Now, we don’t want to give you childhood flashbacks to those sunny days when mum would tell you to “stop hanging around inside and go make the most of the weather”, but (not for the first time) she had a point! As we get a little bit older, and hopefully a little wiser too, we’re seeing just how important it is to get outside when the sun is shining with the right protection. And, with the temperamental weather of the U.K., it’s extra important to grab at any chance to enjoy the sunshine whenever we can. All throughout Herts, there are hidden gems and well-known favourites waiting for you, family, and friends to experience this sunny season. So, join us in planning out those warm months ahead – overnight stays, sporting days, and festival fun awaits!
Alfresco garden performances
This August, the elegant gardens of Knebworth House will be transformed into the ultimate open-air venue as theatrical, musical and devious performances return to the stunning 15th century manor house. With iconic productions such as the Twelfth Night, all the way through to The Paul Simon Story and 21st Century ABBA show, these alfresco shows will all bring their own showmanship. Sit back, grab a drink, give your glass a clink, tuck into some popcorn, and enjoy the shows! Plus, once you have seen the lights go down, you won't have far to walk as you can spend the night in one of their holiday cottages. These are all located just moments from the house and mean you can spend a night in the country.
Lights, camera, action!
Who says that movie nights have to be kept indoors? All across Hertfordshire we have special days under the dappled sun, nights under the stars, with classics and the latest movies and theatrical performances being shown outdoors. Check out our latest feature on where you can find them, including St Albans, Watford to Knebworth.
Celebrate British cuisine with Lussmanns
With dates throughout July, Lussmanns are hosting Great British Summer Supper Clubs that will celebrate organic farming to craft beer and English wine. Each evening will be totally unique and give attendees the chance to meet and eat with some of their favourite British farmers and producers and sample produce from Haye Farm to Chapel Down. Sign up now to enjoy an exclusive summertime evening like no other.
A barbecue evening at Hanbury Manor Marriott
You really can't beat that barbecue smell when the summer comes, can you? Equally as delightful is the food that comes from it and Hanbury Manor have made a point this summer to offer alfresco dining with a barbecue on their conservatory terrace. Enjoy classic summertime food from the grill, a salad bar and even a dessert trolley throughout the summer until 29th August. Just be sure to reserve 48hrs in advance!
Wander in St Albans
What's better than just enjoying the summer weather? Learning something and walking an historic city as you do it! Throughout the summer, there's plenty of walking tours in St Albans where a guide will tell you about the city's history from revolts to the beginnings of the Cathedral. Find out all of the dates available here, and select 'Outdoors' as the filter.
The ball’s in your court!
With the Wimbledon Championships just around the corner, we’re itching to get out there and try a serve or two for ourselves. We can do exactly that at Stevenage’s very own refurbished tennis courts in Shephalbury Park. The space is open and welcome to all ages and abilities so, whether you’re a racquet rookie or the next Alcaraz or Coco Gauff, this one’s for you and for a reasonable price too!
Merry music
Back once again for 2025, Old Town Live is ready and waiting to spring into action. Pop to either (or both!) Ware (July 26th) and Stevenage's (August 9th) dates in the diary as you’re going to want to make your way down for some amazing live entertainment, a Kids Zone for the little ones, and a whole host of amazing street food on site. Dance the night away, whether you’re into rock and roll or prefer to relax to the sounds of jazz, your ears are sure to find something they like!
Cassiobury Park, (c) Josh Carter
Walk and talk
With so much green space throughout the county, one of the best ways to make the most of it during the warmer months of the year is to get out for a walk. And what’s better is that here in Herts you can join a Health Walk group - free and accessible walks led by volunteers that take you across the amazing landscapes of the county. Ranging different abilities and distances, you can choose where you feel most comfortable, and get your body moving for some much-deserved wellbeing time.
Foodie fun
The Great British Food Festival makes its return this year, coming to you from Knebworth House once again on the 19th and 20th July – pop along and get a taste of the festival in its full glory. With amazing street food, chef demos, mini zoo, kids’ activities and more, you might just need both days to appreciate all that the GBFF has to offer. Tickets for the day include access to the Gardens, Park, Adventure Playground and Dinosaur Trail and, with under threes going free, you and the family have got your next summer adventure sorted. And as we've already mentioned, you can easily spend the night while availability lasts, at their holiday cottages that contain enchanting country charm.
Splash away
It happens every year – the weather gets a little too hot and the blow-up paddling pool that’s sat in the shed since last year just won’t cut it. Fear not, as Hertfordshire has plenty of outdoor pools, lidos, and splash parks to keep your kiddies cool and entertained this summer. So, pack the sun cream, towels and hats and head to your local water park for a splashing time this summer.