Eating
Pick your destination for the perfect date night in Hertfordshire
Love is in the air across Hertfordshire… everywhere you look around… Maybe it’s because Valentine’s Day is around the corner, or perhaps we all just need a little love this time of year. Either way, we truly feel a lot of blossoming romances are in the air. So, whether you’re getting first-date butterflies, reconnecting with an evening away from the everyday or celebrating a special romantic occasion, the wannabe Cupids here at Visit Herts have gathered our favourite date night locations for those dreamy memories to be made.
Whether you’re a classic movie-dinner-drinks kind of couple or looking for an unforgettable way to make that first impression, we’ve got the spots we know you lovebirds will enjoy!
The Bricklayer’s Arms
Gazing into each other’s eyes over a glass of red wine in a cosy corner under the glow of twinkling fairy lights… not just the stuff of movies, thanks to the charming gastro pub that is The Bricklayers Arms in Flaunden! Set within the stunning rolling hills of the Chess Valley, this 18th century pub is the perfect setting for your cosy date night out.
We could go on and on describing their delectable dinners, but instead we’ll just casually mention that they’ve won the Good Pub Guide’s Dining Pub of the Year 2020, and they’ve won every year for the past five years, and that they hold an AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence… so we think you get the (delicious) picture!
The Gardens at Knebworth House
Why not set a date with your significant other to explore the grounds at Knebworth House? Or perhaps you’re looking to woo your first date with a nature walk? Either way, the gardens at Knebworth House is a pretty perfect place to see flowers blossoming to the sound of nature and butterflies dancing in the air.
An ideal date for the summer where you and your special someone can enjoy a free Garden Tour with a member of their Gardens Team.
https://www.knebworthhouse.com/
The Grove Hotel
When the special occasion comes around, a birthday, an anniversary, or dare we say, an evening involving a special ring(!), you need luxury settings and specialist care to pull off the perfect date night. Enter The Grove Hotel, host to celebrities and royalty alike, and the perfect option for your special night.
Indulge in a delicious dinner in the luxurious setting of The Glasshouse restaurant, opt for a couples’ spa day to unwind together, or book an overnight escape for that staycation we’re all dreaming about.
Pendley Manor
It’s all about rural relaxation at classically beautiful Pendley Manor. Enjoy a date night away relaxing and reconnecting with their ideal staycation offer – with a two-night stay, a welcome bottle of prosecco and the use of their plush pool and leisure facilities, it’s the perfect antidote to last year’s stresses.
https://www.pendley-manor.co.uk/
Paradise Wildlife Park
If you feel like stepping away from the traditional romantic locations, Paradise Wildlife Park have the answer for those ‘unforgettable’ date days! Get to know each other while feeding some tigers, saying hello to the penguins, or meeting the meerkats with one of their experience days.
Or why not let your inner childlike personality free and wander around the World of Dinosaurs? Brave the Dinosaur Train ride, the ‘Rex Express’, and travel back in time, revealing a new prehistoric surprise around every corner.
The Snow Centre
Adrenaline junkie couples, we’re not leaving you out! A date doesn’t have to be ‘romantic’ in the traditional sense. How about an evening of learning new skills and getting active as you ski and snowboard at The Snow Centre? Spend some time together slipping and sliding on the slopes at the biggest real snow centre outside of London – what a way to break the ice!
https://www.thesnowcentre.com/
Verulamium Spa
Looking to add a bit of luxury to your ultimate date? Why not spend the day relaxing at Verulamium Spa and escape the world together in one of their 5-star luxury treatment rooms or couple suits? Receive a variety of treatments including, facials, massages, body treatments and more! It’s the perfect experience for those looking to add a little wellness to their lives, and… isn’t that all of us?
https://everyonespa.com/our-venues/verulamium-spa-st-albans/
Hitchin Lavender Fields
Set a date for the summer and dig out those gingham picnic blankets and woven hampers, we’re taking you back to a more traditional, romantic setting. If you’re in the ‘getting to know each other stage’ or you’re already one of two, living in your own little world, there’s nothing quite like a peaceful sit down in the fields of Hitchin Lavender, watching the world go by and enjoying the company of that special someone. Bring the strawberries and chocolate, finger sandwiches and bubbly and spend the day soaking in the scenery and romance at Hitchin Lavender.
https://www.hitchinlavender.com/
Atria Watford
A classic cinema and dinner date? A bit of late-night shopping? Whatever your go-to date idea may be, Atria Watford have something for you and your lucky someone to enjoy, whether you’re heading out for an anniversary celebration together or looking to woo someone special with a thoughtful gift.
Milton Keynes’ much-anticipated landmark visitor destination, Unity Place, has now opened all of its remaining facilities and is officially fully open. Located directly opposite MK Station Square, Unity Place is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub set to redefine the urban experience in the heart of the city.
A Culinary Haven: Diverse Dining Options Under One Roof
Unity Place offers an unparalleled shopping and dining experience. At the heart of this destination is the Urban Food Market, featuring an eclectic mix of street food vendors that cater to every palate. Here, you can indulge in rustic Italian delights at Raffaele Pizza, savor Taiwanese rice boxes and bao buns from Bian Dang, or enjoy the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine at Cantina Carnitas. For those seeking an elevated dining experience, Dipna Anand’s Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit. Celebrity chef Dipna Anand brings authentic Punjabi and South Indian cuisine to your table, with signature dishes such as tandoori lamb chops, paneer tikka, and lamb shish.
Convenience Meets Quality: Shopping Essentials at Unity Place
Unity Place isn’t just about food. It’s designed to cater to all your needs under one roof. The Corner Store offers everyday essentials, while Baker’s Room tempts with freshly made bread, pastries, cakes, and coffee. Even grooming is covered, thanks to the high-end barbershop ROK, perfect for a stylish fresh trim.
Work and Play at Unity Place: The Ideal Balance
For those blending work and leisure, Unity Place provides an innovative solution. Partnering with co-working provider x+why, it offers flexible working spaces perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. The ground floor houses the public Santander Work Café, which includes co-working desks, bookable meeting rooms, and a branch for everyday banking needs. With over 60,000 sq. ft. of contemporary office space, Unity Place ensures a productive environment with breakout spaces, private offices, enterprise suites, and mission rooms.
Sip and Savor at Unity Place: A Destination for Drinks
Unity Place is also a haven for those who enjoy a good drink. The rooftop bar, Unity Sky Lounge, offers stunning panoramic views of the city alongside a fantastic selection of food and beverages. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or starting your evening, this is the perfect spot to relax. Additionally, Dipna Anand’s bar provides a cozy atmosphere for a pre-dinner cocktail or mocktail, while the fully stocked Unity Bar boasts an extensive drinks list to satisfy any preference.
Why Visit Unity Place?
Unity Place is more than just a visitor destination; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you should make it your next stop:
- Variety: With a wide range of dining options, there’s something for everyone.
- Convenience: Everything you need, from food to shopping to workspaces, is available under one roof.
- Community: It’s a vibrant hub that fosters community and connection.
- Quality: High-end amenities ensure a premium experience.
- Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop bar.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Unity Place is set to become a cornerstone of Milton Keynes. Come and experience it for yourself – the future of urban living is here.
Deciding on a great Father’s Day experience can be challenging, but this year, why not treat Dad to an escape to the Hertfordshire countryside at Sopwell House? The hotel and spa are pulling out all the stops for Dad, from a sumptuous Sunday roast with beer pairings to a savoury afternoon tea.
Sunday Roast with Beer or Wine Flight
Elevate Dad’s Sunday roast with an optional craft beer from Tring Brewery. From a punchy Raven King IPA to Tring’s smooth Tea Kettle stout, savour every bite with a carefully selected beer to match each course. For those who aren’t as keen on beer, there is also a wine flight option available.
Start as you mean to go on with Spring shaved courgettes or spicy lamb croquettes, followed by the star of the show – a roast with your choice of chicken, beef, or pork, served with fluffy roasties, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire puddings, and lashings of gravy. End on a sweet note with a choice of summery desserts – think Strawberry bakewell tart and Raspberry crème brûlée – plus an additional cheese course for those opting for the paired menu.
Price: £42 per person for Sunday lunch (£67 per adult including drinks pairing and cheese course).
Father’s Day Afternoon Tea
Adding a savoury twist to the quintessentially British pastime, treat Dad to an afternoon tea with a choice of bubbles or a pint of Pale Ale to complement the experience. Expect bites including quail scotch eggs and roast beef-filled mini-Yorkshire puddings, alongside sandwiches and freshly baked scones.
There is also a selection of sweet treats including a hazelnut praline and chocolate sable, and a coconut, yuzu, and lime macaron, all served with a glass of Taittinger Champagne or a pint of Tring Pale Four beer from the award-winning brewery. A punchy, West Coast IPA style beer, the Tring Pale Four beer is as at home with meats and fish as it is paired alongside sweet treats, making it the perfect accompaniment to Afternoon Tea!
Price: £57 per adult.
Available exclusively on Sunday 16th June, make your Father’s Day one to remember at Sopwell House, with bookings now available at www.sopwellhouse.co.uk.
Top 5 Father’s Day Gift Ideas
To complement your luxurious day out at Sopwell House, here are the top 5 Father’s Day gift ideas that will surely impress any dad:
- Personalised Gifts
- Engraved Wallet: A high-quality leather wallet with a personalised message or initials engraved.
- Custom Photo Book: A photo book filled with cherished memories, perfect for sentimental dads.
- Tech Gadgets
- Smart Home Devices: Smart speakers like the Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub to help around the house.
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Great for dads who enjoy music, podcasts, or need some quiet time.
- Experience Gifts
- Driving Experience: A track day or driving experience with high-performance cars.
- Cooking Class: For foodie dads, a cooking class with a professional chef can be a memorable experience.
- Eating Out Experience
- Restaurant Voucher: A voucher for a meal at a top-rated restaurant or a local favourite.
- Afternoon Tea: A classic British experience, perfect for a relaxing afternoon with a variety of teas and delicious treats.
- Outdoor Gear
- Camping Equipment: High-quality tents, sleeping bags, or portable grills for adventurous dads.
- Garden Tools: For dads who love gardening, new tools or a garden gadget like a robot lawnmower.
Make this Father’s Day unforgettable with a delightful experience at Sopwell House and a thoughtful gift from our top picks!
Nestled within the historical elegance of Brocket Hall, the renowned Auberge du Lac has proudly announced a new chapter in its storied culinary journey, spearheaded by the illustrious Chef John Barber. Having reopened its doors in May 2023 following a three-year hiatus, the restaurant has been infused with a fresh vigour, artfully blending tradition with cutting-edge culinary innovations.
Chef John Barber
Chef John Barber: A Maestro in the Kitchen
Chef Barber’s illustrious career, inspired by his mother’s home cooking, began at UCB College of Food and has spanned the globe, from the prestigious kitchens of the Belfry Hotel to the exotic locales of Thailand and Paris. His tenure at London’s Bar Boulud and the opening of 14 Hills with the D&D Group has seasoned him with an unrivaled expertise, making his tenure at Auberge du Lac a herald of culinary excellence.
Lucy Hawkins: Sustainability at Its Core
The heart of Auberge du Lac’s culinary philosophy is its kitchen garden, tenderly curated by Lucy Hawkins. This garden is not merely a plot of land; it is the cradle of sustainability, employing no-dig methods that enrich local biodiversity and allow for the freshest ingredients to be used directly in the kitchen. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in this verdant sanctuary during the Garden Tour & Lunch events, connecting them intimately with the origins of their meals.
The Auberge Experience: A Symphony of Luxuries
Auberge du Lac doesn’t just stop at fine dining; it offers an immersive ‘Auberge Experience’ package. Priced at £420 per couple, this luxurious offering includes a cozy welcome with Champagne and chocolates, a seven-course tasting menu, an overnight stay in the stately Melbourne Lodge, and a full English breakfast at The Melbourne Club. Each of the lodge’s 16 luxury ensuite bedrooms offers a vista of the Hall, Broadwater Lake, and the golf course, making it an ideal retreat after a gourmet evening.
Access and Convenience
Just a stone’s throw from London, Auberge du Lac offers an escape into the countryside that’s both quick and easy. The journey from central London to the tranquility of Brocket Hall takes less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a taste of the countryside without straying far from the city’s pulse.
A Forthcoming Review
Stay tuned for an in-depth review of Auberge du Lac, where we will delve deeper into the gastronomic delights and serene ambiance that make this destination a crown jewel of culinary and leisure escapades.
Embrace the opportunity to experience the pinnacle of fine dining and bespoke luxury at Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall, where every visit promises to be more than just a meal—it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of history, taste, and lush landscapes.
