Don’t be fooled that Luton is simply a well-connected town, with a first class airport and excellent road network to help you explore further afield. Take a closer look at the Bedfordshire town, with its university, attractive nearby villages and outstanding countryside, and you’ll soon see it’s well worth exploring in its own right. Spend some time getting to know this underappreciated gem, and you may be surprised by the variety of things to see and do.
Downtown Luton
There’s plenty to keep you occupied if you’re planning to stay for a little while in Luton. The River Lea is ideal if you want to take a quiet stroll in the open air, or to take the kids to try to spot some otters swimming in the water.
Whipsnade Zoo is just a 20-minute drive to the west of the town and is a fun-filled day out for everyone. Founded in 1826, the zoo works hard to promote the conservation of animals in their habitat. Wander through the stunning butterfly house, make some friends at the farm or be wowed by the stunning cheetahs on Cheetah Rock. You’ll find a whole host of different animals here, including zebras, rhinos, sea lions and giraffes.
Spend a Wrestful day at Wrest Park
With a children’s play area, sculpture gallery and woodland to explore, you’ll find this Grade I listed country estate is much more than a house and gardens. Although it’s hard to not be hugely impressed by the 19th century manor and its outdoor space, an impressive 92 acres of decorative formal gardens with fountains, follies and statues.
Located 16km north of Luton on the A6, Wrest Park dates back to the 14th Century. You can enjoy guided tours of the house and gardens, walk the grounds unattended and at your own pace, and appreciate the various artworks and sculptures on show. You can also keep the kids happy in the children’s play area and even stop for a bite to eat in the Wrest Park café. This elegant country house is reminiscent of a grand French chateau, but set in a uniquely British environment. It really is the best of both worlds.
Head for the hills
A mere 11km north of Luton, reached via the A6, is The Barton Hills National Nature Reserve. A Site of Special Scientific Interest, it’s a pleasing mix of woodland and chalk hill downs. Hikers, mountain bikers, families and fans of all things flora, fauna and wildlife flock to the Barton Hills for pleasant walks, clear air and impressive landscapes.
You needn’t be a nature expert who can identify all of the rare and beautiful plants, grasses, trees, wildflowers, insects and birds you spot there, the park makes for a splendid day out for anyone who fancies strolling among the rolling Chilterns.
Monkey around
In Luton, you’re only a 30-minute drive north away from a seriously fun day out at Woburn Safari Park. Spread across 360 acres, you can choose whether to meet some of its 1000 residents on foot, by car, or a bit of both.
Listen out for the roar of Tullulah, the African lioness, that can supposedly be heard from miles away. Marvel at Miriam, a rare southern white rhino, who is actually grey. There’s also a superb small animal enclosure, perfect for up-close experiences with porcupines and more – just watch out for the super-sharp quills. Plan your trip so you don’t miss out on keeper talks and demonstrations, feeding times and special events. It's a slice of Africa in England not to be missed.
Nestled between the beautiful Chiltern Hills, Luton isn’t just a town with an airport. It’s so much more. Car hire in Luton allows you to tap into this hidden gem of a town and the picturesque area that surrounds it.
