The 28 best things to do with your kids in Hertfordshire
Keeping the kids entertained throughout the year can often be a cumbersome task. So to help parents here is a list of the 28 best things to do with kids in Hertfordshire.
From Harry Potter tours to adventure parks and indoor skiing there is so much do with your children in Hertfordshire.
But sometimes, finding the best guide to give you a total picture of what's on offer can be hard, so InYourArea.co.uk are here to help.
Yes, you can breathe a sigh of relief we've done the hard part for you!
We have put together all the top ranked attractions, museums and parks that you and your family are bound to love.
But even with endless amounts of research, we have missed one of your favourite spots, so if you think there's something missing, let us know in the comment section below - and we'll add it.
So, here it goes, the list of 28 best things to do with children in Hertfordshire that will make keeping them entertained that much easier...
Best outdoor activities for your kids in Hertfordshire
Willows Activity Farm
Willows Activity Farm
Where: Coursers Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF
A Peter Rabbit adventure playground, theme park and farm all in one incredible location.
Willows Activity Farm offers petting sessions with guinea pigs and rabbits, a trailer ride around the farm, bouncy haystacks, fun fair rides and pumpkin patches among other things.
This venue which initially opened as a small farm has expanded so much, offering plenty to do for the whole family.
Discount tickets are available if booked in advance, with cost varying depending on peak and off peak hours.
Website: willowsactivityfarm.com/
Berkhamsted Castle
Where: White Hill, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 1LJ
Families with a love for history can visit the remains of a strong and important motte-and-bailey castle dating from the 11th to 15th centuries.
It's a great site to explore, with plenty of space to enjoy a picnic surrounded by the castles walls, ditches and earthworks.
The castle is free to enter, however there is no on site parking, so use nearby parking, which comes at a cost.
Website:english-heritage.org.uk/berkhamsted-castle/
Paradise Wildlife Park
Where: White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, EN10 7QA
Zebras, tigers, meerkats, penguins and monkeys you'll be able to discover these and more when exploring Paradise!
But it's not only about the living animals that live at the zoo, you will also be able to rediscover all the incredible dinosaurs that lived in the past.
There is a range of extinct animals displayed at the zoo, of course they aren't as real as the animals you will see but that doesn't make them any less impressive of incredible to see! Besides, who doesn't love dinos!
Annual memberships are available, however the day tickets are available both at the gate and online, those purchased in advance however will receive a discount.
Website: pwpark.com/
Church Farm
Where: Ardeley, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG2 7AH
Feed lambs, pygmy goats and pigs as you explore the free range farm in Stevenoage.
There is plenty of woodland to explore, a trailer to ride, as well as chances to see how the farm is run from chickens to cows and more in between.
The farm also holds regular events for families to take part in throughout the year.
Prices are based on the experience you choose, with a farm pass that offers full day access.
Website: churchfarmardeley.co.uk/
Rye-assic Adventure Park
This venue also has a mini bowling alley, bouncy castle and indoor adventure play area
Where: Rye House Stadium, Rye Road, Hoddesdon EN11 0EH
Race mini boats, play crazy golf, explore the dino-maze, or dip your toes in the splash pool at Rye-assic Adventure Park!
The attraction is designed for children 12 years old and under, with an outdoor play area and trampolines available for children to bounce away some energy!
Prices are based on off peak and peak rates with supervising adults allowed in for free.
Website: rye-house.co.uk/rye-assic-adventure-park/
Aldenham Country Park
Where: Aldenham Rd, Elstree, Radlett, Hertfordshire WD6 3BA
Feed and pet the animals at Aldenham Country Park!
It's the perfect way to spend your days in the sunshine, with pony rides, nature trails and egg collections running throughout the year.
But it's not all about the fun to be had, as this farm is a open educational centre for children, where they can learn about how farms work.
While there they will also be able to see the farm's turkeys, ducks, donkeys, ponies, alpacas and geese among other animals.
Tickets give guests full day access to the farm as well as the indoor play area that comes with a bouncy castle!
Website: aldenhamcountrypark.co.uk/
Foxholes Farm
Where: London Road, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 7NT
Meet lambs, pigs, cows and chickens at this farm tucked away in Hertford, as families are free to walk around and see all the animals, all year round.
Children can also get involved with the daily feeding times in the Spring.
Tickets are charged per person, with children under two allowed in for free.
Website: foxholesfarm.com/
Rye House Kart Raceway
Where: Rye House, Rye Road, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, EN11 0EH
Whizz around this circuit and hold nothing back, while you embrace the thrills and exhilaration of go-karting, which happens to be the ultimate race experience.
With specialist junior sessions that will allow your children to put the pedal on gas an blast off.
Costs is dependent on age and length of participation, with children as young as three able to get involved.
Website: rye-house.co.uk/junior-karting/
Lee Valley White Water Centre
Where: Station Road, Waltham Cross, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire EN9 1AB
A location suggested by one of our readers, the Wild Water Centre lovely walks if you have a dog or a child as well as opportunities to kayak.
A major attraction for this venue is the park farms, outdoor kart raceway, disc golf and water Wipeout - its the perfect day out for all.
Don't want your children to kayak alone? Don't worry, Lee Valley has family rafts where you can play and surf the waves.
Cost depends on what activity you choose, but walking around the country park is free.
Website: gowhitewater.co.uk/
De Havilland Aircraft Museum
Where: Salisbury Hall, London Colney, Hertfordshire, AL2 1BU
Explore the oldest aviation museum in the UK dedicated to the preservation and display of de Havilland Aircraft.
It's worth the visit as the aircraft played an important role in the history of aircraft development in 20th century Britain.
But don't let poor weather keep you away from seeing the aircrafts on display, several exhibits inside the new building away from the rigors of the British weather.
Prices a set throughout the year, with children and adults paying their own rate.
Website: dehavillandmuseum.co.uk/
Howard Park and Gardens
Where: Rushby Mead, Letchworth, Hertfordshire G6 1RU
A play area, a paddling pool and plenty of green space to play football, explore and have a picnic.
This park run by North Hertfordshire District Council is a great way to spend the day without spending a penny, and after a £2.7 million project to restore the park it's well worth the visit.
Website: north-herts.gov.uk/howard-park-and-gardens
Planet Ice
Where: Leisureworld, Jarmans Park, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4JS
Grab your little ones and discover a whole new world as you glide over the ice in Hemel Hempstead.
Whether your an ice skating extraordinaire that's been training since the first time you watched Dancing on Ice, or just a beginner, you'll be able to have as much fun at this indoor venue.
Besides, if you really need the support you can always ask for a beginners penguin, but this is reserved for your little ones.
Prices are split for off peak and peak hours, with discounts available for skaters equip with their own skates.
Website: planet-ice.co.uk/hemel-hempstead/
Fairlands Valley Park
Credit: getty
Where: Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG2 0BL
Get stuck in with a huge variety of wet and non-water based activities for adults and children.
From high ropes and climbing to paddle boarding, there's even an aqua park!
As well as the range of fun activities there is also courses you can take to improve your canoeing, kayak, windsurfing and powerboat skills.
Cost depends on which activity you would like to take part in, with some features available for free.
Website: sll.co.uk/Fairlands/
Old St Albans Treasure Trail
Where: St Michaels Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4SW
Find out what you can dig up on the Old St Albans Treasure Trail? You can also explore the area and discover new things as you do!
Download the PDF, and figure out the hints and clues that will set you on the right course.
Make sure you keep looking for the hidden clues on statues, monuments and landmarks!
The trail is ideal for children above the age of six, with a set price for all participants.
Website: treasuretrails.co.uk/st-albans
Best indoor activities for your kids in Hertfordshire
Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Gringotts Wizarding Bank opens in April 2019 Credit: getty
Where: Studio Tour Drive, Leavesden, Hertfordshire WD25 7LR
Discover the world of Harry Potter like nowhere else, from original props, costumes and breathtaking sets including Diagon Alley, Platform 9 3/4 the Great Hall and the Forbidden Forest.
Lovers of the films will be able to ride in the flying car, levitate on Firebolt as well as see Buckbeak, Aragog and Goblins up close and personal. (a prop version at least).
You'll definitely feel a part of the magic, and don't worry even muggles are allowed entry!
Even if you've visited before, the attraction continually adds new features, the most recent is the addition of Gringotts Wizarding Bank, which opens April 2019.
Website: wbstudiotour.co.uk/
Natural History Museum at Tring
Where: Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 6AP
Once a private museum opened in 1892, guests are now able to explore a range of incredible zoological collections in Tring.
There are 4,000 specimens on public display including elephants, zebras rhinos, marine animals and insects - there are four floors to explore, with educational facts throughout.
The museum is free to enter.
Website: nhm.ac.uk/visit/tring
Laser Combat and NERF Wars
Credit: Rye House Website
Where: Rye House, Rye Road, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire EN11 0EH
Laser and NERF battles all under one roof for all the thrill seekers hoping to test their skills out on the battlefield.
So if your little ones are too small for Laser Combat, NERF is the way forward, both offer the same amount of fun whether its raining outside or glorious sunshine.
The cost is set per head, with NERF War games cheaper than Laser Combat.
Website: rye-house.co.uk/laser-nerf/
Royston Cave
Where: Melbourn Street, Royston, Hertfordshire, SG8 7DA
Explore man-made caves that are believed to date back to the 13th Century, with incredible wall carvings.
Royston Caves have many historical links including to the Knights Templar and James I - even if no-one can figure out its purpose or why it was built!
Regular tours of the cave are run throughout the week with set prices for adults, concessions and children.
Website: roystoncave.co.uk/
The Snow Centre
Credit: Handout Exhilarating fun on the Ringo runs
Where: St Albans Hill, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP3 9NH
Take to the slopes in this incredible indoor snow centre home to a huge 160m main slope as well as the largest indoor ski lesson slope in the UK!
Whether you're a beginner, main slope ready, expert or anything in between this is the ski and snowboard location for you and your family.
Children over the age of four can also spin, slip and slide down a custom built slope especially for Ringo runs!
Prices are based on the length of the ski passes, with special packages also available.
Website: thesnowcentre.com/
DJ's Jungle Adventure Soft Play Centre
Where: St Albans Road, Sandridge Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 9LP
Slide, jump, climb and play in the indoor centre that's the perfect jungle of fun for your children.
Open seven days a week, this soft play centre is ideal for fun when the weather isn't looking to bright outside.
Prices are based on your child's age with accompanying adults allowed in free of charge.
There are also venues in Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted
Website: djsplay.co.uk/
Mr Mulligan's Stevenage
Where: Stevenage Leisure Park, Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2UA
Prepare yourself for the ultimate golfing family day out in Stevenage.
Currently there is two courses on offer due to refurbishment, but this is likely to change, so make sure you check on the website before you go.
It's a lost world adventure that involves a lot of skill and patience, because getting the ball in the hole before anyone is the aim after all - so no rushing!
Prices are based on how many games you play, with options for children, adults and students.
Website: mrmulligan.com/stevenage/
RollerCity
Where: Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL8 6BX
Grab you skates and kick up a storm in RollerCity, whether it's your first time on wheels or its your favourite pass time, this location is the one for you.
It also happens to be the perfect party location, with private skate sessions for bookers!
There are of course plenty of open skate session that you can enjoy all year round. If this isn't for you the venue also has a cinema and soft play area as well.
Prices are based on the skate session you select, with party bookings costing charged depending on the number of guests.
Website: cwentertainment.co.uk/
North Herts Leisure Centre
Credit: North Herts Leisure Centre Website
Where: Baldock Road, Letchworth, Hertfordshire, SG6 2ER
Ride the waves using the tropical wave machine and wacky water flume at this leisure centre in Letchworth.
It's water based fun for the whole family!
Don't fancy a swim? There's also badminton courts, table tennis, squash and roller skating.
Prices range depending on the chosen activity, with variations during peak and off peak timings.
Website: sll.co.uk/north-herts/
Air Space Oxygen Free Jumping
Where: Stevenage Leisure Park, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2UA
Trampolining fun at its best, this leisure park offers so much bouncing fun your won't want to leave!
Whether you have a toddler, or older children you can make the most of the wall to wall trampolines being offered at Air Space.
There are special events on offer for events, with varying ticket prices. However, tickets booked for jumping sessions are based on a set off peak, peal rate.
Website: oxygenfreejumping.co.uk/stevenage/
Verulamium Museum
Where: St Michaels, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4SW
Discover Roman mosaics and wall plasters, walk through recreated Roman rooms and watch educational presentations at this interactive museum.
Children will also be able to enjoy the hands-on discovery area, as well as free activity sheets for children and dress-up clothes are available on weekends and school holidays.
The museum is free to visitors who live in St Albans, with set prices for all other adults and children.
Website: stalbansmuseums.org.uk
Teamworks Karting Letchworth
Where: Pixmore Avenue, Letchworth, Hertfordshire, SG6 1JS
Go Karting and Laser Tag - the ultimate thrilling combination, you won't be disappointed.
The racecourse has an exciting circuit, full of challenging twists and turns, while laser tag offers excitement of its own, under the cover of a dimly lit venue - you can battle it our with your friends and family in a test of skill and courage.
Costs vary for laser and go karting, with specialist packages also available.
Website: teamworkskarting.com/letchworth/
Cloud 9 Leisure
Credit: Days Out With The Kids Website
Where: Francis Combe School Sports Hall, Horseshoe Lane, Garston, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD25 7HW
A giant inflatable obstacle course and dodgeball arena as well as a one to one battle platform - what more could you ask for?
This venue offers a range of fun for children and adults of all ages, with interactive bungee runs, bouncy castles, slides and sweeper challenges all a part of the fun!
Bare in mind, this venue is only open on the weekends and during school holidays, so while it offers a lot you need to make sure there are bookable dates!
General admission comes at a set price, with specialist options for events and parties.
Website: cloud9leisure.com/
The Venue
Where: Elstree Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 1JY
Make the most of the soft play, swimming pool, teaching pool and spa pool as well as an creche for families that need additional help.
This venue, run by Hertsmere Borough Council, offers so much for the whole family, including an Aqua Pool Party and table tennis.
The biggest benefit of this location is you don't need to stay with your children as there is a creche and supervised play area that allows you to explore the venue as a whole.
Membership is available, however there are also day rates, which vary depending on the activity you choose.
Website: thevenueleisurecentre.co.uk/
