LOCAL AREA

Dunstable has many famous local pubs including the Nag's Head. Why not try classic British Ale?

Just half an hour's drive from the hotel, Shaw's Corner is the former home of distinguished playwright, philosopher and politician George Bernard Shaw. The Arts and Crafts house is mostly unchanged, giving an authentic sense of how Shaw lived here for 44 years. After exploring the house, enjoy a peaceful wander through the picturesque gardens, or catch one of the plays frequently performed here.

The hotel sits on the edge of Dunstable Downs, an area of untouched scenery where you can get in touch with nature. As part of the Chiltern Hills, designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Downs is a great place to go for walks, admire the surrounds and spot different types of flora. For a real thrill, go hang-gliding or paragliding, or take a kite for the little ones to play with.

Only 10 minutes' drive from the hotel, Stockwood Discovery Centre is an exciting museum of local history featuring prehistoric, Roman and Anglo-Saxon artefacts, as well as a collection of horse-drawn carriages. After your visit, you can stroll through the peaceful, charming gardens. The events calendar is packed with workshops, shows and temporary exhibitions, so be sure to check what's on.