The seasons roll along and September is full of great days out in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire and kicks off with Fire Station Open Days, the Potato Shindig, Heritage Open Days, a Day Out With Thomas, the retro TimeTurner Festival and the return of the Hi-Jinks Festival at the Hertford Theatre with a programme of inspiring children’s theatre and comedy headed up by the adaptation of the much-loved story by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, Tabby McTat – more news on that later, so make sure that you keep checking the blog for updates.
Here’s what’s on in September 2019…
The weather can change and so can the details of events, so please check directly with the venue or organisers BEFORE you travel.
Waddesdon Manor – Chilli Fest
Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH
On Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September 2019 10am-5pm, visit Waddesdon Manor for Chilli Fest! Turn up the heat at the annual Chilli Fest, with handpicked exhibitors, all passionate about chilli, the festival guarantees to bring you the best of local artisan producers as well as some of the nation’s best loved independent traders from across the country. Throughout the weekend you can enjoy live music, family fun and children’s craft activities. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans Museum + Gallery – Barbara Hepworth: artist in society 1948-53
Market Place, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5DJ
Visit the St Albans Museum + Gallery before the exhibition closes on Sunday 8th September 2019, to see the latest major exhibition, Barbara Hepworth: artist in society 1948-53. Explore a short but significant period in the life of one of Britain’s most celebrated artists. This poignant exhibition introduces sculptures, drawings and archival material, reuniting works that have not been seen together since they were first created. Entrance is free. Visit the website for more information.
Hertford Theatre – The Tiger Who Came To Tea
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Friday 30th, Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September 2019, visit the Hertford Theatre to see The Tiger Who Came To Tea. The doorbell rings just as Sophie and her mummy are sitting down to tea. Who could it possibly be? What they certainly don’t expect to see is a big, stripy tiger! Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show, packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Recommended for children aged 3-7 years old and their families. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Chiltern Open Air Museum – Medieval Warbow
Gorelands Avenue, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB
Visit the Chiltern Open Air Museum on Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September 2019, and see the Free Company Aquitaine demonstrating the art and skill of the medieval warbow. Watch demonstrations of archery, see and learn about the arming of the knight and talk to the blacksmith/armourer, bowyer, spinster and surgeon about the medieval way of life. All activities are subject to change and weather so check the details before you travel. Visit the website for more information.
Willows Activity Farm – Potato Shindig!
Coursers Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0PF
From Monday 2nd to Sunday 29th September 2019, head down to the Potato Shindig at Willows Activity Farm! Harvest your free bag of potatoes from Willows’ Potato Patch and enjoy a full day of family fun. In addition to the usual programme of entertainment you can enjoy tattie-tastic potato arts and crafts! Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Wardown House – Tales for Tots
Old Bedford Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 7HA
On Tuesday 3rd September 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.
Radlett Centre – Tabby McTat
1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, Hertfordshire, WD7 8HL
On Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th September 2019, don’t miss Tabby McTat at the Radlett Centre. Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Tabby McTat is a heart-warming tale of friendship and loyalty interwoven with original songs and a sprinkling of magic. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
MilknFizz – September Brunch Club
The Beech House, 81 St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3EG
On Thursday 5th September 2019, 11am-1pm, milknfizz are excited to launch their first Brunch Club for new and expectant mums at The Beech House, St Albans. Each month there will be local experts in the parenting world on hand to answer questions and in September the invited experts include sleep expert Kate Cohen and birth & postnatal doula Siobhan Smith. Tickets are £10 per person and spaces are limited to 20 people per session. Please note that food & drink is not included in the ticket price. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Monkey Music Open Day
The Salvation Army Hall, Leyton Green, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2TG
Join the FREE Monkey Music party sessions on Friday 6th September 2019, to celebrate Monkey Music’s new harpenden venue and two new teachers! There will be goody bags, balloons and lots of musical fun and laughter, as well as free coffee for grown-ups. The mixed age session (for toddlers and pre-schoolers from 12 months to 3 years) at 9.45am can be enjoyed by all, so ideal for friends and siblings attending together. The baby session (for babies 3-12 months old) at 10.45am is a gentle introduction to music education, where you can share precious moments with your baby. There are a maximum of 15 places for each session, so make sure that you visit the website to book your place or for more information.
Chickenshed Theatre – Tales From The Shed
Chase Side, Southgate, London, N14 4PE
Tales From The Shed will be at Chickenshed Theatre from Friday 6th to Saturday 7th September 2019. Tales from the Shed are vibrant, interactive theatre shows presented by Chickenshed, that are perfect for young children aged 0-6 years old. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space – children are always encouraged to make a lot of noise and to make the story happen. Expect fun, silliness, colourful puppets and live songs. Every week explore a different story featuring the same much-loved characters. Come along and be prepared to believe in the magic. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Day Out With Thomas – Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
Station Road, Quainton, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 4BY
Make their dreams come true on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th September 2019, 10.30am to 5pm, and enjoy a Day Out With Thomas at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre. There will be Thomas short train rides running all day long approx. every 20 minutes, as well as children’s shows, see the Fat Controller, miniature train rides and more! Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Redbourn Classics Motor Show
Redbourn Common, Redbourn, Hertfordshire, AL3 7BU
On Saturday 7th September 2019, 12noon to 5pm, come along to the Redbourn Classics Motor Show on Redbourn Common and see a range of cars vintage and classic cars, as well as stalls, family entertainment, music, food, BBQ and refreshments. Entry for the public is a suggested donation of £2 per adult or £5 per family, all proceeds go to local charities. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans Fire Station Open Day
153 London Rd, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1TQ
The annual St Albans Fire Station Open Day is on Saturday 7th September 2019 from 12noon until 4pm. Go along and support the local fire station and watch a cooking oil fire demonstration, have a look around a fire engine, join in with the teddy bear parachute drop (bring your own teddy), see dog handling and enjoy the family friendly stalls and attractions! Visit the website for more information.
Hertford Fire Station Open Day
Old London Road, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 7LD
The annual Hertford Fire Station Open Day is on Saturday 7th September 2019 from 1pm until 4pm. Go along and support the local fire station and watch a cooking oil fire demonstration, have a look around a fire engine, join in with the teddy bear parachute drop (bring your own teddy), see dog handling and enjoy the family friendly stalls and attractions! Visit the website for more information.
Brambleton Model Railway Club Open Day
Highfield Oval, Ambrose Lane, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 4FB
On Saturday 7th September 2019, from 2-5.30pm, Brambleton Model Railway Club Open Day is being held at their site accessed by woodland paths next to the Highfield Oval in Harpenden. The short trek up winding and leafy paths is rewarded by the sight of this charming model railway club. Please note that the site itself is reached by an unpaved path, which can be muddy during wet conditions. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans Farmers’ Market
St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5DJ
St Albans Farmers’ Market takes place on the second Sunday of every month. Visit St Peter’s Street in St Albans on Sunday 8th September 2019, 9am to 2pm and browse the stalls of artisan produce and local specialities including seasonal fruit and vegetables, fresh herbs, quality meat and game, local cheeses, cakes, bread and preserves. 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 8th September 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.
Down The Woods Forest School Stay And Play
Heartwood Forest, Sandridge, Near St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 9DQ
Down The Woods strongly believes that children love being outside and learn best outdoors. Join Down The Woods in the beautiful surroundings of Heartwood Forest on Monday 9th September 2019, 10am-12noon for a forest school session with lots of games, fun activities and natural crafts in the forest. £5 per child (siblings under 18 months are free). For more information about forest school and the location of sessions email caroline.langley@downthewoods.org or book your place online.
Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum
Verulamium Museum, St Michael’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4SW
Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum, St Albans takes place on Thursday 12th September 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.
Chickenshed Theatre – Tales From The Shed
Chase Side, Southgate, London, N14 4PE
Tales From The Shed will be at Chickenshed Theatre from Friday 13th to Saturday 14th September 2019. Tales from the Shed are vibrant, interactive theatre shows presented by Chickenshed, that are perfect for young children aged 0-6 years old. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space – children are always encouraged to make a lot of noise and to make the story happen. Expect fun, silliness, colourful puppets and live songs. Every week explore a different story featuring the same much-loved characters. Come along and be prepared to believe in the magic. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Heritage Open Days at Redbournbury Watermill
Redbournbury Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 6RS
Take advantage of this year’s Heritage Open Days at Redbournbury Watermill on Saturday 14th (9am-1pm) and Sunday 15th (12noon-5pm) September 2019. Redbournbury Watermill is an 18th century restored, working watermill, producing stone-ground flours and bread. There is a museum, milling demonstrations and an artisan bakery on site. This event is not suitable for buggies or young children as the property is a working mill. Visit the website for more information.
Heritage Open Days at Rothamsted Manor
West Common, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2BG
Take advantage of this year’s Heritage Open Days at Rothamsted Manor on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September 2019, 10am-5pm. Enjoy a free guided tour of the stunning Rothamsted Manor (guided tour must be pre-booked call 01582 938500) and explore the rich history of the house first recorded in 1212. After the guided tour you can take a self-guided tour of the gardens. Refreshments will be available. Advance booking is required. Visit the website for more information.
Kingsbury Barn – Dacorum and Chiltern Pottery Guild
Kingsbury Barn (behind The Waffle House), Branch Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4SE
Dacorum and Chiltern Potters Guild will be at Kingsbury Barn on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September 2019. The exhibition is open to the public and entry is free. Enjoy the setting of the Grade II listed barn, built in 1374, with its soaring wooden interior. Demonstrations and have-a-go on the potters wheel from 1pm-4pm. Visit the website for more information.
Heritage Open Day at Smallford Station
Station Yard, Smallford, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0HF
Take advantage of this year’s Heritage Open Day at Smallford Station on Saturday 14th September 2019. Smallford Station is a unique, 150 year old, Grade 2 listed building that stands on the Alban Way. Take this opportunity to meet enthusiastic society members, see the Smallford station and platform, participate in a family-friendly guided walk from Smallford Station to Nast Hyde Halt (less than one hour along a flat, tarmacked foot and cycle path – walks start at 12noon and again at 2pm) and enjoy refreshments provided by Colney Heath WI. Visit the website for more information.
The Hat Factory – Try It! Family Taster Session
65-67 Bute Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2EY
On Saturday 14th September 2019, come along to the Hat Factory and spend your Saturday morning getting creative with your little ones. Enjoy a range of activities focussed around making, play, using your hands and your imagination. Visit the website for more information.
Heritage Open Days – Welwyn Roman Baths
Welwyn Bypass, Hertfordshire, AL6 9FG
On Saturday 14th September 2019, 2-5pm, step back in time and visit the remains of a 3rd century Romano-English bathing suite. See some fascinating remains and learn about how the Romans liked to relax or try the outdoor trail. Visit the website for more information.
Aylesbury Waterside Festival
Waterside Canal Basin, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG
On Saturday 14th September 2019, from 11am-5.30pm, the Waterside Festival will be making a splash for another year! Enjoy the beautiful floating market, performances from local musicians, choirs and dance groups, free canoeing, kayaking and paddle-boarding sessions and a whole host of fun. Visit the website for more information.
Chiltern Open Air Museum – World War One
Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB
Visit the Chiltern Open Air Museum on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September 2019, for a special WW1 living history event. Come and meet costumed World War One soldier re-enactors and find out what life would have been like for them. Watch sword and bayonet exercises and gas drills. Learn about the women’s auxiliary army core. Visitors can take part in a poppy trail and dress up in WW1 officer and nurse costumes. All activities are subject to change and weather so check the details before you travel. 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 14th and Sunday 15th September 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.
Heritage Open Day at Mill Green Museum
Mill Green Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 5ND
On Sunday 15th September 2019, enjoy the Heritage Open Day at Mill Green Museum 2pm to 5pm. Take a look behind the scenes at Mill Green Museum and tour the fascinating object stores. See the fantastic display of vintage Murphy TVs and radios manufactured by one of Welwyn Garden City’s biggest employers during the twentieth century and speak to enthusiasts. Cream teas will be available 2.30pm-4.30pm. Entry is free. Visit the website for more information.
Luton Library Theatre – Hey Diddle Diddle
Luton Central Library, St George’s Square, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2NG
On Sunday 15th September 2019, visit the Luton Library Theatre and see Hey Diddle Diddle, a hilarious adventure filled with music and puppetry from Goblin Theatre. When the full moon shines bright there’s magic in the air and all the animals come out to play. Stay up late with flying cows, jazzy cats and runaway crockery. With original songs played live on stage, brilliant puppetry and lots of laughter, this new show is a wild and musical celebration of the importance of the imagination. Suitable for children aged 2-6 years old and their families. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Heritage Day at Hertford Castle
Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1HR
On Sunday 15th September 2019, 12noon to 4pm, Hertford Castle will open its doors to the public free of charge as part of the Heritage Open Days. Visitors are able to explore the basement, dungeons, Robing Room and Downshire Suite. The castle lawn will host a medieval encampment, Viking battles, falconry displays, archery workshops and much more. Visit the website for more information.
Cheshunt Fire Station Open Day
Cheshunt Fire Station, College Road, Cheshunt, Waltham Cross, EN8 9LT
The Cheshunt Fire Station Open Day is on Sunday 15th September 2019, 11am to 2pm. Go along and support a local fire station, have a look around a fire engine, see demonstrations and enjoy the family friendly stalls! Visit the website for more information.
Down The Woods Forest School Stay And Play
Heartwood Forest, Sandridge, Near St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 9DQ
Down The Woods strongly believes that children love being outside and learn best outdoors. Join Down The Woods in the beautiful surroundings of Heartwood Forest on Monday 16th September 2019, 10am-12noon for a forest school session with lots of games, fun activities and natural crafts in the forest. £5 per child (siblings under 18 months are free). For more information about forest school and the location of sessions email caroline.langley@downthewoods.org or book your place online.
Hertford Theatre – Bring Your Own Baby Comedy
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Tuesday 17th September 2019, 12noon (doors open 11.15am), visit the Hertford Theatre for Bring Your Own Baby Comedy, the UK’s number one baby friendly comedy club! Bring your babies under 12 months old and see the funniest stars from TV and the comedy circuit for you and soft flooring, toys and more for baby. Bring Your Own Baby lunchtime shows feature a brand new line-up of acts each month, so bring your baby and come and have a giggle. Grown Up Comedy… babies welcome! Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Heritage Open Days at St Albans Clock Tower
Market Place, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5DL
Take advantage of this year’s Heritage Open Days at St Albans Clock Tower from Thursday 19th to Sunday 22nd September 2019, 10.30am to 4.45pm. Climb the 93 spiral steps up the only surviving medieval clock tower in England and enjoy magnificent views of St Albans. Visit the website for more information.
Chickenshed Theatre – Tales From The Shed
Chase Side, Southgate, London, N14 4PE
Tales From The Shed will be at Chickenshed Theatre from Friday 20th to Saturday 21st September 2019. Tales from the Shed are vibrant, interactive theatre shows presented by Chickenshed, that are perfect for young children aged 0-6 years old. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space – children are always encouraged to make a lot of noise and to make the story happen. Expect fun, silliness, colourful puppets and live songs. Every week explore a different story featuring the same much-loved characters. Come along and be prepared to believe in the magic. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Hertford Theatre – The Close Up Show
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Saturday 21st September 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.
Radlett Centre – Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show
The Radlett Centre, Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, Hertfordshire, WD7 8HL
On Saturday 21st September 2019, visit the Radlett Centre to see Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show. You think science is boring; think again. This is science like you’ve never seen it before. Designed for adults and children alike, Mark’s Spectacular Science Show explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortex-generating dustbins and even howling jelly babies! Suitable for children aged 4-7 years old and their families. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Heritage Open Days at Redbournbury Watermill
Redbournbury Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 6RS
Take advantage of this year’s Heritage Open Days at Redbournbury Watermill on Saturday 21st (9am-1pm) and Sunday 22nd (12noon-5pm) September 2019. Redbournbury Watermill is an 18th century restored, working watermill, producing stone-ground flours and bread. There is a museum, milling demonstrations and an artisan bakery on site. This event is not suitable for buggies or young children as the property is a working mill. Visit the website for more information.
St Albans South Signal Box Open Weekend
Ridgmont Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3AJ
St Albans South Signal Box Big Weekend takes place on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd September 2019, 10am-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.
Bishops Stortford Fire Station Open Day
Bishops Stortford Fire Station, Patmore Close, Bishops Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 2PY
The Bishops Stortford Fire Station Open Day is on Saturday 21st September 2019, 12noon to 4pm. Go along and support a local fire station, have a look around a fire engine, see demonstrations and enjoy the family friendly stalls! Visit the website for more information.
Watford Fire Station Open Day
223-229 Lower High Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2AG
The Watford Fire Station Open Day is on Saturday 21st September 2019, 1pm to 4pm. Go along and support a local fire station, have a look around a fire engine, see demonstrations and enjoy the family friendly stalls! Visit the website for more information.
Hemel Old Town Hall – Christopher’s Caterpillars
High Street, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP1 3AE
On Saturday 21st September 2019, visit Hemel Old Town Hall to see Christopher’s Caterpillars. Christopher Nibble and his best friend Posie have been busy growing plants and food in their garden whilst taking care of their six hairy pet caterpillars. But when their crawly comrades disappear without a trace, the gardening guinea pigs swap their trowels for magnifying glasses and turn detective! Written especially for children aged 2-7 years old and their families. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Stopsley Library – Crabby
598 Hitchin Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 7UN
Collar and Cuffs Theatre Company presents an award winning multi-sensory musical theatre tale of grumpy feelings and what to do about them at Stopsley Library on Saturday 21st September 2019. Set at the seaside during the Edwardian era, Crabby is the tale of a little hermit crab in search of a new home. After a terrible storm, Crabby emerges from the shelter of a rock and is bereft: his lovely shell home is irreparably damaged. Being a crab with a soft body, he needs to find a new shell as quickly as possible in order to be safe, so he sets out along the seashore to find one. In his search, he encounters other seaside characters including a seagull, jellyfishes, barnacles and a very sensible mermaid. Recommended for children 0-7 years old. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
The Hat Factory – Try It! Family Taster Session
65-67 Bute Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2EY
On Saturday 21st September 2019, come along to the Hat Factory and spend your Saturday morning getting creative with your little ones. Enjoy a range of activities focussed around making, play, using your hands and your imagination. Visit the website for more information.
Leagrave Library – Crabby
Marsh Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU3 2NL
Collar and Cuffs Theatre Company presents an award winning multi-sensory musical theatre tale of grumpy feelings and what to do about them at Leagrave Library on Saturday 21st September 2019. Set at the seaside during the Edwardian era, Crabby is the tale of a little hermit crab in search of a new home. After a terrible storm, Crabby emerges from the shelter of a rock and is bereft: his lovely shell home is irreparably damaged. Being a crab with a soft body, he needs to find a new shell as quickly as possible in order to be safe, so he sets out along the seashore to find one. In his search, he encounters other seaside characters including a seagull, jellyfishes, barnacles and a very sensible mermaid. Recommended for children 0-7 years old. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
St Albans Time Turn Festival
St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire
On Sunday 22nd September 2019, 11am to 5pm, come along and enjoy the St Albans Time Turn Festival. This FREE, street event will transport you back in time as streets in St Albans centre come alive with a variety of activities on offer for the public to enjoy. Expect historic vehicles, music, street theatre, activities and performances. Pick up a trail sheet, follow the trail and answer the questions about St Albans to be in with a chance of winning a small prize. Lots for the whole family to enjoy! Take a look here for more information.
Credit – Stephanie Belton
St Albans Museum + Gallery – Time Turn Festival
St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3DH
On Sunday 22nd September 2019, from 11am St Albans Museum + Gallery will be bringing characters from the city’s vibrant past to life with stories and crafts for all the family to enjoy. Come and meet two incredibly influential figures with links to St Albans – the former Mayor and golf legend Samuel Ryder and politician and confidante to Queen Anne, Sarah Churchill. Entrance is free. Visit the website for more information.
Heritage Open Days – Abbey Gateway Tours
Abbey Gateway, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4HB
On Sunday 22nd September 2019, 10am – 4pm (tours every hour), tour the most complete medieval gateway in England including a museum relating to the history of St Albans School, founded in 948 AD. Maximum of 20 people per tour. Visit the website for more information.
Watford Colosseum – Big Fish Little Fish Family Rave
Rickmansworth Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 3JN
On Sunday 22nd September 2019, 2-4pm, get ready for Big Fish Little Fish at The Watford Colosseum with legendary DJ Aston Harvey (Freestylers)! Big Fish Little Fish is for parents with children aged 0-8 years old. There’s a multi-sensory dancefloor full of bubbles, balloons and confetti. The music is acid house/techno and drum ‘n’ bass music but played at a safe volume. Big Fish Little Fish provide a bar for adults, craft and play activities for the kids and a baby chill-out area. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Down The Woods Forest School Stay And Play
Heartwood Forest, Sandridge, Near St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 9DQ
Down The Woods strongly believes that children love being outside and learn best outdoors. Join Down The Woods in the beautiful surroundings of Heartwood Forest on Monday 23rd September 2019, 10am-12noon for a forest school session with lots of games, fun activities and natural crafts in the forest. £5 per child (siblings under 18 months are free). For more information about forest school and the location of sessions email caroline.langley@downthewoods.org or book your place online.
Mummy Meet Ups with LouAntenatal
Verdi’s Tratorria, 1a Clarence Park, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 4NF
September’s Mummy Meet Up takes place on Monday 23rd September 2019 at Verdi’s Tratorria, 1a Clarence Park, St Albans, AL1 4NF from 10.30am to 12noon. Come along if you’re pregnant or caring for a baby or toddler. Louise from ‘Lou Antenatal’ is a qualified midwife and will be on hand to answer any pregnancy or baby related questions whilst you enjoy a cuppa. Email louise@louantenatal.com for more information.
St Albans Museum + Gallery – Museum Minis
St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3DH
Museum Minis at St Albans Museum + Gallery takes place on Tuesday 24th September 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.
Circus at Sandridge School
Sandridge School, Woodcock Hill, Sandridge, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 9EB
Get your tickets for the Circus at Sandridge School on Tuesday 24th September 2019, 4.30-7pm (Big Top opens at 4.30pm and show starts at 5pm). Food and refreshments will be available, including a BBQ from 3.30pm, along with a bar. Adults £8, children £6 and under 2’s are free. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
St Albans Museum + Gallery – Nap At The Museum
St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3DH
On Friday 27th September 2019, 12.30-2.30pm, book your tickets for the Nap At The Museum at St Albans Museum + Gallery, sponsored by Minimello! Perfect for pre-school children and their parents, come along and learn more about good sleep habits and try out some fun activities like kids yoga, sleepy foods tasting and story time. Meet some fantastic local businesses including Tilly’s Dance and Yoga, Drama Llamas, Forty Winks sleep consultancy, Minimello and more. All profits from the event will go to The Children’s Sleep Charity and Mind Charity. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Chickenshed Theatre – Tales From The Shed
Chase Side, Southgate, London, N14 4PE
Tales From The Shed will be at Chickenshed Theatre from Friday 27th to Saturday 28th September 2019. Tales from the Shed are vibrant, interactive theatre shows presented by Chickenshed, that are perfect for young children aged 0-6 years old. They are informal, lively and amazingly engaging as the performers and audience share the same space – children are always encouraged to make a lot of noise and to make the story happen. Expect fun, silliness, colourful puppets and live songs. Every week explore a different story featuring the same much-loved characters. Come along and be prepared to believe in the magic. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Hertford Theatre – Tabby McTat
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
From Friday 27th to Sunday 29th September 2019, don’t miss Tabby McTat at the Hertford Theatre. Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Tabby McTat is a heart-warming tale of friendship and loyalty interwoven with original songs and a sprinkling of magic. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
The BIG St Albans Model Show
Townsend Church of England School, High Oaks, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 6DR
St Albans Model Engineering Society will be hosting the BIG St Albans Model Show 10am to 5pm on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2019, at Townsend Church of England School, High Oaks, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 6DR. There will be static displays, railway layouts, locomotives, boats, trucks, as well as train rides and more! Adults £4, Children £1. Visit the website for more information.
Chiltern Open Air Museum – Family Harvest Event
Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB
On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2019, visit Chiltern Open Air Museum for the Family Harvest Event. Discover the fascinating traditions of our farming history. This popular Harvest event provides a unique opportunity to explore the sights, sounds and smells of Harvest past, with the Museum’s restored 1947 threshing machine working hard to process the year’s wheat crop – as long as the rain holds off! The Museum’s Henton chapel will be home to a beautiful display of Harvest produce. All activities are subject to change and weather. Visit the website for more information.
The Hat Factory – Try It! Family Taster Session
65-67 Bute Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2EY
On Saturday 28th September 2019, come along to the Hat Factory and spend your Saturday morning getting creative with your little ones. Enjoy a range of activities focussed around making, play, using your hands and your imagination. Visit the website for more information.
Luton Library Theatre – The Scarecrows Wedding
Luton Central Library, St George’s Square, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2NG
On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2019, visit the Luton Library Theatre to see The Scarecrow’s Wedding. The team behind StickMan present the best wedding ever, the best wedding yet…. This heart-warming and award-winning adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best-selling book is bursting at the seams with wit, drama and wedding bells! Packed with live music and laughter, this is one hour’s magic that you and your children will never forget! Suitable for children aged 3 years old and above and their families. Visit the website to book tickets, or for more information.
The Hat Factory – Emily Rising
65-67 Bute Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2EY
On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2019, come along to the Hat Factory to see Emily Rising. Little Angel Theatre is back in Luton with a unique and heart-warming story brought to life with stunning puppetry that will take you soaring into the sky. Discover the nature of friendship and growing-up through the eyes of a child. Suitable for children aged 7 years old and above. Visit the website to book tickets, or for more information.
Gordon Craig Theatre – Robots Live
Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 1LZ
On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2019, visit the Gordon Craig Theatre to see Robots Live! Machines from TV’s Robot Wars will be fighting it out live! See your favourite robots take to the arena in this action-packed family show. Visit the website to book your tickets or for more information.
Hertford Theatre – 3 Little Pig Tails
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Saturday 28th September 2019, visit the Hertford Theatre to see 3 Little Pig Tails. Enjoy a brand new version of the classic story of the three little pigs set in Paris. A grumpy old wolf is a chef who wants some pigs’ tails for his soup. Will the little pigs outwit the wolf and what kind of house will they build? A funny, warm-hearted and interactive tale to make you squeal with laughter. The show takes place in the Studio which has unallocated seating. Recommended for children aged 3-7 years old. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Hertford Theatre – Ibizababies 2019
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2019, visit the Hertford Theatre Studio for the Ibizababies 2019 tour from Glastonbabies. Enjoy top-class musicianship, non-stop interactive music making and movement, with amazing play activities embedded into each performance! Suitable for children under 6 years old and their families. This is an interactive show and children will be up dancing and taking part – adults are encouraged to join in too. The show takes place in the Hertford Theatre River Room which has unallocated seating. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Hertford Theatre – How Does This Politics Things Work Then?
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September 2019, get your tickets for ‘How Does This Politics Thing Work Then?’ Politics is boring, politics is complicated, politics is for adults. Rubbish! Politics is actually super important and can be really fun, if you know how. Luckily Tatton Spiller (Simple Politics) and Tiernan Douieb (Comedy Club 4 Kinds, CBBC’s The Slammer) know exactly how to make politics fun and they’ll show you how to make sense of it all, in just 60 minutes. Suitable for children aged 6 years old + and their families. This performance takes place in the Hertford Theatre Studio. Visit the website to book tickets, or for more information.
St Albans Food and Drink Festival – Street Feastival
St Peter’s Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3DH
On Sunday 29th September 2019, visit St Peter’s Street in St Albans for the St Albans Food and Drink Festival Street Feastival! St Peter’s Street will be closed to traffic and become a gastronomic wonderland from 12noon to 6pm. A day of food, fun and festival feasting with free entry. Visit the website for more information.
Hertford Theatre – Rumpelstiltskin & The Snail of Destiny
The Wash, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1PS
On Sunday 29th September 2019, visit Hertford Theatre to see Rumpelstiltskin & The Snail of Destiny. Poor Polly Buckwheat is in a bit of a pickle. If she doesn’t turn a roomful of straw into gold by morning, the greedy King will turn a bit nasty. But should she accept the kind help of an eccentric dwarf who mysteriously appears in her prison cell? Using their trademark puppets, music, storytelling and sets, the Theatre of Widdershins aim to create gold on stage with this new version of the Grimm’s classic tale. Suitable for children aged 4-11 years old and their families. The show takes place in the Hertford Theatre Studio which has unallocated seating. Visit the website to book tickets or for more information.
Down The Woods Forest School Stay And Play
Heartwood Forest, Sandridge, Near St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 9DQ
Down The Woods strongly believes that children love being outside and learn best outdoors. Join Down The Woods in the beautiful surroundings of Heartwood Forest on Monday 30th September 2019, 10am-12noon for a forest school session with lots of games, fun activities and natural crafts in the forest. £5 per child (siblings under 18 months are free). For more information about forest school and the location of sessions email caroline.langley@downthewoods.org or book your place online.
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.
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