Things are hotting up and as the temperatures rise, we’re retreating to Hertfordshire’s beautiful woodland, outdoor pools and lidos, parks and more to cool off this summer. Whether you fancy taking a dip or soaking up the shade with a picnic under Hertfordshire’s ancient trees, we’ve got plenty of spots to keep you cool.
Ashridge House
When the sun’s out and you’re starting to melt, there’s no better place to escape the heat than the gorgeous gardens at Ashridge House. If you’re local, you’ll know this gem is just up the road, but have you ever packed a picnic and made a proper day of it? With its shady woodland paths, hidden benches and wide-open spaces, it’s the perfect spot to spread out a blanket and enjoy a breezy break from the summer sun. Whether you’re wandering through the cool, leafy grounds or simply soaking up the peace and quiet with an ice-cold drink, Ashridge is a brilliant way to beat the heat without having to leave Hertfordshire.
Hertfordshire Zoo
Are you looking for a place to keep the kids cool and entertained without going too far? Hertfordshire Zoo has got you covered. With everything from big cats to penguins, you can easily fill a summer’s day exploring the enclosures and spotting your favourites. Plus, when the heat gets too much make sure to head to the splash zone! The mini water play area is perfect for little ones to cool off while you grab a shady seat and a cold drink. It’s wild, it’s local and it’s a brilliant way to beat the heat this summer.
The Snow Centre
Swap the sunshine for snow at The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead. This is the ultimate chill-out spot… quite literally. Step inside and you’ll find yourself on real snow, all year round. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or just sliding about in a fun taster session, it’s the perfect way to cool off when it’s too hot outside.
Splash Parks
When the sunshine is out, Hertfordshire’s splash parks are the ultimate cool-down playgrounds. With jets, fountains and splash zones all over the county, anyone can come along for a soak. No matter where you are in Herts, there’s a watery playground nearby to beat the heat and burn off energy. Most spots are free and open from May to September but make sure to check ahead just in case! Take a look here for the full splash-tastic guide to water play and outdoor pools in Hertfordshire.
The Grove Hotel
Escape the city heat with a trip to The Grove in Watford. Set in 300 acres of beautiful gardens and woodland, it’s the perfect shady spot to relax this summer. Take a dip in the outdoor pool, wander the peaceful Walled Garden, or treat yourself to a spa day with hydrotherapy pools. Whether you’re with friends or a special someone, The Grove offers a stylish way to chill out and beat the heat just minutes from London.
Country Parks
When the city heat gets too much, Hertfordshire’s country parks are the perfect green getaway to cool down and recharge. With shady woodlands, sparkling lakes and plenty of open space to stretch out, these parks offer a breath of fresh air and a natural chill-out zone. Wander along tree-line trails, find a peaceful spot by the water, or enjoy a delicious picnic under the leafy canopy. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or an active day out, Hertfordshire’s country parks provide endless ways to beat the heat surrounded by nature’s very own air conditioning.
At Home Farm Live
Summer is festival season! And here in Hertfordshire, our festivals are a celebration of our rolling countryside and beautiful rural landscapes. At Home Farm Live will be commencing with events rolling all through summer. Hosted at the beautiful At Home Farm, with its luxury bell tents and glamping offer, this is festival season with a difference. Enjoy off the grid concerts and live music under the stars!
Cassiobury Park
One of our favourite spots once the temperatures start soaring, Cassiobury Park’s Paddling Pools are open for summer. With two splash pools, plus state-of-the-art splash pads, it’s the perfect place for kids of all ages to keep their cool. Run through jets, splash through the fountains and round off the day with ice creams from the kiosk – now that’s a childhood memory locked in.
Laser Quest Hemel Hempstead
When the heat gets a little too much, even the biggest lovers of summer will need a break from it, so allow us to introduce Laser Quest. This immersive experience is a sci-fi action adventure that will soon take your mind off the outside temps and have you battling it out in this exhilarating experience that brings video gaming to life in an air-conditioned haven!
Take a dip
North Hertfordshire’s lidos have reopened for summer! Hitchin Lidio and Letchworth Lido are the perfect spots to jump in, relax and truly soak up the summer. Take advantage of morning and afternoon sessions in these heated 50m pools, each boasting smaller pools for children to play and learn, plus loungers made for sunbathing and kiosks offering hot and cold treats to make for a memorable summer day out.
St Albans strolls
The St Albans countryside is calling this summer and we can’t wait to set out on foot and start exploring it. Normansland Common is a tranquil haven of wildflowers and meadows, Verulamium Park offers 100 acres of parkland to discover, set out around an ornamental lake, with Roman ruins at its heart. Stroll Gorhambury Drive and you’ll enjoy pretty views of the fields, the immense Gorhambury mansion and trails through the estate. While Redbournbury Mill is any idyllic spot with its very own water meadow, surrounded by farmland.
Bethnal & Bec Luxury Stays
When summer rolls around, we love to be out in the great outdoors, making the most of it, so a break with Bethnal & Bec is a dream retreat. Stay in one of their retreats and expect all the luxuries, including robes, rainforest showers and a kingsize bed, but with the added outdoor treats of a firepit and even an outdoor deep soaking Jacuzzi bath. As the water for your outdoor bath is freshly drawn, you can choose the temperature, making it perfect for cooling dips in the day and warm soaks under the stars in the evening.
Splashlands
Open for summer and ready to thrill, Splashlands at Stanborough Park Water Sport Centre features a paddling river, plus a 600 meter square splash pad water play area! With 67 jets, nautical themed play equipment and all you need to beat the heat, this is set to be a big hit with toddlers and kids, while teens can enjoy the outdoor gym and sports pitch while little siblings play.
Stevenage Summer Beach
We may be a little far from the coast here in Hertfordshire, but fear not as Stevenage will be bringing the beach to us! This summer holiday the Event Island stage area will be transformed into a sandy beach, so pack up your bucket and spade, test out your sandcastle building skills and prepare for a day of traditional beach-side fun.
Aqua Parc Stevenage
We're taking things up a notch with our next spot, Aqua Parcs, Stevenage, a perfect spot for thrill-seekers to chill! The brand new obstacle course promises to be one exciting day out. Take on the challenges, bounce your way along the floating obstacles and prepare to cool off in the beautiful Fairlands Valley Park lake.