Things to do in Luton

Luton is often overlooked because people are there for one thing and one thing only: the airport. Whether you’re escaping the UK for warmer climes or you’re arriving in Luton for a conference, event or to travel on to other places in the UK you should make some time in your journey to experience this countryside town. And for those of you who just want to go somewhere different, Luton is easily accessible on the rail network and you can reach it in under an hour from central London.

There are surprisingly loads of things to see and do when in Luton, here are our selection of interesting locations:

Wrest Park

This glorious country house and garden is the perfect place for families or just those who want to take some time out. There are over 92 acres to explore with wildlife aplenty as well as the stately home. Make sure to keep your eyes open for the various events that take place regularly at the house including live renactments, fairs, festivals and music events among others.

Wardown Park
This is one of the prettiest parks in Luton, aside from managing to maintain many of its original features, which may not surprise you when you learn that it has a Grade 2 Historic Park listing, it has some pretty stunning scenery as well as a museum and a library right on site. There’s also a boating lake to enjoy and as its free to enter and pretty much always open, there’s really no excuse not to visit.

Luton Hoo

Luton Hoo is one of the region’s premier hotels but it has great historical importance, particularly for those that have an interest in the second world war. The building itself is also a sight to behold and the hotel’s walled gardens has several Victorian and Edwardian glasshouses where seasonal fruit and vegetables are grown and sold.

Luton Carnival
Would you believe that the UK’s largest one day carnival is hosted in Luton? If you’re in the town over the second May bank holiday weekend make sure to set some time aside in your schedule to attend. The event was initially introduced by the town’s West Indian community back in the seventies and is now a huge community celebration with dancing, food stalls, arts, live music and more! The main event is the parade which starts on the edge of Wardown Park and spreads around the park area.

St Mary’s Church
Much of the architecture in Bedfordshire stems from its historical roots and this medieval church is no exception. The church itself is over 850 years old and has had improvements and refurbishments over the years without losing its initial charm. The church isn’t always open for visitors, though it does occasionally advertise tours, but you’re free to wander the grounds and enjoy the scenery.

Stockwood Park

Originally the grounds of a stately home, Stockwood Park is open to the public and has lots of small themed gardens contained within it and has sculptures and interesting landscaping which even those completely disinterested in gardening will enjoy. Right near the park is the Stockwood Discovery Centre which is a museum and has its own gardens dedicated to local history. The various exhibitions that take place there are well worth a visit, especially if you are interested in local history.

Somaries Castle
This castle ruin on the outskirts of Luton was built in the 15^th century and is said to be haunted by its creator, a man known as Sir John Wenlock. While the thought of visiting castle ruins might not be that exciting, it is recognised as the first brick house to be built in England.

Are you visiting Luton?
You can find out more about the town here!