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Kite flying at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate, Bedfordshire
Enjoy a day out with the family | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

Family-friendly places in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

Discover a variety of enjoyable things to do around Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire with the family this spring, from building dens in Hatfield Forest to flying a kite at Dunstable Downs.

Top spots for family days out

Two children flying a kite in spring, Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire.
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Dunstable Downs 

Embrace the explorer in you, put on your wellies and jump into half term fun at Dunstable Downs. Fly a kite, build a den, borrow a balance bike or set off on an adventure in the great outdoors and see how many 50 Things you can tick off as you go.

Family follow the walking trail at Hatfield Forest, Essex
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Hatfield Forest 

Discover what there is to do for families at Hatfield Forest, including spaces to explore and activities to keep kids entertained.

Woman and baby on the lawn in front of a red brick house, with summer flowers in the garden
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Visiting Shaw's Corner with Family 

The enclosed garden at Shaw's Corner provides the perfect location for a family visit. From family trails to garden games, there's plenty on offer.

Come out and play at these places too

Children playing at Foxbury in the summer, Bramshaw Commons and Foxbury, Hampshire
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Ashridge Estate 

Ashridge has over 80 miles of pathways 5,000 acres of woodland, from the windmill to Bridgewater Monument and panoramic views of the estate, there’s lots to explore at Ashridge Estate.

A child looks through yellow binoculars directly at the camera with a big smile on his face.
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Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood 

With resident nightingales and adders, Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood offer a diverse wildlife environment. Why not try a geocache GPS trail with the family to discover it all?

Visitors exploring Grange Barn, Essex
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Grange Barn 

Explore the unexpected at Grange Barn and discover the story within its walls. Discover 800 years of history, with activities for the whole family to enjoy during your visit.

Exterior of Bourne Mill, Essex, in June
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Bourne Mill 

With its fulling stocks and 72-bucket waterwheel, Bourne Mill offers a fascinating peek into the history of Colchester's textile industry. Explore its highlights on a tour of the mill.

Easter adventures in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

Easter is just a few weeks away and we've got plenty of Easter adventures across Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. Find a trail near you and pick up your prize.