(pssst you don't 'need' a dog to visit these places....) Hertfordshire isn't the first place that springs to many peoples minds when they think UK Staycation. But it is a County rich in history, charming market towns, independent shops - and is very dog friendly too. Below are some of our favourite spots, days out and places to relax and eat that we enjoy with our dog Hendrix. Do pop any of your favourites in the Comments below as we love discovering new places and telling our guests all about them too! Dog-Friendly Spots To Eat & Drink The Jolly Wagonner Pub - Ardeley Walkable from Bethnal&Bec, and situated in a wonderful village and on the doorstep of Church Farm, this locals pub has all the charm and style expected from a village pub.... roaring open fires, board games, pub grub with a splendid Sunday roast to boot! Very dog friendly The Cheeseplate, Buntingford Toby and Hope are the father-daughter duo who own and run The Cheese Plate. Working together to bring weird and wonderful cheeses and accompaniments to cheese lovers in Buntingford and nationwide to pubs and restaurants. They have 2 wonderful window seats that you can enjoy a delicious cheesy snack or lunch in, with some wonderful wines recommended by Toby - and Fido can join you too! The Sword Inn Hand, Westmill The Sword Inn Hand is a 14th Century free house nestled in the beautiful rural Hertfordshire village of Westmill, a mile south of the market town of Buntingford. With bar, dining room, mature landscaped gardens it is the perfect countryside retreat for drinking, dining and relaxing. Seasonal produce is delivered daily by local suppliers. They pride themselves on serving delicious fine food and traditional ales. Do let them know if you are dining with your dog, as they have separate areas for those dining with Fido. The bar area is all dog friendly. The Fox & Duck, Therfield Based on The Green in Therfield, a beautiful quintessentially English village just a few miles from Royston. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, stunning walks around Therfield Heath to enjoying a drink or two on Therfield village green. Food and drink at The Fox and Duck is carefully sourced and expertly prepared. They work with award-winning suppliers to bring exciting seasonal dishes always served with a smile! Dog Friendly throughout. The Cricketers, Weston A gem of a village pub in the North Hertfordshire village of Weston. With a local’s bar, pavilion restaurant and acres of beer garden with a playground! Muddy boots and dogs are always very welcome in the bar and garden. A friendly, casual pub. Pop in for a drink, add in some freshly prepared bar snacks if you get peckish or enjoy a meal with all the trimmings in ‘The Pavilion’ the oak beamed restaurant overlooking the garden. There is a good selection of regular changing real ales for the beer drinkers, cracking wines, great gins and plenty of soft drinks too. Batch 52, Baldock Batch Fifty Two is an independent coffee shop located at 4 Church Street in Baldock. It serves Plot roasting coffee, homemade cakes and bakes and has recently launched an utterly delicious, Brunch menu. Open 7 days a week, indoor and outdoor seating and dog friendly throughout. Dog Friendly Towns Letchworth The first Garden City in the World, Letchworth Garden City has a relaxed, cosmopolitan vibe, fun events and trendy cafes and restaurants to sit back and absorb the atmosphere. Regular events in town include The Vegan Market, Food & Drink Festival and The monthly Craft & Farmers Market itself remains an important part of the town every third Saturday of the month in Leys Square, with an array of local produce and sellers in attendance. Garden City Brewery A “brew-bar” serving a selection of ever-changing, on-site brewed ales and guest beers direct from the cask (‘on gravity’) alongside local ciders, gin specials and other alcoholic, soft drinks and locally produced bar snacks. Located 2 mins walk from the main town centre on The Wynd, a charming, pedestrianised street full of independent businesses including a well-stocked craft shop, charming gift boutiques, a vegetarian and vegan café, a treasure-trove of antiques and collectables, beauty salons and more. Adjacent to the brewery is a public car park, entrance from Station Road (free after 18:00 Mon-Sat and free Sunday) and we are 5 mins walk from Letchworth train station. Cultivo Lounge This lounge Bar is another excellent choice for dog owners looking for a cozy place to unwind. Good food too! Davids David’s Bookshop, Music & Café; an Independent Employee Owned Trust situated in Letchworth, the world’s first Garden City – part of the community for 60 years! Bringing the very best in new and second hand books, music, cards and games. They host regular author events, weekly game nights, and book clubs. The bookshop has a large second-hand department, music shop, quirky cards and gifts, an eclectic role playing games collection, new and classic board games, a varied ‘bargains’ area full of half price new books, as well as selling current new titles. The record store is an excellent shop selling new and second-hand records, CDs and DVDs, and café is home to their famous home made sweet or savoury scones.  Dog friendly throughout. Garden City Trail If you want to enjoy a dog walk, there are many dog-friendly walks in and around Letchworth Garden City. You can explore the Garden City Trail, which is a 13.6-mile circular trail surrounding the town Hitchin Hitchin is a beautiful market town with so much to offer. Incredible history, an amazing shopping experience with an abundance of independent stores, a fantastic food and drink scene and entertainment, art and culture for all. Hitchin Lavender Hitchin can boast a unique heritage of lavender growing, owing to its rich history of cultivating this beautiful plant, dating back over hundreds of years. It was as early as the 1500s that Hitchin established its reputation as a lavender growing region and it became one of only two major growing areas in the country. HL have over 30 acres of lavender containing a wide range of varieties for you to explore. You can wander wherever you like within the field and pick some lavender to take home with you. They provide paper bags for collecting lavender at the entrance to the field, and everywhere is dog friendly. They also have a wonderful onsite cafe and shop The Groundworks A modern cafe serving local coffee, a fabulous eclectic menu in one of the oldest parts of Hitchin, overlooking the Priory Hermitage Road Cafe Coffee lovers are in for a treat with our newly expanded shop now open, headed up by the chirpiest coffee lover known to man, Magdalena. They serve knock out coffee (using only the best, ethically sourced beans from Hot Numbers), New York style bagels, salads, healthy juices, smoothies, pastries and treats. Their shop allows dogs in too! Hitchin Market Hitchin Market is one of the largest outdoor markets in the region set by the river at the heart of our beautiful town.  Featuring over a 150 covered stalls we are open every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There are specialist market days throughout the year, including a weekly Antiques Markets every Friday and Craft & Farmers once a month Other places we enjoy The National Trust properties around us - Wimpole House, Hatfield House & Knebworth House https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/essex-bedfordshire-hertfordshire/dog-friendly Dog walking - we use these sites for inspiration and when we want to get out and explore https://www.purepetfood.com/blog/15-heavenly-dog-walks-in-hertfordshire https://visitrevisit.co.uk/things-to-do/england/eastern/hertfordshire/hitchin/dogs https://www.visitherts.co.uk/visit-herts-blog/dog-friendly-places-to-eat-drink-and-wander-in-hertfordshire/ https://www.stalbanscathedral.org/

Calling all Potter heads! Did you know that Bethnal&Bec is located just a stone’s throw away from an incredible variety of Harry Potter filming locations? Situated just outside London in the beautiful county of Hertfordshire, there’s an unbelievable world of Harry Potter magic at your fingertips. Explore locations close by like Ashridge Woods (where the Weasleys and Harry bump into Cedric Diggory on the way to the Quidditch World Cup in The Goblet of Fire), venture into central London to find Platform 9 ¾ at King’s Cross Station, and of course, step into the wizarding world of Warner Bros. Studios in Watford, just a 40-minute drive from Bethnal&Bec. We have compiled a helpful itinerary, so you can enjoy a muggleicious weekend full of mischief and magic – keep reading… Credit: GetYourGuide Arrival Day: Explore Local Harry Potter Filming Locations in Hertfordshire The glorious county of Hertfordshire is home to various filming locations in Harry Potter. On your way to your magical weekend break at Bethnal&Bec, we highly recommend checking out the below: Ashridge Woods (Ashridge Estate, Berkhamsted) A smooth one hour drive from Bethnal&Bec lies Ashridge Woods on Ashridge Estate, the woodland area where the Weasleys and Harry bump into Cedric Diggory on the way to the Quidditch World Cup in The Goblet of Fire. The 5,000-acre site is located between Hemel Hempstead and Aylesbury, where visitors can enjoy a charming woodland walk, famous for its bluebells in spring and its ancient trees. Keen fanatics may also recognise the 400-year-old Queen Beech tree sitting in the estate as the Whomping Willow Tree, featured in The Prisoner of Azkaban. Weston Hills (Baldock) A mere 10-minute drive or a leisurely one hour walk from Bethnal&Bec will take you to the historic market town of Baldock, where scenes from The Deathly Hallows Part 1 were filmed. Filming for scenes set in earthy forests took place in the Weston Hills. Ashridge Woods Day 1: Take a Trip to Warner Bros. Studios in Watford A Harry Potter stay wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Warner Bros. Studios in Watford – just a 40-minute drive away from Bethnal&Bec! Wizards, squibs, and even muggles can discover the magic of Harry Potter at these jaw-dropping studios, which were used to film all eight movies. Take a journey through famous sets of the Forbidden Forest, Hogwarts' Great Hall, and Diagon Alley, pose in your favourite scenes, taste some delicious Butterbeer, and step onto the Hogwarts locomotive that transported thousands of students to and from Hogwarts. Parking is provided free of charge in the car park directly outside the studios. A number of blue disability badge parking bays are available near the main entrance. If you’re travelling to the studios by taxi, there is a designated pick up and drop off point which you can navigate to using the postcode WD25 7LF or the What3Words app with the keywords ///grabs.intent.movies. Dowding Way Just a few minutes’ walk from the Warner Bros. Studios lies Dowding Way, where Harry is famously picked up by the double decker Knight Bus after fleeing Privet Drive in The Prisoner of Azkaban. It’s well worth the short journey to see this iconic Potter location! Credit: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London Day 2: Discover the Top Harry Potter Filming Locations in Central London Multiple locations in Central London were used to shoot the Harry Potter films – we recommend taking a day trip to London to discover all the mugglelicious sights on offer! You can explore all the locations below by foot or tube; or, if you’re not comfortable navigating Central London, you could take a designated London Harry Potter Tour for Muggles with one of the Hogwarts students as your guide! Platform 9 ¾ (Kings Cross Station) Leave your luxury accommodation at Bethnal&Bec behind and drive just 20 minutes to Stevenage Train Station, where you can hop on a fast train that takes you directly into London King’s Cross Station. You’ll immediately find yourself in one of the most iconic Harry Potter filming locations, Platform 9 ¾. Just as the film portrays, there is a wall between platforms nine and 10, with a luggage trolley positioned against it - a great photo opportunity that is not to be missed! 12 Grimmauld Place (Claremont Square) Whilst you’re in the King’s Cross area, we highly recommend taking the 10-minute walk up to Claremont Square AKA 12 Grimmauld Place. This was the home of Sirius Black and the HQ for the Order of The Phoenix in the film of the same name. Diagon Alley (Leadenhall Market & Borough Market) First appearing on screen in The Philosopher’s Stone, Diagon Alley is Harry’s first introduction to the wizarding world. Presented as an exciting arcade of intriguing shops and emporiums, the original shots for Diagon Alley were shot at Leadenhall Market, which is in walking distance from Monument. The beautifully preserved Victorian architecture can be seen in exterior shots of the alley, and an empty shop (now an opticians) was used as the doorway to the Leaky Cauldron pub. Across the river, Borough Market was also later used as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron. The entrance to an ordinary flower shop became the front doors to the pub for the scene in which Harry arrives on the Knight Bus in The Prisoner of Azkaban. Borough Market can be found on the Southbank of the river and is a short walk from London Bridge tube and train station. Piccadilly Circus Die-hard Potter heads will remember the scene from The Deathly Hallows Part 1 when Harry, Hermione and Ron face an attack from a group of death eaters! They flee to Piccadilly Circus, which is one of London’s biggest tourist hot spots, known for its large display of digital advertising screens. Piccadilly Circus is easy to access from Piccadilly tube station, exiting towards Shaftesbury Avenue. Ministry of Magic (Great Scotland Yard) Great Scotland Yard, located on the north side of the river near Embankment, was used as a filming location when Harry and Arthur enter the Ministry of Magic in The Order of the Phoenix. Unfortunately, there’s no great photo opportunities at the phone box which is the entrance to the wizarding world’s authoritative body, as it doesn’t actually exist! The phone box which appeared in the film was a prop; however, you can walk in Harry and Arthur’s footsteps. All you have to do is arrive at Embankment or Westminster tube station, and you’ll find Whitehall and Great Scotland Yard just a short walk away. Gringotts Wizarding Bank (Australia House, The Strand) The grand building Australia House on The Strand is home to the Australian High Commissioner. You may visit the house if you need an Australian visa. However, it’s also famously known as being the filming location for the interior shots of Gringotts Wizarding Bank! You may not find a hidden railroad to your bank vault here, but the building really does look as grand as it does in the films. The Strand is very easy to find and is just a six-minute walk from Covent Garden or Temple tube station. London Zoo Before Harry really understands his wizarding capabilities in The Philosopher’s Stone, he manages to speak to a Burmese Python and frees it from its reptile house display in London Zoo. Since the location was used for filming, signage has been put in place indicating the exact area filming took place, with fascinating details about the scene and the Burmese Python. The zoo is based in Regent’s Park, and is easily accessible within a 10-15 minute walk from Camden Town tube station or from Baker Street bus stop on the 274 bus. Lincoln’s Inn Fields Lincoln’s Inn Fields is a gorgeous public square located in Holborn. But did you know that it’s also the ancestral home of Sirius Black in The Order of the Phoenix? Now, the building is not meant to be discovered by anybody because of the security spells placed on it… but it’s actually very easy to find! In reality, the street is populated by solicitors’ offices. To find the location, take the tube to Holborn, and a 3-4 minute walk south east will lead you to Lincoln’s Inn Fields. The Three Bridges London Bridge is one of the city’s most iconic sightings, and in The Order of the Phoenix, the broomstick chase scene sees Harry fly past the magnificent bridge which stands over the Thames. It’s incredibly easy to access at just a 3-minute walk from London Bridge tube station. In The Prisoner of Azkaban, the Knight bus squeezes between two regular London buses whilst crossing Lambeth Bridge. The closest tube station to Lambeth Bridge is Pimlico – the bridge is a further 20-minute walk from the station. The third bridge used in the Harry Potter films is Millennium Bridge, which is destroyed by Death Eaters in The Half Blood Prince. Thankfully, the bridge still exists and can be easily accessed from Blackfriars or Mansion House tube station. Departure Day: Explore Local Harry Potter Filming Locations in Hertfordshire The magic doesn’t have to stop just because you’ve checked out! After a long morning lie-in on departure day, we highly recommend stopping by the below locations to complete your Harry Potter themed escape: Hatfield Park Hatfield Park, a gorgeous estate located just a 35-minute drive from Bethnal&Bec, was another of the county’s many filming locations for the Harry Potter film franchise. Scenes for The Deathly Hallows Part 2 were filmed on the estate’s grounds, and the estate was also featured in another of Daniel Radcliffe’s films, Victor Frankenstein (2015). Knebworth House Ever wanted to live out your witch or wizard Yule Ball fantasy? A visit to the exquisite Knebworth House will see you greeted with the sweeping staircase that featured in this very scene in The Goblet of Fire, and also in The King’s Speech (2010). Knebworth House is easily accessible from Bethnal&Bec at just a 25-minute drive away! Knebworth House Relax & Unwind at Bethnal&Bec Luxury Stays After days packed full of exciting adventures exploring all the Harry Potter filming locations, you’ll need a luxury base in a convenient location to unwind and relax. A stay at Bethnal&Bec could be just what you’re looking for! Situated in north-east Hertfordshire, our award-winning, self-catering accommodation is adult-only with a chic home-away-from-home vibe, where you’re sure to get a good night’s rest. Take a soak in our double baths or outdoor jacuzzi baths, breathe in the fresh air of a mild summer evening in our private gardens, and sink into the sumptuous king size bed for a peaceful night’s sleep. Book your Harry Potter adventure break with Bethnal&Bec today!

Need some ideas of things to do during your wonderful weekend retreat at Bethnal&Bec? Fear not – we have put together a useful itinerary jam-packed full of fun activities to enjoy during your luxury weekend break in the heart of Hertfordshire, so you can spend less time researching and more time relaxing! Friday Evening Upmarket Option – Dine-In Meal Begin by pre-ordering one of our delicious dine-in meals to tuck into on your Friday evening. You can choose from the following locally sourced meal packs that will be ready and waiting in your retreat upon your arrival: ● Pimp My Pizza Box – meat/veggie/vegan ● Bethnal&Bec Gourmet Burger Box – meat/veggie/vegan ● Local Grass-Fed Angus Steak Box – fillet/ribeye ● Popcorn Partaaaaaay! We provide the BBQ or pizza oven and have indoor solutions for the winter months. Simply arrive, unpack, and enjoy a delicious dinner with minimal effort! Budget-Friendly Option – Self-Catering If your budget is a little more restrictive, don’t worry! You are welcome to bring your own food along and rustle up your favourite meal. All our luxury self-catering retreats feature their very own kitchen with fridge/freezer, dishwasher, toaster, kettle, oven, and hob. We also offer our Bethnal&Bec staples pantry as standard, so you can help yourself to a wide selection of staple ingredients at no additional cost! Our staples pantry includes: An extensive range of teas and coffees Selection of condiments including ketchup, olive oil, salt, pepper, herbs etc. Rice, pasta, gluten-free pasta, and noodles Cornflakes and Shreddies Hot chocolate, sugar, and sweetener Jams, marmalade, and Nutella Butter A tipple of gin and whiskey …and more! Tuck into your meal at the kitchen table, or if the weather allows, you can dine alfresco from your patio table and admire the rolling Hertfordshire views. Ahhh, bliss! Saturday Morning R&R I don’t know about you, but my favourite thing about being on holiday is embracing sloooow mornings with long lie-ins! Enjoy breakfast in bed from the cocoon of your cosy king-sized bed, complete with luxury Egyptian cotton sheets and sumptuous bedding. All our guests are provided with a complimentary breakfast box which can be customised upon booking. Choose from: Local smoked back bacon or veggie/vegan sausages Local eggs Tomatoes & mushrooms Local bread Granola Milk / oat milk / almond milk Heinz beans Selection of jams, honey, marmalade, Marmite, and Nutella Butter Saturday Afternoon Upmarket Option – Cocktail Making Always wanted to learn how to make your own gourmet cocktails? Well, now you can! Introducing the Armstrong Shaw X Bethan&Bec bespoke mixology session… Muddle, squeeze, mix and shake premium spirits and fresh ingredients to create well-balanced and flavoursome drinks, whilst learning some fun facts and great techniques to help level up your cocktail making game. You will learn how to craft 3 cocktails during the hour-long session, choosing from a popular selection including Cosmopolitan, Espresso Martini, Sidecar, Lost Boy, Vesper Martini and more. All ingredients will be provided for the session. This course is held virtually via Zoom at the cost of £75 for 2 people. Upmarket Option - Wellbeing Treatments If you’d rather sit back and be pampered to your heart’s content, why not book one of our incredible local mobile therapists? Our amazingly talented therapists can offer luxury facials, massages, sports massages, reflexology, yoga, manicures, and pedicures to be enjoyed from the comfort of your very own retreat. What could be better?! Our recommended local therapists include: Tiny House Retreats - quality spa treatments including 2 special packages created exclusively for Bethnal&Bec guests Emma (Beauty Therapist) - massages, manicures, pedicures, and more Sunrise Holistic Therapies - reflexology ProRehab Therapy - soft tissue massages Yoga You - one-on-one yoga sessions The Hay Barn - Ayurvedic massages Please enquire with the therapists directly to arrange your wonderful wellbeing experience. Upmarket Option – Private Chef If fine dining is more your cup of tea and you have some extra cash to splurge, why not take your luxury break to the next level and hire one of our private chefs to cook for you in your very own retreat? From just £100 per person, you can choose from our fantastic selection of recommended chefs and cuisines. Simply agree the menu choice with your chosen chef and relax! Our recommended chefs and cuisines include: Ping’s Kitchen – Mediterranean (French, Spanish & Italian) Stephanie – Plant-Based Sebastian – British, Asian & International Amie – Indian Anne – Vietnamese Please enquire with the chefs directly to arrange your once-in-a-lifetime fine dining experience. Budget-Friendly Option – Outdoor Bath If you’d rather save those pennies, you can spend your afternoon soaking in your private outdoor jacuzzi bath with a glass of something sparkling. Remember, because we are self-catering, you don’t need to purchase drinks from us – you are more than welcome to bring your own booze! All our luxury retreats feature private outdoor freshwater jacuzzi baths, without the addition of any nasty chemicals like traditional hot tubs. There’s plenty of space for two adults in our Omnitub deep soaking baths, featuring eco-friendly lights and whirlpool jets. You can even use your own bath bombs, salts, oils, or bubbles in our jacuzzi baths! At the end of a long day, immerse yourself in the warm water whilst admiring stunning views over the Hertfordshire countryside, and feel all your worries simply disappear… Sunday Morning R&R After a late night in the outdoor jacuzzi bath, spend your Sunday morning catching up on some much-needed R&R. Snuggle up in bed with your other half and watch your favourite film on the drop-down projector screen (Bec & The Foaling Box) or 43” Smart TV with Netflix & Amazon Prime (Bethnal). Rise slowly and take a luxurious soak in the indoor roll top bath, whilst admiring awe-inspiring views of the surrounding countryside through the unique post-box windows. Sunday Afternoon Upmarket Option – Private Chef Level up your Sunday roast with a private dining experience from one of our expert local chefs. We highly recommend booking Sebastian for your Sunday lunch: a talented and motivated chef who specialises in British, Asian & International cuisine. Sebastian previously worked as a Senior Sous Chef at the Soho House Group in London, with subsequent roles allowing him to deliver quality and memorable dining experiences. From £160 for 2 people. Please enquire with Sebastian directly. Upmarket Option - Grazing Brunch Boxes If you’d rather stay in for lunch but want something a little less extravagant, why not order a delicious Graze Brunch Box from Olive & Ivy to be delivered directly to your luxury retreat? They offer 2 amazing options for tasty grazing boards, with veggie and vegan alternatives available: Signature Artisan: five types of cheeses, four types of meats (sourced from a local family deli), crackers, Tiptree onion chutney, falafels or pakoras, a mixture of nuts, olives, cornichons & a homemade Mediterranean mix, plus seasonal fruit and beautiful figs = £40 Brunch Artisan: bagels (filled with either smoked salmon & cream cheese or crispy smoky bacon & homemade avocado smash), croissants (filled with either French ham & cheese or Nutella & strawberries), sweet waffles complete with dipping sauces, pancakes, granola pots (with a choice of either lemon, raspberry or plain yoghurt), loaded brownie and seasonal fruit = £40 Click here to pre-order your delicious Grazing Brunch Box today! Budget-Friendly Option – Countryside Walk with Optional Pub Lunch There’s nothing quite like taking a slow Sunday stroll in the countryside! We are so lucky to be surrounded by acres upon acres of rolling Hertfordshire countryside here at Bethnal&Bec, with many fantastic walking routes directly from your door. Some of our favourite walks even end at some amazing local pubs – bonus! Amble across the fields for just 30 minutes to reach The Jolly Waggoner; a traditional 18th Century pub serving up delicious food and drink. Their Sunday lunch offering includes Church Farm topside of beef, Church Farm roast shoulder or pork, and mozzarella, red lentil, mushroom & truffle bake, served with proper gravy and all the trimmings. Or if you don’t mind jumping in the car, we highly recommend popping to The Sword Inn Hand for your Sunday roast. This 14th Century free house makes for the perfect countryside retreat, boasting delicious fine food and traditional ales. Choose from their rack of pork with stuffing & crackling, breast of turkey, herb roasted leg of lamb, sirloin of roast beef, and mixed nut roast with all the trimmings for your traditional Sunday roast. Sunday Night R&R It’s important to get that last bit of rest and relaxation in before checking out of your luxury retreat and heading home on Monday morning. Enjoy long evening soaks in the outdoor jacuzzi bath, take a relaxing bath, or snuggle up with your other half and watch your favourite film on the cinema projector screen. What could be better?!

We know that staying at Bethnal&Bec is often about total relaxation, switching off and enjoying everything that your retreat has to offer. With outdoor whirlpool baths, cinema screens (in the Foaling Box & Bec), record players and complimentary gin and whiskey we don’t blame you for wanting to check in and stay in. However, we know that for some of our guests getting out and being active is what helps them switch off. We’ve got walks aplenty right on our doorstep and will soon be offering electric bikes for rental, but we know that Hertfordshire has lots more to offer. We’ve enlisted the help of Hitchin personal trainer Ben Pirie to help build out a list of the best active, outdoor and sporting activities in Hertfordshire. 1. Lee Valley White Water Centre First up is Lee Valley white water centre, home to the 2012 Olympics canoe slalom events. The Water centre hosts a range of activities including white water rafting, canoeing & kayaking, hydrospeeding (think extreme bodyboarding), paddleboarding and a water wipeout course. The centre is located just a 30 min drive from Bethnal&Bec making it a great option to take a short trip out for some adrenaline adventures. We recommend pre-booking as the activities do tend to get booked up weeks in advance, especially during peak times. 2. Ninja Warrior UK - Watford One for the big kids or fans of the show. This purpose-built unit in Watford has a reduced-size Ninja Warrior course, including the famous wall and red button. Alongside this, it also has a huge inflatable assault course including the big red balls, wrecking ball and gladiator-style battling with inflatable batons. Ben recommends going during the week in the daytime or booking an adults-only session to enjoy it fully and avoid hoards of children. Ninja Warrior UK Watford is around a 40 min drive from Bethnal&Bec. 3. Hitchin & Letchworth Outdoor Swimming Pools The nearby towns of both Hitchin and Letchworth have wonderful 50m outdoor swimming pools which are open from May to September. Hitchin outdoor pool is soon to celebrate its 85th birthday after opening in 1938, and Letchworth pool will this year celebrate its 70th birthday after opening in 1953. Both pools maintain elements of their history and are a great place to experience the joy of swimming outdoors in the summer months. Pre booking isn’t usually necessary and all details of opening times and prices can be found on the sll websites linked above. Letchworth outdoor pool is around a 15 min drive from Bethnal&Bec whilst Hitchin outdoor pool is around a 20 min drive from us. 4. Snow Centre Hemel Hempstead We’re really lucky to have an indoor real snow slope right here in Hertfordshire. Hire some gear and hit the slope if you’ve skied or snowboarded before. Or plan ahead and book a lesson if you’ve never skied before or want to brush up on your skills. The snow centre is around a 45 minute drive from Bethnal & Bec. 5. Lee Valley Canoe Cycle This one is a hidden gem that Ben has shared with us. With a network of canals spanning through the Hertfordshire countryside the Lee Valley Canoe Centre is the perfect place to get out onto the water or explore the towpaths by bike. Hire costs are extremely reasonable and having been himself Ben has vouched for the friendliness and helpfulness of the small team. A word of warning on this one. If you’re going to canoe along the canal you will need to navigate the locks which require strength and balance to get yourself and the canoe up onto the bank. Ben assures us that this makes for an even better experience! Lee Valley Canoe Cycle is a 30 minute drive from us. 6. Text Trails If you’re looking to explore some of the local towns surrounding Bethnal & Bec and learn a little along the way then this one's for you. Text Trails does exactly what it says on the tin. Sign up for a package at your chosen location and receive text message directions, clues & questions to find your way through the town. At each point submit an answer and receive the next clue to move onwards with your trail. It’s a really unique way to explore our surrounding towns of St Albans, Hertford and Ware and could have you on your feet for up to 2 hours. 7. Hertfordshire Sports Village - Indoor Climbing A 30-minute drive from Bethnal&Bec is the town of Hatfield and the Hertfordshire Sports Village where you’ll find an indoor climbing wall. The sports village is based at the University of Hertfordshire so don’t be put off when you drive into a university campus. There are various options for climbing including group sessions and guided lessons. This is definitely one to book ahead if you’re looking to do something a little different whilst staying with us. 8. Hertfordshire Walks App Finally, we finish up with our favourite pastime, walking. We love a stroll through the Hertfordshire countryside, breathing in the fresh air, taking in the views, and hopefully ending up at a pub! You’ll find numerous walks directly from your retreat and the Hertfordshire walks app is the perfect companion to help guide your way both here and if you choose to explore more of Hertfordshire. We hope that gives you some inspiration for active things to do in Hertfordshire whether you’re staying with us or not. And if you’re not yet booked to stay with us we hope you’ll take a look at what we’ve got to offer and plan a trip soon. Your break can be whatever you want it to be, from pure relaxation in your retreat to exploring Hertfordshire with some adrenaline-fuelled activity. And if you're local to Hertfordshire and want to stay active regularly then Ben is your man. With a purpose-built private personal training studio in Hitchin and over 15 years of experience you'll be in great hands. You can find him by searching for Fitsolution Training. We hope to see you soon!

Traveling off-season to popular tourist destinations can be a smart move for several reasons. Firstly, it can save you a lot of money. During peak travel season, prices for flights, accommodation, and activities skyrocket due to high demand. However, traveling off-peak can take advantage of lower prices and potentially save hundreds on your trip. Secondly, traveling off-peak means fewer crowds, which can enhance your overall travel experience. You can avoid long lines at popular attractions, have more room to move around and take photos, and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Chris and I love traveling off-peak to popular tourist destinations so we can save money, avoid crowds, and experience a destination in a more unique and authentic way - and this is exactly what we did on our recent (March 2023) trip to The Loire Valley, France Why we love to Travel It gives us the opportunity to explore new places and gain new experiences. It broadens our perspective, allowing us to see things from different perspectives than what is available in the UK or our local area. We also love to meet people from all over the world who may have very different cultures than ours, but who share common goals: making friends, finding love and happiness, raising families, running businesses... Why the Loire? Simply we follow this brilliant business on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/manoirdejouralem/ and had it on our wish list for ages..... we know that looking 'off the beaten track' means you'll usually be flying into smaller, cheaper airports - in this case, Nantes. By setting up 'tracking flights' on Skyscanner to destinations on our wish list, we get to see when the fares fall and it becomes a great 'deal'. The Anjou Region of France The Anjou region of France is located in the centre of the country, just south of Paris. The Loire Valley is a picturesque region known for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and historic chateaux. The area stretches along the Loire River, from the city of Orleans to the Atlantic coast, and is often referred to as the "Garden of France" due to its abundance of vineyards, orchards, and gardens. The Loire Valley is home to some of France's most famous chateaux, including Chateau de Chambord and Chateau d'Amboise. These magnificent castles were once the homes of French royalty and are now open to the public for tours and visits. In addition to its chateaux, the Loire Valley is also famous for its wine. The region produces a variety of wines, including Sauvignon, Chenin, Sancerre, Muscadet, and Pouilly-Fume. The Loire Valley is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The region boasts numerous hiking and cycling trails, as well as opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and golfing. Simply put - it's stunning! Where we stayed In the stunning B&B of https://www.instagram.com/manoirdejouralem/ Our room, Le Roi, was more than we could have anticipated.... large; luxurious; king-size comfy bed, the most beautiful bathroom I've stayed in (walk-in shower, stand-alone bath, separate toilet). Detail, detail, detail which is the theme of this business..... small fridge with complimentary water and beers, coffee pods and Nespresso machine and UK Freeview box too! Breakfast was a relaxed and delicious affair with a selection of breads, cold cuts, cheese, fruit, yogurt and hen eggs from their free-roaming brood. Relaxed and leisurely - the perfect start to the day. They offer a Table d'hote option: 3-course homemade meal with an aperitif; bottle of wine and water for just 30EUR pp Situated in a peaceful hamlet, and a short drive to a truly wonderful quintessential French Town: Brissac comprising of cafes, charcuteries, boulangeries, curated shops, and a beautiful Chateau well worth a visit. Our 4-night itinerary We like to relax as much as explore our new local environment when we travel…. Our weather forecast was sun and showers (which secretly I love because rain= baths/book/ chill right?!) We hired the smallest car we could and shopped around (through Quidco too to earn money) we ended up with a Fiat 500 for £105 for 4 nights. This enabled us to visit local cities such as Angers, Samur, and local villages and Chateaux. France is brilliant for affordable set-price menus. We enjoyed 3-course lunches for 15 EUR, a glass of wine 1,70 EUR, and Cafe au lait for 1 EUR Wine tasting in most vineyards is free - with no obligation to buy wine. We enjoyed free tastings, a tour and lots of wine chat in a lovely spot on the Loire River VinoValley. It’s actually expected that you ask to try cheese, charcuterie, and other deli items before purchasing - which in my eyes = free food and buying food you actually like! Traveling off-season also meant that many Chateaux were cheaper to visit; menus in restaurants, not July / August eye-watering prices, and the thing we loved the most…. No crowds; no traffic and in many places we went…. No people! Wandering around a beautiful Chateau and an art exhibition being the only ones there was a real treat! Not having to book tables in advance and not daring to be late allowed for more spontaneous and leisurely days…. It was just simply lovely to really take in the beauty of the region without all the hecticness that descends in Summer And no day was not complete without a long hot soak in the beautiful bath at the B&B, before heading downstairs for a sumptuous 3 course feast, with an aperitif and wine cooked by the hosts. No travel. No formalities. My idea of heaven! Costs Return flights for 2 Stansted - Nantes: Outbound Wed pm. Inbound Sun afternoon £75 (we only ever travel with hand luggage. Learning to pack efficiently saves ££££) Car hire: £105 Accommodation: 4 nights B&B, 2 x Table D’hotes £716 (we stayed in the most expensive room) https://manoirdejouralem.com/ Car parking Stansted: £56 Dinner at https://www.authoureil.fr/ Art at https://www.chateau-montsoreau.com/wordpress/en/ Markets in Angers https://www.tourisme.destination-angers.com/en/insider-tips/markets-in-angers-and-around Lunch at https://lacivelle.com/ and without doubt - where we stayed Manoir de Jouralem

Hertfordshire is a county in the south of England, and is the ideal place for the slow traveller. It has a wealth of history to explore, a central location within easy reach of Cambridge, Suffolk and London. It’s surrounded by swathes of rolling countryside, punctuated by small villages of thatched cottages and bustling vibrant towns, making it perfect for exploring, walking, countryside activities and of course - slowcations! What is a Slowcation? A slowcation is a neologism combing the words slow and vacation. The term is gaining traction in the travel industry and is used to describe holidays or trips where the pace of life is slower and there is no set agenda. There's no rushing around and no cramming in activities and day trips, just being present in a place that feels like home and experiencing the local area. It's all about taking each day as it comes, taking the time to breathe, listen, feel and see what is around you. Slowcation can also be used when talking about the carbon impact of travel and is reflective of slow travel to reduce the carbon impact of a holiday or break. For example holidaying in your country of residence and using public transport such as trains, buses, coaches and ferries to travel at a slower pace, rejecting the carbon impact of flying. If you're based in the UK then Hertfordshire could be the perfect location for your first slowcation. What does Hertfordshire have to offer the slow traveller? Hertfordshire has historic estates such as Knebworth House where The Crown was filmed, bustling market towns such as Hitchin and Ware full of wonderful independents , the cathedral of St Albans, The Making of Harry Potter, beautiful countryside and a buzzing cafe/restaurant and pub scene ... the county is awash with smaller, weirder and wilder wonders that are waiting to be uncovered.. Hertfordshire is an English county, founded in the Norse–Saxon wars of the 9th century, and developed through commerce serving London. It is a land-locked county that was several times the seat of Parliament. From origins in brewing and papermaking, through aircraft manufacture, the county has developed a wider range of industry in which pharmaceuticals, financial services and film-making are prominent. Hertfordshire is one of the historic counties of England first recorded in the early 10th century. Its development has been tied with that of London, which lies on its southern border. Hertfordshire grew wealthy on the proceeds of trade because no less than three of the old Roman roads serving the capital run through it, as do the Grand Union Canal and other watercourses. Hertfordshire makes the perfect place for a slow holiday, with good public transport links to the rest of the country, a wide range of places to explore at your own pace, or just relax and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Our Guide to Having Fun in Hertfordshire Dog friendly places & pubs in Hertfordshire Things to do in East Hertfordshire Popular East Hertfordshire towns Dog friendly places in Hertfordshire We know it can be hard to leave your four-legged friend at home and not bring them out to lunch with you after a long country walk. Hers's our list of dog-friendly pubs, cafes and walks in Hertfordshire - it’s the leashed we could do! Bethnal&Bec Luxury Stays 3 beautiful, unique and eco retreats situated in the quaint village of Cottered, Hertfordshire. Truly Dog Friendly (Bethnal retreat; Bec retreat), surrounded by wonderful walks, pubs, market towns and countryside The Jolly Wagonner Pub - Ardeley Walkable from Bethnal&Bec, and situated in a wonderful village and on the doorstep of Church Farm, this locals pub has all the charm and style expected from a village pub.... roaring open fires, board games, pub grub with a splendid Sunday roast to boot! Very dog friendly The Cheeseplate Buntingford Toby and Hope are the father-daughter duo who own and run The Cheese Plate. Working together to bring weird and wonderful cheeses and accompaniments to cheese lovers in Buntingford and nationwide to pubs and restaurants. They have 2 wonderful window seats that you can enjoy a delicious cheesy snack or lunch in, with some wonderful wines recommended by Toby - and Fido can join you too! The Sword Inn Hand, Westmill The Sword Inn Hand is a 14th Century free house nestled in the beautiful rural Hertfordshire village of Westmill, a mile south of the market town of Buntingford. With bar, dining room, mature landscaped gardens it is the perfect countryside retreat for drinking, dining and relaxing. Seasonal produce is delivered daily by local suppliers. They pride themselves on serving delicious fine food and traditional ales. Davids Books; Music; Cafe, Letchworth Garden City An independent Employee Owned Trust situated in Letchworth, the world’s first Garden City – part of the community for nearly 50 years! They bring customers the very best in new and second hand books, music, cards and gifts, games and café food, plus our book signing events, games nights, Saturday events and book clubs (whew!). Their bookshop has a large second-hand department on the upper floor and at the back of the ground floor, quirky cards and gifts, an eclectic role playing games collection, new and classic board games, a varied ‘bargains’ area full of half price new books, as well as new titles offerings. The record store is an excellent shop selling new and second-hand records, CDs and DVDs, and the café is the ideal place to relax with a book, or try one of our famous home made sweet or savoury scones. And.... the WHOLE place is dog friendly! (We find Letchworth a very dog friendly town with many shops displayed Dogs Welcome signs) The Fox & Duck, Therfield Based on The Green in Therfield, a beautiful quintessentially English village just a few miles from Royston. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, stunning walks around Therfield Heath to enjoying a drink or two on Therfield village green. Food and drink at The Fox and Duck is carefully sourced and expertly prepared. They work with award-winning suppliers to bring exciting seasonal dishes always served with a smile! Things to do in East Hertfordshire Head east to Hertfordshire’s largest district for a memorable visit, less than an hour’s journey from central London and Cambridge and within half an hour of Stansted Airport. Boasting five delightful historic towns, with bustling markets, surrounded by stunning countryside and some incredible attractions, there’s something to please all visitors to East Herts. An abundance of wildlife is waiting to be explored along the many miles of meandering rivers, cycling and walking routes in the area, with no shortage of pubs, restaurants and accommodation en route offering high quality food and facilities to appeal to every taste and budget. There’s also a wonderful range of places to stay. East Hertfordshire has many attractive country house hotels which are steeped in history such as Down Hall Hotel & Spa located in Hatfield Heath on the border with Essex near Bishop’s Stortford; and Hanbury Manor Marriot Hotel and Country Club set in 200 sprawling acres near Ware. For those looking for the perfect self-catering 'home-from-home', Bethnal&Bec Luxury Stays near Buntingford, nestled in the beautiful rolling Hertfordshire countryside less than 40 miles from Central London, provides guests with all the luxuries of home. Choose from a host of local attractions, including: A visit to Celtic Harmony Camp will give you first-hand experience of how the people of the Iron Age lived over 2000 years ago Hertford Theatre has an exciting all-year programme of shows, cinema screenings, events and activities A true jewel in Hertfordshire’s crown is The Henry Moore Foundation at Perry Green with its incredible exhibition space, studio and sculpture garden Lee Valley Regional Park offers a range walking and cycling routes for every level of fitness as well as boat hire in the warmer months. Rye Meads Nature Reserve beside the River Lee is a firm favourite with walkers, birdwatchers and photographers thanks to its many trails and hides. For a wild day out and an exotic experience, the impressive Paradise Wildlife Park offers families and animals lovers a sensation day out There are a number of award winning parks in the district, for you to enjoy with a day out with a picnic in the fresh air The Rhodes Art Complex is Bishop’s Stortford’s premier entertainment venue offering theatre, cinema and a museum Scott's Grotto in Ware was built in the 18th century and has a fascinating series of interconnected tunnels, lined with shells, flints and pieces of coloured glass, as well as a Summerhouse above the tunnels. Many popular events take place in the district throughout the year including the Hertfordshire Festival of Music in June and Standon Calling in July. Popular East Hertfordshire towns There are many! But here are our favourites: Bishop’s Stortford Buntingford Hertford Ware East Herts has so much to offer for a day-trip, weekend break or longer, so come along for a visit at any time of the year, you won’t regret it! See you soon?