The Glasshouse
Cassiobury Park | Distance: 2 miles | Journey time: 7 minutes by car or a 40-minute walk
Spanning 190 acres, Watford’s Cassiobury Park is a haven for nature fanatics and is walkable from The Grove. More than 46 species of bird and seven species of bat live in the park’s nature reserve, which is managed by Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. Designated trails run through the area, making it ideal for family walks and exploration. Alternatively, why not borrow some of our bikes and take your wheels for a spin? For those with children, the park has a bungee trampoline, miniature railway, bouncy castle and paddling pool playground, complete with swings, climbing frames and even its very own zip wire. There’s also a range of sport activities on offer, including free fishing on the River Gade. (You can apply for a licence online.)
The Snow Centre | Distance: 7 miles | Journey time: 15-minute drive
Britain’s newest indoor ski centre is based in Hemel Hempstead – just a short drive from The Grove. Whether you’re an experienced skier or a total beginner, the venue attracts sport fans from across the UK and offers a wide range of lessons. If you’re planning a skiing trip, it’s an ideal place to stop during your stay at The Grove to get some practice in early. It’s also a fun family day out even when there’s no glamourous holiday planned! After all, who says you have to go all the way to the Alps to enjoy the slopes?
St Albans | Distance: 7 miles | Journey time: 15-minute drive
In recent years St Albans has gained popularity with former Londoners, and the town has become a hotspot for trendy cafes, real ale pubs and farmers’ markets. Home to numerous restaurants and an annual food and drink festival, the area is a foodie’s paradise – particularly for those who love local and organic produce. As well as indulging in great food, visitors should take a trip to the St Albans Cathedral and the medieval clock tower. Rich in history and heritage, the town is also famed for its Roman ruins, including the Theatre of Verulamium, built in 140AD. Formerly used for religious festivals and animal shows, it’s the only theatre of its kind in the UK.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter | Distance: 2 miles | Journey time: 7-minute drive
For anyone who’s ever dreamed of getting a Hogwarts letter and trundling off to the famous school with their very own owl, a trip to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour: The Making of Harry Potter is an absolute must. A hop, skip and a jump from The Grove, it’s one of the most popular day trips for hotel visitors and is home to breath-taking sets, original costumes and all the authentic props used in the eight movies.
Henry Moore Studios and Gardens | Distance: 37 miles | Journey time: 50-minute drive
A little further afield, the Henry Moore Studios and Gardens makes a unique day out. Accessible via the M25 in under an hour, it’s an excellent option for guests with a bit of time to spare. Originally the home of famed artist Henry Moore, the gardens are now an exhibition space for some of his iconic sculptures. Giving you the chance to go behind the scenes and understand more about how they were created, the venue hosts regular education sessions on his work.
Hatfield House | Distance: 14 miles | Journey time: 28-minute drive
Culture buffs should take the time to visit Hatfield House near Potters Bar, home of the 7th Marquess and Marchioness of Salisbury and their family. Packed with art and traditional Jacobean features, the house has numerous rooms open to the public, where guests can wander around and explore the house’s rich history. If the British weather allows for it, you should also take a walk around the equally stunning gardens. Part of the largest private estate in Hertfordshire, there’s an expansive deer park and selection of woodland walks.
Natural History Museum, Tring | Distance: 15.5 miles | Journey time: 22-minute drive
London may house one of the most famous natural history museums in the world, but guests staying at The Grove shouldn’t miss the opportunity to see the Natural History Museum in Tring. A great location for family outings, the museum has several galleries packed with land and marine life from around the world.
Paradise Wildlife Park | Distance: 22 miles | Journey time: 36-minute drive
Nature enthusiasts will love discovering the Paradise Wildlife Park in Broxbourne for a day of animal activities and family fun. As one of the UK’s leading zoos, the park gives you the chance to see wild animals up close, including lions, cheetahs, zebras and snow leopards. As well as its diverse population of mammals and reptiles, the zoo offers animal experiences where you can meet meerkats, lemurs, sloths and tapirs. Families can also meet some of the zoo keepers and watch them feed the big cats and wolves – just make sure you keep your distance!
This autumn, you can experience what Hertfordshire has to offer for less with our selection of offers.
