The perfect location for indulging in a little retail therapy and delicious dining or for an action-packed trip with all the family, Stevenage has so much to offer the visitor for a wonderful weekend break
WELCOME TO STEVENAGE
The first place in Britain to have a fully pedestrianised town centre, Stevenage is still an important retail area to this day: the high street offers the usual array of big name brands - as does the large out-of-town Westgate centre - alongside smaller, independent retailers. Running through the heart of the town is the Fairlands Valley Park, an idyllic stretch of parkland featuring extensive woodland, several lakes, children's play areas, plenty of fishing spots and a wildfowl reserve. The park is open all year and lends the town centre a more rural feel than it would otherwise have. Near to Stevenage station is the town's main leisure and sports complex which houses all sorts of activities from racket-sports to basketball - The Stevenage Arts and Leisure Centre. Contained within the building, however, are some quite unexpected things - an acclaimed theatre and a contemporary art gallery. The Boxfield Gallery, as it is known, exhibits the works of cutting-edge artists, photographers and sculptors from the local region and around the world. Also nearby is the Stevenage Leisure Park, with its multiplex cinema, bars, restaurants and nightclubs.
Day 1
MORNING
Stevenage Town Centre
A high street shopaholics delight! Shop the big brands such as Next, Primark, H&M, River Island, New Look, Blue Inc, Maysons, JD Sports, and Sports Direct in Stevenage's Town Centre. If you’re looking for something a little different, head over the bridge and you’ll quickly reach the quirky Old Town with its variety of boutiques, cafes and independent stores – perfect for a relaxing weekend browse. And just a short ride away is Roaring Meg, where you'll find M&S, Hobby Craft, Costa, Boots, and many more...Shop ‘til you drop.
LUNCH
Salt & Good
In the heart of the town centre you’ll find Salt & Good, an unlimited world buffet food experience, bringing flavours from kitchens, streets, stalls and markets from around the world in the best authentic way. Make your selection from a wide combination of mouth-watering dishes including Italian, Indian, Mexican, Thai, Chinese, Grill, and Desserts & Ice cream. They also have a cocktails & champagne bar with a wide range of spirits, beers, wine, cocktails, mocktails and lots of treats for the kids. Pick & Mix cuisine from around the world…
AFTERNOON
Stevenage Leisure Park
After lunch, head to Stevenage Leisure Park to entertain the entire family with excellent facilities including a 3D and 4D cinema, Bowling, Trampolining, Crazy Golf, and an excellent soft play centre. If theatre is more your cup of tea then you will also find The Gordon Craig Theatre and Boxfield Gallery within the building - an acclaimed theatre and a contemporary art gallery exhibiting the works of cutting-edge artists, photographers and sculptors from the local region and around the world. Fun for all the family…
DINNER
And while you're at the Stevenage Leisure Park, you can choose from a range of delicious places to grab a bite to eat. Like Chiquitos, where you can find all of your Mexican-feast favourites, whether that be jalapeno poppers, vegan loaded wedges, patatas bravas, or a classic quesadilla. If you fancy something hearty, check out the Nando's in the Leisure Park, or stop off at TGI Friday's for an atmosphere like none other.
Day 2
MORNING
Fairland’s Valley Park
The next morning head to Fairland’s Valley Park - the Jewel in the crown of Stevenage, situated right in the city centre and once voted as one of the UK’s leading free visitor attractions. The park consists of 120 acres of beautiful woodland and parkland and is well equipped to keep the whole family entertained with 2 excellent children’s play areas, water play splash park, pony and horse rides and a variety of walking routes. There is also a Sailing Centre for water sports including canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, powerboat courses, and angling. The Centre also runs many land-based courses and activities such as Boards & Buggies, Grass Sledging, Orienteering, Mountain Biking and Power Kiting. The newest addition to the Centre is ‘So Challenging’ offers a thrill experience with a ropes course and climbing wall. Time to get active…
LUNCH
Pi-Bistro
With rustic-chic style and a gallery setting, Pi-Bistro has a refreshing simplicity within a comfortable and relaxed dining environment. Set within the ever-changing gallery walls at the Gordon Craig Theatre, Pi has something different and unique to offer. Their ethos is simple; heart-warming food, a relaxed environment and friendly service and a recently revamped menu now includes a choice of tasty starters, delicious mains and a range of Chef’s signature pies! Art & Eat…
AFTERNOON
Knebworth House
Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun and adventure at Knebworth House. Famous worldwide for its rock concerts and as the home of Victorian novelist Edward Bulwer Lytton. Spend the day exploring the lovely gardens, maze and beautiful walled kitchen garden and follow the Dinosaur Trail in the Wilderness Garden with your little ones as they try to spot the 72 life-sized dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures. Head inside the house where knowledgeable guides will tell you the stories of Knebworth’s long history and you can find out about the family’s contribution to literature, politics and foreign service and visits by characters as diverse as Charles Dickens, Winston Churchill. A fantastic fun day out for adults and children of all ages at one of Hertfordshire’s finest stately homes. Open from March –September.
DINNER
Angelique Restaurant
For something that extra special when visiting Stevenage, you'll just have to book yourself in for a meal at the Angelique, where you can find 100% British burgers and delicious meals, as well as amazing beers, wines, and gins. Treat yourself to an unforgettable meal, tucking in to some traditional dishes with an exciting twist.
For all general enquiries, please contact the team via email at enquiries@visitherts.co.uk