Parents everywhere, we salute you! Being full-time parent, cook, chief entertainers, we know that days spent at home can make both the kids and parents a little stir-crazy. But as the outside starts to warm up and the world begins to become busy, we know that looking for those days out to occupy the kids can be tough which is why we have come up with some top recommendations of places to book now to make summer less stressful and something to look forward to! The hot summer weather might not be guaranteed but we know these days out will keep the kids smiling, and the parents grateful.
Henry Moore Studios and Garden
Nestled in the quaint hamlet of Perry Green is the marvelous Henry Moore Studios and Gardens, where children can run free and get a little art history education on the way. Moore’s iconic nature-inspired statues sit beautifully in the evergreen gardens and provide a tranquil picturesque setting for a fun and educational day out. Bring your own food or pre-book your picnic from their cafe for a treat for the parents too!
Arts in Herts
Shepreth Wildlife Park
Nothing says family day out like a trip to the zoo! The 'Wildlife Walk' has been designed to take in every interesting insect, every vibrant feathery bird and every furry four-legged mammal. You can walk along the winding pathways and come face to face with stunning Sumatran tigers or wave a red panda up in the trees. Sign us up!
Paradise Wildlife Park
Whether it’s big cats or creepy crawlies, Paradise Wildlife Park has something to keep the kids entertained whatever peaks their interest right now - including those dinosaur-obsessed little ones! Their Dinosaur World is a spectacular show of animatronic dinosaur attractions, with the moving and roaring dinosaurs coming to life before your eyes!
Rye House Parkway
If the kids have grown out of the dinosaur phase and have a little more 'need for speed' these days, it has to be Rye House Parkway for racing! Take the whole family for a race around the tracks and enjoy the exhilarating go-karting experience. If the last few months have felt slow, we’re sure this will… speed things up! You never know, you might even find a future Lewis Hamilton among you!
Lee Valley
When you want to keep the little ones active (or maybe just use up a little bit of that non-stop energy!) Lee Valley is there for you! With a number of parks make sure to know which one you'd like to head to before you go, but there are plenty of activities for the family to get involved in. Whether you want to ride the mountain bike trails, knock a ball around on the outdoor tennis courts or even have a 1:1 riding lesson, getting active in Lee Valley is the perfect way to keep the kids and adults happy and healthy this summer.
Photo by @sdsmith18 via Instagram
Cassiobury Park
Ah the Parks of Herts! We have so many lovely open spaces for you and your family to enjoy – did we mention we have 9 official Green Flag parks, the ultimate accolade for outstanding outdoor spaces? We don’t mean to brag but there’s so many to choose from on those perfect hot summer days. Whether it’s a picnic, a game or just a quiet sunbathe with the kids, fresh air and greenery really does make the world of difference, doesn’t it?
The Grove
From pop-up restaurants, to private beaches, to an outdoor cinema, The Grove Hotel really does have you covered with ideas for the summer holidays. Enjoy sitting in the walled garden and delve into food from the Verde Kitchen, a pop-up restaurant or the Grove Grill to really get you in that summer mood. Or splash around at Ralph's private sandy beach and then relax with your popcorn at the Everyman Outdoor cinema.
Escape for a family break during the summer holidays and relax in luxury for 20% off when you stay two nights or more at The Grove.
Book a stay for you and the family to enjoy!
Book a stay-cation in Hertfordshire now with these amazing, self-catering accommodations ready for this summer, making the summer holidays as stress-free as possible.
Home Farm Glamping
Looking for that luxury DIY accommodation? Look to Home Farm Glamping located in Elstree. Found close to London this glamping site is perfect when escaping the city with your family to focus on making memories, and you will definitely leave well rested and refreshed. Book some family time away around the campfire and roast some marshmallows!
Summer events
From the three night extravaganza of Woodfired Feasting in the Meadow, to an unforgettable circus production, there is a whole summer of entertainment fun lined up right here at Home Farm (as if you needed any more convincing to book a stay!). For more events see here.
North Hill Farm Glamping
Not too sure about camping but still want the peace from the countryside? North Hill Farm Glamping offers unique accommodations in the stunning valley.
With many different types of fun and quirky buildings to stay in such as The Hut - That Shall Not Be Named, Dinky Disc, Owl's Lookout, Bee Hive, Sheep Retreat and Squirrel Run. These self-catering accommodation are a place that the kids will never forget!
Chiltern Canal Boat Holidays
Relax the night away on the narrowboat and cruise through the countryside with Chiltern Canal Boat Holidays.
An unforgettable place to stay with the family, this unique accommodation comes equipped with everything that you need to enjoy your family afloat whilst riding in comfort.