Turning 21 is an important life event and you need a spectacular party to celebrate it properly complete with all your favourite people. Whether you know someone about to have their birthday or it’s your birthday on the horizon, take a look through our 21st birthday party ideas to treat yourself and your friends to a weekend of fun, games and luxury in one of our five-star big party houses across the UK.
From magnificent manors to stylish townhouses, we have an impressive range of cool party houses for you to explore. Begin browsing and find a property perfect for your big 21st birthday bash.
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These 21st birthday celebration ideas have an option for every kind of birthday party in a variety of fantastic UK destinations, with ideas great for him or for her, and cake ideas to impress your guests. Cast your eyes over this list of 21st birthday celebration ideas and let us help you put together the perfect plan for your big event.
A games weekend at Southwood Chase | Chesterfield, Peak District
Sleeps 18
Get competitive with a big games event at Southwood Chase to celebrate your 21st with all your mates. You could head to the outdoor bar area and set up a pool tournament – turn up the duke box and stock the bar to get the party started! Cure any hangovers the next day with a ‘friendly’ game of rounders or football in the extensive grounds before kicking back and relaxing with a BBQ or a dip in the indoor pool.
The highlights:
- Outdoor bar – cask and kegged lagers can be arranged with the owner
- Pool table
- Private indoor swimming pool
What our guests say:
‘Fantastic home. The host was very helpful and accommodating. Wonderful location. We were here on a stag holiday and I think it would be suitable for any large group of friends/family. Lots of good walking in the area. Would highly recommend.’ – Daniel
Southwood Chase
A water sports party at The Summer Lake Retreat | South Cerney, Cotswolds
Sleeps 8
Take a few of your closest friends to this beautiful lakeside holiday retreat for a party out on the water. With its wonderful location in the Cotswold Water Park, a rather exclusive part of the UK, there’s ample opportunity for water sports with the group. Experience kayaking on the Cotswolds lakes, enjoy swimming or go sailing. Wakeboarding, water-skiing and windsurfing are all perfect activities for an active party weekend.
The highlights:
- Scenic waterside views as it sits in the centre of Cotswold Water Park
- Private mooring
- Shared tennis court.
What our guests say:
‘Me and some friends stayed at Southwood Chase for a much needed getaway and we couldnt fault the experience at all. The pool was perfect for us and the outdoor bar was a great addition to the property. I have to say the owner, Rob, was amazing throughout the whole week and we couldnt have asked for a better host. Definitely recommend staying here.– Harry
The Summer Lake Retreat
Sleeps 16
Known as a top surfing spot in the UK, Croyde is the perfect destination for both frequent surfers and beginners. What better way to celebrate a 21st birthday party than by doing something you love, or by challenging yourself to learn a new skill? Swim, surf and soak up the sun, then sit back and relax for an evening BBQ by the beach watching the sunset over a few beers. There’s nothing quite like it.
The highlights:
- Within walking distance to the beach, shops and eateries of Croyde
- A separate annexe sleeps 2 for extra privacy.
What our guests say:
Such a beautiful house in the heart of Croyde! Spacious, clean and very well equipped with a very short stroll to some lovely restaurants. A short drive to beautiful sandy beaches and great location for day trips. Would highly recommend!- James
The Old Cider Barn
A dance party at Rock-rose House | Eggleston, County Durham
Sleeps 20
An elegant country house that you may recognise as the finishing school in the hit show Ladette to Lady. Behind the ancient walls of this magnificent stately home, you’ll find a grand hallway perfect for a party. Pick your favourite music or hire a DJ and let partygoers dance the night away in the hall. You could even hire a bartender to pour drinks and create a unique cocktail for the occasion or a caterer to whip up some tasty canapes.
The highlights:
- Tennis court and garden games
- A billiard room with table football, table tennis and surround sound music system
What our guests say:
'We had a great time - all of us, ages 6 - 75 and everything in between. The house is a delight with so much room everywhere. The bedrooms and bathrooms were wonderful and the furnishings all through the house were impressive. The kitchen was amazing. The wi-fi was a bit intermittent but with so much to do it didn't matter greatly, although the youngsters would have appreciated it. Tennis, snooker and table tennis were much enjoyed. Thank you - we had a ball!' – Kate
The Hall Teesdale
Sleeps 10
You only turn 21 once so it’s time to pamper yourself. Indulge in a spa party at the delightful Chy Lowen – Tresavaen in Cornwall. Light the BBQ, soak in the bubbling hot tub and cocoon yourself in warmth when you step inside your own private Scandinavian sauna. When everyone’s feeling refreshed and relaxed, your group can sit together and chat in the spacious lounge or dine alfresco beneath the stars.
The highlights:
- A sauna and hot tub
- A large garden with outdoor furniture
- Dartboard and table tennis in the garden
Chy Lowen - Tresavean
21st birthday party cake ideas:
- Cake pops - they may be small but you could make a dramatic impact with an awesome arrangement and the party guests can snack on them throughout the night
- Chocolate cake - it’s only right that you pick an indulgent cake that is rich and melts in your mouth
- Gin and tonic drizzle cake - super easy but it's delicious and perfect for the occasion
- Pinata cake - if you've had a day full of activities, a bit of sugary goodness may be just what your party needs.
- A sports-themed cake – it’s a classic. Golf, football, rugby - whatever the guest of honour loves best
21st birthday party ideas
After reading through these 21st birthday celebration ideas, we hope you feel inspired to start planning your own spectacular event and have decided where to have your 21st birthday party – whether that’s a beach weekend with friends, an epic party with live music or a luxurious spa weekend. Browse our collection of party houses now.
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These unique 21st birthday party ideas are just a few of the many celebration themes and ideas we’ve put together. Visit our ultimate guide to milestone birthdays to discover more party inspiration.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.