I’m acutely aware of the passing of time at the moment. There’s never enough time, I regularly lose track of time and the days carry on rushing by in a whirlwind. Can you believe that the Summer holidays are almost upon us? Hopefully I’ll be able to find the time to enjoy some of the fantastic, fun family days out in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire in July and visit the lavender fields at Hitchin Lavender, experience and play with science at Stockwood Discovery Centre, watch a film at the St Albans Film Festival Outdoor Cinema, or enjoy some live music and a family festival atmosphere at the Todd In The Hole Festival!
If you’re planning a trip to the theatre in the Summer holidays then I can save you some time with my guide to family theatre and kids shows in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire this Summer, or if you fancy a trip to the city I’ve also put together a selection of some fantastic London Shows For Kids in 2019.
So, here’s what’s on in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire in July 2019… have a wonderful time, whatever you get up to.
The weather can change and so can the details of events, so please check directly with the venue or organisers, BEFORE you travel.
Hitchin Lavender
Cadwell Farm, Arlesy Road, Ickleford, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 3UA
Hitchin Lavender is now open for the 2019 season 9.30am-5pm, (weather dependent so check Hitchin Lavender social media updates – flowering usually lasts until mid August). For a small charge you can collect lavender, if it’s available to harvest (adults £6, under 14’s £3, under 5’s free) and enjoy a walk up and down the lavender fields. There’s also a lovely tea room. Top tip – wear trousers as the fields are often buzzing with bees. Visit the website for more information.
Stockwood Discovery Centre – Interactive Science Exhibition
London Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 4LX
Come along to Stockwood Discovery Centre from Monday 1st July to Sunday 8th September 2019, for the Interactive Science exhibition! Fully interactive, innovative, fun, educational and entertaining, the Interactive Science exhibition suits adults, students, children and families of any age. Produced by World Touring Exhibitions in collaboration with a team of scientists, physicists, geologists and astronomers, Interactive Science combines both knowledge and fun challenges with interactive machines to experience and play with science. Recommended for children 7 years old and above. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Wardown House – Tales for Tots
Old Bedford Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 7HA
On Tuesday 2nd July 2019, 9.30-10.15am, enjoy Tales for Tots at Wardown House Museum. Enter the museum before it opens to the public and step into a world of fantasy and imagination! Join the friendly museum staff for a special storytelling session in the museum’s library. Suitable for children aged 0-4 years old. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Train and Track Play
1st Hertford Scout Hut, 3 Marshgate Drive, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 7JY
Come along to Train and Track Play on Tuesday 2nd July 2019, session times are 12.45-1.45pm, 2-3pm and 3.45-4.45pm. Come and play with the Train and Track Play large track, trains and cars. Train and Track Play is an organised session for children to integrate and socialise with other children through playing with toy trains and cars. So if you’re looking for a great activity to keep your children busy, then try Train and Track Play sessions! Secure your space and book online! Only £5 per child for one hour, adults come along for free! Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
MilknFizz – Anyware Kids – Meet The Makers Pop Up Shop
St Albans Museum+ Gallery, Market Place, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire
On Tuesday 2nd July 2019, 7-9.30pm, milknfizz are excited to welcome premium kids-wear brand ‘anyware’ to St Albans Museum + Gallery. Hear from singer-songwriter Jessie Ware and award winning designer George Reddings and find out more about the story behind the brand and where it all started. You will also receive 10% off any purchases on the night at the pop up shop. Book your tickets in advance. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
A-MUSE Arts at Stevenage Museum
St Georges Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 1XX
On Wednesday 3rd July 2019, 10am-11am, join BEEE Creative at the Stevenage Museum for a FREE jam-packed dance workshop, to get the whole family moving and having fun together. Each session includes games, creative activities, a chance to create your own dance and explore the museum space. Suitable for children aged 2-5 years old, children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. The workshops are free but must be booked in advance. Call Stevenage Museum on 01438 218881. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans Museum + Gallery – Museum Late – Make, Do and Draw
Market Place, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire
Visit the St Albans Museum + Gallery on Thursday 4th July 2019, 7-9.30pm and celebrate all things Barbara Hepworth. Try your hand at sketching, sculpting and Hepworth-inspired beginners craft activities. Watch live performances with a specially-created drink in your hand, join exclusive guided tours of the exhibition and explore St Albans Museum + Gallery after dark. Entrance is £5 per person, book your tickets in advance. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
A-MUSE Arts at Stevenage Museum
St Georges Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 1XX
On Thursday 4th July 2019, 4-6pm, join BEEE Creative at the Stevenage Museum for a FREE jam-packed dance workshop, to get the whole family moving and having fun together. Each session includes games, creative activities, a chance to create your own dance and explore the museum space. Suitable for children aged 5-12 years old, children must be accompanied by a parent or carer (younger siblings also welcome). The workshops are free but must be booked in advance. Call Stevenage Museum on 01438 218881. Visit the website for more information.
Letchworth Broadway – Ministry Of Science Live
Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, SG6 3DD
On Thursday 4th July 2019, visit the Broadway Theatre in Letchworth to see Ministry Of Science Live. This is not your ordinary science show, it comes with a bang, a whoosh and a hovercraft built on stage! This production takes an anarchic approach to science, whilst looking at the inventors and engineers who have shaped the modern world that we live in. From Liquid Nitrogen frozen flowers to Hydrogen Bottle Rockets. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Wardown House – Peace Day Riots
Old Bedford Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 7HA
On Thursday 4th July 2019, visit Wardown House at 7pm, for a talk from Head of Heritage and Collections, Elise Naish, as she delves into a fascinating period of uprising in Luton, using source material from the collection, 100 years since the burning down of the Town Hall. Recommended for ages 12 years old and above. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Childwickbury Arts Fair
Harpenden Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 6JX
Come along to the Childwickbury Arts Fair, Friday 5th to Sunday 7th July 2019. You’ll find marquees housing over 60 artists, delicious food and a licensed bar. A unique environment to see artists and craftspeople demonstrating their skills, as well as an opportunity to purchase original pieces of art direct from the artist. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans Film Festival Outdoor Cinema – Captain Marvel
Abbey Orchard, St Albans Cathedral, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1BY
Get your tickets for the St Albans Film Festival Outdoor Cinema screening of Captain Marvel (12A) on Friday 5th July 2019, 4.30-6.30pm. Enjoy this classic movie in the stunning grounds of St Albans Cathedral and Verulamium Park in St Albans. The film will be screened on a large LED screen so that the picture can be seen in the daytime too. Bring blankets or folding chairs to sit on and a picnic, or buy from the food and refreshment stalls. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
St Albans Film Festival Outdoor Cinema – Smallfoot
Abbey Orchard, St Albans Cathedral, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1BY
Get your tickets for the St Albans Film Festival Outdoor Cinema screening of Smallfoot (PG) on Saturday 6th July 2019, 10-11.30am. Enjoy this family favourite in the stunning grounds of St Albans Cathedral and Verulamium Park in St Albans. The film will be screened on a large LED screen so that the picture can be seen in the daytime too. Bring blankets or folding chairs to sit on and a picnic, or buy from the food and refreshment stalls. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Dunstable Downs – National Meadows Day
Whipsnade Road, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 2GY
Visit Dunstable Downs on Saturday 6th July 2019, 11am-3pm and play a part in celebrating National Meadows Day. With increasing pressure on land use in the UK, meadows are a declining habitat. Dunstable Downs are hosting a family friendly event to help raise awareness of the importance of the incredible chalk grassland meadows. There will be plenty to see, learn and do! Visit the website for more information.
St Albans Film Festival Outdoor Cinema – Lady and the Tramp
Abbey Orchard, St Albans Cathedral, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1BY
Get your tickets for the St Albans Film Festival Outdoor Cinema screening of Lady and the Tramp (U) on Saturday 6th July 2019, 2-3.30pm. Enjoy this family favourite in the stunning grounds of St Albans Cathedral and Verulamium Park in St Albans. The film will be screened on a large LED screen so that the picture can be seen in the daytime too. Bring blankets or folding chairs to sit on and a picnic, or buy from the food and refreshment stalls. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Luton Central Library – Theatre Of Widdershins – Snow White, Rose Red, Bear Brown
St George’s Square, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2NG
On Saturday 6th July 2019, visit Luton Central Library to see Theatre of Widdershins performance of Snow White, Rose Red, Bear Brown. Snow White and Rose Red – sisters, twins, best friends – have lived in the forest since they were Babes in the Wood. When their quiet life is interrupted by a friendly bear a new chapter begins. But why has the bear chosen them as playfellows? Why is there sadness in his eyes? Recommended for children aged 4 years old+ and their families. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Demolition Expo 2019 – Family Day
Herts County Show Ground, Dunstable Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 7PT
Visit the Demolition Expo 2019 on Saturday 6th July 2019, 10am-4pm, for the FREE Family Day, with all the biggest demolition machines and lots of family fun. Take part in the demolition obstacle course, visit the food court and fill up on hog roast and doughnuts, try out the simulator and check out the HUGE selection of new and vintage demolition machinery on show. Visit the website for more information.
Waddesdon Manor – Summer Fest
Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH
On Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th July 2019 10am-5pm, visit Waddesdon Manor for Summer Fest! Be amazed and delighted by a range of extraordinary street theatre and arts performances. Take a seat, enjoy a picnic, or try some of the mouth-wateringly good hot food on offer. You can also enjoy family activities and acoustic music on Saturday and Waddesdon choir on Sunday. Normal grounds admission applies and additional charges apply for activities. Visit the website for more information.
66 Book Club
Unit 2 Eastman Way, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 7DU
The 66 Book Club is only open one weekend each month, so make sure you pop in on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th July 2019, 10am to 6pm, for the chance to browse over 10,000 titles with 70% off the cover price. Annual membership is only £2 per household. Visit the Facebook Page for more information.
Wardown House – Out Of The Box
Old Bedford Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 7HA
On Sunday 7th July 2019, discover never before seen items from the collections! Every first Sunday of the month find out more about an item ‘out of the box’ from the collection. Each of the items we reveal will not have previously been on display. This is a great opportunity to see some of the fantastic collection that can’t always be on display. Suitable for all ages. Visit the website for more information.
Luton Central Library – Circles In The Sand
St George’s Square, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2NG
On Monday 8th July 2019, visit Luton Central Library to explore a world of buckets, castle building, spinning and tumbling in this delightful show for babies and toddlers 0-3 years old, which explores sand in new and exciting ways. With no words, accompanied by an evocative soundtrack of world music, Circles in the Sand is an intimate, imaginative and captivating show, providing the perfect introduction to theatre for the very young. At the end of the performance, children are invited onto the stage to delight in the feel of the sand as it trickles between fingers and toes. Suitable for babies and children 0-3 years old and their families. Performances last 25 minutes (no interval), followed by an interactive free-play session where the children are invited to play in the sand with the buckets that feature in the production for approx 15 minutes. Total run time is 40 minutes. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Luton Central Library – Recitals For Wrigglers
St George’s Square, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2NG
On Wednesday 10th July 2019, visit Luton Central Library for Recitals For Wrigglers, fun, interactive and educational classical concerts for babies and toddlers, where wriggling is allowed! Recitals for Wrigglers presents music from different countries and the story of the Gingerbread Man. Recommended for babies and children aged 0-5 years old and their families. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum
St Michael’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4SW
Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum, St Albans takes place on Thursday 11th July 2019 with sessions at 10.30-11.30am, 11.45am – 12.45pm and again at 1.30-2.30pm. Enjoy a story, craft activity and a museum hunt, suitable for children aged 2-4 years old. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Don’t forget to bring proof of residence in St Albans District to qualify for free entry to the museum (£3 charge for craft activities + admission if applicable). Visit the website to book online or for more information.
Rothamsted Film Night – Bohemian Rhapsody (12A)
Rothamsted Conference Centre, West Common, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ
On Thursday 11th July 2019, from 8pm, visit Rothamsted Conference Centre for the fourth in their series of film nights. See Bohemian Rhapsody (12A) in Rothamsted’s state-of-the-art, surround sound auditorium. Drinks and snacks will be available to purchase throughout the movie. Free parking available. Tickets £10 for adults and £6 for children. Pre-booking is advisable, call 01582 938500 or email events@rothamstedenterprises.com
Radlett Centre – Teddy Bears Picnic
1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, Hertfordshire, WD7 8HL
On Saturday 13th July 2019, visit the Radlett Centre and see the Teddy Bear’s Picnic! Hosted by ex-Crackerjack presenter, Jan Hunt, this show is full of new songs, games, stories, fun and laughter and is suitable for under 5’s, mums, dads and teddy bears. Children are encouraged to bring their teddy bears along with them and there will be prizes given out! Visit the website to book your tickets, or for more information.
Stockwood Discovery Centre – The Flying Bath
London Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 4LX
On Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July 2019, visit Stockwood Discovery Centre and see The Flying Bath. Little Angel Theatre presents Julia Donaldson and David Roberts’ playful and adventurous story splashes into life in this adaptation featuring catchy songs, quirky bath toys and everyday heroes. When everyone has left the house in the morning, the bath toys spring into action and head off on exciting adventures in their magical flying bath! From giving a muddy piglet a shower, to putting out a fire for a frightened baboon, they have water at the ready for any emergency… as long as they’re home for the children’s bath time at the end of the day. Suitable for children aged 2-5 years old and their families. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Knebworth Park Pride Party
Knebworth, Hertfordshire, SG1 2AX
Visit Knebworth House on Saturday 13th July 2019, for the first Knebworth Park Pride Party! The Pride Family Fun Day will be held in the barns from 12noon until 5pm, with access to Knebworth Park, music, entertainment, food stands and so much more, you are guaranteed to have a great day out! There’s also a competition for the best dressed rainbow teddy bear for children. Visit the website to book tickets, or for more information.
Burston Garden Centre – Summer Garden and Sandpit
North Orbital Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL2 2DS
From Saturday 13th July to Sunday 15th September 2019, visit Burston Garden Centre’s summer garden and sandpit. Enjoy some playtime in the gated garden area, play with outdoor toys such as giant Jenga and giant snakes and ladders, or doodle on the super-sized outdoor blackboard. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans Comic-Con
Civic Centre, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3LD
On Sunday 14th July 2019, 10am to 4.30pm, Comic-Con returns to St Albans! Fun for the entire family, guests from film and television will be on hand as well as artists from your favourite comics, memorabilia and specialist traders, a gaming zone, movie props, Cosplay competition and more. Get your tickets for early bird entry at 10am for pre-sold tickets, general entry is from 11am. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans Organ Theatre Sunday Opening
320 Camp Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 5PE
On Sunday 14th July 2019, 2.00pm to 4.30pm, do something different and visit St Albans Organ Theatre. The theatre is only open on the second Sunday of each month and during the Sunday opening there will be a live and continuous musical performance of the various instruments given with an informal, descriptive commentary. The afternoon includes a 10 minute interval for refreshments at 3.25pm. Visitors are welcome to attend at any time during the afternoon. Visit the website for more information.
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre – Emergency Services and Community Day
Station Road, Quainton, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 4BY
Visit the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre on Sunday 14th July 2019, 10.30am to 4.30pm, for the Emergency Services and Community Day. Enjoy the special admission price of only £5 per person (under 5’s free as usual) and meet the Emergency Services (subject to emergency call-outs), as well as lots of local charities, clubs and societies. Steam trains will also be running and the Railway Museum and Visitor Centre will also be open to visitors. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Harpenden Highland Gathering 2019
Rothamsted Park, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2HU
On Sunday 14th July 2019, 10am to 5pm the annual Harpenden Highland Gathering takes place in Rothamsted Park, Harpenden. You can enjoy pipe and drum bands, highland dancing competitions, as well as traditional highland games. There are plenty of amusements for children including a funfair, climbing wall, rugby and golf challenges, the popular Kids’ Circle for younger children with sand art, potters’ wheel, face painting and more! Visit the website to pre-order your entry programme, or for more information.
Mill Green Museum – Classic Car & Vintage Day
Mill Green Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 5ND
On Sunday 14th July 2019, visit the Mill Green Museum for a day of fun and nostalgia, 12noon-5pm. Gleaming classic cars, live music, as well as vintage style refreshments. Entry is £5 per adult and children are free (16 years and under). Visit the website for more information.
Train & Track Play
1st Hertford Scout Hut, 3 Marshgate Drive, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 7JY
Come along to Train and Track Play on Tuesday 16th July 2019, session times are 12.45-1.45pm, 2-3pm and 3.45-4.45pm. Come and play with the Train and Track Play large track, trains and cars. Train and Track Play is an organised session for children to integrate and socialise with other children through playing with toy trains and cars. So if you’re looking for a great activity to keep your children busy, then try Train and Track Play sessions! Secure your space and book online! Only £5 per child for one hour, adults come along for free! Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Wycombe Swan – Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom
St Mary Street, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 2XE
On Wednesday 17th and Thursday 18th July 2019, come and see Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom live on stage at The Wycombe Swan. Join Ben and Holly on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. Suitable for children aged 2-6 years old. Visit the website to book tickets, or for more information.
Todd In The Hole Festival
Todd’s Green, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2JE
Get your tickets for the Todd In The Hole Festival on from 19th to 21st July 2019. The Todd In The Hole Festival is family friendly, with something for everyone. There will be a fantastic line-up of live music, a family arena packed with activities, award-winning food and drink vendors, camping and glamping and lots more! Visit the website to book your tickets, or for more information.
Chickenshed Theatre – Mr Stink
Chase Side, London, N14 4PE
Chickenshed proudly presents the musical adaptation of David Walliams’ acclaimed book Mr Stink. The very kind, but lonely, 12 year old Chloe invites the homeless Mr Stink and his dog to leave behind the wooden bench where they have taken up residence and secretly move into her family’s shed. Matters become more complicated when Chloe’s mother tries to take credit for Chloe’s generosity. And precisely who is Mr Stink anyway? Visit the Chickenshed Theatre on Friday 19th and Saturday 20th July 2019 for a brilliantly staged version of this warm-hearted and funny story. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You might want to hold your nose. Suitable for children aged 6 years old and above. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
The Market Theatre Hitchin – Spec-Tacular
6A Sun Street, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1AE
For one day only, Saturday 20th July 2019, Tiny T’s Theatre will be performing their debut children’s show at The Market Theatre, Hitchin, before heading off to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival! Spec-Tacular is a fun interactive show with an important message. The performance will take place in the Studio and it will be relaxed, cosy environment. The children will even get the opportunity to meet the cast and the puppets after the show. Suitable for children aged 3-10 years old. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Train and Track Play
Wodson Park Sports and Leisure Centre, Wadesmill Road, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0UQ
Come along to Train and Track Play on Saturday 20th July 2019, session times are 10-11am, 11.15am-12.15pm, 1-2pm, 2.15-3.15pm and 3.30-4.30pm. Come and play with the Train and Track Play large track, trains and cars. Train and Track Play is an organised session for children to integrate and socialise with other children through playing with toy trains and cars. So if you’re looking for a great activity to keep your children busy, then try Train and Track Play sessions! Secure your space and book online! Only £6 per child for one hour, adults come along for free! Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Waddesdon Manor – A Midsummer’s Night Dream
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH
On Saturday 20th July 2019, come and enjoy A Midsummer Night’s Dream, performed by the UK’s premier all male theatre company, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. This supernatural comedy of mischievous fairies, confused lovers and rude mechanicals is an intoxicating tale of clarity found from chaos as tangled love gives way to happily ever afters. Bring a low back chair, a picnic and enjoy a summer’s evening watching one of Shakespeare’s best-loved comedies, performed in the open air. The show must go on regardless of the weather, so dress appropriately. Picnics are welcome. No BBQs. Recommended for 14 years+. Advance booking is essential. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Hertford Theatre – The Close Up Show
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Saturday 20th July 2019, enjoy an intimate evening of close-up magic, trickery and sleight of hand with 3 magicians in The Close-Up Show. Close-up magic is one of the most popular and impressive forms of the art and this unique event showcases some of the best exponents direct from the sell-out shows at The Magic Circle. Audiences get to experience the magic in the intimate setting of the Studio, often taking part themselves. Prepare to be amazed! Suitable for audience members aged 10 years old and above. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Hatfield House – Community Day
George’s Gate, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 5HX
On Saturday 20th July 2019, 11am to 4pm come and enjoy a summer’s day out with FREE ENTRY to Hatfield Park. Bring along friends and family and get involved in a number of free garden games at your own leisure on the Cricket Pitch. If you fancy a bite to eat, there will be a BBQ selling tasty burgers and summer food 11.30am-3pm, along with a quirky Tuk Tuk selling gin, soft drinks, coffee and ice cream. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
The Great British Food Festival at Knebworth
Knebworth, Hertfordshire, SG1 2AX
The Great British Food Festival is coming to Knebworth on Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st July 2019, 10am-5pm each day (last admission 4pm). In addition to a unique range of artisan food and drink stalls, there will be chef and baker demonstrations, BBQ demonstrations, live music and children’s activities! Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Willows Farm Summer Spectacular
Coursers Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0PF
From Saturday 20th July to Sunday 1st September 2019, Willows Farm Summer Spectacular will be in full swing. Go along and explore the A-maize-ing Maze, have an adventure in the Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground and see one of the live shows with Peter Rabbit and his friends. You can visit the farm animals, watch the goat races, or take a ride on Tristan the Runaway Tractor. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Jordans Mill – Let’s Go Wild
Southill Road, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 9JX
Visit Jordans Mill from Saturday 20th July to Sunday 1st September 2019, and pick up your Let’s Go Wild Activity Passport, which helps little ones go on the hunt for wildlife in the Mill Meadow and Woodland. Complete the pages of the passport to earn a special badge. A Let’s Go Wild Passport costs £1.50 per child, or FREE with the purchase of every children’s meal in the Riverside Café. No need to book, just turn up. The gardens at Jordans Mill are open 7 days a week from 9am to 5pm. Visit the website for more information.
Audley End Miniature Railway Summer Fairy and Elf Festival
Audley End, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JB
Visit Audley End Miniature Railway from Saturday 20th July to Sunday 8th September 2019, for the Summer Festival! Enjoy a magical day and take one of the trains into the woods, enjoy the fairy and elf walk, as well as crafts, story telling, face painting. Booking is recommended but not necessary. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
RSPB The Lodge – Wild Challenge
The Lodge Nature Reserve, Potten Road, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL
From Saturday 20th July to Sunday 1st September 2019, 10am-4pm, visit RSPB The Lodge and take part in the self-guided trail where you can discover den building, log clambering, natural obstacle paths and mounds and climb the raised viewing platform, along with collecting nature themed brass rubbings. Parking is £6 for non-RSPB members (make sure you take cash and small change). Visit the website for more information.
Hertford Castle Teddy Bears’ Picnic
Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1HR
On Sunday 21st July 2019, 12noon until 4pm, bring your teddy to Hertford Castle for the Teddy Bears’ Picnic! Enjoy a free family afternoon of entertainment and activities (charity donations are welcome). Bring your teddy bear and join in a teddy bear hunt, take part in the teddy bear parade or enjoy some of the arena activities. A live brass band will perform for visitors. Visit the website for more information.
Hertford Museum – Stay and Play Sunday
18 Bull Plain, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1DT
Visit the Hertford Museum on Sunday 21st July 2019, 1-4pm for Hertford Museum’s FREE special Sunday opening. Take part in a simple craft activity and play with some traditional toys. Visit the website for more information.
Ivinghoe Beacon – Bioblitz
Ivinghoe Beacon Car Park, Dunstable, Bedfordshire
On Sunday 21st July 2019, 1oam-4pm, discover the beauty and rich natural environment of the chalk hills at Ivinghoe Beacon. Join wildlife experts at the family-friendly bioblitz and see how many different plant and animal species you can find on Ivinghoe Beacon. Drop in at any point during the day. Suitable for children aged 5 years old upwards, not suitable for buggies or prams. Visit the website for more information.
Mead Open Farm – Summer of Fun
Billington, Nr Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 9JH
Mead Open Farm’s Summer of Fun runs from Monday 22nd July to Friday 30th August 2019. Enjoy an incredible activity timetable jam-packed full of indoor and outdoor animal fun, whatever the weather! Visit the website for more information.
Superstumps Cricket Camp
St Albans School Pavilion, Woollams Playing Fields, Harpenden Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 6BB
Superstumps is a cricket camp for both boys and girls ages 6-14 years old, which runs from Monday 22nd to Friday 26th July 2019, in St Albans. Superstumps makes cricket fun and helps children to play to the very best of their ability. Superstumps offer the all-round experience of practising skills daily, playing games and matches and making new friends. Primary school teachers and ECB coaches teach children in groups according to age and ability. Many children return each year and new Superstumpers are made to feel welcome. Visit the website or email Superstumps for more information.
NHM Tring | Dinosaur Diets
Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 6AP
Visit the Natural History Museum at Tring from Tuesday 23rd to Thursday 25th July 2019 and get up close to dinosaur teeth and create a tooth pendant in the Dinosaur Diets workshop. Different diets mean different teeth, whether big, sharp, small or blunt. Suitable for ages 5+. £2 per child. Visit the website to check opening times and for more information.
Classics on the Common
Harpenden Common, Harpenden, Hertfordshire
The annual Classics on the Common returns to Harpenden Common on Wednesday 24th July 2019, 2pm to 8pm. The Common comes alive with more than 900 classic cars, motor cycles and scooters. There is no entry charge for spectators and you don’t need a ticket, although you are asked to make a donation for charity. If you can get to the event by public transport it is highly recommended as traffic is very heavy on the day of the event. Visit the website for more information.
Waddesdon Manor – Summer of Sport
Waddesdon, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH
Visit Waddesdon Manor from Wednesday 24th to Sunday 28th July 2019 and have fun with the kids on one of the Summer of Sport trails around the Waddesdon grounds. Enjoy Oarsome Orienteering and navigate your way around the gardens, try the Waddesdon Workout and test yourself with a series of workout challenges, or bring your scooter and become part of the peleton on the Tour de Waddesdon. £2 per child, per trail, in addition to normal grounds admission charges. The last trail is at 3.30pm, pay on the day. Visit the website for more information.
Mill Green Museum – Toddler Mornings – Sunshine and Rainbows
Mill Green Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 5ND
On Thursday 25th July 2019, come along to the Mill Green Museum for Toddler morning 10am-11.30am. Once a month come to Mill Green Museum for a relaxed and fun toddler workshop: listen to stories, make something together, visit the Mill and the Museum. Drink and a biscuit are provided as well as coffee and tea for the adults. No booking required. The session is £3.50 per toddler which includes entrance to the Mill/Museum. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Visit the website for more information.
Hertford Theatre – Aliens Love Underpants
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July 2019, visit Hertford Theatre to see Aliens Love Underpants. Based on the book by Clare Freedman and Ben Cort, this zany and hilarious tale is wonderfully brought to life on stage. With stunning effects, madcap action, original music and lots of aliens, this fresh and funny production will delight the whole family. You’ll laugh your pants off! Recommended for children aged 3-8 years old and their families. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Royal Gunpowder Mills – Professor Nitrate’s Test Zone
Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JY
Visit Royal Gunpowder Mills from Sunday 26th to Wednesday 31st July 2019 for Professor Nitrate’s Test Zone! There’s a fantastic mix of science and fun throughout each day. Visit the website to book tickets or for detailed information about this event.
RSPB Rye Meads – Nature Pirates
Rye Road, Stansted Abbotts, Hertfordshire, SG12 8JS
From Friday 26th July to Sunday 1st September 2019, 10am-4pm, visit RSPB Rye Meads and take part in the self-guided trail where you can make your own treasure chest, explore the reserve, collect ‘treasures’, walk the plank, see the mysterious ‘blue flash’, build a crow’s nest and even enter the photo competition by taking a photo in the Sea Raven. A trail sheet is £2 per child. Parking is £4 for non-RSPB members (there is no cash machine and there are no card facilities on site, so make sure you take cash and small change for parking, drinks and ice creams). Visit the website for more information.
Chiltern Open Air Museum Classic Vehicles Show
Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB
Visit the Chiltern Open Air Museum on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July 2019 for the Classic Vehicles Show! Come and admire an amazing collection of classic cars, lorries, traditional fire engines, motorcycles and historic bicycles. You will also be able to see a collection of historic tractors and wagons on the farm, which were once used for TV drama Downton Abbey. All activities are outdoors and are subject to change and weather. Visit the website for more information.
Emergency Services Open Day
Harpenden Fire Station, 30 Leyton Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JB
The Emergency Services Open Day at Harpenden Fire Station takes place on Saturday 27th July 2019 from 11am until 3pm. Go along and support the local emergency services. Fire engine, ambulance, police vehicles, St Johns Ambulance, children’s activities, crime prevention, as well as food and drink! Visit the website for more information.
Dacorum Steam & Country Fayre
Green Croft Farm, Potten End, Hertfordshire, HP1 2SG
On Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July 2019, 10am to 5pm, go along to the Dacorum Steam and Country Fayre 2019, at Green Croft Farm, Potten End, Hertfordshire, HP1 2SG. Enjoy a weekend packed full of family fun, in aid of the Hospice of St Francis, including steam engines, classic cars, military vehicles, vintage tractors, heavy horses and birds of prey as well as stalls, fair rides and refreshments. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans South Signal Box Open Day
Ridgmont Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3AJ
St Albans South Signal Box Open Day takes place on Sunday 28th July 2019, 2-5pm. Signalling demonstrations run continuously on the operating floor and there are full size signals and other exhibits in the garden. Light refreshments also available. Visit the website for more information.
art-K Holiday Workshops
Unit 9 Silk Mill Park, Brook Street, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 5EF
art-K’s Summer Workshops in Tring, Hertfordshire, cover a broad range of fun art projects which can be adapted to suit all levels of ability and experience. For children aged 6-16 years old. Days are split into a morning (10am-12pm) and afternoon (1pm-3pm) sessions, and you can choose to book either, or both, on any available date. Sessions available from Monday 29th July to Thursday 29th August 2019. Workshops include: Clay Ice Cream, Frida Kahlo Puppets, Picasso Portraits and so much more! Visit the website to book or for more information.
St Albans Museum + Gallery – Museum Minis
Market Place, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5DJ
Museum Minis at St Albans Museum + Gallery takes place on Tuesday 30th July 2019 with sessions at 10-11am and again at 11.30am-12.30pm. Enjoy a story, craft activity and a museum hunt, suitable for children aged 2-4 years old. All children must be accompanied by an adult. There is a charge of £3 per child for craft activities. Book online or pay in person at the museum. Visit the website for more information.
Little Artist – Summer Art Session – Under The Sea
The Mill House, Dicker Mill, Marshgate Drive, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 7JY
On Tuesday 30th July 2019, 3-4pm, book your child’s place at The Mill House in Hertford for the Little Artist Summer Art Session which has the theme ‘Under The Sea’. The suggested age for this session is under 5’s. Create a giant seascape, paint and decorate large under water creatures, then get messy with hand and foot printing and crate fish puppets and mermaid crowns to take home. The cost of the session also includes FREE entry to the Summer Art Party on Tuesday 27th August 2-4pm. £7 per child, visit the website to book online. For more information email bookings@themillhousehertford.com
Ashridge Adventures
Moneybury Hill, Nr Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 1LT
Go along to Ashridge Estate and for some Ashridge Adventures! The education team will be running outdoor activity sessions every Tuesday and Thursday during the Summer holidays (10.30am-12noon or 1.30-3.00pm). The first session is on Tuesday 30th July 2019. From pond-dipping to mini beast hunting and den building there’s always something fun happening at Ashridge… wear clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy. Sessions are aimed at children aged 4-10 years old, £4 per child. Visit the website to book your session, or for more information.
St Albans Museum + Gallery – Shape Your Own Mini Sculpture
Market Place, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5DJ
On Tuesday 30th July 2019, 10.30am-12.30pm and again at 2-4pm pop into St Albans Museum + Gallery, be inspired by the form and shapes of Barbara Hepworth’s work and create your own mini-sculpture. Working as a family, use clay or modroc to build your own masterpiece. Please note that children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times. £2 per child. This activity will take place in the Learning Studio at St Albans Museum + Gallery. Visit the website for more information.
Hertford Museum – Seashore and Sushi
18 Bull Plain, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1DT
Visit the Hertford Museum from Tuesday 30th July to Thursday 1st August 2019, 10.30am – 3.30pm (last entry 3pm), for a drop-in craft and learning session. Paint wax resist waves and ripples, seahorses and starfish. model your own chopstick rest from clay and make a plate of fake sushi to take away. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult, this activity is £2.50 per child. Free spaces are available for families on a lower income, speak to Hertford Museum for details. Visit the website for more information.
NHM Tring | Dinosaur Diets
Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 6AP
Visit the Natural History Museum at Tring from Tuesday 30th July to Thursday 1st August 2019 and get up close to dinosaur teeth and create a tooth pendant in the Dinosaur Diets workshop. Different diets mean different teeth, whether big, sharp, small or blunt. Suitable for ages 5+. £2 per child. Visit the website to check opening times and for more information.
Waddesdon Manor – Summer of Sport
Waddesdon, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH
Visit Waddesdon Manor from Wednesday 31st July to Sunday 4th August 2019 and have fun with the kids on one of the Summer of Sport trails around the Waddesdon grounds. Enjoy Oarsome Orienteering and navigate your way around the gardens, try the Waddesdon Workout and test yourself with a series of workout challenges, or bring your scooter and become part of the peleton on the Tour de Waddesdon. £2 per child, per trail, in addition to normal grounds admission charges. The last trail is at 3.30pm, pay on the day. Visit the website for more information.
Wardown House – Felt Mice Workshop
Old Bedford Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 7HA
On Wednesday 31st July 2019, book your place on the Felt Mouse Workshop at Wardown House. Children will be able to work with Nic and Alison from Felt and Dandy to learn basic needle felting whilst making a beautiful little felted mouse pencil topper. This workshop suitable for children aged 8 years old+ and is ideal for children with some experience of using needles, scissors etc under expert supervision. They will learn how to make, and take home that day, a beautiful little mouse pencil topper. The workshop will cover various basic needle felting techniques. All materials will be provided, and the children will leave the workshop with a finished mouse! Please note that adults are welcome to stay with children but will not be able to make their own mouse. If you’re leaving your child on site, consent/contact form must be completed. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Details of events are correct at the time of publishing.
Please check the details of an event directly with the venue or organisers, before you travel.
Add Your Comment