The 16th of June is fast approaching and, this Father’s Day, we’re showing Dad just how much he means to us. Year-round, his wonderful sense of humour, caring nature, and overall wonderful-ness is always there for us. So, to give him some love back in return, here are our favourite places in Herts for the best gifts, experiences, and days out to really treat him.
Laser Quest
Let Dad play out some of his action-film fantasies with an experience at Laser Quest in Hemel Hempstead, the perfect combo of adrenaline-fueled fun (and maybe the closest he’ll come to feeling like Jason Statham). This immersive day out is fun for the whole family, bringing you under one roof to battle it out and take home the trophy. On top of laser quest, you can also entertain yourselves with games galore – maybe not one for the competitive families out there!
Tewinbury Farm
The Farm Yard at Tewinbury Farm is being transformed for a fantastic afternoon of live music on the 16th June, brought to you by the soulful tunes of Joey Hanson. Take some time to kick back and relax, listening to Joey’s diverse repertoire, sampling the farm’s delicious menu and, as an extra special treat, Dad will be welcomed by a complimentary beer upon arrival – it doesn’t get much better than that…
Knebworth Park
What better way to celebrate Dad in a memorable way this year than with medieval jousting!? See fantastic displays of horsemanship as costumed knights gallop and trot against the backdrop of the beautiful Knebworth towers. Be transported back in time as you jeer and shout from the audience, before trying your hand in archery. What’s better - with under threes going free, this truly is a day out for the whole family.
Hatfield Park
A celebration of all things Land Rover arrives at Hatfield Park this year for their inaugural Landies on the Lawn event. An eclectic display of timeless, classic vehicles, we know this will tick the box for many motor-head dads out there. And to please everyone in the group, their Mini Rovers experience will see the little ones honing their driving skills in an off-road obstacle course!
Drift Limits
Keep the thrills going, and head down to Drift Limits to make Father’s Day extra special. From supercar and drifting to passenger rides and police pursuit, there’s no doubt you’ll be leaving feeling like an F1 driver. So, book in today and put your driving skills to test!
Hertfordshire Zoo
“We don’t need a dog” turning into “I’ve just bought Buddy a new blanket with his name embroidered on it” – sound familiar? How about extending Dad’s animal love and treating him to a day out at Hertfordshire Zoo? Feed a big cat, meet a meerkat, tickle a tapir or perhaps more in line with dad - enjoy a few rounds of golf at the Safari Adventure Golf Course. With hundreds of exotic animals and even an adventure playground, bring out the big kid in him and book your tickets today!
The Snow Centre
Has your dad been after a skiing excursion this year? Treat him to an afternoon on the slopes at The Snow Centre, perfect for pro skiiers and snowboarders to get back on the board on their 160m slope. If dad’s never been but always wanted to, sign him up to pre-paid beginners lessons and give him a new hobby he can enjoy again and again.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, so bring Dad along to this iconic Hertfordshire studio as they mark the occasion with their new jaw-dropping instalment. “Return to Azkaban” brings to life, for the first time ever, new film-making secrets and fan-favourite sets. Uncover wonders from the wizarding world as you go behind the scenes of this iconic and beloved story.
Crossover Blendery
And for something extra special, head to the Crossover Blendery for a selection of lovingly made, handcrafted brews that you won’t find anywhere else. The taproom is open from 12pm-8pm on Saturdays, so now’s your chance to share with Dad your tasting notes sheet and spend a quality afternoon together amidst a great atmosphere and quality brews.
Puddingstone Distillery
Just a few minutes away from Tring is the award-winning Puddingstone Distillery, ideal for the botanical-loving dads out there. They're open every Friday and Saturday, with select tours on Thursday evenings, so you can get to know the spirits on site from the experts, learning the story behind each bottle and witnessing the love that goes into every drop. And for a gift to last even longer, treat him to a gift card for him to use at his own perusal.
Brocket Hall
Golfer dads, unite! It’s time to get on the green at Brocket Hall, where two championship courses await for a day of ultimate relaxation. Bask in the glorious Herts countryside as you putt your way through the day, bringing the young budding golfers of the family along to have a go in the swing studio. Finish up the round with a meal at the award-winning on-site restaurant, Auberge du Lac, soaking up those sunny views while you tuck into seasonal and local dishes.
Down Hall
From the Potting Shed at Down Hall comes the monthly Sunday Feast, a taste-explosion like none other. On the menu you'll not only find an unlimited classic Sunday roast (with all the trimmings!), you're also in for a whole other treat. Tuck in and fill your plate with limitless seafood platters, lobster mac and cheese, pate’s, chutneys, salads and delectable desserts. You, Dad, and the whole family are about to enjoy a meal to remember, surrounded by a fantastic atmosphere in one of Herts' most luxurious spots.
The Grove
The countryside escape found at The Grove is the place to go to get a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Allow Dad to escape from it all, as you indulge in everything you could ask for from a getaway – a round of golf, restful spa treatment, a few lengths in the pool, all topped off with a delicious meal in their fine dining restaurant. Each room features all the expected modern amenities and is a retreat in itself. If you do choose to leave your room, there’s plenty to do as the hotel sits in 300 acres of woodland and green space, where you can hire bikes or simply take a wander.
Pizza Express
This weekend’s all about Dad, with his favourite people and his favourite pizzas joining forces for the best Father’s Day ever at Pizza Express. Serving up iconic dishes from the menu, we're seeing some fantastic combinations - mushroom arancini, a classic pizza and a chocolate brownie? Yes please! And for the ultimate finish to Father’s Day, don’t forget to enter their dine-in competition for the chance to win a trip to Capri, courtesy of Peroni.