Traditional hen nights usually comprise copious amounts of booze, some naughty toys and games and possibly even a stripper.

Other more up-market events include luxury spas and foreign travel.

But a female adventurer is offering a new way for women to mark their last days of single life with activities that are much more down to earth.

Pom Oliver was part of an all-woman team that trekked to the North Pole back in 2002.

Unfortunately she had to pull out halfway after suffering frostbite but her spirit of adventure was undeterred and something she wanted to share with others.

So she has set up “Free Range Hen Packages” offering an alternative hen experience in woodland near Billingshurst.

As you would expect from a polar adventurer, lounging by the pool, having a manicure and painting the town red are definitely off the itinerary.

Instead, hens will take part in woodland survival courses, make pottery and produce organic soap.

Pom came up with the idea while trekking through Antarctica.

She said: “There has undoubtedly been a shift away from the extravagant hen nights that have evolved into costly and complicated affairs.

“The recession has played its part, but it isn’t just about economics, people seem to be tiring of busy lifestyles based on mass consumption.

“Whether they are planning an eco-friendly wedding or not, they are looking for fresh alternatives that inspire them and let them connect with nature.”

Parties will have the chance to sleep in a field in an open-air tent on the 63-acre site or in luxury yurts that sleep 12.

Cottages are available for those who want more traditional accommodation but Pom thinks the majority of people will opt for the tents.

She said: “You can’t beat a night in a yurt, peeping out at a blanket of stars – a totally memorable way to start one's wedding celebrations.”

Open-air showers and eco-loos add to the environmentally conscious package.

But the weekend isn't all about roughing it, other luxuries on offer are holistic therapies like reflexology and aromatherapy and beauty treatments including manicures, pedicures and facials.

Then in the evening the party becomes a little more familiar when the large green oak barn is available for parties where locally-sourced organic food is served by respectful, but gorgeous, young men.

For more information on the packages call 01403 824057 or visit www.woodlandskills.com.