Parks

Bancroft Recreation Ground has been providing a place of relaxation and leisure for Hitchin's residents since before the Second World War. The park houses many specimen trees, shrubs and flower beds, and also supports a bowling club, tennis club and during the summer months, a popular Splash Pad.

The Splash area is free to use, no need to book.

Features:
Splash... Read more

Butts Close is the oldest open space in Hitchin with a long history of use stretching back to late medieval times, when it was a sporting ground for archery.

It is owned partly by the Council and partly by the Hitchin Cow Commoners Trust. It is managed by NHDC in partnership with the Countryside and Rights of Way Service at Hertfordshire County Council.

The site contains a number of football and rugby pitches along with a range of other recreational activities. A walk or run around the site covers 1458 Mts. There is a well equipped play area which includes a high tunnel slide and a zip wire. There is a separate exercise zone containing a range of outdoor gym equipment. There is also a recently extended metal skate park along with a tennis court and... Read more

This lovely open water nature reserve provides a sanctuary for a wide variety of bird species and other wildlife. A boardwalk offers visitors views across the reedbed, pond and meadows.

The open water at this reserve attracts Moorhen, Mallard and, in winter, Teal. The reedbed is home to Reed Warblers, as well as Water Rails. The wet ground condition encourages Tussock Sedge, Yellow Iris... Read more

... Read more

Following a consultation in 2022, the improvements to the childrens' play area at Smithson's recreation ground have been unveiled in July 2023, and it is open for use. Features include space for children to learn to use balance bikes and a mini running track. There are wildflower plantings together with seats and picnic tables for the adults.

In addition to the formal sports pitch this is a great site for informal recreation. A walk or run around the perimeter covers 780Mtr. There is a well equipped play area for toddlers and juniors. A free outdoor gym provides challenging exercise opportunities for adults.

Facilities:
Football pitch
Play area (for younger and older children)

Stotfold Watermill is a great day out for all the family and is open to the public on various dates throughout the year. The Nature Reserve which adjoins the Mill is open all year round.

Stop at Randall's tea room for refreshments

See website for what's on

Playing field with two grass pitches and ample grass areas for informal play.
Newly renovated play area with swings (including an accessible one), climbing frames, aerial runway and more.
A great start for a dog walk with free car parking and direct access onto Oughtonhead Common

Independent Family Run
Garden Centre
Vanstone Park Garden Centre has been helping and advising gardeners for over 45 years! We pride ourselves on offering the very best quality plants for garden and home, along with a range of furniture, clothing, gifts and garden accessories. We have a range of other great businesses on site too, along with the Greenhouse Café, a wildlife lake, children's... Read more