14 superb family days out in Hertfordshire for the summer holidays

Why go far when you can have a fantastic summer right here in our county? Hertfordshire offers an abundance of exciting experiences, ranging from historical residences and thrilling outdoor adventures to captivating museums and vibrant art centres. Take a look at our definitive guide for this summer and beyond.

1. Hatfield House, Hatfield

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this Jacobean estate where Elizabeth I spent her childhood. Built by Robert Cecil, this magnificent property boasts a rich history spanning 400 years, with sections dating back to the 17th Century. Explore the house and grounds, open to the public from Thursday to Sunday between May and August (and until September for the gardens). Don't miss the opportunity to wander through the woodlands and deer park. Additionally, the Stable Yard houses a charming collection of independent shops, including a jeweller, wine merchant, and upscale pet store, as well as the Coach House Kitchen, a delightful all-day dining spot.

2. Paradise Wildlife Park, Broxbourne

Although it may not officially be classified as a zoo, Paradise Wildlife Park offers an experience on par with the best of them. The park even has a CBBC series called "One, Zoo, Three" that provides a sneak peek into its world. Discover a variety of fascinating creatures, from majestic Big Cats (you can even hand-feed them!) to playful meerkats, lively penguins, and much more. Enjoy hands-on experiences like tickling a tapir or taking a red panda selfie.

But Paradise Wildlife Park isn't just about live animals; it also features a prehistoric world filled with impressive animatronic dinosaurs. Delight in the dino dig and take a ride on the Rex Express train. The park also offers a soft play area, a splash park, and a safari adventure golf course. Additionally, don't miss the National Speedway Museum located within the park grounds. It's the perfect place to find Mr. Muddy if he happens to wander off!

3. St Albans Cathedral, St Albans

St Albans Cathedral is far more than a mere place of worship. It has transformed into a vibrant cultural centre, offering an array of accessible events, talks, exhibitions, performances, and activities for children. Even if you're not religious, you can marvel at the incredible architecture. The Cathedral boasts the longest nave in Britain, captivating Medieval wall paintings, and the shrine of St Alban, all steeped in a history that spans 1700 years. The 11th Century crossing tower, constructed with Roman bricks (featuring walls seven feet thick!), still stands as a testament to the past.

Don't miss out on the extensive list of events catered to all interests. From spotting the Peregrine Falcons nesting with the RSPB to attending the Sounds Around the Abbey concerts, there's something for everyone. Look out for special children's events such as storytelling sessions and seal workshops.

4. The Natural History Museum, Tring

This local gem is the smaller sister museum of the renowned London attraction. Located in the market town of Tring, this extraordinary place was once part of the Rothchild family's estate. Step inside the stunning building, which now houses Walter Rothschild's extensive private collection of taxidermy. As an avid anthropologist, Walter Rothschild was a real-life Dr. Dolittle, with Cassowary birds and giant tortoises roaming his garden. He even rode through Tring High Street in a zebra-drawn carriage, hence the intriguing zebra references found throughout the town.

With nearly 5,000 specimens on display, the museum offers a captivating journey through nature. Explore exhibits featuring polar bears, emperor penguins, zebras (naturally), giraffes, fish, birds, reptiles, and even a replica skeleton of a giant land sloth. Make sure not to miss the extraordinary Mexican dressed fleas (seeing is believing!).

The museum hosts a packed calendar of events, including talks, tours, toddler sessions, exploration and drawing sessions, trails, and craft workshops.

Insider tip: The museum car park is also the gateway to Tring Park, a sprawling 260-acre woodland and grassland area. Enjoy waymarked walks that offer breathtaking views of Tring and beyond. One such walk, Walter's Wander, allows you to follow in the footsteps of Walter Rothschild himself.

5. Henry Moore Studios and Gardens, Much Hadham

Prepare for a unique gallery experience at Henry Moore Studios and Gardens, the former home and creative haven of the globally acclaimed sculptor and artist Henry Moore. The estate spans over 70 acres of landscaped lawns and rolling fields, providing a picturesque setting for a remarkable sculpture garden. Open from April to the end of October each year, this outdoor gallery showcases over 20 monumental sculptures by Moore, harmoniously blending with the captivating Hertfordshire landscape.

The artist's studios are scattered throughout the estate, preserved as if in perpetual creation. One notable structure is the 16th-century aisled barn, which Moore salvaged from a local farm and relocated to Perry Green. Now transformed into an exhibition and events space, the barn houses a captivating collection of tapestries and other works. Visitors can also take a tour of the artist's family home, where Moore's personal collection of artworks and the artefacts that inspired his creations are on display.

Stroll leisurely through the expansive grounds, relish a light lunch at the visitor centre café with its panoramic views of the gardens, and explore upcoming exhibitions and workshops. If you have older children with an interest in art, it's the perfect opportunity to ignite their creative spirits. Don't forget to pack sketch pads to capture moments of inspiration!

6. Hitchin Lavender, Hitchin

Recently honoured with a Muddy Award for Best Family Attraction in Herts & Beds, Hitchin Lavender is a haven waiting to be discovered. Spanning 30 acres, it offers an enchanting landscape of lavender fields, sunflowers, and wildflowers. The lavender display field showcases an impressive array of 60 different lavender varieties. Fill your senses and a paper bag with an abundance of lavender, rivalling even your granny's perfume.

Capture stunning photographs that will grace your family album (it's no wonder Hitchin Lavender has been named the UK's most Instagrammed floral location!). Let your children frolic amidst the purple waves, but be mindful of the bees and remember to bring your secateurs.

The attraction also features a lavender museum, a kids' play fort near the Old Barn (serving homemade cakes), and a street food stall and wagon in the field for additional refreshments. Moreover, you can partake in pick-your-own wildflower and cut-flower meadows, available from May to October. These meadows boast vibrant blooms such as Dahlias, Cornflowers, Strawflowers, Nigellas, Cosmos, Zinnias, and Astrantia. And starting in mid-August, the sunflower field will also open for picking.

7. Rickmansworth Aquadrome, Rickmansworth

This sprawling 41-hectare public park and nature reserve located in the Three Rivers District is a hive of watery activity. Rickmansworth derives its name from being the convergence point of the rivers Chess, Gade, and Colne. As a result, there are plenty of water-based pursuits to enjoy here. Embark on waterside walking trails around the three lakes, ideal for biking or scooting with the kids while spotting wildlife along the way. For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for waterskiing and boating.

Rickmansworth Waterski Club is based within the Aquadrome and hosts beginners' days throughout the summer. Younger children can have a blast in the excellent play area while the café offers top-notch healthy and delicious brunch and lunch options, ensuring no soggy sandwiches in sight!

8. Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour, Watford

Believe it or not, this popular tourist attraction that rivals London's finest can be found right here in Hertfordshire, nestled next to the former filming location of the Harry Potter movies in Leavesden. It has since been transformed into a permanent museum-cum-theme park (minus the rides unless you count the virtual broomstick ride over London). The Harry Potter Studio Tour is dedicated to all things magical, brimming with sets, props, and costumes from the films.

Discover animatronic creatures, uncover the secrets of special effects, and step into iconic sets like the Great Hall and Diagon Alley. Starting in 2022, you can also visit Professor Sprout's Greenhouse, a brand-new addition.

9. Standalone Farm, Letchworth

If you're seeking an authentic, hands-on farm experience, Standalone Farm has everything you desire. This small, fully operational farm situated on the outskirts of Letchworth is home to pigs, alpacas, shire horses, Shetland ponies, and donkeys that you can meet and even feed during your visit. The farm offers an adventure playground, agility trail, woodland trail, sandpit, model railway, electric cars, and an indoor play barn for rainy days.

Standalone Farm is also located on the Garden City Greenway, a circular walking and cycling route encompassing Letchworth. Even if you're not stopping for a farm visit, you can wave at the animals as you pass by or pause for a picnic on the farm's expansive land. During the summer holidays, the farm offers a range of activities, including Dr. Fossil's Dino Babies Show, a Birds of Prey Demo, and Forest School sessions.

10. Ashridge Estate, Near Berkhamsted

With 5,000 acres of ancient woodlands, chalk downlands, and open meadows, the Ashridge Estate is a National Trust-managed Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that attracts families, walkers, and cyclists from Hertfordshire and beyond. This expansive landscape features 80 miles of footpaths and bridleways, including well-marked routes that lead to the iconic Bridgewater Monument. If you're up for a challenge, climb the monument's 172 steps and enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the estate (it's a great way to tire out the kids!).

Ashridge is delightful in all seasons. During summer, the woods provide welcome shade, while in winter, they offer shelter. Don't miss the stunning Dockey Woods in spring, where you'll find a mesmerizing display of bluebells. Keep your eyes peeled year-round for fallow deer roaming the estate. The site also boasts a café, a coffee van, and an ice cream truck, as well as a shop offering gifts and plants. Stay updated on the latest events as there's always something for kids, from themed trails to hands-on workshops and even adult courses like forest bathing and photography.

11. Knebworth House, Knebworth

Knebworth House may be famous for hosting Oasis' record-breaking gig in the mid-90s, but there's much more to discover. This grand stately home, once the residence of novelist, playwright, and politician Sir Edward Bulwer Lytton, opens its doors to visitors from June to September. Take a house tour to explore the opulent rooms and meander through the 28 acres of formal gardens, complete with a maze and vibrant flower borders. Every Wednesday in July, free tours are available. Alternatively, spread out your picnic blanket in the 250-acre deer park.

For the kids, Knebworth House offers an exciting adventure. They can discover 72 larger-than-life dinosaurs hidden among the shrubbery, follow a sculpture trail, and explore an impressive adventure play fort. The venue also hosts a wide range of events, from outdoor theatre performances to food festivals and car shows.

12. Aldenham Country Park, Elstree

Aldenham Country Park is an independently run, not-for-profit enterprise that stands out for its ecological initiatives, which support local wildlife and promote environmental awareness among visitors, especially children. This expansive park spans 100 acres and features a farm trail where you can meet cows, sheep, pigs, ducks, rabbits, chickens, and more, including their adorable offspring.

Visit the 100 Aker Wood, home to Pooh and his friends (download a map online and bring along a picnic). The wood is accessible to visitors year-round and doesn't require an entry fee. You can also explore the self-guided nature trails that offer scenic views of the nearby reservoir. Kids will love the fantastic adventure playground, complete with a sandpit and a thrilling zip wire. The playground has been specially designed to accommodate children with special educational needs and disabilities. Additionally, the park includes an area for free play and creative activities, as well as a SEND pavilion offering sensory sessions that can be booked in advance.

13. Lee Valley Regional Park, Ware, Broxbourne, and Cheshunt

Covering a vast expanse of 10,000 acres, Lee Valley Regional Park stretches 26 miles along the leafy banks of the River Lee, extending from Ware, Essex, to the East India Dock Basin on the Thames. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a multitude of activities. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the park's 12 nature reserves (don't forget your binoculars!) and marvel at a diverse range of bird species, water-dwelling mammals, and over half of the UK's dragonfly species. Guided walks are plentiful, and you can also explore historical houses, gardens, and heritage sites within the park, including Myddleton House and Broxbourne Old Mill.

If you crave adventure, head straight to the Lee Valley White Water Centre. Here, you can experience the thrill of white water rafting, tubing, or hydrospeeding down the rapids. The centre also offers canoeing, paddleboarding, open-water swimming, and a giant inflatable park and beach for the kids.

14. South Mill Arts, Bishop's Stortford

South Mill Arts is a cultural haven encompassing a theatre, cinema, museum, art space, gallery, and dance studios, all under one roof. Complete with the retro-themed Maltings bar, this multifaceted venue is ideal for hosting a wide range of events, meetings, and conferences.

The theatre presents top-notch performances, including major touring theatre productions, live music concerts, classic and contemporary dance performances, seasonal pantomimes, and popular children's shows like Sarah and Duck. If you prefer the big screen, the cinema offers a diverse selection of timeless classics and family favourites. Make sure to explore the free-entry museum, which also hosts trails and holiday activities. The upcoming theme is "We're Living Like Romans" next month.

South Mill Arts also offer a variety of classes for adults and children, ranging from theatre and dance workshops to art sessions, Zumba, and Pilates. Additionally, the venue hosts exhibitions showcasing the work of local artists.