Places to throw a 40th birthday party

Whatever the occasion we have an incredible house for you

Birthdays are always a cause for celebration, and there’s no better way to do that than staying in a luxury cottage. With our selection of 40th birthday venues, you can create memories with loved ones and get everyone together for an unforgettable escape. Renting a cottage is a fantastic 40th party idea, and we have the perfect one for your event. 

Explore cottage options in each part of England and Wales. Is your idea of heaven staying close to the beach? Or perhaps you want to share your birthday with friends and family in a countryside manor? The choice is endless. A holiday cottage makes the greatest 40th birthday party, so make the best of it with kate & tom’s. 

Unforgettable 40th birthday ideas

Whether you have men in your life that are difficult to buy gifts for or you want to surprise your best friend with a memorable UK escape, we have it covered. Each cottage has every little detail catered for. So sip fizz in the warming bubbles of a private hot tub and take a dip in the azure waters of a heated pool. There’s something for all party guests.

Our unique 40th birthday party ideas for him or her are ideal for parties of all sizes. Whether you’re inviting 10, 20, 30 or 40+ guests, there’s space for everyone, including those with waggy tails. Looking to plan a birthday surprise? Take a look at the selection of luxury birthday cottages to make your party one to remember.

@hannastefansson 

Fortieth birthdays should be a special celebration. It's a decade of increased confidence and wisdom where all of the hard work and initial decisions of youth seem to hit their stride. If you're coming up on this milestone birthday and you're unsure of how to celebrate it, we gathered some 40th birthday ideas to choose from. Whether you're looking to mark the occasion with a small, medium, or large group, there's a celebration idea right here for you. You could sit at the chef's table of a buzzed-about restaurant, or do all of the tourist-type amusements in your town. And, if you really want to, you can keep it simple and have a full-blown dance party in your own home. No matter what you choose to do on your big day, make sure you throw caution to the wind. Given that this is an important birthday, it's worth it to make a lasting memory.

Below, find our picks for the best 40th birthday party ideas you'll love.

01 of 19

Charter a Boat

Sure, this sounds extravagant. But think about it like this: You're with your closest loved ones, with the fresh air on your face, and the gorgeous coastline in the distance. Sounds pretty nice, right? Now just imagine when someone pops a bottle of champagne in your honor.

02 of 19

Book a First-Class Seat

Plan a vacation where the one rule is that you have to get to the destination using a first-class ticket. Whether it's a short trip from New York to Miami or a longer jaunt between Los Angeles and Charleston, sipping complimentary champagne in A1 will start it off in style.

03 of 19

Request the Chef's Table

If there's a buzzed-about restaurant in town and you want to treat yourself to a new menu, then make a reservation at the chef's table for a fresh vantage point, too.

04 of 19

See a Theater Show

If you've been waiting and waiting to see Hamilton, or there's another playbill that has caught your eye, now is the time to treat yourself. Splurge for the closest possible seats, and go for cake after the final curtain.

05 of 19

Do a Dare That You've Never Been Brave Enough to Do

What if you've always wanted to go bungee jumping or swimming with sharks? Whatever you've debated doing for fun over the years, but ended up talking yourself out of, now is the time to go for it. Just make sure one of your friends is ready with a camera.

06 of 19

Act like a Tourist for a Day

Tourists have notoriously bad reputations, but really, sometimes they see the best a place has to offer. Instead of balking at the bus tours or waving off certain crowded landmarks, join in. See the view from the top of the Empire State Building in the morning before the lines are long, go white-water rafting in the Grand Canyon, or rent a convertible to drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. It's worth it.

07 of 19

Book a Spa Getaway

A spa is always an escape from the hectic pace of life, and that's why it can be particularly rewarding as a birthday present. Research spas that have the best massages, or soaking pools, or even views, and head there for a weekend.

If you're looking for a spa booking that's highly rated or a specific treatment near to your home, consider using Spa Finder to help you with your search!

08 of 19

Ask If Your Favorite Restaurant Can Create a Personalized Prix-Fixe Menu

If you've been going to the same restaurant for years, ask if you can create a menu of your favorite things to enjoy with a small group. It's a great way to indulge in a go-to favorite, while sharing some of your most delectable choices with all of your friends.

Try to secure a private room to dine in, so you and your friends have plenty of room to celebrate and make the space festive.

09 of 19

Get Box Seats at a Concert

Again, this sounds incredibly extravagant. But if you're able to see a beloved band or performer—cough, Beyoncé, cough—then make it 40th birthday-worthy and splurge for the box seats. As you eat and dance in the privacy of your own space, you'll be glad you did.

10 of 19

Host a Casino Night

It's possible to rent classic casino tables alongside professional dealers who will set everything up in your home. Invite friends and family to dress up, and then play to win.

11 of 19

Rent an Airbnb

Gather your closest friends and take a trip to a new city of your choice, whether that's lively Austin, Texas or more relaxed Napa, California. Make sure the primary suite is all yours, and then go explore.

Primary Suite

The term “Primary Suite” is now widely used to describe the largest bedroom in the home with an en suite bath, as it better reflects the space’s purpose. Many realtors, architects, interior designers, and the Real Estate Standards Association have recognized the potentially discriminatory connotations in the term “Master.” Read more about our Diversity and Inclusion Pledge.

12 of 19

Host a Buffet Luncheon at Your Home

This might sound like it could be a lot of work, but not if you designate a few close friends and family as organizers and cleaners. When the big day comes, you can simply head from your bedroom to the party.

13 of 19

Turn Your Dining Room into a Dance Floor

It's clear where this idea came from, but it still works. Use your dining table to display food and drinks elsewhere and even exchange your everyday lighting fixture for a disco ball. It'll truly be a night to remember!

14 of 19

Project a Movie in Your Backyard

Think of a movie that always brings a smile to your face. Now imagine watching it from your decked-out backyard, which can be decorated with string lights, cozy blankets, and plenty of lawn chairs. Also make sure that there's enough popcorn and snacks for everyone, too.

15 of 19

Go Bowling

This idea might just turn into a weekly event after your friends enjoy the throwback fun of this competitive game. Plus you get to pick the team name. Bonus points if everyone has a personalized bowling shirt to wear as they play, too.

16 of 19

Host a Brunch

If you're looking for a way to celebrate over a meal, consider switching it up and hosting or going out for a brunch as opposed to a dinner or drinks. Pile on the eggs, bacon, mimosas, and Bloody Marys!

17 of 19

Be a Kid Again

Throw an outdoor party with all the childhood fixins', just for fun. Cotton candy, ice cream sundaes, you name it! It's a great way to just hang out and celebrate with all of your friends outside and do something a little outside of your norm.

18 of 19

Get Away With Your Significant Other

If you have that someone special in your life, be it a romantic partner or simply your ultimate bestie, get away from life for a night or two and celebrate with the one you love. It could be a staycation at a local 5-star hotel, or getting out of town and taking a visit to your most sought-after cabin in the woods.

19 of 19

Throw a Surprise Party

Ok, so this one is really for your friends as a tip-off, but it will benefit you all the more! Surprise parties are a great way to fête the one you love, especially on a milestone birthday like 40.

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