We probably don't show or say enough appreciation for our dads (driving us places, fixing things in our house, we could go on...), so let's spread the love to him with top notch days and afternoons out across Hertfordshire. Whether you want a simple but incredibly tasty meal out or something to use later in the year beyond June 18th, all you need to do is choose from the below and it's certain that dad will bring the dad jokes!
Feast like a King
A pint for pops
A simple meal out as a family may be seen as an unimaginative Father’s Day present – but it is often the simple things in life which make for the most memorable. It certainly helps when you have a beautiful setting or two to dine in. So let's take Dad out to a few of our favourite foodie spots, like trendy gastropub The Bricklayers Arms, modern cocktail spot Kings Arms, or go cosy and classic at The Fisherman in Stevenage.
Stick on the barbie at Sopwell house
As we've said, it can often be the simplest things that are memorable, but in the case of Sopwell House they're rather exquisite. On offer at the hotel in St Albans is a whole host of Father's Day excitement – not only will there be the classic roast dinner (with all the trimmings, of course), but you can also celebrate with an afternoon tea or BBQ. So, whether you’re tucking in and preparing for those post-meal naps, keeping pinkies tucked in while sipping on tea, or listening to live music while sampling delicious grilled treats, Dad is sure to appreciate the day you spend together at Sopwell this year.
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-5pm on Sundays, so now’s your perfect chance to share with Dad your tasting notes sheet and spend a quality afternoon together amidst a great atmosphere and quality brews. And for those of you who fancy staying at home for the day, why not order a gift bundle online, and get 10% off your first order?
Rump & Wade
We just have to recommend Rump & Wade, a quaint British pub offering a perfect dining experience for you, just down the road from the beautiful Fairlands Valley Park. As well as serving the unbeatably classic Sunday roast, you can also expect a myriad of traditional dishes with a modern twist that will leave your jaws dropped, stomachs full, and faces smiling!
Dad's days out
Knebworth House
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 3s going free, this truly is a day out for the whole family.
Fashionable father
Whether your dad is a suave, stylish dresser or you think the wardrobe could do with a little spruce up with help from yourself, show him you love him by taking a trip to the shops. With over 80 shops and 15 places to eat under one roof, The Galleria Outlet Centre in Hatfield has a great selection of brands at outlet store prices – because let’s face it, the Bank of Dad always does appreciate a bargain - and fantastic dining for refueling after a hard day’s shop. With the centre’s brilliant on-site jungle themed adventure area Get Wild, young children will be entertained for hours… giving dad more time to peruse those shelves in a bit of peace…
Tewinbury Farm
For an evening of laid-back entertainment, the team at Tewinbury Farm have got you covered. Bring Dad along to The Farm Yard to sample some mouth-watering, street-style food and listen to their fantastic line up of chilled, live music. Great vibes, brilliant food and drink, and a picturesque setting all add up to make for an unforgettable Father’s Day!
On the big screen
To celebrate all the fantastic Dads in our lives, from Step Dad to Grandad and everything in between, Atria Watford is giving us the chance to shout about them in style. From the 12th-18th June, you can show Dad your appreciation by putting him on Atria's BIG screen - simply send in a photo of the main man himself and he'll be part of the photo showcase of amazing dads throughout the county. Go on, and make Dad the star for the day!
The mane man
Lions, tigers and bears, oh my! If your dad’s an animal lover (isn’t it always dad who says he doesn’t want a pet, then becomes obsessed with them?) then it’s time to head to Paradise Wildlife Park for the perfect family day out. Feed an ostrich, see a white lion, have breakfast with the snow leopards 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!
Mr Magic
Did you know that Mad-Eye Moody and Bill Weasley are actually real-life father and son? Find your spellbinding similarities as you sip a Butterbeer at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter in Watford. Explore the sets of the film and make a pit-stop for the gift shop to stock up on everything from Bertie Botts Every Flavour Beans to wands. Make this Father's day magical.
Peak dad's interest
Has your dad been missing his skiing excursions this year? Treat him to an afternoon back 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.
Walk and talk
We just love those unexpected meaningful moments with Dad that stay with us forever, and the best place for these to happen has got to be in the great outdoors. Going for a walk, taking some time out of your day to surround yourselves with nature and just appreciate each other’s company. Lucky for us, there are plenty of beautiful green spaces throughout the county where you can soak in breath-taking landscapes. From Fairlands Valley Park to Cassiobury Park, the whole county is brimming with walks to go on to make the day extra special.
On his A game at Hanbury Manor
Treat Dad to a day of his dreams and book in a round of golf on the wonderful green at Hanbury Manor. From Friday to Sunday between 9th-18th June, you can book in your session, with the extra treat of kids going free! Now, that's an unmissable deal to create an unforgettable day. Grab a bite to eat afterwards at Vardons while sat on the terrace, overlooking the calm and beautiful course.
Lee Valley White Water Centre
Calling all those adrenaline junkies out there! If you’re looking for heart-pounding excitement for the whole family this Father’s Day, look no further. This Broxbourne-based attraction offers white water activities for all ages - from rafting on the 2012 Olympic course, to pummelling down the rapids on a hydrospeed.
Stay the night
Pitch up with Pa
Treating dad to a summer escape needn’t send you to far-flung places or make you splash the cash. Take an opportunity to get back into nature with Home Farm Glamping, and their beautiful camp site set right on London’s doorstep. Make the most of the staycation and stay until the 22nd June to experience the delights of At Home Farm's Gifford Circus- a celebration of arts, humour, and traditional circus acts with a modern twist.
Chiltern canal boat holidays
Ay ay captain… We’re hopping aboard with Chiltern Canal Boat Holidays! And, if Dad has ever dreamed of owning his own boat, why not give him a taste of life on the water for the weekend (your driveway will thank us later!) and book in your very own adventure. Whether you and the family are sailing pros, or are somewhat aquaphobic, a getaway with Chiltern Canal is sure to leave everyone smiling and relaxed. With all the amenities you could need, let Dad relax as you bob along and take in the beautiful outdoors from the comfort of your own home-away-from-home.
Spend time in the tree house
With many dads around the country likely having built a tree house in some shape or form, there's also probably some that haven't turned out so well! If your dad will feel rewarded by spending some time in nature and up in a proper tree house, head to North Hill Farm. With their Sheep Retreat still having space for the weekend available as of writing, there's still lots of availability throughout the year so you can book ahead and give dad a rustic time away.