The Grade I listed Ware Priory was originally built in the 15th century by Franciscan friars. Beautifully restored, this historic riverside building is now home to Ware Town Council and is surrounded by colourful gardens and attractive grounds. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby children’s play area and skate park.

Just a short walk from Ware Museum, Priory Park is a popular family-friendly spot on Priory Street, located between Ware Priory and Ware Priory Lido. The park offers a variety of children’s play equipment and includes Ware Skatepark, making it a great place for outdoor fun. There is plenty of open grassy space for running around and playing games, along with benches and picnic tables where families can relax or enjoy a picnic. The park is open daily from 8am until 8pm or dusk, whichever is earlier.

The River Lea runs through the centre of Ware and a special feature is the riverside gazebos, or summerhouses, built in the 18th century by innkeepers and other property owners on the busy High Street. No other town in Britain has so many gazebos along a single stretch of water. During the 1980s many of these unique structures were restored with support from East Herts District Council and the Ware Society.

Scott’s Grotto was built in the 1760s by local poet John Scott. It’s a magical place of rooms and tunnels clad in a variety of shells, fossils and other materials. The tunnels extend over 20 metres into the chalk hillside with the deepest chamber being some 10 metres below the hilltop. Open Saturdays and Bank Holiday Mondays between April and September. For opening times and admission prices, visit the Scott’s Grotto website.

Place House Hall is a Grade I listed medieval manor house which stands in a small walled courtyard in the centre of Ware. In the 1680s it became a school for boys from Christ’s Hospital, known as ‘bluecoat boys’ because of their blue uniform. The Hall is now available for private functions but the building exterior with its recently restored statue of a Bluecoat Boy can be admired from the courtyard. For more information, visit the Place House Hall website.

Just a short walk from Ware Museum, Ware Priory Lido is a popular outdoor swimming pool on Priory Street, perfect for a family day out during the warmer months. Originally opened in 1934, the lido features a 30-metre heated swimming pool, a smaller teaching pool for younger swimmers and a toddler play area. There are also grassy areas for relaxing and picnicking, along with changing facilities and a refreshment kiosk. The lido offers swimming sessions throughout the summer, as well as cold-water swimming for adults during the colder months. For opening times, admission prices and bookings, visit the Ware Priory Lido website.