Hertford: Discover the Castle, Waterways and Culture

Hertford combines historic buildings, river landscapes and a diverse cultural programme. Anyone looking for a holiday apartment in Hertford can tailor their stay to their own interests: with history and architecture, walks along the Lee Navigation or events away from the mainstream.

Historic discoveries around Hertford Castle

Hertford Castle is designated as a Scheduled Monument and is one of the best-preserved motte-and-bailey castles in southern England. The castle is also the first attraction on the Hertford Heritage Trail. The trail opened in 2017 and includes 41 stops. Printed maps are available from the Town and Tourist Information Centre; the trail is also available online. This makes it possible to explore Hertford’s historic side independently and in stages.

The town’s religious buildings add to the picture. The Church of St Andrew dates from 1869–1870 and contains a 15th-century doorway from an earlier church on this site. The Church of the Immaculate Conception and St Joseph includes a cloister and a garden. Hertford Museum is housed in an early 17th-century building and hosts a varied programme for all age groups each year. For a multigenerational trip, this provides a combination of architectural history, a museum and different cultural interests.

Walks, woodland paths and the Lee Navigation

Hartham Common is a public green space in the centre of Hertford. It features species-rich river corridors, meadows grazed by cattle and a network of paths. Extensive walking routes run along the river and through woodland; public rights of way connect Hertford and Ware. Three colour-coded circular walks lead from Hartham Common to green open spaces, ancient woodland and numerous attractions in and around Hertford.

Those who enjoy walking or cycling can also include the Lee Navigation in their plans. Its main channel runs from Hertford to Bow, where it joins the Thames. The towpath offers opportunities for walking and cycling along its route. This means that when planning your trip, you can choose between a culturally focused day, a walk through green spaces and a longer activity by the water.

Film and music as additional elements of your trip

Hertford also offers regular events for an evening out or a cultural stopover. BEAM’s Lighthouse series screens films away from the mainstream every two weeks. BEAM Sessions feature free monthly live acoustic events with new and established artists from the region. Check the relevant dates for your travel period if you would like to combine your stay with film or live music.

The right accommodation for your trip planning

Which holiday apartment in Hertford suits your plans depends mainly on your preferred focus. For travellers interested in history, the castle, Heritage Trail and museum are the main attractions. Those looking for exercise and scenery can include Hartham Common, the circular walks or the Lee Navigation towpath in their daily plans.

For further trip planning, you can also explore Datchworth, Standon, Hertingfordbury, Watford, Knebworth, Little Berkhampstead, Hexton and London Colney.

For the overarching travel overview: Hertfordshire.