Hitchin Library

You'd be forgiven for walking past Hitchin Library without a second glance - it's not the sort of place that announces itself. But if you're staying at one of the nearby parks like Baldock Park Homes or Radwell Lake and you've had enough of the outdoors for an afternoon, it's a solid option for killing an hour or two.

The library itself is a proper community hub in the heart of Hitchin town centre. It's got the usual suspects - computers, free WiFi, a reasonable selection of books and magazines. The staff know what they're doing and the atmosphere is quiet enough that you can actually think, which is rarer than you'd expect. If you're into local history, they've got decent resources on Hertfordshire and the town itself.

For families with younger kids, there are activity areas and children's sections. Older children or adults after some peace will appreciate the reading rooms. It's not going to blow your mind - it's a library, not Disneyland - but it serves a purpose when you need one.

Admission is free. Check their website for current opening hours before you head over, as these things change. Honestly, it's most useful if you're combining it with a browse around Hitchin's town centre - plenty of cafes and shops nearby to make an afternoon of it. From the caravan parks around Henlow Bridge Lakes or Radwell Lake, you're looking at a twenty-minute drive, so plan accordingly.