Our Favourite Budget-Friendly Things to Do Around Herts

You’ve made it through deadlines, revision, all those 9am lectures – it’s time to treat yourself. Instead of spending another day bed rotting or blowing your budget on a trip to London, why not explore a few hidden gems right on your doorstep? 

Here are some of our favourite hidden gems in and around Hertfordshire – all student friendly, no car, big spend, or complicated travel plans needed! 


A Secret Beach (Yes, Really) 

Stanborough Lakes might not be Bondi, but it does have serious summer holiday energy when the sun’s out. With two lakes, paddleboarding, boat hire and even some sand and deckchairs in the summer, it’s perfect for a low-effort escape. There’s also a lakeside café and plenty of spots to chill if you’re more into snacks and sun than sports. Only a short bus ride from campus – it may as well be a mini getaway!

Stanborough Park

Go Ghost Hunting at Knebworth 

Big gothic mansion? Check. Rock concert history? Check. Creepy ghost stories? Double check. Knebworth House is perfect for fans of creepy corridors, sprawling gardens and cool events. Explore the grand interiors, wander through the gardens, or look out for one of their events - their Great British Food Festival is an annual highlight!

Knebworth House

Take the Scenic Route 

Did you know you can hire bikes from campus? You even get the first two hours free! On a day you just need to get out of your head and into some greenery, cycle along the Alban Way – a disused railway line between Hatfield and St Albans. It’s quiet, green, and perfect to clear your head.

The Alban Way

Waffles in a Watermill 

Yes, you read that right – it's waffles in a 16th century watermill. You’ll find sweet and savoury waffles, iced coffees, riverside views and maybe even ducks floating past. It’s a total vibe – rustic, cosy, and very Instagrammable. Perfect for a summer brunch or your next main character moment. 

Waffle House

Visit a Real Roman Theatre 

These aren’t just any old ruins – this is the only visible Roman theatre of its kind in the UK. Super underrated, it’s tucked away behind the museum and makes a great detour after a stroll through Verulamium Park. magical at golden hour, and just a short walk from Verulamium Park. Bonus: it’s magical around golden hour! 

Roman Theatre

The alps... but in Herts 

Want to impress your group chat with something a bit out there? Head to the Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead, where you can ski or snowboard on real snow – no passport required! It’s not the cheapest option on our list, but great for a one off ‘I actually did something cool this weekend’ vibe. 

Snow Centre

Chase Lavender (or Sunflowers) 

If your camera roll is in need of a glow-up, Hitchin lavender is calling. Picture hundreds of meters of lavender rows or giant sunflowers, with bees buzzing, food stalls, and relaxing picnic vibes. You can pick your own flowers, try lavender lemonade, or just lie down in the grass and soak up some countryside calm. Perfect for a slow Sunday trip – and trust us, your Instagram will thank you! 

Hitchin Lavender

Grab a Drink in the UK’s Oldest Pub 

Claiming to be the oldest pub in the UK, with original structure dating back as far as 793AD, tucked away in St Albans is Ye Olde Fighting Cocks. It was once a Pigeon coup used by monks and now hosts open mic nights, live music, and pints of local craft beer. Whether you’re curious or just fancy a cosy corner and a cold drink, this place has character. 

Ye Olde Fighting Cocks