Park2Bark

Park2Bark is a dog-friendly landmark near Henlow that's become something of a pilgrimage spot for anyone travelling with a canine companion. It's exactly what the name suggests - a place where your dog can properly stretch its legs and socialise without you fretting about leads or restricted areas.

The setup is straightforward: open space where dogs run free, which sounds simple but makes all the difference if you've been cooped up in a car or caravan for hours. Owners tend to cluster around the edges, chatting while their dogs tear about like maniacs. It's the sort of place where a collie will finally burn off enough energy to sleep through the evening, and frankly, that alone makes it worth the detour.

You won't need more than an hour here unless you're particularly sociable. Bring water and maybe a tennis ball - the ground's decent even after rain. It's free to use, which is a bonus when you're already paying for Henlow Bridge Lakes or Radwell Lake campsite.

Real talk: if you're visiting with non-dog people in tow, they might find it a bit dull. It's purely functional rather than scenic. But as a stop-off during a Hertfordshire holiday, especially if you're staying at either of the nearby parks, it does the job brilliantly. Your dog will absolutely love you for it.