Skip to content

back to Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate

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)

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

World Book Day: Young Writers Competition

Read the winning entries from our 2025 World Book Day competition!

A young girl sits on a tree trunk in a forest, writing in a notebook

Explore Dunstable Downs

Discover slow-worms and mini beasties on the chalk grasslands, look out for red kites or fly your own kite from the wind-swept ridge.

Bike rider in autumn at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate, Bedfordshire

Visiting Dunstable Downs with your dog

Dunstable Downs is a two pawprint rated place. Dogs are welcome here (and can collect their Pooch Passport and stamp!) Discover everything you need to know when planning your visit with your four-legged friend.

An image of a pale cream fluffy dog between its two owners being walked along a path in the countryside and surrounded by greenery

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.

Family walking in Rowallane Garden, County Down, surrounded by autumnal colours

Family-friendly places in Essex, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire

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.

Adult and child playing in the autumn leaves while on a walk in a park

‘50 things to do before you're 11¾’

Plan fresh-air activities, discover facts about nature and wildlife or learn a new skill with our suggestions for ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’.

A boy playing in a tree at Nunnington Hall, North Yorkshire

Sign up to hear more from the National Trust

By sharing your email address you’re agreeing to receive marketing emails from the National Trust and confirm you’re 18 years old or over. Please see our for more information on how we look after your personal data.