Framed by the Chiltern Hills, Dunstable is a historic market town located partway between London and Milton Keynes. A Roman settlement was established here in the 1st century AD, although much of the town’s modern structure dates back to Anglo-Saxon times. Dunstable is home to an Augustinian priory and one of the largest zoos in the United Kingdom.
Things to do in Dunstable
One of the town’s most famous buildings is the Dunstable Priory, which was established in the 12th century by King Henry I. While only the nave of its original church remains, it stands as one of the most complete Norman Romanesque buildings in the United Kingdom. Admire the open rood screen and the elegant brass works, as well as the funerary monuments dating back to the 18th century.
Travelling with kids? Don’t miss the Whipsnade Zoo, which is home to thousands of animals from all corners of the globe. Jump aboard the safari bus to get up close to African lions, elephants and giraffes, as well as lemurs, tigers and rhinos. Sea lion demonstrations and bird of prey flights take place throughout the day.
Dunstable makes an ideal base for visiting the Barton Hills National Nature Reserve, a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest renowned for its wildflower displays. It forms part of the Dunstable Downs, a magnificent chalk escarpment within the Chiltern Hills. Follow one of the picturesque walking trails that wind through the reserve while keeping an eye out for native butterfly species and wild ponies.
Getting around Dunstable
Dunstable is around 10 minutes’ drive from Luton and 15 minutes from London Luton Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Dunstable and travel throughout the town. The centre of Dunstable can easily be explored on foot.