A Quick Guide to Planning a Holiday with Friends

So you’ve done it. You’ve suggested a friends’ holiday. Everyone was enthusiastic, emojis were flying around the group chat, and someone even said, “Yes, 100%!” Fast forward a few days, though, and suddenly the excitement has turned into pressure. Where do you even begin? How do you plan something that suits everyone? How do you keep it relaxed without it feeling boring? And how do you make sure it’s a holiday you’ll still be talking about years from now?

At Party Houses, we understand just how special holidays with friends can be, and how tricky they can be to organise. These getaways are about reconnecting, escaping routine, and creating memories together, whether you’re celebrating something big or simply carving out time for each other. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you plan a friends’ holiday that feels effortless, balanced, and unforgettable.

 

Start with the Group (Not the Destination)

Before scrolling endlessly through accommodation options, take a moment to think about who you’re travelling with. Are you a group that loves late nights and lively games? Or do you lean more towards slow mornings, long walks, and good food?

Getting a feel for the group dynamic early on helps you avoid planning a trip that feels perfect on paper, but not in reality. A successful friends’ holiday is one where everyone feels comfortable, included, and relaxed.

 

Choosing the Right Location

Once you know the vibe, choosing a destination becomes much easier. For friends’ holidays, accessibility is often key. Somewhere central, scenic, and away from daily distractions works beautifully.

The UK countryside is a favourite for good reason. It offers space, privacy, and the freedom to enjoy each other’s company without rushing between plans. Whether it’s rolling hills, coastal views, or a charming village nearby, the right setting sets the tone for the entire trip.

 

Why Group Accommodation Makes All the Difference

Hotels can be convenient, but they rarely create that togetherness that makes a friends’ holiday special. Staying in a large house means shared breakfasts, late-night chats, spontaneous games, and everyone under one roof.

When choosing your accommodation, look for:

• Spacious communal areas
• Enough bedrooms and bathrooms for comfort
• Outdoor space for sunny afternoons
• Extras like hot tubs, games rooms, or cosy fires

At Party Houses, we specialise in properties designed for groups… places where connection happens naturally, without forcing a schedule.

 

Planning Activities (Without Over-planning)

One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to plan too much. A great friends’ holiday balances activities with plenty of downtime. Plus, there are so many activities and extras that you can organise! 

At-home experiences

Bringing activities to your accommodation is often easier,  and more enjoyable, than travelling around. Think:

• Private chefs or catered dinners
• Cocktail making or wine tasting
• Games nights, quizzes, or karaoke

These are perfect for evenings when you want to stay in, laugh together, and make the most of your surroundings.

Getting out and about

If you’re keen to explore, simple activities work best:

• Scenic walks followed by a pub lunch
• Spa sessions or wellness treatments
• Creative workshops like pottery painting

The aim isn’t to fill every hour… it’s to give the weekend a gentle structure that everyone can enjoy.

 

Budgeting Without the Awkwardness

Money conversations don’t have to be uncomfortable. Being upfront early on makes everything smoother. Agree on accommodation costs first, then decide which extras are must-haves and which are optional.

Splitting accommodation evenly is usually simplest, while activities and food can be flexible depending on preference. Clear expectations mean fewer worries and more enjoyment.

If you happen to be planning a hen do, be sure to check out our hen party budget calculator!

 

Creating a Loose Program

We often suggest thinking in terms of a flow rather than a strict itinerary.

• Day 1: Arrive, settle in, groceries sorted, relaxed evening together
• Day 2: One or two planned activities, followed by a fun or social evening
• Day 3: Slow morning, brunch, maybe a walk or spa session before heading home

This kind of structure keeps things organised without making the holiday feel rushed.

 

The Right House Brings It All Together

While the activities add excitement, the accommodation is what truly shapes the experience. Every group is different! Some prefer luxury and calm, others want bold, playful spaces built for fun.

From elegant countryside estates to modern houses with entertainment features, we match groups with spaces that suit their style, size, and vision for the getaway. If you’re unsure, our team is always happy to help guide you.

 

Ready for a Holiday?

Planning a holiday with friends doesn’t need to be stressful. With the right people, the right place, and a little thought upfront, it becomes something to look forward to rather than worry about.

At the end of the day, it’s about stepping away from everyday life, reconnecting with the people who matter most, and creating shared memories you’ll laugh about long after the bags are unpacked.

If you’re ready to start planning, explore our collection of group holiday houses across the UK, and let the getaway begin.