Local places to visit near Stevenage

Parts of Stevenage date back to Roman times. However, the town is perhaps more well-known for its designation as the first post-war ‘New Town’ in 1946. This paved the way for considerable expansion. The town is a vibrant urban area, but there are also green spaces, nature and countryside within Stevenage and nearby for everyone to enjoy.

As with all our ‘local places to visit’ these are free and open all year round.

Astonbury Wood

At the southeastern edge of Stevenage lies Astonbury Wood. This is an ancient 21 hectare woodland dating back to the 1600s.

Comprised mainly of oak and hornbeam, it is important as a habitat for wildlife including birds, small mammals and butterflies. It is also notable in the springtime for carpets of bluebells.

In early 2021 the wood was registered as an asset of community value, which was one of the necessary steps to ensure it remained publicly accessible. Following a successful fundraising appeal, Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust then took ownership of the Wood and now manages it for everyone to enjoy. More information is available here.