Oxford has found itself in a new battle with historic rival Cambridge as the two cities establish themselves as hotspots for stag and hen dos.

The university cities, known for the fiercely contested Boat Race, are now competing to be the most popular pre-wedding getaway destination.

According to new research, Cambridge currently holds the top spot, with around 150 people set to celebrate in the city this weekend alone.

Matt Mavir, managing director at stag and hen do organiser Last Night of Freedom, said both cities are establishing a strong reputation as party hotspots for nearly-weds.

Matt Mavir, managing director at stag and hen do organiser Last Night of FreedomMatt Mavir, managing director at stag and hen do organiser Last Night of Freedom (Image: Last Night of Freedom) He said: "I think there was a time when people would have misconceptions about Cambridge and Oxford, believing everything was about the students at their famous universities – but actually, visitors can expect a friendly welcome and a massive selection of quirky pubs, cool nightlife and activities."

He added compared to some of the more "traditional" stag and hen destinations, the cities are both "hidden gems".

Mr Mavir continued: "Both cities are more used to dealing with students – and once you’ve dealt with a few freshers weeks, you can cope with anything.

"More and more people who might not have previously considered them are now waking up to the charms of both cities, although our data shows that Cambridge has exploded in popularity in recent years and is currently more popular than Oxford."

However, the rise in popularity has not been welcomed by all, with city leaders in Cambridge voicing concerns that Airbnb properties, often used for stag and hen parties, are ruining the city’s character, forcing out residents, and turning it into a "museum town".

They backed a motion to support new measures giving greater control of short-term lets.

Despite these concerns, Oxford firms are seemingly determined to take the top spot.

Mr Mavir said Last Night of Freedom works with "dozens of local businesses [in Oxford] to provide a bespoke stag or hen party – whether it’s a big night out, extreme sports or exploring the city’s historic backdrop".

He added: "I know they’re determined to topple Cambridge in the stag and hen rankings.

"There’s life in this fight yet and I think Oxford could claw its way to the top of the regional rankings."

He also highlighted the positive impact of "properly organised" stag and hen parties on the local economy, saying they "contribute to a strong tourism industry which supports local jobs and the hospitality industry – which is especially important in university cities during those months when students have returned home".