For lovers of the great outdoors
Occupying a peaceful spot in the Lee Valley, Hoddesdon offers green space by the bucketload. An impressive clock tower is the focal point of this Hertfordshire town, which used to be an important stop on the coaching route between London and Cambridge. These days, you can be in the centre of London within 40 minutes by train.
Step into Paradise Wildlife Park
Two miles east of the town, Paradise Wildlife Park has a fantastic collection of big cats, including white tigers, snow leopards and cheetahs, which you can even hand feed. You can also meet white-cheeked gibbons, European wolves and a few slippery characters in the reptile temple. On hot days, little ones can cool off in the Paradise Lagoon, an open-air pool with hippo fountain and water slide.
Let loose in Lee Valley
Stretching for 26 miles along the River Lee, this vast park offers a diverse mix of countryside walks, cycle trails, watersports and boating. Ride the waves at Lee Valley White Water Centre or, if you're looking for quieter pursuits, watch wildlife darting around at Rye Meads nature reserve. Looking for a cheap hotel Near Hoddesdon? Travelodge Harlow is less than 5 miles from the town. Travelodge Cheshunt is also close by, and ideal for exploring the Lee Valley Regional Park.