Enjoying days out, a little closer to home

#Collaborative post

If COVID has taught us anything, it has taught me to appreciate things a little closer to home. Although we might not live very close to the coast, we do have plenty of fun places for days out in and around the area to visit. We might not be near the coast but we are fortunate where we live to be close to the motorway, airport and train station, which makes it perfect for looking at easy travel options.

Days out don’t need to cost you a fortune though, you can find plenty of beautiful places and days out in the area that doesn’t need to cost you very much money at all.

Here are some of the best days out to have in the Beds, Herts and Bucks area:

Warner Bros. Studio Tour – This is about 30 minutes from us and is extremely popular, tickets go like hot cakes so if you would like to visit, make sure you are booked well in advance. Throughout the year there are lots of special events run, so plan your trip to suit you and enjoy the magic of Harry Potter brought to life! I would love to be able to visit over the festive period and enjoy Hogwarts in the Snow.

Whipsnade Zoo – If you are a fan of animals and zoos, this is my favourite zoo. There is just so much space for the animals and you are not rushed to walk around or move on as there is plenty of space for everyone. Not only are there lots of animals to see but also amazing views of the Bedfordshire countryside. I loved doing a photography course up there a few years ago, you can easily lose yourself in there for hours.

Experience Days - Wildlife photography course

Ashridge Estate – For those who like to get out and about in nature, Ashridge Estate is a beautiful place to go for the day. With 5000 acres to see, there is plenty to take in whether you be on foot or by bike. If the weather is dry you can take a picnic and make a day of it. Throughout the year there are the bluebells to see and Easter hunt, just to name a few events. I just find the whole place beautiful and enchanting.

Enjoying days out, a little closer to home

Dunstable Downs – Other than parking, you can enjoy a day out on Dunstable Downs. Taking in the breathtaking views, have a picnic and even fly kites over the Bedfordshire countryside. From the viewpoints at the top, you are able to see the gliders take off and land too. The visitors centre offers a shop, toilets and a place to grab some food. It is hilly in places though so not very suitable for pushchairs in all areas but still a great place to have a day out.

Gullivers Land – Do you like theme parks? This theme park is aimed at primary age children more than those older however it is a great day out for everyone. We have been a number of times when the kids have been younger and loved each visit. There is a wide range of things to do from rides to play areas and sandpits. So if you are after things to do that the whole family will enjoy.

There are so many other great places for you to visit in and around this area for days out, it is just working out where to start. We have been very fortunate that we have the great transport links that make so many of these accessible, regardless of whether you drive or use public transport. You don’t need to travel far to enjoy an amazing day out.