Rows of red velvet seats in a softly lit cinema

Time for you: 8 grown-up evenings out in Hertfordshire

BySev Safer

You’ve booked the babysitter. You’ve written down the bedtime routine, twice. You have roughly three hours before you’re back on duty. So how do you make them count? Here are eight grown-up evenings out across Hertfordshire, for the you that existed before the school run.

Film nights, done properly

1. The Odyssey, St Albans

A beautifully restored art deco cinema with comfortable seats and a bar, where you can take your drink in with you. It shows a mix of new releases and classics, and it feels like an occasion rather than a trip to the multiplex.

2. The Rex, Berkhamsted

Another art deco gem, and one of the most loved independent cinemas in the country. Book one of the tables at the front for a glass of wine with your film, and arrive early to soak up the atmosphere.

Laughs and live music

3. A comedy night

BEAM in Hertford (formerly Hertford Theatre), the Alban Arena in St Albans and Watford Palace Theatre all host comedy nights through the year, from big names to new acts. There’s nothing like a proper laugh with other grown-ups to remind you who you are. Check their listings and book ahead.

4. Live music at The Horn, St Albans

A friendly music venue with gigs most weeks, from tribute bands to up-and-coming acts. Go for an early set and you’ll still be home in plenty of time.

Slow down

5. An autumn walk and a pub supper

If you can get out before dark, the Ashridge Estate near Berkhamsted is glorious in autumn. Walk through the woods, then warm up in a pub in the nearby village of Aldbury. A walk and a talk, without anyone asking for a snack.

6. A twilight spa session

Many local spas, including the Cottonmill Spa at Sopwell House in St Albans, offer evening or twilight packages. A swim, a steam and a sit-down, with no one needing anything from you. Check what’s available and book ahead, especially for weekends.

Try something new

7. An evening class

Pottery, life drawing, cookery, dance: there’s something running most weeknights across Hertfordshire. A one-off taster session is a lovely way to try something that’s just for you, and you might leave with a new hobby.

8. Dinner, just the two of you, or with friends

Sometimes the best evening out is the simplest one. Book the early table somewhere local, order the thing you’d never order with children at the table, and talk about anything other than the kids. We dare you.

How to make three hours count

  • Book the early slot. A 6.30pm table or film gives you a proper evening and gets you home before you’re shattered.
  • Stay local. Less time travelling means more time actually out.
  • Leave everything written down. Bedtime routine, your number and where you’ll be, so you can switch off.
  • Put your phone on loud, then in your bag. You’ll hear it if you’re needed, and you won’t scroll through dinner.
  • Put the next one in the diary before you get home. It’s much easier to make it a habit than to start from scratch.

Looking for family days out too? See our What’s On guide. And for a weekly round-up of the best local ideas, join Cherubs Club. Your first month is free.

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