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Family activities at Dunstable Downs

Picture frame at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate, Bedfordshire
Picture frame at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

There are loads of different family activities designed to help you explore and discover Dunstable Downs. However you choose to spend your day with us, your adventure starts here.

Planning your visit

The wide open spaces of Dunstable Downs make it an ideal location for a family day out, no matter your age! From kite flying and den bulding to admiring butterflies and orchids, alongside an exciting programme of events, there's plenty to do for a range of budgets and interests. 

Good to know

  • We have baby changing facilities at our Visitor Centre and high chairs and kids menus are avaliable in the café.
  • Multi-user surfaced path provides an easy walking route suitable for pushchairs. Step-free access to Visitor Centre, shop and café.
  • Thanks to Cotswold Outdoor, we have a range of outdoor clothing avaliable to borrow for ages 2 - 12 so bad weather need never be an issue again!
  • Free-to-access with £3.50 parking charge (members park for free)
Children dressed up as knights at Rufford Old Hall, Lancashire
Join us for Knight's Quest this October Half Term at Dunstable Downs | © National Trust Images/John Millar

October Half Term Adventures: Knight's Quest

Saturday 25th October - Sunday 2nd November 10:30am - 4pm, with last entry at 3:30pm. Prices are £3 per trail which includes the sword craft and trail. No booking required.

A dragon has escaped the castle dungeon with the king’s jewels, using them to fuel its fiery mischief. The Knights of Dunstable Downs must retrieve the jewels and restore them to the royal treasure chest. Are you up for the challenge? 

Suitability- Children of all ages are welcome. Well behaved dogs are welcome on leads. For an alternative trail option, we also have themed sensory bags, a sensory trail, and spotter sheets to ensure everyone can join in the adventure!

Our October trail continues a year-long celebration of Dunstable’s medieval past. Don't forget to return in December for your last knights adventure!

Three bright orange pumpkins carved into different shapes, including a cat, ghost, ghost and a spooky face.
Join us for Halloween at Dunstable Downs | © National Trust/Sue Richardson

Halloween: After dark at Dunstable Downs

Friday 31 October, 4:30pm - 6:30pm. £6 per person. Booking essential.

Join us for a fang-tastic Halloween evening at Dunstable Downs!

Get ready for a frighteningly fun Halloween evening as we invite you to explore Dunstable Downs after dark – perfect for the whole family.

• Dragon's trail: take a part in our trail as night falls to see what our resident dragon has been up to. (a different adventure to our daytime Knights quest trail).

• Dragon Craft: get crafty and create your very own mini paper dragon

• Spooky stories: gather around to hear some (not-too-scary) tales that’ll send shivers down you spine

• Treats (and tricks): sink you fangs into a selection of food and drinks available for purchase

• Boo-tiful boutique: don’t forget to visit our shop, which will be open with a range of Halloween goodies

Friday 31 October, 4:30pm-6:30pm. £6 per person (normal car parking charges also apply). Children under 2 are free and do not need a ticket. Booking essential. Fancy dress encouraged! Book your place here.

If you require more information about ingredients or allergens for items served in our cafe, please contact dunstabledowns@nationaltrust.org.uk

 

Try Geocaching at Dunstable Downs with our geocaches hidden on the downs. Waterproof camo boxes with note pads, pencil and other knickknacks in
Try Geocaching at Dunstable Downs | © National Trust / Fiona Partridge
a building on the left with benches on the right. it is low light with a clear sky and frosty

Discover more at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate

Find out when Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

Plan your visit

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Eating and shopping at Dunstable Downs 

Enjoy stunning views and tempting treats in the café’s large indoor and outdoor seating areas. Discover seasonal and locally sourced gifts in the shop for a souvenir of your visit.

A stylised photograph looking down on table with a cream tea for two, with scones and jam and mugs of tea.

Family-friendly places to visit 

Looking for a family day out that'll keep everyone entertained? Find things to do with the kids at the places we care for near you.

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Explore a variety of enjoyable days out with the family in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, from building dens in Hatfield Forest to flying a kite at Dunstable Downs.

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