what's on

This winter, experience the solar spectacle that is Helios, a stunning six-metre sculpture by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Alongside the installation, enjoy a lively programme of events perfect for all ages seeking warmth, light, and connection.

Space in the Helios installation is limited, so you must book a free timed ticket to visit, and collect your wristband before you visit.

Admission is free, but booking is essential

A printed and online map shows where to find all 100 postboxes, making it easy to plan a family-friendly trail around the city. You can collect hard copies at the Museum in town and Inn on The Park as well.

And if you are feeling adventurous, find and photograph all 100 and enter the competition on the St Albans Postboxes websote to win a £100 meal voucher.

Aladdin will be opening on Friday 5th December 2025 and will be closing on Wednesday 31st December 2025.

It promises to be our biggest and most spectacular family pantomime yet, with lavish sets, hilarious jokes, and fun for the whole family!

Starring TV legend & EastEnders STEVE McFADDEN as the boo-able baddie, and returning as the fabulous Dame Dolly is St Albans' favourite, BOB GOLDING.

Back at the Alban Arena for his third year is Damian Patton, taking on the role of PC World.

We're also thrilled to welcome Dave Bibby to the cast! Dave is an actor, presenter, and multi-award-winning comedian - he'll be playing Charlie in this year's magical production of Aladdin!

It promises to be our biggest and most spectacular... Read more

OVO's smash hit, critically acclaimed production of Charles Dickens' Christmas classic returns to St Albans by popular demand for a fourth year, but this time to a brand new venue: the Vintry Garden by the Cathedral.

Taking audiences on an open air promenade journey, this is a truly unique festive experience that immerses audiences in the spirit of Christmas past, present and yet to come.

This magical 60 minute performance has been refreshed for its new venue in 2025 and is guaranteed to delight, amuse and move both children and adults alike, and send you home filled to the brim with festive cheer - not to mention our ever popular mulled wine, luxury hot chocolate and seasonal snacks.

"A magical, mood-filled, vibrant adaptation breathing new life... Read more

This winter, the Tewinbury Woodland Light Trail returns, now four times longer then last year and more spectacular than before.

Beginning at the main farmhouse, the illuminated path winds through the Stable Garden, into Rectory Woods and across open fields, looping back into Westley Wood and the meadow, before finishing at the new Farmyard by the river where our Après Ski Bar awaits.

Follow the glowing trail and discover moments of wonder along the way. Step through a glittering tunnel of lights, pause beneath starlit groves, wander into enchanted forests and find yourself in glowing fields alive with colour and sound. Interactive installations, playful projections and unexpected pauses for music and dance transform the walk into a festive journey for all ages.... Read more

The perfect Christmas present is just a stone's throw away when you paint a rock with your very own hands! Join us over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) and have a go at some rock painting. The perfect present for someone who loves that homemade touch, you choose your rock and spend some time concentrating on the perfect picture to show them how much they... rock.

Available every day (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays, £3 per rock.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection on every Saturday and Sunday and Air Dry Clay sculpting?

Picture by Aaron Scott Richards (rspb-images.com)

Have you always wanted to have a go at sculpting out of air dry clay?

This Christmas holidays why not channel your inner Michelangelo with our air dry clay. You can sculpt a life like model of yourself, make a Christmas decoration, or create more abstract version of your favourite bird. Something perfect to do when the weather is bleak and cold and you want to stay in the nice warm Visitor Centre, near the coffee, cookies and crisps. Available everyday (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) for £4 for the clay and all the tools you need to create your masterpiece.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection every Saturday and Sunday or Rock Painting available every day?... Read more

This January, enjoy some fresh farm air at Mead Open Farm as Kids go for a Quid with every paying adult from 28th December 2025 to 31st January 2026. Just add the tickets to your basket and the discount will automatically be added!

This December, we invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre.

This year we have doubled the light trail from 500 metres to one kilometre, with over 20 light creations and a custom-made soundtrack.

Discover Stockwood like you've never seen it before, as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the illuminated pathways, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery. We have interactive light installations, shimmering disks reflecting the sky, bouncing psychelic colours, colourful animations and sparkly mirrors.

For 2025 we're also introducing 13 new light creations inspired by fairy tales, fast reaction games , water and ice. There'll also be a few... Read more

Step into a world of magic, mischief and happily-ever-afters with this years enchanting pantomime!

Follow Cinderella's journey from rags to riches as she overcomes her wicked stepmother, with a little help from her Fairy Godmother and a pair of sparkling glass slippers.

Will she make it to the ball in time to win the heart of Prince Charming?

Packed with dazzling costumes, catchy songs, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Cinderella is a festive treat for the whole family!

Polka Dot Pantomimes and the Eric Morecambe Centre present the pantomime you've all BEAN waiting for this Christmas...Jack the Beanstalk!

Heading up the cast is THEO MAYNE from BBC ONE smash-hit TV series The Traitors, joining us to play FLESHCREEP.

And we're delighted to have much loved Harpenden panto dame JOSH HANDLEY back to delight audiences once more as he returns to the EMC to play TILLY TROTT.

So get ready to roar with laughter and cheer our hero Jack on his magical journey to Cloudland as he battles to save his best friend Daisy the Cow! As always there'll be spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects and lots of audience participation. The perfect family treat this Christmas.

With our fabulous cast... Read more

Ready the bean poles and brace for magic!

Full of songs you know and love, a growbag packed with plant-based humour and the best cow this side of the gap, it's panto time again at the Palace!

Featuring the voice of Stephen Fry as the blustering Giant, the magical and clumsy Fairy 'Nuff, misguided Goosey, baddun Dame Judy Henchman, the well-clever badger Smart Simone and back for his 13th year, Watford's favourite Dame Terence Frisch, this promises to be a Gardener's World of wonder and amazement.

Book early for a great ticket price and the best seats in the house. What have you bean waiting for? This is Fee-Fi-Fo-Fun!

Hertfordshire's Biggest Christmas Light Trail

Where magic illuminates every step. Discover over 20 dazzling installations across the Grade II* listed gardens, with new features, festive favourites, and a show stopping 115ft Observation Wheel offering breathtaking views of Illuminated from above. Join us for dog-friendly nights every Wednesday and Thursday for the ultimate Christmas experience.

Tiny Mites bring the classic tale of Jack and the Beanstalk to life with songs, silliness and plenty of audience participation. Come along for a giant-sized adventure you won't forget!

£7 per ticket.

This holiday season, our Family Fun sessions are getting a magical seasonal twist, filled with joyful activities for you and your children to enjoy together. It's a wonderful way to make merry memories, meet other local families, and share the holiday spirit with the Family Centre team.

There'll be plenty of crafts, songs, and games for under 5s, plus festive fun for siblings up to age 8 all for just £2.50 per family.

This winter, experience the solar spectacle that is Helios, a stunning six-metre sculpture by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Alongside the installation, enjoy a lively programme of events perfect for all ages seeking warmth, light, and connection.

Space in the Helios installation is limited, so you must book a free timed ticket to visit, and collect your wristband before you visit.

Admission is free, but booking is essential

A printed and online map shows where to find all 100 postboxes, making it easy to plan a family-friendly trail around the city. You can collect hard copies at the Museum in town and Inn on The Park as well.

And if you are feeling adventurous, find and photograph all 100 and enter the competition on the St Albans Postboxes websote to win a £100 meal voucher.

Aladdin will be opening on Friday 5th December 2025 and will be closing on Wednesday 31st December 2025.

It promises to be our biggest and most spectacular family pantomime yet, with lavish sets, hilarious jokes, and fun for the whole family!

Starring TV legend & EastEnders STEVE McFADDEN as the boo-able baddie, and returning as the fabulous Dame Dolly is St Albans' favourite, BOB GOLDING.

Back at the Alban Arena for his third year is Damian Patton, taking on the role of PC World.

We're also thrilled to welcome Dave Bibby to the cast! Dave is an actor, presenter, and multi-award-winning comedian - he'll be playing Charlie in this year's magical production of Aladdin!

It promises to be our biggest and most spectacular... Read more

OVO's smash hit, critically acclaimed production of Charles Dickens' Christmas classic returns to St Albans by popular demand for a fourth year, but this time to a brand new venue: the Vintry Garden by the Cathedral.

Taking audiences on an open air promenade journey, this is a truly unique festive experience that immerses audiences in the spirit of Christmas past, present and yet to come.

This magical 60 minute performance has been refreshed for its new venue in 2025 and is guaranteed to delight, amuse and move both children and adults alike, and send you home filled to the brim with festive cheer - not to mention our ever popular mulled wine, luxury hot chocolate and seasonal snacks.

"A magical, mood-filled, vibrant adaptation breathing new life... Read more

This winter, the Tewinbury Woodland Light Trail returns, now four times longer then last year and more spectacular than before.

Beginning at the main farmhouse, the illuminated path winds through the Stable Garden, into Rectory Woods and across open fields, looping back into Westley Wood and the meadow, before finishing at the new Farmyard by the river where our Après Ski Bar awaits.

Follow the glowing trail and discover moments of wonder along the way. Step through a glittering tunnel of lights, pause beneath starlit groves, wander into enchanted forests and find yourself in glowing fields alive with colour and sound. Interactive installations, playful projections and unexpected pauses for music and dance transform the walk into a festive journey for all ages.... Read more

The perfect Christmas present is just a stone's throw away when you paint a rock with your very own hands! Join us over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) and have a go at some rock painting. The perfect present for someone who loves that homemade touch, you choose your rock and spend some time concentrating on the perfect picture to show them how much they... rock.

Available every day (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays, £3 per rock.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection on every Saturday and Sunday and Air Dry Clay sculpting?

Picture by Aaron Scott Richards (rspb-images.com)

Have you always wanted to have a go at sculpting out of air dry clay?

This Christmas holidays why not channel your inner Michelangelo with our air dry clay. You can sculpt a life like model of yourself, make a Christmas decoration, or create more abstract version of your favourite bird. Something perfect to do when the weather is bleak and cold and you want to stay in the nice warm Visitor Centre, near the coffee, cookies and crisps. Available everyday (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) for £4 for the clay and all the tools you need to create your masterpiece.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection every Saturday and Sunday or Rock Painting available every day?... Read more

This January, enjoy some fresh farm air at Mead Open Farm as Kids go for a Quid with every paying adult from 28th December 2025 to 31st January 2026. Just add the tickets to your basket and the discount will automatically be added!

This December, we invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre.

This year we have doubled the light trail from 500 metres to one kilometre, with over 20 light creations and a custom-made soundtrack.

Discover Stockwood like you've never seen it before, as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the illuminated pathways, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery. We have interactive light installations, shimmering disks reflecting the sky, bouncing psychelic colours, colourful animations and sparkly mirrors.

For 2025 we're also introducing 13 new light creations inspired by fairy tales, fast reaction games , water and ice. There'll also be a few... Read more

Step into a world of magic, mischief and happily-ever-afters with this years enchanting pantomime!

Follow Cinderella's journey from rags to riches as she overcomes her wicked stepmother, with a little help from her Fairy Godmother and a pair of sparkling glass slippers.

Will she make it to the ball in time to win the heart of Prince Charming?

Packed with dazzling costumes, catchy songs, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Cinderella is a festive treat for the whole family!

Polka Dot Pantomimes and the Eric Morecambe Centre present the pantomime you've all BEAN waiting for this Christmas...Jack the Beanstalk!

Heading up the cast is THEO MAYNE from BBC ONE smash-hit TV series The Traitors, joining us to play FLESHCREEP.

And we're delighted to have much loved Harpenden panto dame JOSH HANDLEY back to delight audiences once more as he returns to the EMC to play TILLY TROTT.

So get ready to roar with laughter and cheer our hero Jack on his magical journey to Cloudland as he battles to save his best friend Daisy the Cow! As always there'll be spectacular scenery, dazzling costumes, amazing special effects and lots of audience participation. The perfect family treat this Christmas.

With our fabulous cast... Read more

Ready the bean poles and brace for magic!

Full of songs you know and love, a growbag packed with plant-based humour and the best cow this side of the gap, it's panto time again at the Palace!

Featuring the voice of Stephen Fry as the blustering Giant, the magical and clumsy Fairy 'Nuff, misguided Goosey, baddun Dame Judy Henchman, the well-clever badger Smart Simone and back for his 13th year, Watford's favourite Dame Terence Frisch, this promises to be a Gardener's World of wonder and amazement.

Book early for a great ticket price and the best seats in the house. What have you bean waiting for? This is Fee-Fi-Fo-Fun!

Hertfordshire's Biggest Christmas Light Trail

Where magic illuminates every step. Discover over 20 dazzling installations across the Grade II* listed gardens, with new features, festive favourites, and a show stopping 115ft Observation Wheel offering breathtaking views of Illuminated from above. Join us for dog-friendly nights every Wednesday and Thursday for the ultimate Christmas experience.

A silent disco celebration made for kids, but just as fun for grown-ups! Dance your way into the new year with the whole family, as we bring you a magical afternoon of music, lights and non-stop fun, inside the incredible St Albans Cathedral - all before bedtime! This event will be made even more special, with the presence of Tessa Campbell Fraser's 'Whales' installation. Three monumental whale sculptures will soar above the Nave - a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle.

It's a New Year's Eve party...family style!

What to expect:

🎧 Epic Silent Disco with kids' party anthems.

🕛 A special early NYE countdown just for little partygoers!

👑 Meet & greet with your favourite princesses and characters.

🎤 Mass... Read more

This winter, experience the solar spectacle that is Helios, a stunning six-metre sculpture by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Alongside the installation, enjoy a lively programme of events perfect for all ages seeking warmth, light, and connection.

Space in the Helios installation is limited, so you must book a free timed ticket to visit, and collect your wristband before you visit.

Admission is free, but booking is essential

A printed and online map shows where to find all 100 postboxes, making it easy to plan a family-friendly trail around the city. You can collect hard copies at the Museum in town and Inn on The Park as well.

And if you are feeling adventurous, find and photograph all 100 and enter the competition on the St Albans Postboxes websote to win a £100 meal voucher.

Aladdin will be opening on Friday 5th December 2025 and will be closing on Wednesday 31st December 2025.

It promises to be our biggest and most spectacular family pantomime yet, with lavish sets, hilarious jokes, and fun for the whole family!

Starring TV legend & EastEnders STEVE McFADDEN as the boo-able baddie, and returning as the fabulous Dame Dolly is St Albans' favourite, BOB GOLDING.

Back at the Alban Arena for his third year is Damian Patton, taking on the role of PC World.

We're also thrilled to welcome Dave Bibby to the cast! Dave is an actor, presenter, and multi-award-winning comedian - he'll be playing Charlie in this year's magical production of Aladdin!

It promises to be our biggest and most spectacular... Read more

The perfect Christmas present is just a stone's throw away when you paint a rock with your very own hands! Join us over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) and have a go at some rock painting. The perfect present for someone who loves that homemade touch, you choose your rock and spend some time concentrating on the perfect picture to show them how much they... rock.

Available every day (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays, £3 per rock.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection on every Saturday and Sunday and Air Dry Clay sculpting?

Picture by Aaron Scott Richards (rspb-images.com)

Have you always wanted to have a go at sculpting out of air dry clay?

This Christmas holidays why not channel your inner Michelangelo with our air dry clay. You can sculpt a life like model of yourself, make a Christmas decoration, or create more abstract version of your favourite bird. Something perfect to do when the weather is bleak and cold and you want to stay in the nice warm Visitor Centre, near the coffee, cookies and crisps. Available everyday (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) for £4 for the clay and all the tools you need to create your masterpiece.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection every Saturday and Sunday or Rock Painting available every day?... Read more

This January, enjoy some fresh farm air at Mead Open Farm as Kids go for a Quid with every paying adult from 28th December 2025 to 31st January 2026. Just add the tickets to your basket and the discount will automatically be added!

This December, we invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre.

This year we have doubled the light trail from 500 metres to one kilometre, with over 20 light creations and a custom-made soundtrack.

Discover Stockwood like you've never seen it before, as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the illuminated pathways, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery. We have interactive light installations, shimmering disks reflecting the sky, bouncing psychelic colours, colourful animations and sparkly mirrors.

For 2025 we're also introducing 13 new light creations inspired by fairy tales, fast reaction games , water and ice. There'll also be a few... Read more

Step into a world of magic, mischief and happily-ever-afters with this years enchanting pantomime!

Follow Cinderella's journey from rags to riches as she overcomes her wicked stepmother, with a little help from her Fairy Godmother and a pair of sparkling glass slippers.

Will she make it to the ball in time to win the heart of Prince Charming?

Packed with dazzling costumes, catchy songs, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Cinderella is a festive treat for the whole family!

Ready the bean poles and brace for magic!

Full of songs you know and love, a growbag packed with plant-based humour and the best cow this side of the gap, it's panto time again at the Palace!

Featuring the voice of Stephen Fry as the blustering Giant, the magical and clumsy Fairy 'Nuff, misguided Goosey, baddun Dame Judy Henchman, the well-clever badger Smart Simone and back for his 13th year, Watford's favourite Dame Terence Frisch, this promises to be a Gardener's World of wonder and amazement.

Book early for a great ticket price and the best seats in the house. What have you bean waiting for? This is Fee-Fi-Fo-Fun!

Hertfordshire's Biggest Christmas Light Trail

Where magic illuminates every step. Discover over 20 dazzling installations across the Grade II* listed gardens, with new features, festive favourites, and a show stopping 115ft Observation Wheel offering breathtaking views of Illuminated from above. Join us for dog-friendly nights every Wednesday and Thursday for the ultimate Christmas experience.

This winter, experience the solar spectacle that is Helios, a stunning six-metre sculpture by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Alongside the installation, enjoy a lively programme of events perfect for all ages seeking warmth, light, and connection.

Space in the Helios installation is limited, so you must book a free timed ticket to visit, and collect your wristband before you visit.

Admission is free, but booking is essential

The perfect Christmas present is just a stone's throw away when you paint a rock with your very own hands! Join us over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) and have a go at some rock painting. The perfect present for someone who loves that homemade touch, you choose your rock and spend some time concentrating on the perfect picture to show them how much they... rock.

Available every day (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays, £3 per rock.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection on every Saturday and Sunday and Air Dry Clay sculpting?

Picture by Aaron Scott Richards (rspb-images.com)

Have you always wanted to have a go at sculpting out of air dry clay?

This Christmas holidays why not channel your inner Michelangelo with our air dry clay. You can sculpt a life like model of yourself, make a Christmas decoration, or create more abstract version of your favourite bird. Something perfect to do when the weather is bleak and cold and you want to stay in the nice warm Visitor Centre, near the coffee, cookies and crisps. Available everyday (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) for £4 for the clay and all the tools you need to create your masterpiece.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection every Saturday and Sunday or Rock Painting available every day?... Read more

This January, enjoy some fresh farm air at Mead Open Farm as Kids go for a Quid with every paying adult from 28th December 2025 to 31st January 2026. Just add the tickets to your basket and the discount will automatically be added!

This December, we invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre.

This year we have doubled the light trail from 500 metres to one kilometre, with over 20 light creations and a custom-made soundtrack.

Discover Stockwood like you've never seen it before, as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the illuminated pathways, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery. We have interactive light installations, shimmering disks reflecting the sky, bouncing psychelic colours, colourful animations and sparkly mirrors.

For 2025 we're also introducing 13 new light creations inspired by fairy tales, fast reaction games , water and ice. There'll also be a few... Read more

Step into a world of magic, mischief and happily-ever-afters with this years enchanting pantomime!

Follow Cinderella's journey from rags to riches as she overcomes her wicked stepmother, with a little help from her Fairy Godmother and a pair of sparkling glass slippers.

Will she make it to the ball in time to win the heart of Prince Charming?

Packed with dazzling costumes, catchy songs, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Cinderella is a festive treat for the whole family!

Ready the bean poles and brace for magic!

Full of songs you know and love, a growbag packed with plant-based humour and the best cow this side of the gap, it's panto time again at the Palace!

Featuring the voice of Stephen Fry as the blustering Giant, the magical and clumsy Fairy 'Nuff, misguided Goosey, baddun Dame Judy Henchman, the well-clever badger Smart Simone and back for his 13th year, Watford's favourite Dame Terence Frisch, this promises to be a Gardener's World of wonder and amazement.

Book early for a great ticket price and the best seats in the house. What have you bean waiting for? This is Fee-Fi-Fo-Fun!

Hertfordshire's Biggest Christmas Light Trail

Where magic illuminates every step. Discover over 20 dazzling installations across the Grade II* listed gardens, with new features, festive favourites, and a show stopping 115ft Observation Wheel offering breathtaking views of Illuminated from above. Join us for dog-friendly nights every Wednesday and Thursday for the ultimate Christmas experience.

This winter, experience the solar spectacle that is Helios, a stunning six-metre sculpture by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Alongside the installation, enjoy a lively programme of events perfect for all ages seeking warmth, light, and connection.

Space in the Helios installation is limited, so you must book a free timed ticket to visit, and collect your wristband before you visit.

Admission is free, but booking is essential

The perfect Christmas present is just a stone's throw away when you paint a rock with your very own hands! Join us over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) and have a go at some rock painting. The perfect present for someone who loves that homemade touch, you choose your rock and spend some time concentrating on the perfect picture to show them how much they... rock.

Available every day (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays, £3 per rock.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection on every Saturday and Sunday and Air Dry Clay sculpting?

Picture by Aaron Scott Richards (rspb-images.com)

Have you always wanted to have a go at sculpting out of air dry clay?

This Christmas holidays why not channel your inner Michelangelo with our air dry clay. You can sculpt a life like model of yourself, make a Christmas decoration, or create more abstract version of your favourite bird. Something perfect to do when the weather is bleak and cold and you want to stay in the nice warm Visitor Centre, near the coffee, cookies and crisps. Available everyday (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) for £4 for the clay and all the tools you need to create your masterpiece.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection every Saturday and Sunday or Rock Painting available every day?... Read more

This January, enjoy some fresh farm air at Mead Open Farm as Kids go for a Quid with every paying adult from 28th December 2025 to 31st January 2026. Just add the tickets to your basket and the discount will automatically be added!

This December, we invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre.

This year we have doubled the light trail from 500 metres to one kilometre, with over 20 light creations and a custom-made soundtrack.

Discover Stockwood like you've never seen it before, as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the illuminated pathways, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery. We have interactive light installations, shimmering disks reflecting the sky, bouncing psychelic colours, colourful animations and sparkly mirrors.

For 2025 we're also introducing 13 new light creations inspired by fairy tales, fast reaction games , water and ice. There'll also be a few... Read more

Step into a world of magic, mischief and happily-ever-afters with this years enchanting pantomime!

Follow Cinderella's journey from rags to riches as she overcomes her wicked stepmother, with a little help from her Fairy Godmother and a pair of sparkling glass slippers.

Will she make it to the ball in time to win the heart of Prince Charming?

Packed with dazzling costumes, catchy songs, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Cinderella is a festive treat for the whole family!

Ready the bean poles and brace for magic!

Full of songs you know and love, a growbag packed with plant-based humour and the best cow this side of the gap, it's panto time again at the Palace!

Featuring the voice of Stephen Fry as the blustering Giant, the magical and clumsy Fairy 'Nuff, misguided Goosey, baddun Dame Judy Henchman, the well-clever badger Smart Simone and back for his 13th year, Watford's favourite Dame Terence Frisch, this promises to be a Gardener's World of wonder and amazement.

Book early for a great ticket price and the best seats in the house. What have you bean waiting for? This is Fee-Fi-Fo-Fun!

This winter, experience the solar spectacle that is Helios, a stunning six-metre sculpture by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Alongside the installation, enjoy a lively programme of events perfect for all ages seeking warmth, light, and connection.

Space in the Helios installation is limited, so you must book a free timed ticket to visit, and collect your wristband before you visit.

Admission is free, but booking is essential

Did you know that Barn Owls can't digest the fur and bones of the rodents they eat, which they usually swallow whole?

So what happens to them if they aren't digested? The Owl has to regurgitate it in the form of an Owl pellet. You often find Owl pellets at roosting or nesting sites and they are usually the size of a mans thumb and are black when fresh (turning grey as they get older), and an Owl can produce 1-2 pellets after a night's hunting. Owl pellets can be a really good way of finding out what an Owl has been eating by dissecting them and analysing what bones are in them. In these sessions you will be guided through the dissection of an Owl pellet so you can analyse and discover what an Owl has had for it's tea. Can you find the bones of a vole, shrew or mouse? Or will... Read more

Treat your whole family to a brilliant day out at Lee Valley, from just £5 per person!

Get a full day of fun - including friendly farmyard animals, adventure play, Wallaby Walkthrough, crazy golf and more - for a FIVER!

Book online NOW to SAVE. Tickets cost £7.50 on the door.

It's the BEST way to kick off 2026, with a cavalcade of fun for the price of a meal deal!

The perfect Christmas present is just a stone's throw away when you paint a rock with your very own hands! Join us over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) and have a go at some rock painting. The perfect present for someone who loves that homemade touch, you choose your rock and spend some time concentrating on the perfect picture to show them how much they... rock.

Available every day (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays, £3 per rock.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection on every Saturday and Sunday and Air Dry Clay sculpting?

Picture by Aaron Scott Richards (rspb-images.com)

Have you always wanted to have a go at sculpting out of air dry clay?

This Christmas holidays why not channel your inner Michelangelo with our air dry clay. You can sculpt a life like model of yourself, make a Christmas decoration, or create more abstract version of your favourite bird. Something perfect to do when the weather is bleak and cold and you want to stay in the nice warm Visitor Centre, near the coffee, cookies and crisps. Available everyday (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) for £4 for the clay and all the tools you need to create your masterpiece.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection every Saturday and Sunday or Rock Painting available every day?... Read more

This January, enjoy some fresh farm air at Mead Open Farm as Kids go for a Quid with every paying adult from 28th December 2025 to 31st January 2026. Just add the tickets to your basket and the discount will automatically be added!

This December, we invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre.

This year we have doubled the light trail from 500 metres to one kilometre, with over 20 light creations and a custom-made soundtrack.

Discover Stockwood like you've never seen it before, as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the illuminated pathways, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery. We have interactive light installations, shimmering disks reflecting the sky, bouncing psychelic colours, colourful animations and sparkly mirrors.

For 2025 we're also introducing 13 new light creations inspired by fairy tales, fast reaction games , water and ice. There'll also be a few... Read more

Step into a world of magic, mischief and happily-ever-afters with this years enchanting pantomime!

Follow Cinderella's journey from rags to riches as she overcomes her wicked stepmother, with a little help from her Fairy Godmother and a pair of sparkling glass slippers.

Will she make it to the ball in time to win the heart of Prince Charming?

Packed with dazzling costumes, catchy songs, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Cinderella is a festive treat for the whole family!

Ready the bean poles and brace for magic!

Full of songs you know and love, a growbag packed with plant-based humour and the best cow this side of the gap, it's panto time again at the Palace!

Featuring the voice of Stephen Fry as the blustering Giant, the magical and clumsy Fairy 'Nuff, misguided Goosey, baddun Dame Judy Henchman, the well-clever badger Smart Simone and back for his 13th year, Watford's favourite Dame Terence Frisch, this promises to be a Gardener's World of wonder and amazement.

Book early for a great ticket price and the best seats in the house. What have you bean waiting for? This is Fee-Fi-Fo-Fun!

This winter, experience the solar spectacle that is Helios, a stunning six-metre sculpture by renowned UK artist Luke Jerram. Alongside the installation, enjoy a lively programme of events perfect for all ages seeking warmth, light, and connection.

Space in the Helios installation is limited, so you must book a free timed ticket to visit, and collect your wristband before you visit.

Admission is free, but booking is essential

Did you know that Barn Owls can't digest the fur and bones of the rodents they eat, which they usually swallow whole?

So what happens to them if they aren't digested? The Owl has to regurgitate it in the form of an Owl pellet. You often find Owl pellets at roosting or nesting sites and they are usually the size of a mans thumb and are black when fresh (turning grey as they get older), and an Owl can produce 1-2 pellets after a night's hunting. Owl pellets can be a really good way of finding out what an Owl has been eating by dissecting them and analysing what bones are in them. In these sessions you will be guided through the dissection of an Owl pellet so you can analyse and discover what an Owl has had for it's tea. Can you find the bones of a vole, shrew or mouse? Or will... Read more

Treat your whole family to a brilliant day out at Lee Valley, from just £5 per person!

Get a full day of fun - including friendly farmyard animals, adventure play, Wallaby Walkthrough, crazy golf and more - for a FIVER!

Book online NOW to SAVE. Tickets cost £7.50 on the door.

It's the BEST way to kick off 2026, with a cavalcade of fun for the price of a meal deal!

The perfect Christmas present is just a stone's throw away when you paint a rock with your very own hands! Join us over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) and have a go at some rock painting. The perfect present for someone who loves that homemade touch, you choose your rock and spend some time concentrating on the perfect picture to show them how much they... rock.

Available every day (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays, £3 per rock.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection on every Saturday and Sunday and Air Dry Clay sculpting?

Picture by Aaron Scott Richards (rspb-images.com)

Have you always wanted to have a go at sculpting out of air dry clay?

This Christmas holidays why not channel your inner Michelangelo with our air dry clay. You can sculpt a life like model of yourself, make a Christmas decoration, or create more abstract version of your favourite bird. Something perfect to do when the weather is bleak and cold and you want to stay in the nice warm Visitor Centre, near the coffee, cookies and crisps. Available everyday (except 24, 25 and 26 December when we are closed) over the Christmas holidays (Saturday 20 December - Sunday 4 January) for £4 for the clay and all the tools you need to create your masterpiece.

Why not also have a go at Owl Pellet Dissection every Saturday and Sunday or Rock Painting available every day?... Read more

This January, enjoy some fresh farm air at Mead Open Farm as Kids go for a Quid with every paying adult from 28th December 2025 to 31st January 2026. Just add the tickets to your basket and the discount will automatically be added!

This December, we invite you to join us for our winter light celebration set against the backdrop of the beautiful gardens at Stockwood Discovery Centre.

This year we have doubled the light trail from 500 metres to one kilometre, with over 20 light creations and a custom-made soundtrack.

Discover Stockwood like you've never seen it before, as you weave your way on a self-guided tour through the illuminated pathways, set against the backdrop of the lush greenery. We have interactive light installations, shimmering disks reflecting the sky, bouncing psychelic colours, colourful animations and sparkly mirrors.

For 2025 we're also introducing 13 new light creations inspired by fairy tales, fast reaction games , water and ice. There'll also be a few... Read more

Step into a world of magic, mischief and happily-ever-afters with this years enchanting pantomime!

Follow Cinderella's journey from rags to riches as she overcomes her wicked stepmother, with a little help from her Fairy Godmother and a pair of sparkling glass slippers.

Will she make it to the ball in time to win the heart of Prince Charming?

Packed with dazzling costumes, catchy songs, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Cinderella is a festive treat for the whole family!

Ready the bean poles and brace for magic!

Full of songs you know and love, a growbag packed with plant-based humour and the best cow this side of the gap, it's panto time again at the Palace!

Featuring the voice of Stephen Fry as the blustering Giant, the magical and clumsy Fairy 'Nuff, misguided Goosey, baddun Dame Judy Henchman, the well-clever badger Smart Simone and back for his 13th year, Watford's favourite Dame Terence Frisch, this promises to be a Gardener's World of wonder and amazement.

Book early for a great ticket price and the best seats in the house. What have you bean waiting for? This is Fee-Fi-Fo-Fun!