibility.
- Cirque Le Soir - A theatrical experience. Think cabaret dancers, glitter, and a crowd that’s there to party, not just sip. Their VIP section has cabanas and a dedicated champagne bar. Best for groups who want a show.
- KOKO - A historic venue turned modern club with a rooftop terrace. Their VIP tables include outdoor seating, which is rare in London. Great if your hen party wants to chill outside before hitting the dance floor.
- Café de Paris - Not your average club. It’s a cabaret-meets-nightclub hybrid with live performers on stage. Their VIP tables come with front-row seats and a menu that includes caviar and truffle fries. For the hen who wants glam, not just glitter.
What’s Included (And What’s Not)
Clubs love to say “all-inclusive.” But here’s what they don’t always tell you:
- What’s usually included: Entry for your group, 2-4 bottles of alcohol (vodka, champagne, gin), mixers, ice, basic snacks (nuts, crisps), a dedicated server, and no cover charge.
- What’s usually extra: Premium spirits (like Grey Goose or Dom Pérignon), extra bottles, food upgrades (sushi platters, sliders), tips for staff, and late-night club access after 2 a.m. Some clubs charge £100+ per extra bottle.
- Hidden fees: Some venues add a 15-20% service charge automatically. Always ask: “Is this the final price?” before you pay a deposit.
One hen party in 2025 booked a £750 table at a popular West End club. They thought it included champagne. When they got there, the “champagne” was a £25 bottle they’d never heard of. They ended up spending another £400 on upgrades. Don’t let that be you.
How to Book Smart
Don’t just Google “VIP tables London” and pick the first result. Here’s how to avoid the pitfalls:
- Book at least 3-4 weeks ahead. Weekends fill up fast, especially in December.
- Ask for a written quote. Not a WhatsApp message. An email with exact inclusions and total price.
- Confirm the minimum spend. Some clubs require you to spend £1,000 minimum-even if you book a £600 table.
- Ask about guest list limits. Some places cap VIP groups at 12 people. If you have 15, you might need two tables.
- Request a pre-visit. Many clubs let you tour the VIP area before booking. Do it. See if the seating is actually comfortable, or if it’s just a row of stools behind a velvet rope.
Pro tip: Ask for the club’s “hen party package.” Some have special deals for groups of 10+ women-like free entry for the bride, a custom cocktail named after her, or a photo booth included. Don’t assume they’ll offer it. Ask.
What to Bring (And What to Leave at Home)
Clubs in London have dress codes. Even VIP tables. No trainers. No hoodies. No flip-flops. Most require smart casual: dresses, tailored pants, nice tops. No one’s asking for ball gowns-but if you show up in leggings and a t-shirt, you’ll get turned away.
Leave the giant handbags at the hotel. Most clubs don’t allow bags bigger than a small clutch. Use a waist pack or a tiny crossbody. You’ll thank yourself when you’re dancing and not worrying about your purse.
And skip the spray tan. Seriously. One bride showed up with a streaky tan, and the club’s security asked her to wipe it off. They said it was “too distracting.” It’s not about the tan-it’s about the mess it leaves on velvet sofas.
When It’s Not Worth It
VIP tables aren’t for everyone. If your group prefers:
- Live music over DJs
- Quiet conversation over loud bass
- Spending less than £50 per person
- Getting drinks at a pub instead of a bottle service queue
Then skip the VIP table. A private dining room at a rooftop bar or a reserved area at a live music venue like The Jazz Cafe might be a better fit. You’ll still have a great night-just without the bottle service pressure.
Final Tip: The Real Perk
The best part of a VIP table isn’t the champagne. It’s not the leather sofas. It’s the freedom. No waiting. No arguing over who pays for the next round. No dodging drunk strangers. Just your group, your music, your vibe. That’s what makes it worth the cost.
Book smart. Ask the right questions. Know what’s included. And remember: the goal isn’t to impress the club. It’s to make sure your friend feels like a queen for the night.
How much does a VIP table cost for a hen party in London?
Most VIP tables for 6-8 people start at £600-£800, including 2-4 bottles of alcohol, mixers, and a dedicated server. Premium clubs like Ministry of Sound or Cirque Le Soir can cost £1,000-£1,800, especially if you add premium spirits or food upgrades. Always ask if service charges are included.
Do VIP tables include entry for the whole group?
Yes, in most cases. Entry for your entire group is part of the package. You’ll usually get a guest list with names, and you walk straight in. No line. No cover charge. But always confirm this in writing before booking.
Can we bring our own drinks to a VIP table?
No. Clubs strictly prohibit outside alcohol. This isn’t a house party-it’s a licensed venue. If you try to sneak in a bottle, staff will confiscate it, and you could be asked to leave. Stick to the package.
What’s the best time to book a VIP table for a hen party?
Book 3-4 weeks in advance, especially on weekends or during holidays like Christmas or New Year’s Eve. Clubs release their VIP tables in blocks, and the best spots go fast. Don’t wait until the last minute.
Are VIP tables worth it for a small group of 4-5 people?
It depends. If you’re spending £600 for 4 people, that’s £150 per person-more than most people spend on a whole night out. For smaller groups, consider a reserved booth at a cocktail bar or a private room at a rooftop venue. You’ll get better value and still have a memorable night.
