Food
Days Out
Beach
Bike & Hike
Sports
Nature
Gardens
Activities
Historical
Eating & Drinking
Branca opened its doors in late 2000, offering Oxford a contemporary Italian bar and restaurant. The restaurant seats 110 and serves nothing but quality food with quality ingredients.
Formerly a florist and greengrocer, Gee's, Oxford's fine dining restaurant, was converted by present owner Jeremy Mogford 15 years ago. The menu is based on seasonal food, local produce and fine ingredients.
The Paper Mill is located next to the waterside, on an important historic site in Hemel Hempstead and enjoys lovely views across the waterways. It is a warm and welcoming pub with a friendly atmosphere, the decor is bright and modern and is enhanced by the open fires and comfy sofas. There is a balcony and a large patio terrace where you can sit and enjoy the views of the Grand Union Canal. The menu serves a selection of classic British food that is prepared using fresh, seasonal local ingredients that are well cooked and presented and represents great value for money. The bar stocks a good range of real ales, beers, lagers and wines. They are open daily from 10.00am to late and have a full social schedule with a range of events such as comedy nights, quiz nights and live music, it is certainly worth checking these out. The Paper Mill is a pub that everyone can enjoy, it is family friendly and on a sunny day the terrace offers a lovely spot to enjoy the weather and the great food they serve.
Fun Days Out
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts has been a focal part of the community since 2000, it provides a suitable venue for both amateur and professional performers to show their talents, to locals and visitors. The centre is also a favourite of local art groups and touring companies. A large number of people walk through the doors each week to enjoy the assortment of live shows, films, and partake in the workshops and classes they operate or to dine in the Cafe. The Gallery allows you to see contemporary art by local artists and the exhibitions change every three to four weeks. The Cafe Bar is open daily serving refreshments and food, there is a range of sandwiches, soups, hot dishes, daily specials and Sunday roasts available, the pre dinner theatre menu offers great value for money. The centre has a full and varied schedule so do check the calendar on the Website to see what events are taking place. Norden Farm Centre for the Arts provides the perfect venue for people to enjoy the arts in a relaxed and welcoming setting, where they can see local talent and sit back and have a coffee or meal with friends or family, a great all round venue.
Snakes and Ladders is a huge indoor playground fitted to the brim with climbing frames, ball ponds, cargo nets and slides. A ride on electric motor bikes is also not to be missed.
Absolutely Combat is the latest and probably the best combat experience you can have. Forget the pain of being shot with a paint ball and laser quest is so last year, this is the newest and best experience so far. Take yourself away from the computer and put yourself in a real environment where you get to hide behind obstacles and move through different rooms whilst avoiding being shot by the opposition. It still maintains the technical aspect in that you get real time hit feedback, so you know precisely when you have been hit or have scored, this eliminates any possibility of cheating. In addition you get real time statistics on each gaming gun that provides a constant feed on your score, your health and your ammunition levels and tells you when you need to reload. As with a real combat mission the purpose is to attack and defend without losing too many of your team or allowing the opposition to capture your flag. The game is suitable for those over the age of 8. Absolutely Combat provides a fun and interactive gaming experience in a safe environment that is loads of fun and suitable for all ages.
Delve into the dark side of Oxford's alleyways and streets and find out about its ghostly past, if you dare! With its many colleges and historic buildings, it's a great place for ghostly goings on.
There's plenty of hands on fun for children here. They can bottle feed lambs, milk cows, groom ponies, play crazy golf, race go karts, or play in the adventure playground. An endless day of fun and games!
The Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy offers several programmes for people with different interests. For young drivers they offer Pre-Road, Licence and Post-Licence Sessions. If you're lucky, you may spot Lewis Hamilton walking around the track.
Beach
No recommended Beach found within 30 miles of this property.
Biking & Hiking
On this tour you can visit some of the scenes seen on the TV show Inspector Morse, with lots of stories along the way. See the places where the famous TV detective cracked the crimes of Oxford.
Golf & Sports
This is a large outdoor heated swimming pool with free swimming for kids, relaxation area, outdoor play area and refreshments.
F1K Indoor Go karting Heathrow is a fast adrenaline fuelled motorsport
experience that is suitable for all from 8 years and over. Safety,
professionalism and value for money can be found at this all weather indoor
venue.
Try tenpin bowling at Farnborough Bowl, a 10 lane centre offering fun for all ages including bowling in the dark with cosmic glow lighting.
Nature Reserves
No recommended Nature Reserves found within 30 miles of this property.
Gardens & Woodlands
Stonor Park is one of England's oldest manor houses and is set in beautiful surroundings. The park, with its herd of fallow deer can be accessed via public footpath.
Cheslyn House and Gardens is a hidden gem here in Watford, they are a little known secret. They have undergone considerable work in recent years to bring them to this exceptional standard. There is no charge to the gardens and they are open throughout the year except for the usual holidays over Christmas. The gardens consist of a formal garden and a semi natural woodland area and extend to more than 3.5 acres. The house was previously owned by Henry and Daisy Colbeck who were responsible for planting and designing the gardens, many of the unique and exotic plants being brought back from their overseas travels. In recent years there has been a number of additions to the gardens including the pond, rock garden, large herbaceous borders and the aviary. You will find a gardener within the grounds who is enthusiastic and knowledgeable and will happily discuss the plants and wildlife found here, attracted by the lowers and trees providing the ideal habitats for them. They also offer guided walks that are interesting and informative. Throughout the year the gardens are stunning full of natural colour and delicious aromas waft the air, an oasis of peace and serenity. Cheslyn House and Gardens portray the ideal garden and will make you want the same but whilst, here you can enjoy the beauty of them within this special place.
Alice Holt Forestry offers a fantastic day out in lovely natural surroundings. The forest is so well maintained and beautifully kept, a credit to the forest rangers and other helpers. There is so much going on here from lovely woodland walks and cycles, hide and seek, den making, horse riding, fishing, taking a picnic or having a go at "GO Ape", or maybe take a quiet stroll in the more remote areas of the forest. You can hire a bicycle here so don't need to take your own. The trails and walks are well marked and laid out and you can get maps to help you get around. They organise throughout the year a wealth of events, activities, workshops and musical performances, there is something for everyone to get involved with. There is a new play area on the Habitat Trail in addition to Timberline, the 3D Maze and the Play Wood, there is so much for younger visitors here. There is a nice cafe that is warm and welcoming, it serves a nice choice of light refreshments and snacks. The park is perfect whatever the season and offers lots to see and do and is the best of the great outdoors. Although there is no admission charge for the park, there is a charge for the car park and it can get expensive. Alice Holt Forestry is very popular and can get busy but there is lots of room for everyone to have a fun day out, the facilities are great and the park is so well kept the perfect venue to let children let off steam in a safe environment.
Local Attractions
Dorney Lake - 14.6 Miles (23.4 KM)
Dorney Lake includes an Arboretum and Nature Conservation area, and is open to the public who come to enjoy this outdoor space where you can walk, jog, observe the rowers and canoeists on the lake or just enjoy this great open space. The main purpose of Dorney Lake is a contemporary world-class rowing and flat-water canoeing centre situated in an amazing 450 acre parkland. It was where the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Rowing and Kayaking Regattas took place. Today it provides a premier water sports venue and is the training ground for Eton College Boat Club, it allows individuals and teams to train in rowing, canoeing or dragon boating. In the Boathouse gymnasium there are full training facilities allowing you to keep your fitness levels up. Dorney Lake offers training and coaching courses, and throughout the year operates a number of important sporting events, it is worth checking the calendar to see what is taking place and calling down to support the participants.
Fringilla, Larus and Sula are three beautiful luxury river cruisers that are available to hire, these lovely boats will allow you to experience the waterways of Windsor, Maidenhead and Runnymeade. Each cruiser is tastefully decorated with comfort and relaxation in mind, abroad these stunning boats you will be able to enjoy the beauty of these local waters in a tranquil and relaxing setting. Leave all your stresses and hectic schedules onshore, step aboard and allow yourself to get away from the hustle and bustle for a period of time. Take in the local wildlife, flora and fauna as you cruise along these peaceful waters, stop at the numerous attractions along the way including lovely villages, Windsor Castle, Windsor Racecourse, Cliveden Reach, the charming village of Bray with its gorgeous riverside houses and probably the worlds best chef Heston Blumenthal's renowned restaurant The Fat Duck. All of these boats come with a fully qualified experienced skipper, the appropriate insurances, life jackets, first aid kits and fire fighting equipment for your personal safety.
Tally Ho Stables caters to all riders regardless of ability. They are as comfortable with novice riders as they are with experienced riders, the staff are all highly qualified and professional. They provide fully supervised rides and hacks in the Great Park and the route you take will be dependent on your skill and abilities levels. Tally Ho Stables provide the horses and all essential equipment for riders, the horses are gentle and well behaved. You will ride through some stunning ancient forests with wonderful views and will hopefully see the parks resident deer, the surroundings are lovely and peaceful allowing you to get the most from your ride. In the summer months they offer evening rides as well. There is a fully stocked riding shop on the premises. You can rest assured that you will leave Tally Ho stables having had a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable ride.
Formerly The Oxford Apollo, now under the name of New Theatre, this exciting venue offers a wide range of shows and events — check the website for up to date listings.
A city centre cinema showing up to date films (check website for times). Free and disabled parking is available and the centre is wheelchair friendly.
The Firestation Centre for Arts and Culture is a contemporary arts venue in the centre of Windsor, that is open seven days a week. This intimate venue has a friendly and energetic vibe. It hosts an exhilarating schedule of music, comedy, theatre, dance, film and artworks. Throughout the year the calendar is is crammed with cultural events such as productions, shows, art exhibitions, music gigs and much more so you will need to check their Website to see what is on. The venue has a fully licenced bar where you can relax and chill before and after the performance. In addition a range of classes and clubs are run here that you can get involved in. The Firestation is the type of venue all towns should have, fun, entertaining and loads going on.
Cassiobury Park is a beautiful park and is the biggest public open space in Watford and encompasses more than 190 acres, incorporating open green spaces, woodland, countryside and beautiful canals and is open everyday. Within the park you will find a large choice of activities to cater to all visitors including sporting facilities and attractions for children, in addition throughout the year a number of popular sporting and entertainment events are hosted here. As well as there being acres of open space to run wild in or kick about, children can enjoy the Paddling Pool Playground that will accommodate children up to 14 years of age, with swings, climbing frame, slides, stone maze, trampoline and zip wire. There is the Cha Cha Cha Playground for smaller children, a choice of three paddling pools that vary in size, the River Gade offers paddling and you can fish with nets in the shallow waters by the Rustic Bridge. At weekends, in the summer and during school holidays you may find a variety of bouncy castles and a miniature railway here, there is a small charge for these activities. Within the park are five football pitches, a cricket square is kept in the summer months, there are both hard and grass tennis courts, a basketball court and Watford Bowls Club have a green and clubhouse here similarly Watford Croquet Club have three lawns here. Within the park is an area designated a Local Nature Reserve and you can see a selection of natural wildlife in their natural habitats, there is a natural trail to follow with information on what you can see here. Cassiobury Park ticks all the boxes and has something to appeal to everyone, you could easily spend many a happy hour here, being as active or as relaxing as you choose. There is even a cafe on site so you don't have to leave for refreshments or even better take along a picnic.
Harry Potter World Watford immerses you into the magical and mystical wizarding world of Harry Potter and his friends as you visit the original home of the movie. The studios were used for more than ten years and at the end of filming they were left with a multitude of artefacts, costumes, props and sets. Now these treasures from the original films have found a home in this unique setting, during your Studio Tour you get an exceptional opportunity to delve into all that is Harry Potter with, two soundstages and a backlot that is replete with original sets, animatronic creatures and astounding special effects. There is a self guided tour with lots of information boards or you can upgrade to the digital guided tour that is available in eight languages, and includes many extra features. Children will enjoy the activity passport where they have to take part in a Golden Snitch hunt and get their passport stamped at strategic points on the tour. A popular stop is for butterbeer, a frothy and non-alcoholic beverage. You will also get the chance to ride a broomstick just like your favourite character and can purchase a souvenir of your flight. There is a Studio Shop that is brimming with authentic Harry Potter souvenirs and gifts, including chocolate frogs and replica wands, a haven for all fans. The staff here are brilliant really friendly, helpful and knowledgeable and more than happy to answer any questions. You don't have to be a Harry Potter fan to enjoy the tour, you will be amazed by all the detail that goes into making a film, it is an amazing tour absolutely faultless, you will be surprised by how quickly the time passes here.
Watford Palace Theatre is an integral part of the cultural scene here in Watford and is conveniently located in the middle of the town. It is an innovative centre with producing, presenting, participating and partnering at the forefront of its philosophy. Watford Palace Theatre is located in a lovely Grade II listed Edwardian Theatre, that houses 600 seats. It recently underwent a renovation and now offers modern facilities whilst still retaining its charm, a new addition is the Green Room Bar with its bustling vibe that offers a pleasant environment to enjoy pre and post show drinks. The theatre has a strong commitment to hosting a series of high quality and exciting theatre experiences through, dance, music, film, arts productions and workshops, the programme of productions here is eclectic. The staff are amiable and helpful and the theatre is kept clean and tidy. The seating within the auditorium is comfortable and most seats offer good views of the stage, the acoustics are very good and ticket prices are very reasonable. Watford Palace Theatre is a wonderful theatre in a central location and makes an ideal venue for a fun night out.
Bhaktivedanta Manor is much more than a place of worship, it is a place of peace and tranquillity and somewhere to reflect and think. The building is stunning and the grounds are lovely, and provide the perfect opportunity for walks. There are strong links to George Harrison who donated this fabulous building to the movement, although he did not publicise this or his commitment to Krishna. As you walk around you will continually be met by the most friendly and hospitable people you will encounter. They are passionate about what do do here and are more than happy to discuss what they do and show you the animals, grounds, gardens and temple. There is free food to feed the cattle and you are shown around on an ox driven cart to see how they practice sustainable farming. The produce that they grow here can be purchased, it was lovely to go home with fresh vegetables, in addition there is a gift shop and bakery, serving a nice selection of goods. They also offer free food to all guests to the manor what an unusual and pleasing thing to do. if you can visit when there is a spiritual event on you will find it to be an extraordinary experience, one you can't describe. You can get what you want from a visit to Bhaktivedanta Manor be it the history of Hare Krishna, tour of the manor, food, prayers, spiritual knowledge or simply a chat with one of the devotees, you get their full attention and the reception you receive is wonderful. They do not try to convert or preach to you, so just come and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Bhaktivedanta Manor.
Historical & Heritage Sites
Maidenhead Heritage Centre is a great source of information on the local area, and takes in the varied history from Roman times right through to present day. There is a permanent exhibition, "Story of Maidenhead" that encompasses lots of items, the oldest dating back more than 4000 years, the towns involvement in racing cars, the renowned Hammer House of Horror films, the growth of the railways, World War II and so much more. On the first floor of the museum is "Grandma Flew Spitfires" that is an exhibit dedicated to Air Transport Auxiliary, it has probably the largest collection of ATA memorabilia and records around, the story is told through uniforms, photographs, letters, log books, local records, diaries and personal recollections. Whilst here for a charge you can experience the amazing Spitfire simulator. The centre runs a number of different events and different exhibitions during the year so if thinking of visiting do check to see what is taking place. Maidenhead Heritage Centre is an astounding and intriguing place to visit, the staff are so friendly and helpful, there is so much to see and do and the exhibits are done in a way that they will appeal to both adults and children alike.
Dorney Court is a magnificent Tudor Manor House that has been in same family for more than 500 years. This impressive and noble house stands in beautiful landscaped gardens and looks out onto acres of established parkland and flocks of sheep grazing in the encircling meadows. The interior of the house is stunning with it's enchanting gabled roofs, wood panelling, impressive collection of fine oak furniture, paintings, family portraits and tapestries that adorn the walls, there is so much to see and observe. But be observant as there are lots of hidden gems like the 17th century priest hole or perhaps the balding spectre of Dorney Court's ghost. The house today still retains its charm and warmth and appears to have gone unchanged over the years. The gardens are equally stunning and worth exploring from the shimmering waters of Saxon Pike Pond, the Norman ice house, rose gardens, herbaceous borders and ornamental trees, here you are rewarded with peace and tranquillity and a place of escapism amongst the beautiful surroundings. Dorney Court is a truly mesmerising and stunning house that has been lovingly maintained to retain its character and charm and is further enhanced by the glorious gardens.
An open air museum inside a massive modern building, a network of streets with shops, a village green and even a pub dating back to Victorian times — a surprise around every corner.
Over 40 vehicles are on display. Most are buses in the ownership of the museum. Some are privately owned buses on long-term loan for exhibition to the public.
Blenheim Palace is located in 2000 acres of stunning parkland at the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds and yet is only 8 miles from Oxford. It is a world heritage site and well known as the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.
Frogmore Paper Mill is a unique mill that is located in Apsley, it is the worlds oldest mechanised paper mill. To this day it continues to be a working paper mill producing an incredible 100 tonnes of specialist grade paper on their historic machines. During a visit you will get to see the process of paper making as well as making your own piece of paper that you can take home with you, get an insight into the local history and see the industrial machinery in operation, as well as old machines such as the 120 year old steam driven machine, in addition you can visit the inhouse fire-station and even see a book binding demonstration. There is also a Memory Bank commemorating the history of the mill and stories of the people involved with the mill and the history of paper. They are open throughout the week with guided tours at 11.15am, 1.00pm and 5.45pm, full details can be got from the website. The guides are friendly, informative and very knowledgeable and the tours are given at just the right level for all to enjoy. There is a nice cafe that serves a selection of beverages and snacks, that you can enjoy whilst looking out at the River Gade. The onsite shop sells a selection of the paper it produces both machine and handmade, in addition there is a gallery that is free to look around and exhibits individual artists at different times, the artwork on display is for sale. Afterwards you can for an extra cost take a boat trip around the mill. It can be cold in the mill so ensure you take along something warm to wear. Frogmore Paper Mill is an intriguing and mesmerising look into the history and production of paper, there is so much to gather from a visit and it is an outing that everyone will enjoy, highly recommended.
Herfordshire Fire Station portrays the history of fire-fighting down the ages, they have a nice selection of artefacts and memorabilia relating to the fire service. There is no entry charge but donations are welcome. This intimate museum is operated by former fire service officers so they have all the answers to your questions, you will find them to be jovial and helpful, and they have many stories to tell of their time in the fire service. Some of the machines on display are two 19th century hand manual fire appliances, a 1896 Shand-Mason horse drawn steam powered fire engine, a 1937 Leyland fire appliance as well as a 1972 Dennis trailer pump that was in service during the Second World War, this is not an exhaustive list there is much more to see here. There are interactive exhibits where you can try on the uniforms and equipment that can be operated. There is an enormous photographic display, documents and resource library. During your visit you will also become more aware of safety issues which, can only be a good thing.You will find the museum open on one Saturday per month, from 1pm to 4pm, and only from April to September, check the Website for the actual dates. Please be aware that the museum is located on an operational fire station so there will be moving vehicles and parking is limited. Hertfordshire Fire Station is an interesting and informative friendly museum that is suitable for a family day out, there will be something to appeal to all ages particularly children, young and old, you can play out childhood dreams of being a fireman!
Museum of Farnham is located in a charming Georgian town house in the centre of the town. The museum illustrates the social and economic history of Farnham through the ages from its humble beginnings, through to its hop growing boom and Victorian grandeur. It also delves into the lives of its more notable residents. In addition you will find a vast art and craft collection, located in the gallery. There are frequently changing temporary exhibits that cover a broad spectrum of topics as well as permanent exhibits, the displays and artefacts are well laid out and have lots of information about them. They are open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10.00am to 5.00pm and there is no charge for entry. During the school holidays they organise drop-in craft activities and workshops as well as running a monthly museum club, for children. Adults can enjoy the Heritage Open Days and lectures that they hold during the year. Outside is a lovely walled garden that are historically planted. Staff are great so helpful, friendly and knowledgeable too, they will happily answer your questions and advise on the local area and things to do. There is a nice shop that socks a good range of goods many are local products. Museum of Farnham gives a glimpse into the fascinating history of the area, it is not a large museum so doesn't take long to get around but, it has lots to interest you during a visit and the garden is lovely.
The Rural Life Centre is a country life museum that is located in Farnham, and depicts the history of farming over the past one hundred and fifty years, with a wonderful collection of antique farm implements. It is located in ten acres of fields, woodland and barns, and is home to a a number of exhibits, that are well displayed. A number of areas of genuine village and rural life are also shown in authentic individual settings. You can visit an old school room, chapel, an Anderson shelter and see tradesmen at work like a blacksmith and a carpenter, children can dress up in old fashioned clothes during a visit and don't miss the dolls house it is excellent. Throughout the year they organise a number of events that include, demonstrations, hands on activities, crafts and much more, excellent for younger visitors as they can get involved. During the summer months the Old Kiln Light Railway Society operates rides on the light railway. The museum opens on Wednesday through to Sunday as well as Bank Holiday Mondays, from 10.00am to 5.00pm, there is a charge for admission, details are on the website. There is also a children's play area, arboretum, gift shop and picnic areas. The Old Kiln Cafe serves a nice selection home cooked food as well as snacks that are well priced. The staff are lovely so friendly, polite, helpful and knowledgeable and will happily answer any questions you might have. The Rural Life Centre gives a fascinating and insightful glimpse into a bygone era, it is well laid out and makes for an interesting day out for all the family, a must if you are in the area.
