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Large family of adults and children standing on top of hill watching while elderly man flies a kite
Enjoy a day out with the family this spring | © 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.

Summer of Play at Dunstable Downs

Summer of Play at Dunstable Downs 

The popular sports village returns to Dunstable Downs once again this summer. There will be lots of activities to try including football, cricket, tennis, hockey, table tennis, athletics, soft archery and frisbee golf.

A girl in a grey top smiling while pulling back an archery bow and arrow

Family days out in Essex and Hertfordshire

Hatfield Forest 

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

A small child walking through woodland at Hatfield Forest wearing a summer dress and carrying a large stick.

Shaw's Corner 

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.

Woman and baby on the lawn in front of a red brick house, with summer flowers in the garden

Visiting Paycocke's 

Uncover the story behind Paycocke’s House, a glorious example of Tudor craftmanship with quaint beamed rooms. There’s so much to discover here in this unique merchant’s home.

A couple with a young child walking outside at Paycocke's House and Garden, Colchester, Essex

Come out and play at these places too

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.

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

Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood 

With resident nightingales and adders, Danbury Commons and Blakes Wood offer a diverse wildlife environment.

A child looks through yellow binoculars directly at the camera with a big smile on his face.

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