Weekend getaways with the guys
So you’re in desperate need of a weekend away with the guys. Work’s been hell and you need to let off some steam with a trip that only your best mates can make amazing. Whether it’s an escape to nature, a sea change with some sunshine or a weekend of good food and better bars, there are plenty of places to choose from for a quick dose of endorphins. We take a look at some of the best boys weekend escapes across the UK that are sure to put a swing back in your step come Monday morning.
Pub crawl in Glasgow
Whether you’re after a good old fashioned pub or a swanky new bar, Glasgow can certainly offer the goods. Book an Airbnb and take a tour of the West End, ensuring that you hit up Argyle Street in trendy Finnieston and Great George Lane in Hillhead. If you’re a massive fan of craft beer, have a gander of
this self-guided pub crawl. Glasgow is also the perfect spot for lovers of live music. Catch a gig at
King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut,
Òran Mór or
Barrowland Ballroom. If you’re looking for something to do during the day, have a bit of fun with classic
paintballing, or try your hand at
clay shooting (before you get on the piss, that is!).
Sea kayaking around Scotland’s west coast
Sea kayaking is a great way to get in some action and see spectacular scenery at the same time. It’s the perfect mix of exciting and serene. If you and your mates are all seasoned kayakers, there are a few great trips organised by
Wilderness Scotland that take in some of the best sights on the West Coast and in the Highlands. If your crew are fresh to kayaking, however,
Sea Kayaking Scotland have an introductory weekend course, and Wilderness Scotland also conduct a
five-day beginners course (if you're up for extending your weekend by a few cheeky days). Both are perfect for learning new skills and getting out in nature.
Trekking and camping in Snowdonia
It’s time to book your flights to Cardiff and hire a car - because hiking is on the agenda! If you’re after some blood-pumping scrambling, a good challenge, and some team bonding, this is a top weekend activity.
Gwern Gôf Isaf Farm will have you forgetting the sounds of the city in no time. It’s located at the base of Tryfan in Snowdonia National Park, and is surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The campsite is small and has basic facilities. You can either book one of the two lodges or pitch a tent. It’s a great base for trekking and there are other activities offered on site such as climbing and abseiling. You can also hire mountain bikes nearby for a truly jam-packed weekend of action.
Game of Thrones tour Northern Ireland
If you’re after something a little more low-key, a
Game of Thrones tour of Northern Ireland is a fun, yet relaxing way to spend time with the boys. Missing out on your weekly viewings of the hit show? Jump a ferry or catch a flight to Belfast and live it instead. Film buffs and fans alike will enjoy exploring the amazing filming locations and listening to behind-the-scenes tales of GoT production. Bus tours frequently depart from Belfast where you can choose to cast anchor at the Iron Islands, walk amongst the dark hedges where Arya and Gendry made their escape from King’s Landing, and venture into the cave where Melisandre gave birth to that creepy as fuck dark spirit baby.
Blacksmithing or Bow Making in Northern Ireland
While we’re getting a little medieval, if you want to use your hands to make something a bit different, try one of these weekend intensive classes in blacksmithing or bow making. Classes are operated by
Hot Milk Forge, situated in a town an hour from Belfast, so you may want to hire a car to optimise time wisely. These courses are probably the perfect addition to your GoT (long) weekend, and will placate any friends who aren’t diehard fans of the show but still opted in for the group getaway anyway (let’s be honest, who doesn’t like the idea of being a badass blacksmith??). You can choose between a general blacksmithing course or a bladesmithing course, or try your hand at bow making. Whichever you choose, you’re going to get dirty, learn new skills, and come out the other end of the weekend with something you can be proud of fashioning with your own hands.
Whiskey distillery tours on the Isle of Islay
After a weekend of refined taste and relaxed remoteness? A whiskey distillery tour of the Isle of Islay is the ultimate weekend away for a small group looking to indulge. You can either book a private tour through operators such as
Heart of Scotland Tours or
Scottish Routes, or opt to hire a car (and a driver) and organise distillery access yourself. If you’re a lover of peaty whisky, don’t miss
Ardbeg. Smoky fans will love
Laphroaig. If you want a happy medium between smoky and peaty, go for
Lagavulin. Though, of course, we recommend trying all of them, and don’t forget
Bowmore!
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