Explore East Herts

This week we explore Bayfordbury Observatory, a local pub and children’s play area. Bayfordbury Observatory is the University of Hertfordshire’s teaching observatory for astronomy and astrophysics.  It is considered one of the best equipped and largest astronomical teaching observatories in the country. Dates for their April – September guided tours will soon be launched on… read more

This week we explore the village of Westmill with a quiet lane walk and a choice of refreshments in a cosy tea room or gastropub – or both if you are feeling hungry! Westmill is one of the many hamlets and villages in what is known as the Hundred Parishes – a large, attractive, gently-undulating… read more

This weekend, discover culture in East Herts at Mardleybury Art Gallery in Datchworth. Established over 10 years ago, the gallery showcases a diverse range of contemporary art from both professional and emerging artists, mainly from Hertfordshire. Visitors can browse and purchase original artwork, limited edition prints, cards, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery and woodwork in a warm and… read more

This week we enjoy a taste of spring and cheerful snowdrops at Benington Lordship Gardens. Open to the public on selected days, these gardens are renowned for their breath taking display of naturalised snowdrops, creating a white carpet around the Norman keep and moat every February. Alongside them, you’ll spot hellebores, aconites, winter-flowering shrubs, and… read more

Why not make the most of half term by heading out to explore the district’s green spaces and farms. We’ve featured a handful of things for you to try with the family, from hands on nature adventures in Panshanger Park, to feeding the ducks from our solar-powered duck feeder at Southern Country Park, meeting the… read more

This week we explore Hunsdon and Eastwick Meads, two of the finest surviving wet meadows in Hertfordshire which form Hunsdon Mead Nature Reserve between the River Stort and the Stort Navigation, offering rare, unimproved grassland and rich seasonal colour. A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), the meadows have been managed in the same way for hundreds of… read more

Chipping is part of the Buckland Parish just north of Buntingford. Located at a crossing of the River Rib and the major Roman road Ermine Street, the area was vital for traffic between London and York. Why not treat yourself to breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea at the friendly family run Countryman Tea Rooms? Originally… read more

This week we explore Amwell Nature Reserve near Ware, one of the most important places for wildlife in the county and well-used and enjoyed by the local community. It hosts a mosaic of habitats including reedbeds, grassland and woodland, although Great Hardmead Lake is arguably the most striking feature. It really shines in the winter… read more

Edge Outdoor Activities is a family run outdoor activity centre set in the beautiful East Herts countryside at Westmill Farm near Ware. They offer a wide range of high quality activities that are safe, enjoyable and challenging for friends and family. read more

This week, why not head to the pretty village of Braughing to explore its wealth of listed and protected buildings as well as plenty of walking routes. The architecture is interesting owing to the age of the village, starting with the 11th Century St Mary the Virgin Anglican church. Nature There are some excellent country… read more