Things to do in Hertfordshire

Visiting England for the first time was an incredible journey filled with excitement and milestones. This trip marked my introduction to the country and was a significant occasion for several reasons. It was my first time setting foot in England. Moreover, it also allowed me to meet Charlotte’s family in person for the first time. Charlotte and I had spent the past three years teaching in China, unable to leave due to the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic. Reuniting in her hometown of Hertfordshire was a great way to start this two-week trip.

Back in 2010, a planned visit to London with my high school fell through. This time, everything aligned for a great first visit to England. In this article, discover the places I visited and my recommendations. These places are just in the Hertfordshire area.

What is Hertfordshire best known for?

Harry Potter World

Hertfordshire is a huge county with several towns and Charlotte is from the county town Hertford. There are many activities to do in Hertfordshire, but a more famous attraction is a visit to the Warner Bros Studio tour. The studio tour is based in Watford, which is about a 45 minute drive from Hertford. This is where Harry Potter fans can be part of the wizarding world and even drink some Butter Beer. We unfortunately didn’t get to go because all tickets were sold out for the entire summer! So, top tip- book your tickets early if you want to go.

Great Outdoor Spaces with Historic Buildings

Hertfordshire has many outdoor spaces, which is great for families with toddlers. A popular spot is in Welwyn Garden City as it has a Butterfly World Project and an indoor wildlife park ideal for a peaceful day. Furthermore, the county has stunning gardens with historic old buildings like Knebworth House. This is where Charlotte had her High School prom and can vouch for how pretty it is! Additionally, Hertfordshire offers cultural events within their historic sites like Hatfield House, which are worth visiting if you like very old listed buildings.

The county town of Hertford itself is very historic and even has a castle! You can walk around the very small town and see cobbled streets, cafes, restaurants and old buildings. Hertford Castle itself has a park and small river that flows through it, good for having a picnic or a stroll.

Is Hertfordshire in London or outside London? 

Before my visit, I was still determining whether Hertfordshire was in London or outside the city. Hertfordshire is located just outside London, and I can personally vouch for it. It’s a county with a unique character, distinct from the streets of the capital. During my stay, I also experienced firsthand the countryside charm and the convenience of easy access to London’s vibrant energy.

This proximity allowed me to enjoy both worlds, making Hertfordshire the perfect choice for those seeking the best urban and rural living. The well-connected subway system, known as the Tube and National Rail, contributed significantly to its accessibility. Charlotte and I opted for a day pass at £28, which may seem a tad expensive. It afforded us unlimited access to the Tube, Rail and bus services for the entire day. This allowed us to explore London’s diverse neighbourhoods and attractions at our leisure. It was a convenient and worthwhile investment that further enhanced our memorable adventure in Hertfordshire and London. So, for anyone else wondering, Hertfordshire is indeed on the outskirts of London, offering a truly special and balanced experience. 

Things to do in Hertfordshire 

My time in England Hertfordshire was filled with delightful experiences that brought me closer to England’s culture and cuisine. Whether you are looking for things to do in Hertfordshire for adults or things to do in Hertfordshire for couples, you will not be disappointed with your time there. If you are looking for a day out in Hertfordshire, here are some things we did.  

1. Local Dining Must Haves!

One highlight was dining at “The Sword in Hand,” where I had a tasty £25 roast in a charming setting perfect for families. Sharing a traditional Sunday roast with locals made me feel like a part of the community. I would fit this restaurant into your itinerary if you are looking for things to do in Hertfordshire for families as kids could play at the outdoor park next next. Of course, I couldn’t pass up the chance to try Greggs’s famous sausage roll, a treat I had heard so much about. Charlotte and I also enjoyed a wonderful food and beer outing at the Brew Garden in town. And who could forget the Saracens Head in Ware, right by the canal, where we had a drink and soaked in the lovely atmosphere.

Hertfordshire’s culinary delights and cozy spots left me with unforgettable memories of our time together. I found that the best things to do in Hertfordshire were to get lost in a new place and discover the city. Whether it’s a stroll through stunning gardens or a hike in the hills, Hertfordshire’s natural beauty offers a refreshing escape from the city life.

2. Fun free things to do in Hertfordshire 

If you’re looking for things to do in Hertfordshire this weekend, there are plenty of options to consider. Hertfordshire, England, provides enjoyable and free activities for those exploring the county without breaking the bank. Attractions in Hertfordshire make it hard to leave, although you can venture out to other towns such as St. Albans or Hitchin.  

In Hertfordshire England, you can stroll through charming market towns like St. Albans or Hitchin. They have lovely old buildings, lively markets, and a friendly atmosphere. If you enjoy nature, there are plenty of footpaths and parks like Aldenham Country Park and Stanborough Park for walks, picnics, and watching wildlife. Don’t miss the Royston Cave, a mysterious underground cave with ancient carvings that tell a unique story. If you’re into art, check out the University of Hertfordshire’s Art and Design Gallery, which often features free exhibitions showcasing talented artists. Hertfordshire offers a variety of fun and free activities, so if you are looking for things to do in Hertfordshire today, you can have a great time without spending much. 

3. Things to do in St Albans 

St. Albans, a charming town in Hertfordshire, offers a delightful blend of experiences, and I had the pleasure of discovering some of its unique attractions. One of the highlights was eating at the Waffle House restaurant, where we savoured sweet and savoury waffles, including the enticing chilli con carne waffle and the decadent ultimate chocolate waffle. It was a delightful surprise to find that England could master waffles, and it even gave me a nostalgic taste of home in Canada.

After our meal, we strolled around Verulamium Park, a serene lake teeming with wildlife like ducks and graceful swans. The peaceful ambiance and picturesque surroundings made it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy nature’s beauty. St. Albans truly offers a delightful mix of culinary pleasures and natural beauty, creating cherished memories of our visit. 

4. Take a day trip to Cambridge

My visit to Cambridge was a memorable experience filled with cultural exploration and unexpected celebrity encounters. We began our journey by driving from Hertfordshire, which took about 45 minutes. We then parked at the Trumpington Park and Ride station to catch a bus into the city. This proved to be a wise choice as it helped alleviate the traffic congestion within Cambridge. Once we arrived, we explored its beautiful architecture and Cambridge University.

Our day unfolded with a visit to the famous bakery Fitzbillies, where we indulged in their legendary scones, an essential culinary experience. However, the true highlight of our day was punting on the serene river. Finding a company that provided punting services was accessible as people promoted the activity on the streets near the canal. There is also the option to self-hire a punting boat, although we thought hiring a company would be easier. 

We chose a company called Scudamores for our punting adventure. For £85, we were guided by a knowledgeable student who shared fascinating historical insights about Cambridge. What made this experience more unforgettable was the encounter with Sacha Baron Cohen, also known as Borat. Fun fact: Sacha Baron Cohen was an alumni at Cambridge. Was it a coincidence that he was there?  

Other punting services: 

Cambridge Chauffeur Punts 

Cambridge Punt Company  

5. Walk from Hertford to Ware along the Canal

Hertfordshire is filled with many picturesque spots. There are many unique things to do in Hertfordshire, including a scenic walk from Hertford to the town of  Ware. This one-hour stroll allowed Charlotte and I to soak in the countryside’s natural beauty. This activity connected the two towns and allowed us to appreciate Hertfordshire’s countryside and beauty. We even then stopped at the Saracen’s Head pub in Ware to have a refreshing drink before walking back towards Hertford.

6. Enjoy Broxbourne Park 

Another beautiful area that we came across was Broxbourne Park. This beautiful park features green spaces and scenic walking trails, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and families. The park’s diverse wildlife and rich biodiversity create opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. For those who love equestrian activities, the park features horse trails that allow people to explore its scenic landscape. Broxbourne Park provides a peaceful retreat where visitors can unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy leisurely outdoor activities. At certain times of the year it also houses long horned cows, which we were lucky enough to see over the summer period. 

To wrap it all up…

My vacation in Hertfordshire, England, was an enriching experience that left an indelible mark on my heart. The towns and parks were beautiful and peaceful. The villages had historic buildings, and the parks had nature trails. Sharing this journey with Charlotte, my travel companion, made it all the more special. Hertfordshire’s blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality made for an unforgettable vacation. It left me with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for this lovely corner of England.

Written By Daniel x