Now, we don’t want to give you childhood flashbacks to those sunny days when mum would tell you to “stop hanging around inside and go make the most of the weather”, but (not for the first time) she had a point! As we get a little bit older, and hopefully a little wiser too, we’re seeing just how important it is to get outside when the sun is shining. And, with the temperamental weather of the U.K., it’s extra important to grab at any chance to enjoy the sunshine whenever we can. All throughout Herts, there are hidden gems and well-known favourites waiting for you, family, and friends to experience this sunny season. So, join us in planning out those warm months ahead – overnight stays, sporting days, and festival fun awaits!
The ball’s in your court!
With the Wimbledon Championships just around the corner, we’re itching to get out there and try a serve or two for ourselves. We can do exactly that at Stevenage’s very own newly refurbished tennis courts in Shephalbury Park. The space is open and welcome to all ages and abilities so, whether you’re a racquet rookie or the next Alcaraz, this one’s for you. And for a weekend of free tennis, come along on the 16th July and join in the fun at the Big Tennis Weekend!
Sliding through the Slalom
Calling all thrill seekers! The 2023 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships are fast approaching, and we’re getting ready for some adrenaline-fuelled events to make the most of those last summer days. From the 19th-24th September, competitors will race against the clock, battling the current of the whitewater course and its obstacles. And where better to host than at the Lee Valley White Water Centre, site of the 2012 Summer Olympics, right here in Hertfordshire. Pack those cameras and head on out for an unforgettable day at the water.
Lights, camera, action!
Who says that movie nights have to be kept indoors? At Ashridge House, forget saying goodbye to the warm weather whenever you want to enjoy a film for the evening, as Adventure Cinema brings you an experience to remember for a lifetime. Set against the backdrop of the 19th century stately home, you and the family can enjoy showstoppers and familiar favourites, like Top Gun: Maverick, Elvis, and Mamma Mia. Sit back and relax (we know that might be hard for all you Abba fans out there), as you get whisked away with the movie-magic this July.
Outdoors and artsy
And for even more fun on these beautifully historic grounds, Ashridge House is thrilled to be presenting their premier Sculpture Exhibition this September. Witness an eclectic collection of contemporary and traditional sculptures as you wind your way through their trail, taking in the beauty of the pieces as they sit within the lush grounds and stunning landscape of the house. Book in today to get your spot and, with children under two going free, there’s no time like the present to turn the little ones into art aficionados!
Merry music
Back once again for 2023, Old Town Live is ready and waiting to spring into action. Pop it into your diary – Saturday 5th August, you’re going to want to make your way down for some amazing live entertainment, a Kids Zone for the little ones, and a whole host of amazing street food on site. Dance the night away, whether you’re into rock and roll or prefer to relax to the sounds of jazz, your ears are sure to find something they like!
Sunny days at Standalone
Top of our list for family days out this summer has got to be Standalone Farm, where you’ll find just about everything that you’ll need to keep the little ones (and yourselves!) entertained for the day. With a newly extended playground, picnic spots, woodland trail, farmyard animals, tractor rides, and ice creams, what more could you ask for? What about workshops and events throughout the year? Yep, they’ve got those too. Check out their calendar for the year and see where your next day out will take you…
Cassiobury Park, (c) Josh Carter
Walk and talk
With so much green space throughout the county, one of the best ways to make the most of it during the warmer months of the year is to get out for a walk. And what’s better is that, here in Herts, you can join a Health Walk group - free and accessible walks led by volunteers that take you across the amazing landscapes of the county. Ranging different abilities and distances, you can choose where you feel most comfortable, and get your body moving for some much-deserved wellbeing time.
Foodie fun
The Great British Food Festival makes its return this year, coming to you from Knebworth House on the 15th and 16th July – pop along and get a taste of the festival in its full glory. With amazing street food, chef demos, mini zoo, kids’ activities and more, you might just need both days to appreciate all that the GBFF has to offer. Tickets for the day include access to the Gardens, Park, Adventure Playground and Dinosaur Trail and, with under threes going free, you and the family have got your next summer adventure sorted.
Thinking of the theatre
This August, the elegant gardens of Knebworth House will be transformed into the ultimate open-air venue as two theatre companies make their arrival at the stunning 15th century manor house. With performances of the iconic Romeo & Juliet by The Lord Chamberlain’s Men and The Wizard of Oz by the Immersion Theatre Company, this is not one to miss. Sit back, grab a drink, give your glass a clink, tuck into some popcorn, and enjoy the show!
Park fun!
Looking to try out something new this year, completely for free? Head over to Leavesden Country Park for some active, outdoor sessions to get your body moving. Whether it’s improving your cardio and muscle strength with circuits, improving mobility and your core through Pilates, or increasing mind and body energy in Tai Chi, there’s plenty to choose from this summer in the park. And don’t miss out on yoga too, taking place across several locations in the county so you can get your fix of the outdoors as you stretch, breathe, and relax!
Splash away
It happens every year – the weather gets a little too hot and the blow-up paddling pool that’s sat in the shed since last year just won’t cut it. Fear not, as Hertfordshire has plenty of outdoor pools, lidos, and splash parks to keep your kiddies cool and entertained this summer. So, pack the sun cream, towels and hats and head to your local water park for a splashing time this summer.
Extra treats
And the fun doesn’t stop there! There’s plenty more to see and do on those warm weekends and midweek trips throughout the county. Whether you’re looking to make a few nights of it at one of Herts’ amazing places to stay, want to treat your tastebuds and eat al-fresco, or are on the hunt for those dog-friendly spots that the whole family can enjoy, we’ve got you covered.