Family enjoying a picnic — Enjoy a day out with the family | © Chris Lacey

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 summer, from building dens in Hatfield Forest to flying a kite at Dunstable Downs.

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

Summer of Play at Dunstable Downs

Visit the Sports Village at Dunstable Downs with free outdoor sports and activities to keep the whole family entertained all summer long. Try football, cricket, hockey, tennis, table tennis, athletics, frisbee golf and more. You can also join in some of the coach-led sessions on selected days throughout the school holidays.

Summer of Play

Ready for a fun-filled summer? Take part in Summer of Play, sponsored by Starling Bank, and create memories with the whole family. However you choose to play, your adventure starts today.

Kite flying at Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate, Bedfordshire

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Family fun at Dunstable Downs

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.

The image shows a family in a rowing boat on the lake at Hatfield Forest, on a summer's day

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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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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.

Visitors at Paycocke's House and Garden, Essex

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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 group of colourful coy carp kites fly across the sky

Kites Connect Festival at Dunstable Downs

Kites Connect Festival returns to Dunstable Downs for 2025 - an exhilarating two-day celebration of the sky and the unifying power of kites.

Families enjoy Big Camp at Dapdune Wharf in Guildford

Dunstable Downs Big Camp - August

Spend the weekend under the stars for the perfect family adventure. Explore the Downs in a new light and admire the vast night-time sky.

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.

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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.

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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.