Family Days Out

Harpenden is a great destination for a family trip offering entertainment for kids of all ages. We’ve picked some of the most popular family-friendly things to do and sorted them into a handy list.

Batford Springs Nature Reserve Batford Springs Local Nature Reserve comprises a mosaic of habitats including a rare chalk lined stream, reed fen, wet woodland, meadows, hedgerows and the River Lea. This incredible green space is celebrated not just because it is an outstanding community asset, but also because of its importance for biodiversity within Harpenden. The nature reserve also boasts a play park, accessible walking route, picnic benches and information boards. 32 Lower Luton Rd, Harpenden AL5 5AQ. 01582 768278 www.harpenden.gov.uk/batford-springs

Wildchild Adventure At Wildchild, we believe that children can uncover hidden skills and talents by connecting with the Great Outdoors. This can spill over into every area of their life, boosting self-esteem and motivating them to explore their potential for living life to the full. Harpenden Hall, Southdown Rd, Harpenden AL5 1TE. 0845 371 7099 www.wildchildadventure.com/

Harpenden Common Over the decades Harpenden Common has had varied uses including grazing for sheep, horseracing, hunting, ice skating, athletics, football, cricket, golf, circuses and fairs. Presently, the Common is home to a football club, two cricket clubs and a golf club. Throughout the year events such as fairs, circuses, classic car meetings and art exhibitions are still held on the Common. Although the horseracing has stopped, a permissive horse ride loops the Common. Harpenden AL5 1QY www.harpenden.gov.uk/harpenden-common

Verulamium Park St Michael’s Street, St Albans AL1 3JE. 01727 819366 The award-winning Verulamium Park holds both the Green Flag and Green Heritage Site award. It is set in 100 acres of beautiful parkland close to the city centre and is a popular attraction throughout the year with a wide range of facilities. The park is named after the Roman City of Verulamium on which it stands. The city walls and outline of the London Gate can still be seen. Verulamium Museum displays hundreds of remarkable objects that have been excavated from the local area. www.stalbans.gov.uk/verulamium-park

Pots of Art Create your own original colourful pottery masterpiece, a fantastic ceramic impression of your babies hands and feet, build a ‘Be My Bear’, create Spin Art or be creative with Decopatch. There is so much to do. In our fully equipped studios and with the help of our arty staff, anyone can be creative. At Pots of Art - it’s fun and easy. 23-25 Holywell Hill, St Albans AL1 1EZ. 01727 739933 www.potsofart.co.uk/ Verulamium Museum Built on the site of one of the largest Roman cities in Britain, Verulamium Museum is filled with ancient treasures and some of the finest mosaics outside of the Mediterranean. Bring the entire family and explore the wonders of Roman life, immerse yourself in recreated Roman rooms and admire the craftsmanship of the intricate large-scale mosaics on display. You can also see recent discoveries such as the Sandridge Hoard, a collection of 159 Roman gold coins. In addition to hands-on discovery areas for younger visitors, the museum also provides a selection of free activity sheets for children and dressing up clothes are available on weekends and school holidays. St Michael’s St, St Albans AL3 4SW. 01727 751810 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk/visit/verulamiummuseum

Willows Activity Farm A day out the whole family will enjoy. Our all-inclusive price ensures a carefree day out with all shows, fun fair rides, inflatables, Tractor Ride, acres of outdoor and under cover activities plus entry to the Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground included in the entry price. Enjoy the farmyard animals, the countryside setting with delicious homemade food available in our catering outlets, gift shop, free parking and an easy to find location Coursers Rd, St Albans AL4 0PF. 0333 331 2060 www.willowsactivityfarm.com/

Apollo Activities Centre Apollo Activities Centre is situated within a mature plot of land, with a large beautifully kept field surrounded by trees. Apollo Activities Centre is situated within a mature plot of land, with a large beautifully kept field surrounded by trees. You can book our amazing experiences which include. Archery, Air Rifle Shooting, Axe Throwing. Kids Crossbow with suction darts and the 3D archery course. If you have never tried these - they are amazing and really good fun!!! Open 7 days a week. Old Parkbury Lane, St Albans AL2 2DY. 01923 850317 www.springfielduk.co.uk/

Heartwood Forest A vast new forest of more than half a million trees, pockets of ancient woodland, wildflower meadows and fantastic wildlife spotting. It’s no surprise that the Woodland Trust’s Heartwood Forest is one of our most popular destinations. What’s more, Heartwood Forest promises to be even bigger and better in the future. Visit us today and you can go wild in the great outdoors, enjoy some fantastic walks, and really get back to nature. Come back again and you’ll be rewarded with the unique chance to watch this new natural world grow all around you. Sandridge, St Albans AL4 9DQ. www.heartwood.woodlandtrust.org.uk/