Hertfordshire Travel Guide: Explore St Albans, Hatfield House, and More Top Attractions

Nestled just north of London, Hertfordshire offers a delightful blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant market towns. Whether we’re exploring the charming streets of St Albans or wandering through the serene gardens of Hatfield House, there’s always something new to discover in this enchanting county.

In this travel guide, we’ll uncover the must-visit spots, hidden gems, and local favourites that make Hertfordshire a perfect getaway. From picturesque villages to grand estates, let’s dive into the heart of Hertfordshire and find out why it’s a destination worth visiting.

Key Takeaways

• Diverse Attractions: Hertfordshire boasts a rich array of attractions, including historical sites like St Albans Cathedral and Hatfield House, as well as natural landscapes such as the Chiltern Hills and River Lee Navigation.
• Varied Accommodation Options: The county offers various lodging choices to suit every budget, from affordable chain hotels and charming B&Bs to luxurious hotels and unique stays like Georgian mansions and glamping sites.
• Culinary Diversity: Hertfordshire’s culinary scene features both traditional British cuisine and international flavours, with dining options ranging from historic pubs to gourmet restaurants and cosy cafés.
• Efficient Transportation: Getting around Hertfordshire is convenient thanks to excellent public transport connections to London, numerous car hire options, and scenic cycling routes.
• Vibrant Local Events: The county hosts numerous annual festivals, seasonal activities, and cultural celebrations, reflecting its rich heritage and lively community spirit.

Overview Of Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire, known for its proximity to London, blends historical charm and modern conveniences. With a population of over 1.1 million, it’s home to a diverse mix of urban, suburban, and rural landscapes. Major settlements include Watford, Hemel Hempstead, and Stevenage, each offering unique attributes.

St Albans, once a significant Roman city, boasts the well-preserved St Albans Cathedral and the Verulamium Museum. Hatfield House, a Jacobean gem, stands among gardens and parklands. The house itself demonstrates exquisite architecture and intricate interiors.

Hertfordshire offers numerous outdoor activities. The Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, provides trails for hiking and cycling. River Lee Navigation allows boating and fishing. These natural spaces ensure ample opportunities for leisure.

Transport links are efficient. Regular trains connect towns to London, making commuting straightforward. Road networks, including the M1 and A1(M), facilitate access to nearby regions. This makes Hertfordshire accessible and convenient for both locals and visitors.

Local markets and events enhance Hertfordshire’s appeal. Weekly markets in diverse towns, such as Hitchin and Hertford, feature fresh produce and artisan goods. Seasonal events, like the Hertfordshire County Show, draw large crowds and celebrate local heritage.

Overall, Hertfordshire seamlessly combines rich history, outdoor adventures, and excellent transport connections, making it an ideal destination for various interests.

Top Attractions

Hertfordshire offers numerous attractions that cater to a variety of interests. From historic sites to breathtaking natural landscapes, there’s something for everyone.

Historic Sites

Hertfordshire boasts several notable historic sites. St Albans Cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, features stunning Norman architecture and medieval wall paintings. The nearby Verulamium Museum houses artefacts from Roman Britain, providing insights into the region’s rich past. Hatfield House, a prime example of Jacobean architecture, offers guided tours that explore the house’s history and its beautiful gardens. Knebworth House, with its Gothic facade, hosts various cultural events, including concerts and medieval re-enactments.

Natural Landscapes

Hertfordshire’s natural landscapes are equally captivating. The Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offer trails for both hiking and cycling. The expansive green spaces of Cassiobury Park in Watford, with over 190 acres, provide opportunities for picnics, walking, and wildlife spotting. The River Lee Navigation, stretching through the county, allows for peaceful boating and fishing experiences. Heartwood Forest, one of the largest new native woodlands in England, is perfect for leisurely walks through its scenic paths.

Family-Friendly Activities

There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Hertfordshire. Paradise Wildlife Park in Broxbourne offers animal encounters and adventure playgrounds, engaging children and adults alike. Willows Activity Farm features hands-on farming experiences, seasonal events, and a Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground. For a mix of education and entertainment, the Natural History Museum at Tring showcases an extensive collection of stuffed animals and fossils. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter in Leavesden provides an unforgettable experience for Harry Potter fans, exploring sets, costumes, and props from the films.

Best Places To Stay

Hertfordshire offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveller’s preference, ranging from budget-friendly lodgings to luxurious hotels and unique stays.

Budget Options

Affordable accommodations, which include chain hotels and charming B&Bs, cater to budget-conscious travellers. Premier Inn and Travelodge provide consistent quality and comfort in locations like Watford and Stevenage. Smaller establishments, such as The White Hart Hotel in St Albans, offer historic charm and personal service. These budget options ensure visitors can enjoy Hertfordshire without overspending.

Luxury Hotels

For those seeking a more lavish experience, several luxury hotels provide exceptional amenities and services. The Grove in Chandler’s Cross is a five-star hotel known for its stunning golf course, spa, and fine dining options. Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club in Ware features an 18-hole golf course, a spa, and elegant rooms set within historic architecture. These luxury hotels offer an indulgent stay with superior facilities.

Unique Accommodations

Unique accommodations contribute to a memorable Hertfordshire visit. Theobalds Estate in Cheshunt, a stunning Georgian mansion, offers a blend of historic elegance and modern comfort. For something distinctive, Warner’s Farm B&B in Bishop’s Stortford combines rustic charm with contemporary amenities. Additionally, the Hertfordshire Glamping at Top Farm provides cosy yurts and bell tents, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing comfort. These unique stays add an extra layer of charm to any trip.

Culinary Delights Of Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire offers a diverse culinary scene, with flavours ranging from classic British dishes to international cuisines. Whether visitors seek traditional fare or global delights, there’s something for every palate.

Traditional British Cuisine

Hertfordshire boasts an array of establishments serving traditional British cuisine. The Grove in Watford offers classic dishes like fish and chips and Sunday roasts, using locally sourced ingredients. Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans, one of the oldest pubs in England, serves hearty pies and locally brewed ales. The Fox at Willian in Letchworth Garden City provides an upscale experience with dishes such as beef Wellington and sticky toffee pudding.

International Flavours

The international dining scene in Hertfordshire features various options for those seeking global tastes. Tabure in St Albans delights diners with Turkish mezzes and grilled kebabs. The Meating Room in St Albans specialises in gourmet burgers with international twists, such as the Moroccan lamb burger. Lussmanns in Hertford and St Albans offers sustainably sourced seafood and dishes from French, Italian, and Spanish cuisines.

Best Cafés And Pubs

Cafés and pubs in Hertfordshire provide relaxing spots for a casual meal or a cup of coffee. Many recommend The Waffle House in St Albans for its sweet and savoury waffles, made with organic flour. The Rusty Gun in Hitchin offers a cosy pub atmosphere with a menu featuring homemade pies and local beers. The Barn at Cardington in Bedfordshire serves artisan coffee, freshly baked pastries, and seasonal dishes in a charming setting.

Hertfordshire offers a culinary journey that satisfies both traditional and international tastes, with delightful spots to explore at every corner.

Getting Around Hertfordshire

Efficient transport options make exploring Hertfordshire easy. Whether using public transport, hiring a car, or cycling, you can enjoy seamless travel throughout the region.

Public Transport

Hertfordshire benefits from excellent public transport. Regular trains connect major towns like Watford, St Albans, and Stevenage to central London, with journey times under 30 minutes for most routes. Thameslink and Great Northern are primary operators. Buses operate across the region, with Arriva and Uno offering extensive networks linking urban and rural areas. For local travel, taxis are readily available and can be booked through various apps.

Car Hire

Hiring a car provides flexibility, especially for exploring rural Hertfordshire. Major car hire companies, including Enterprise and Hertz, have locations in larger towns and around railway stations. Booking in advance often secures the best rates and ensures vehicle availability. Hertfordshire’s well-maintained roads and clear signage help navigate easily, while ample parking in towns and attractions adds convenience.

Cycling Routes

Hertfordshire offers scenic cycling routes suitable for all levels. The Cole Green Way, between Hertford and Welwyn Garden City, is a popular 6.5-mile off-road trail ideal for families. More experienced cyclists can tackle the Chilterns Cycleway, a 170-mile circular route traversing beautiful countryside. For trail options, the Alban Way connects St Albans and Hatfield, while the Lee Valley Park offers various cycling paths along the River Lee. Numerous bike rental services are available, including Redbourn Cycle Hub and Britain on Bicycles.

Local Events And Festivals

Hertfordshire hosts a vibrant array of local events and festivals throughout the year that cater to various interests and age groups. These events highlight the county’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit.

Annual Festivals

Hertfordshire County Show stands out as a major annual festival, celebrating agricultural traditions over the late May bank holiday. The event features livestock displays, equestrian shows, and local produce stalls. Folk by the Oak, held in July in Hatfield, blends folk music, food, and crafts, drawing music enthusiasts from afar. St Albans’ Food and Drink Festival, typically in September, showcases the best of local cuisine with cookery demonstrations, street food vendors, and tasting sessions.

Seasonal Activities

Seasonal activities in Hertfordshire vary widely, ensuring year-round entertainment. In spring, the Bluebell Walks in various woodlands, such as Ashridge Estate, offer picturesque scenery. Summer brings the Hitchin Lavender Festival, where visitors can pick their lavender and enjoy workshops. During autumn, the Hertford Castle Open Air Theatre showcases classic plays against a historical backdrop. Winter markets, like the one in St Albans, feature festive stalls, ice-skating rinks, and live music.

Cultural Celebrations

Hertfordshire’s cultural celebrations reflect its diverse heritage. Diwali in Watford, marked by light displays and cultural performances, draws large crowds each October. Celebrating the pagan tradition, the Baldock International Day of Dance in May brings together various dance groups. St Albans hosts a Roman Festival in June, reviving ancient history with re-enactments and educational activities.

Hertfordshire’s local events and festivals offer vibrant experiences, from cultural celebrations to annual festivals, making the county a lively destination year-round.

Conclusion

Hertfordshire truly offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern conveniences. Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of St Albans or enjoying the serene gardens at Hatfield House, there’s something for everyone. The county’s rich cultural heritage, combined with its vibrant events and festivals, ensures that every visit is memorable.

With excellent transport links and a diverse range of accommodations, Hertfordshire is easily accessible and caters to all types of travellers. From outdoor adventures in the Chiltern Hills to culinary delights in local eateries, the experiences here are both varied and enriching.

We hope this guide inspires you to discover the many charms of Hertfordshire. Your perfect getaway awaits just north of London.