Hertfordshire Free Days Out For Children ... and Families

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Fairlands Valley Park was voted as one of the UK's leading free visitor attractions alongside Tate Britain, Tate Modern, and the Science and Natural History Museums, It consists of 120 acres of beautiful parkland situated within the heart of Stevenage. The park supports a varied selection of wildlife, and an assortment of wildfowl can be seen on the established reserve.

An 11 acre sailing lake is used for the centre's dinghy, kayak, windsurfing and powerboat courses, and the waters used for angling are well stocked.

Jogging enthusiasts and those who wish to generally keep fit by walking or running would enjoy the Trim Track is situated within the park. Nordic Walking is welcome'.

Children can enjoy the play area which consists of extensive play equipment. Orienteering can also be experienced, testing map-reading skills and physical fitness. Maps available from centre £2.00.

The park also plays host to a number of events including Circuses, Fairs, Shows and Motor Sport events.Telephone for current details on (01438) 353241.

For those interested in nature. Fairlands Valley Park offer two reasonably priced new publications on birds and trees in the park.

The Centre is recognised by the Royal Yachting Association and the British Canoe Union as a training centre. The fleet consists of Wanderers, Way farers, Comet Duos, Toppers, Oppies, Laser, Laser Picos, Topper Topaz, 420, windsurfers for training and hire. All our courses are staffed by our friendly, qualified instructors whose aim is to ensure that you enjoy the courses and learn in safety. Hot air balloon flights from Fairlands Valley Park can be arranged.

The Centre is open throughout the year and once you've attended a course to master the basics, you can hire craft anytime (subject to availability). It is also possible for you to use your own sailing dinghy, windsurfer or canoe, to a maximum length of 4.267m (14ft).

Fairlands Valley complies with legislation laid down by AALA and have to undergo regular inspections from the licensing authority. AALA No. L4279-R0703.

Having been established since 1972, Fairlands has undergone some major redevelopment since 2007. The environmental project known to some formerly as the Marshes is now complete with a new viewing platform and new planting. The adjacent pathway has been widened and resurfaced, and in time, it is hoped that new seating will be installed, although they do not have a timescale for when this part of the project will be accomplished.

The Sailing Centre and café areas have experienced a major face-lift and new signage with the Centre now implementing new, safer, controlled and updated facilities for its sports and sailing users. Disabled access to the facility has been improved, as have the public toilets which are now located in the café along with a baby changing area.

The main sailing lake was drained at the end of May 2008 for restoration work to the banks and valve. This work is now complete although the lake may remain fenced off due to low water levels. Because the main lake is the only area within the Park where it is authorised to fish, there may be no fishing allowed but call (01438) 353241 for confirmation.

The water levels also mean that they may have a reduced ability to offer some water sports like dinghy sailing, windsurfing or powerboat courses. They can however offer courses, birthday parties or corporate events in the following activities: paddlepower, climbing, power kiting, mountain boards/buggies and raft building. Please phone to ask for an update as the picture is constantly changing. (01438) 353241

The Centre now supports a new and improved conference room with Smart board which is available for hire for corporate events and presentations along with catering from the on-site caterers, Costello's if required.

The old paddling pools were demolished in 2008 and work is currently underway on new Aqua playground which is due to be open for the summer 2009. This site will also feature a kiosk for food and beverages along with a public toilet facility. www.stevenage-leisure.co.uk/fairlands

www.itstheweekend.org It's The Weekend is a guide of things to do and places top go. Cinema, Theatre, Shopping, Pampering. Treats, even places where kids and families can go for free!

Hertfordshire Free Days Out For Children ... and Families