I would love to say that I am a spontaneous person, but I would be lying… there’s nothing like planning that perfect trip or staycation especially when you can see a local’s recommendations of the best places to visit!
For that holiday planner, we have come up with a list of the best recommendations in Stevenage and North Herts, from the perfect places to rest your head to your fun-filled activities (or relaxing ones…).
So, let’s kick off this journey in Stevenage, you will be surprised how quickly this journey is from London… 20 minutes!!! Yes, that’s right, just 20 minutes from London is this beautiful District offering a timeless mix of heritage, retail therapy and those exciting and fun-filled activities.
Benington Lordship Gardens
This tranquil garden is known for its beautiful country landscape, roses, castle ruins and its contemporary sculpture. These ever-changing gardens are perfect for those picturesque moments, from enchanting snowdrops in the winter season to the gorgeous herbaceous borders that continue to change throughout the year.
The house and garden at Benington Lordship is so beautiful that it has been chosen for a variety of photoshoots for huge brands such as; Mulberry, Godiva and Lidl and for magazines including Vogue, Vanity Fair, Hello and OK! You might even notice that they have been included in Netflix’s series One Day.
Fairlands Valley Park
Personally, the jewel in the crown of Stevenage is by far Fairlands Valley Park. The park consists of 120 acres of beautiful parkland and is filled with super fun activities for anyone; Aqua Park, Play area, Sailing Centre, Outdoor Activity Centre, Four lakes, Conservation areas, Woodlands and in the summer, they have Splash Parks.
Looking for that exciting experience? Head over to the Sailing Centre where they will take you out on the 11-acre sailing lake used for the centre’s dinghies, canoeing, kayaks, windsurfing, powerboat courses and angling. Or if you don’t like the water then they also run many land-based activities such as boards and buggies, grass sledging, orienteering, mountain biking and power kicking.
For those that would just like to sit down and relax then make sure to bring yourself a picnic and sit down by the glistening lakes whilst the children run around in the equipped play areas.
Stevenage Leisure Park
Perfect for all of the family or those just looking for some easy entertainment or a delicious restaurant for you to enjoy is, Stevenage Leisure Park. Sit back and relax in the IMAX Cineworld or score a hole-in-one at Mr Mulligan's Lostworld Golf and don’t forget to show off your bowling skills at Hollywood Bowl.
Looking for an easy place to stop and grab some mouth-watering food? Take a stroll through the American Diner-inspired TGI Fridays, or let your mouth take a trip to Italy with the delicious Ask Italia or Prezzo.
Stevenage Museum
Here’s a fun fact for those history lovers! Did you know that situated on a wooded hill in North Herts, in Saxon Times a small community gathered and began to settle on the land which is now called Stevenage.
Stevenage Museum has a huge collection of over 18,000 photographs and around 10,000 objects that detail its history. You can find the museum underneath St. Andrew and St. George’s Way, make sure to take a look at the wide range of events that they host throughout the year for families, children and adults.
Stevenage Town Centre and Stevenage's Old Town
Here is a place for those shopaholics or for somewhere to explore whilst waiting to check into your accommodation. Stop by and grab yourself a new outfit or a gift for someone back at home to remember your trip to Stevenage. Make sure you grab yourself a tasty pasty or stop off and get a Bubble Tea Boba. The Town Centre is currently going through some very exciting improvements providing you with lots to do and places to shop.
Looking for something with more history and heritage? Take a stroll through Stevenage’s Old Town, filled with unique shops, it isn’t too far of a walk from the main train station. The town is packed with a variety of restaurants for you to visit and has a booming nightlife so you are sure not to be disappointed.
Hotel Cromwell
What was once a farmhouse home of John Thurloe, secretary to Oliver Cromwell is now a beautifully refurbished hotel boasting a stylish décor that compliments the character from its former times. This luxurious hotel is the perfect place for all to enjoy and relax.
Take a seat at the fabulously finished bar and brasserie bringing you tasty home-cooked modern British dishes with locally sourced produce, and if you are there on a Sunday choose their Sunday Roast… it will not disappoint!
Ibis Hotel
There is no need to trail around your luggage because just a 3-minute walk from Stevenage train station is the Ibis Hotel. This vibrant hotel is a perfect place to relax and rest keeping you refreshed for your stay in Stevenage. Make sure to head down to the restaurant where you will receive a warm welcome and enjoy a delicious breakfast for only £8.95 per person.
Holiday Inn
Come and stay in this modern four-star hotel located in the heart of Stevenage. With a convenient location, this means that you can easily explore nearby attractions by train. Don’t forget to get back in time to wine and dine in their on-site restaurant, raise a glass to a spectacular time in Stevenage at the bar or keep in shape at their fitness centre. Whether you’re here for a long time or just a short stay, Holiday Inn always ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay!
As you can tell Stevenage is a beautiful place to visit but if you need that little bit more convincing then take a look at Stevenage Borough Council's 'Welcome to Stevenage Old Town Historic High Street' video.
Now, they always say save the best to last but, as North Herts is just round the corner from Stevenage who’s to say stopping by and extending your annual leave isn’t a great idea? North Herts is packed with beautiful gardens to visit, a picturesque Lavender farm, historic sights and rural views.
Knebworth House and Gardens
Home to the Lytton family for over 500 years is Knebworth House surrounded by stunning gardens with a maze, walled kitchen gardens and is also well known for their beautiful Roses. The House is filled with historical stories about the family’s contribution to literature, politics and foreign service and visits by characters like Charles Dickens and Winston Churchill.
This is a fantastic day for all ages. Follow the roars from the dinosaurs around the Dinosaur trails in the Wilderness Garden and see how many life-sized dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures there are (pst… there’s 72 but don’t tell the children). Make sure to stop by the historic Deer Park and bounce out that energy in the Adventure Playground on the bouncy castles, ‘weeeeeeee’ down the slide and fall down the drop slide.
You might notice this place if you are a film lover! With its beautiful exterior and Tudor interior, it’s no wonder filmmakers have chosen to film in this Herts gem. Did you notice what has been filmed here? You can see parts of the house in Batman, The Kings Speech, Transformers, St Trinians and so much more! So, if you are interested in film then explore the grounds with their new filming exhibition to discover more cinematic history that is lurking in these walls.
Hitchin Lavender Farm
We are always counting down the days until we see the beautiful vibrant purples of our Hitchin lavender, not only because we know summer is coming but because this is by far the most picturesque place we can think of! Not only do we know this is the most well-known spot for lavender, but the UK also knows it too… and people travel from all over to indulge in the sea of purple. Not only is it a beautiful place to visit but there is such a calming aroma that always makes us feel relaxed.
St Pauls Walden Bury
Head over to this utterly dreamy garden that was laid out in the early 18th century and has kept the original concept of formal woodland garden, with temples, statues and ponds. Relax is this harmonious garden and explore the features of the countryside such as the church which is drawn into the design and the trees that are left to grow naturally.
Discover the fascinating array of plants in the more recent woodland garden and see how many different varieties of wild flowers you can spot! If visiting in February look out for the snowdrops, then over the next few months you will be able to see daffodils and cowslips. For me, the best months are April and May where you will be able to see the magnolias, azaleas and rhododendrons in full flower as well as my favourites… bluebells!
North Hertfordshire Museum
Just up the road from Hitchin high street is North Hertfordshire Museum. The museum has collections from the old Letchworth and Hitchin museums along with many items from around the region that have never before been seen by the public!
Discover the four galleries; The Discovering North Hertfordshire Gallery showcasing the history of the district from the geological past of the present day, The Exhibition Gallery with constant changing exhibitions, The Living in North Hertfordshire Gallery showing how people’s live have changed over the years, and The Terrace Gallery with small temporary displays of art and heritage.
To top it off… this museum is dog-friendly!
Crossover Blendery
Is it time for a pint yet? Started in 2018 is Crossover Blendery who focus on producing 100% spontaneously fermented beers. This means that the beer has had no yeast or bacteria added to it in the process of its creation making this a very naturally made drink!
Relax with a delicious drink in your hand in their Blendery Taproom, a truly unique space for people to sit down amongst the barrels in the heart of the countryside.
Treasure Map Trails
Gather your brooms and your wizarding wands and head out on a magical quest through the historical town centre of Hitchin. Follow the map and find 12 treasures with a decorated trail to captivate and inspire young imaginations. This is a great activity to do with your little ones no matter the weather. You will find out about the historical tidbits about Hitchin and the treasure will reveal some fascinating facts highlighting the town’s heritage. Once you have completed the trail your little one will receive their very own finisher’s certificate. What better way to enjoy the beautiful town!
Standalone Farm
You’re in for plenty of fun with your farmyard favourites at Standalone Farm. From sheep to cows, goats to pigs, ducks to chickens, see how many animals you can spot. Don’t forget to see the regular feeding sessions, watch the cow milking demonstration and take a trip on the bumpy tractor-trailer rides.
Make the trip special and buy your little ones (or yourself) some animal feed for your visit and feed your favourite farm animals!
Gardeners Cottage at Knebworth House
Now I know we have spoken about Knebworth already, but did you know you could stay in their beautiful three-bedroom semi-detached cottage? This is a truly enchanting escape, combining timeless character with modern comfort perfect for that weekend break or relaxing family retreat!
Play some fun board games together in the cosy lounge next to the roaring log fire keeping you nice and toasty! The cottage has a fully equipped kitchen dining room and access to the natural landscape garden.
And the best part is… you can bring your furry best friends to stay with you!