The heatwave has well and truly arrived, so it's time to daydream, soak up the rays and escape the heat of the city streets to the rolling countryside of Hertfordshire! From outdoor cinema amongst acres of lavender, to jazz in the grounds of manor houses, our round up will give you the perfect way to capture those glorious days of summer.
Dancing Queen for a Night: Mamma Mia! Under the Stars at The Grove
Get ready to say“Thank You for the Music” as The Grove brings one of the world's most-loved musicals to the big screen for a magical summer evening of outdoor entertainment.
On Friday 24 July, guests are invited to enjoy a special edition of Everyman in the Garden, featuring a live pre-film performance from the Jupiter Singers at 7.40pm, followed by an open-air screening of Mamma Mia! at 8pm. Known for their vibrant energy, uplifting repertoire and rich harmonies, the choir will set the perfect mood before the film begins.
Whether you're a lifelong ABBA fan or simply looking for a memorable summer night out, this feel-good event promises plenty of laughter, nostalgia and irresistible singalong moments. Set against the beautiful surroundings of The Grove, it's the perfect opportunity to gather friends and family for an evening of music and movie magic.
To make the experience even more special, guests can dine before the screening at one of The Grove's acclaimed restaurants. Choose from international favourites at The Glasshouse, hearty British classics at The Stables, authentic Indian cuisine at Madhu's, or vibrant Anatolian-inspired dishes at Skewd.
As the sun sets and the opening notes of ABBA's greatest hits fill the air, guests can settle in for a cinematic experience unlike any other. From iconic songs to unforgettable characters, Mamma Mia! remains one of the most joyful musicals ever made—and there's no better place to enjoy it than under the stars.
Event Details
- What: Mamma Mia! Open-Air Screening with Live Pre-Film Performance
- When: Friday 24 July
- Live Performance: 7.40pm
- Film Starts: 8pm
- Where: The Grove, Chandler's Cross
So grab your fellow Dancing Queens and Super Troupers, warm up your vocal cords and prepare for a summer evening filled with music, memories and movie magic at The Grove. 🎬✨🎶
Sopwell House Celebrates 40 Years of Timeless Hospitality
A Ruby Celebration
Marking 40 years – traditionally known as a ruby anniversary – Sopwell House has curated a series of exclusive Ruby Escapes designed to celebrate the occasion in style. Guests can enjoy an overnight stay in a Plush or Chic room, or upgrade to a suite experience, complete with breakfast and access to the award-winning Cottonmill Spa. Each stay includes thoughtful anniversary touches, such as a commemorative teddy bear and an 1980s-inspired treat that pays homage to the year the hotel first opened.
To enhance the experience, visitors can enjoy a signature cocktail from the specially created Through the Decades menu, a £50 dining credit in The Brasserie, and a luxurious 60-minute spa treatment. The packages are designed to showcase the very best of Sopwell House while celebrating its rich heritage and continued evolution. A Culinary
Journey Through the Decades
Food has always been at the heart of the Sopwell House experience, and the anniversary celebrations reflect this with a specially curated Through the Decades dining menu in The Brasserie. The menu serves as a nostalgic culinary tour, revisiting classic dishes that defined dining from the 1980s onwards. Guests can expect timeless favourites including Crab & Prawn Cocktail, Steak Tartare and Sole Meunière, alongside elegant desserts such as Millefeuille of Berries and traditional Crème Caramel.
The menu not only celebrates the flavours of the past but also highlights the enduring appeal of classic hospitality, blending nostalgia with contemporary dining excellence.
Cocktails Inspired by Four Decades
No celebration would be complete without raising a glass, and Sopwell House has created a Through the Decades cocktail menu that captures the spirit of each era. Inspired by iconic drinks from the 1980s through to the 2010s, the collection includes creative interpretations of beloved classics, from a playful take on the Sex on the Beach and a vibrant Cosmopolitan to a crisp Appletini and refreshing Aperol Ruby Spritz.
Served in the elegant Octagon Bar, the cocktails offer guests a stylish way to toast 40 years of memories while enjoying the sophisticated atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Sopwell House.
Looking Back – and Forward
The 40th anniversary celebrations are more than a tribute to the past; they are a reflection of the hotel’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. Over the past four decades, Sopwell House has evolved into a leading luxury destination, renowned for its spa facilities, award-winning dining and warm hospitality.
As it enters its fifth decade, Sopwell House continues to combine heritage with innovation, creating memorable moments for generations of guests. Whether through a relaxing spa escape, a nostalgic dining experience or a celebratory cocktail, the anniversary programme provides the perfect opportunity to rediscover one of Hertfordshire’s most cherished hospitality destinations.
For those looking to be part of this landmark year, Sopwell House’s 40th anniversary celebrations promise a fitting tribute to four decades of luxury, comfort and timeless hospitality.
Open-Air Performances Return to Knebworth House This Summer
There’s something truly special about spending a summer evening outdoors, surrounded by beautiful gardens, live entertainment and great company. This year, Knebworth House is once again welcoming visitors to its historic grounds for a fantastic programme of open-air theatre, live music and outdoor cinema events.
Set against the backdrop of one of Hertfordshire’s most iconic stately homes, the season offers something for all ages. Whether you're looking for a family day out, a Shakespearean classic, a nostalgic music-filled evening or a memorable cinema experience under the stars, Knebworth House has it covered.
Family Fun with The Big Bad Wolf
Sunday 26 July
Families can enjoy a lively musical adventure as The Big Bad Wolf arrives in Knebworth Gardens.
Presented by The Plandits, this original rock ‘n’ roll theatre production follows folklore’s most infamous villain after he is banished to the Deep Dark Wood. Packed with live music, larger-than-life characters, punk attitude and plenty of laughs, it promises an entertaining afternoon for children and adults alike.
Recommended for ages 5+, tickets are available from £10.50.
Knebworth House is set to provide a summer of unforgettable entertainment in one of Hertfordshire’s most picturesque settings.
For full event information and to book tickets, visit www.knebworthhouse.com.
Watford Fringe Festival Returns for a Landmark 10th Anniversary Celebration
This July, Watford Fringe Festival returns for its biggest year yet, marking an impressive 10th anniversary with a month-long programme packed with theatre, music, comedy, dance, magic and family entertainment across the town. Running throughout July 2026, the festival continues to showcase world-class Fringe performances alongside the very best local creative talent.
What began as a small weekend of performances has grown into one of Watford’s most anticipated cultural events, becoming a regular fixture in the town’s calendar and attracting thousands of audience members each year. Today, the festival brings together performers, venues and communities from across the region, transforming Watford into a vibrant hub of live entertainment.
The 2025 festival proved to be a record-breaking success, featuring 136 live shows across 21 performance spaces and selling more than 5,000 tickets. Audiences enjoyed an eclectic mix of performances, from pre-Edinburgh Fringe previews and emerging musicians to renowned industry figures, local performers and even live professional wrestling.
Building on that momentum, Watford Fringe Festival 2026 promises another exciting and diverse programme. Venues across the town will host performances, including well-known cultural landmarks such as Watford Pump House, Watford Colosseum and Watford Palace Theatre. The festival will officially launch with a special town centre event on 4 July, setting the stage for a month of creativity and entertainment.
One of the festival’s greatest strengths is its ability to balance nationally and internationally acclaimed acts with opportunities for local artists to develop and showcase their work. This commitment to nurturing talent has helped Watford Fringe become a platform for both emerging performers and experienced professionals, offering audiences an exciting mix of fresh voices and established names.
The festival’s continued success is made possible through the support of Watford Borough Council, participating venues and a dedicated team of volunteers who help promote performances and ensure visitors enjoy a welcoming and memorable experience.
Whether you're a regular festival-goer or looking to experience something new this summer, Watford Fringe Festival offers an outstanding opportunity to enjoy high-quality live entertainment right on your doorstep. With performances taking place throughout July and across multiple venues, there is something for every age and interest.
For the latest programme information and tickets, visit the festival website
Magic Meadows festival
Get ready for a one day family festival set in the magical meadows and woodland wonderlands of Home Farm Glamping, Elstree!
📅 Date: Saturday 25th July 2026 ⏰ Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Back by popular demand for its third year, Magic Meadows Festival returns in 2026! Join us for a wildly wonderful day designed to bring families together through joyful, hands-on adventures in nature. Roam woodland wonderlands and stumble upon our stage bursting with spellbinding theatre and live music; unleash your creativity in the craft tipi with guided workshops and self-expression creation; roll up your sleeves learn bushcraft and survival skills with real-deal nature pros; or slow it all right down with massages and yoga in the blissful wellness yurt.
...And that’s only scratching the surface: there’s magic and mischief hidden all amongst the long-grass meadows and grounds of Home Farm. This one-day family festival is where imaginations soar and wholesome family memories are made. Expect an epic mix of theatre, live music, dance, arts and crafts, storytelling, nature play and loads more surprises! We’ve got something for every kind of dreamer—grown-ups absolutely included.
Contact our friendly team at hello@athomefarm.live
Full terms and conditions: www.athomefarm.live/terms-and-conditions
Discover Summer at Hitchin Lavender: A Blooming Day Out in Hertfordshire
Looking for the perfect summer experience in Hertfordshire? This season, Hitchin Lavender is inviting visitors to immerse themselves in acres of stunning purple blooms, countryside views and special seasonal experiences, making it one of the region’s must-visit attractions. The lavender season runs from 20 June to 7 August, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fields at their vibrant best.
Step Into a Sea of Purple
Nothing says summer quite like a walk through fragrant lavender fields. Visitors can book Lavender Field Entrance tickets and enjoy access to the farm’s iconic landscape, providing the perfect setting for family days out, peaceful strolls, photography, and social media-worthy moments. The fields open throughout the peak flowering season, allowing guests to experience the beauty of the countryside in full bloom.
Treat Yourself to an Afternoon Tea Experience
For those looking to make their visit extra special, Hitchin Lavender is also offering its popular Afternoon Tea Experience, available between 20 June and 14 August. Guests can combine stunning floral surroundings with a relaxing afternoon of delicious refreshments, creating the perfect summer treat for friends, couples and visitors celebrating a special occasion.
Enjoy Exclusive Farmhouse Evenings
Summer evenings become even more magical at Hitchin Lavender with the return of Farmhouse Evenings, running from 23 June to 6 August. These special events offer visitors the chance to experience the fields in a different light and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere as the day draws to a close.
Why Visit This Summer?
Hitchin Lavender offers something for everyone:
-
Beautiful lavender fields in full seasonal bloom.
-
Memorable Afternoon Tea Experiences.
-
Fantastic opportunities for photography, relaxation and quality time outdoors.
Book Early
The summer lavender season is one of the most popular times of year to visit Hitchin Lavender, so booking ahead is recommended. Whether you're planning a family day out, a catch-up with friends or a romantic countryside escape, this is your chance to experience one of Hertfordshire's most colourful attractions.
For tickets and event information, visit the Hitchin Lavender booking page.
Meet and eat...
When you’re surprised with week after week of glorious sunshine, it’s hard not to dream about the weekend with a G&T in hand and sensational summer food on the menu, but let’s face it, the last thing you want to do is waste a minute of sunshine on researching the best restaurant! Luckily for you, we’ve found it all for you – choose one of the Lussmanns restaurants.
Don't miss the Supper Club, showcasing the best of Britain’s larder and celebrating the seasonal bounty of Britain's produce
Step back to where the magic began…
This summer, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London in Hertfordshire is celebrating 25 years of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone with the enchanting First Year at Hogwarts feature, running until 7 September 2026. Visitors can relive Harry’s very first year, from the iconic Great Hall House Cup celebration to seeing original props, authentic sets and brand-new behind-the-scenes experiences.
🎓 Highlights include:
✨ A transformed Great Hall featuring Gryffindor House Cup celebrations 🚂 Original film props and sets, including the Hogwarts Express 🎬 New "Secrets of Sound Effects" demonstrations revealing movie magic 🧹 Behind-the-scenes insights into flying lessons and Quidditch filming ♟️ A brand-new Wizard Chess photo opportunity featuring the original chess piece from the film 🐾 Rare displays including Fluffy's paw mould and the self-playing harp from the Philosopher's Stone adventure
Whether you're a lifelong Potter fan or discovering the Wizarding World for the first time, this is a magical reminder of why Hertfordshire remains one of the UK's most extraordinary visitor destinations. ✨