Be amazed by the animals at Whipsnade Zoo or Woburn Safari Park. Wander around stately homes and heritage buildings such as Luton Hoo, Wrest Park, Hatfield House and St Albans Cathedral. Explore nearby Hitchin (technically Herts but a very close neighbour!), with its open-air market and Hitchin Lavender (summer only) which boasts cinema screenings and perfect Instagram selfies. Try to find a way out of escape rooms – or truly get away from it all by hiking or cycling in the beautiful Chiltern Hills or along the Upper Lea Valley Way

Riverside Bedford

A stunning destination offering a fantastic choice of restaurants and bars including Wagamama, Zizzi, Miller & Carter, Albero Lounge and more. Watch a film at the Vue Cinema at affordable prices and take advantage of their family/group viewing offers. Whatever the weather you can dine inside or out, or just enjoy a drink at Riverside Bedford’s fabulous restaurants and bars overlooking the River Great Ouse.

Address: Riverside Bedford, Horne Lane, Bedford, MK40 1AS

Hitchin Market

Hitchin Market is one of the largest outdoor markets in the region set by the river at the heart of this beautiful town, featuring over a 150 covered stalls, including food, drink, arts, fashion and books. Check the website for opening times and find out about their specialist market days throughout the year, including a weekly Antiques Markets every Friday and Craft & Farmers once a month.

Address: Hitchin Markets, 1A Churchyard, Hitchin, SG5 1HR

Whipsnade Zoo

Explore a world of wildlife at Whipsnade Zoo - the largest zoo in the UK! Enjoy a full day of adventure making incredible memories. Under 3s go for free and they have special ticket prices for families so it is the perfect day out. Afterwards you could even venture down to have a walk around the Dunstable Downs (free, National Trust) which you can spot from the penguin enclosure!

Address: Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2LF

Warden Abbey Vineyard

Enjoy a tour of the beautiful Warden Abbey vineyard, learn about its fascinating history and indulge with a tasting of award-winning wine. On occasion you can watch the Shuttleworth air show, bring a picnic and take yourself on a tour round the vineyards.

Address: Bedford Road, Biggleswade SG18 9LS

The Olde Watermill Shopping Village

The Olde Watermill is a unique shopping village set inside of the grounds of a 1000-year old watermill. Based in Barton-Le-Clay the shopping village is home to a wide range of shops, activities (including crazy golf) and a restaurant.

Address: Mill Lane, Faldo Road, Barton-le-Clay, MK45 4RF

Box End Aqua Park

This amazing, giant-sized Aqua Park is open from spring until autumn. The park is the best in the area and includes the UK’s biggest water mega-slide! You’ll get the chance to leap, climb and swing your way around the various obstacles! It’s perfect to go with a group of friends or family.

Address: Box End Road, Box End, Bedford MK43 8RQ

Woburn Safari Park

Woburn Safari Park is a drive-through safari park with amazing wildlife experiences set in beautiful parkland. it’s great for a fun day out for both friends and families. Those with kids can take advantage of the free play area and handy restaurants, as well as ‘meet the animals’ opportunities at a number of free shows held throughout the day. There’s also an on-site Go Ape experience which lets you see the safari park from a different perspective!

Address: Woburn Safari Park, Woburn Park, Bedfordshire, MK43 0TU

Milton Keynes

Just outside Bedfordshire, known for its many, many roundabouts is Milton Keynes. Home to a number of shopping centres, restaurants, activities and days out. You can walk round Willen Lake, do a high top ropes course at Treetop Extreme or even have a go at skating at Planet Ice. There’s also Milton Keynes Theatre, the award-winning MK Gallery, and the family-friendly Milton Keynes Museum too.

Luton Hoo

Luton Hoo is one of the finest luxury 5 star hotels in England, and makes for a great day out at the spa, or overnight stay in the hotel if you’re feeling indulgent or want to celebrate something special! With walking trails, tennis courts, bike hire, shooting, golf and the spa, there is plenty to do on Luton Hoo's 1,065 acres estate. They have a calendar of events to check out, suited to everyone, which includes shows, talks and tours.

Address: Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, the Mansion House, Luton, LU1 3TQ

Hitchin Lavender

Lavender has been grown in and around Hitchin for hundreds of years. Experience a day out at Hitchin lavender and walk around 60 varieties of lavender plants. Flowering is between May and late August so make sure to visit in the summer. They also host special events including open-air cinema experiences – perfect for a date night or day out with friends!

Address: Cadwell farm, Arlesey Rd, Ickleford, Hitchin SG5 3UA