Last month was my Birthday, so I wanted to share ten fun ways to celebrate your next one. If you have a friend who’s struggling for celebratory ideas, send them this post!
As a child, I celebrated on the giant slide at the Jungle Gym, then congratulated my own bravery with a Thomas the Tank themed kid’s meal at Little Chef. Sadly today, I’d probably be chucked out if I tried to replicate my childhood tradition, so let’s go for alternatives which are close, yet appropriate.
If you’re bored of celebratory meals and boogies, then I’ve written this for you. This post is in celebration with the fun squad at Swingers who provide: fresh cocktails, popular street food and (some) healthy competition with your friends.
1. Crazy Golf (which I did this year)
Swingers have every celebration covered. It gets busy but there are two nine-hole crazy golf courses at each venue. Everyone can order cocktails at the bar and on the golf pitch – the service is amazing. There’s the option of having your drink of choice served to you whilst you play! You don’t need to fuss over any dietary requirements because there’s a good range of street-food vendors at the venue. I recommend booking a table slot in advance so you and your mates can celebrate your best-golfing efforts and feast together. With a 3D photo podium, golfing buggy and flower arch there’s plenty of Insta-ready photo opportunities so you can treasure all of your Birthday memories.
2. Karaoke
You don’t have to be blessed with X-Factor worthy vocal cords to enjoy Karaoke! Popular in Asia, assemble all of your drinking buddies, pick your best fancy dress prop and sing like seals with your loved ones in a private room. A lot of venues now have swishy music technology with specialist drinks service, pizza & bar snacks and photobooths!
3. Axe Throwing
This one looks and sounds dangerous but all coaches are fully trained and qualified to ensure you have a fun but safe experience. If you’re stressed (perhaps from turning a year older) then why not organise a healthy competition to sling your axes against your friends or colleagues. I like this one because there’s plenty of time to socialise between throws. It’s also great for bringing friends who may not know each other, together.
4. Escape Rooms
I recommend this option for your geeky bunch of mates. If you were the kid who watched Crystal Maze and screamed at the TV: “I could do that!”, well, now you can! Gather your mates and go on a real-life adventure where you solve a series of puzzles and riddles using clues and to complete the tasks. It’s a lot harder than it looks as there’s a set time limit to unveil.
5. Dart Club
I know what you’re thinking, ‘why has she added this one?’ Honestly, it’s not an older gents sport anymore. Darts is becoming more popular with all ages and they’re opening a lot more branches in the UK. This one is for your therapeutic bunch. A lot of the venues provide delicious sharing food too.
6. Bowling
I have so many fond bowing memories as a kid. If you haven’t gone for ages then relive your childhood because it’s the best feeling ever. Bowling alleys are known to be filled with sticky carpets and warm beer, but now there are lots of boutique ones which have really good food, fine cocktails,
craft beer and excellent service.
7. Trampolining or Climbing
If you’re a sporty person and you have lots of active mates then you guys will have so much fun Trampolining or Climbing. It’s healthy, awesome fun. Some venues have resident DJs, planned parties and special events so check out what’s jumping around at your local one.
8. Go-Karting
This one is for the adrenaline chasers. Trying to overtake your mates is the fun part. I love driving so being able to crash is satisfying. A lot of venues have great hospitality facilities so celebrate your success after the race in the bar afterwards!
9. Clay Pigeon Shooting / Archery
Gather your squad to take a trip to the serene countryside to master weaponry skills. With clay pigeon shooting, all will be given training on how to use a shotgun. If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at archery then the coach will teach how to aim your judgement. My idea would be to get everyone to the pub later to celebrate your victories!
10. Secret Cinema/Garden/Foodie Club
If getting your mates anywhere out of the city is too much of a hassle then get everyone to buy tickets for Secret Cinema, festival or a Foodie club. It’s a great way to bring everyone together for a fun evening and lots of laughs.
If your friend’s Birthday is coming up and they’re struggling for ideas then send them this blog post and have a wonderful time.
Have I missed any activities that you’re burning to add to this list? Let me know! It’ll be great to share with each other the best ones.
Location: Swingers, The City
