Parks & outdoor spaces

One of the few remaining acid heathlands in Hertfordshire, this 60 acre site, bordering the river Colne, provides a haven for wildlife and a place for quiet relaxation for local people. Under the care of the Parish Council, since being acquired piecemeal in the 1950s and '60s, it is classed as a Hertfordshire Heritage site. It is managed to maintain the acid grassland, encouraging plants such as heather,... Read more

Enjoy kite flying and stroll across rare chalk grassland whilst looking out for a variety of species from butterflies, Orchids and skylarks to glow worms. Dunstable Downs hosts fantastic events throughout the year; check out our website for current offers. Sample the visitor centre's excellent cafe as you admire the breathtaking views over the Vale of Aylesbury and the Chiltern Ridge. Browse through a brilliant selection of kites and a wide variety of other goods, including greetings cards, in the shop.

Emily's teashop is a family business on a free open farm. It serves homemade cakes, fairtrade beverages and light lunches. Emily's teashop caters for children's parties and is an ideal stop for country walks and for cyclists.

At the heart of the Forest of Marston Vale, the Forest Centre & Millennium Country Park offer a fantastic, natural place to enjoy the great outdoors with 225 hectares of woodlands, wetlands and grasslands.

If you're feeling adventurous, why not head out into the Millennium Country Park to discover the magic of nature. We have a host of kids' activities available from our Reception, including... Read more

Gadebridge is on the northern edges of Hemel Hempstead, forming a green wedge of urban countryside running into the heart of the town. The play area offers a wide range of equipment for ages 2 to 15. There is a range of pay and play activities (May to Sept) including crazy golf, croquet, petanque, giant chess and draughts and a public bowls green. There is a skate park, cycle paths and walks. ... Read more

Enjoy a house steeped in history, built by Robert Cecil, in the grounds where Queen Elizabeth I spent much of her childhood.


The Gardens date from the early 17th Century, when Robert Cecil employed John Tradescant the Elder to collect plants from all over Europe for his new home.

The stunning, historical woodland that surrounds Hatfield House is yours to explore... Read more

Hertford Text Trail is a classic treasure hunt with a modern twist: clues are delivered via text message and answers submitted by texting back.

Our trails aim to help you explore the town in a new way, getting you off the beaten track and noticing small details, so a Text Trail is great whether you're local to Hertford or just visiting for the day.

There are 2 Text Trails... Read more

At Hitchin Lavender visitors are encouraged to walk through the miles of rows that make up the two fields of lavender. Children love the freedom to run up and down the rows and can enjoy picking some to take home (charges apply). The fields are also a great spot for photographers. Inside the 17th Century barn there is a shop with products and plants, and a cafe serving refreshments, snacks and light lunches. Open May-September - check website for exact dates.

Home Farm Glamping is a boutique glamping site nestled into the village of Elstree. Throughout our glamping season we run workshops, activities and events which are also open to the public, offering our guests an experience where wellbeing meets wildlife.

Set in 250 acres of beautiful rolling Hertfordshire countryside, Knebworth House has been home to the Lytton family for over 19 generations, making for an extraordinary walk through 500 years of history.

There is something for everyone to enjoy at Knebworth - from spending a fun filled day exploring the Dinosaur Trail, discovering the Gardens throughout the season, picnicking in the... Read more