Discover the best things to do in Redbourn, Hertfordshire
Local attractions near the Chequers Inn
Prepare yourself for sublime countryside scenery when you visit the Chequers Inn for a relaxing meal. As well as uncovering some charming things to do in Redbourn, you’ll also be within easy reach of St Albans, one of Hertfordshire’s most gorgeous cities.
From St Albans Cathedral to Verulamium Park and Whipsnade Zoo, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy. So much, in fact, that we’ve handpicked a few of the best things to do to help you plan an upcoming escape. Let’s take a look.
St Albans Cathedral
Visiting the magnificent Grade I-listed St Albans Cathedral is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in St Albans. Originally founded as an abbey in the 12th century, the cathedral’s rich history spans over 900 years.
It has long been a revered site of pilgrimage, housing the Shrine of St Alban, which holds the distinction of being the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain. It’s also renowned for having the longest nave of any cathedral in the country. And don’t get us started on its gloriously tranquil parkland.
If you visit and happen to be looking for places to eat near St Albans Cathedral, the Chequers Inn is just a short drive away and perfect for a delicious meal accompanied by a couple of drinks.
Redbourne Watermill & Bakery
Just a mile down the road from the Chequers Inn, you’ll find Redbourne Watermill & Bakery – and you’ll soon see why it’s top of our list of things to do in Redbourn. Located alongside the River Ver, the site has been home to a mill for nearly a thousand years, with the present building dating back to the Victorian era and still operating as a working mill today.
You can delve into the rich history of the watermill at the on-site museum, where fascinating stories about its past are brought to life. The mill also houses a charming shop offering a variety of local goods, making it a perfect spot to pick up unique items.
On Saturday mornings, the bakery opens its doors to visitors, offering freshly baked bread, rolls, and seasonal treats. The perfect sustenance for a countryside stroll – other than our pub food, of course.
Verulamium Park
Another great attraction to tick off in the local area is Verulamium Park. This 100-acre green space sits within throwing distance of St Albans city centre and is a delightful spot to spend some time in the great outdoors. You’ll soon see why many locals call it one of their favourite things to do in St Albans.
Take a turn around the park’s shimmering boating lake that’s home to all kinds of birdlife. There are also lovely tree-lined walkways to explore, plus several fascinating historic sites – including ancient Roman walls.
Bonus tip: head to the Verulamium Museum at the north end of the park to learn more about the area that used to be the site of the Roman city of Verulamium.
Whipsnade Zoo
Animal lovers will want to head north of Redbourn to Whipsnade Zoo. This famous animal park is the largest zoo in the UK, with thousands of extraordinary creatures calling it home. It’s also a conservation-focused zoo, meaning there’s plenty of research being conducted on the welfare and treatment of its residents.
You’ll discover wildlife from all over the world at Whipsnade Zoo, from Asian elephants and Amur tigers to aardvarks, reindeer and wallabies. Set aside a day to explore the zoo’s different habitats, learning intriguing facts about the animals as you go. Of all the things to do in Redbourn and its surrounding area, it’s one of the best.
Hatfield House
If you’re looking for things to do in Hertfordshire, why not walk in the footsteps of Elizabeth I? Hatfield House was famously the childhood home of the Tudor-era queen, and a day spent strolling its halls is a pretty perfect way to spend some time.
Hatfield dates back to 1485 when it was constructed by William Cecil, the first Earl of Salisbury. Today, it’s still the seat of the Earls and Marquesses of Salisbury and full of historic artefacts. You can even step foot in the Old Palace between May and October to admire breathtaking interiors, rich furnishings and priceless paintings.
Don’t miss wandering around Hatfield’s sweeping landscaped gardens either. Make sure you seek out the famous oak tree where Princess Elizabeth believed that she first found out she had become queen in 1558.