castles to visit hertfordshire

THE 5 BEST Hertfordshire Castles

Castles in hertfordshire.

• Churches & Cathedrals
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Historic Sites
• Sacred & Religious Sites
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Berkhamsted Castle

2. Hertford Castle

3. London Gate

4. Waytemore Castle

5. Old Hatfield House

What travellers are saying.

• Hertford Castle
• Berkhamsted Castle
• Waytemore Castle
• London Gate
• Old Hatfield House

Hertfordshire's castles, manor houses, and gardens

Art, history, nature, and culture all roll into one here in Hertfordshire, and we’re here to share it with you. Dotted across the county, you’ll find some of the most magnificent castles, manor houses, and gardens, each with its own unique background and story. Come with us and see for yourself the wonder that lies around every corner in this magnificent area, right next door to London yet unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

Hertford Castle

Once the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I, the beautiful 15 th century castle is a must visit on any trip to Hertfordshire. Explore the grounds of the castle, soaking up the beautiful views before heading inside to learn all about its intriguing history. Once a Norman Castle and following that a Royal Palace for over 300 years, you’re sure to hear some amazing stories (if these walls could talk!). With plenty of events year-round, including Christmas markets, open air movie screenings, and fascinating guided tours, your upcoming calendar has just got a little bit more interesting…

Berkhamsted Castle

One of England’s oldest motte-and-bailey castles, this once royal stronghold holds within it some amazing stories. With 950 years-worth of discovery to be had, a day out at Berkhamsted Castle is enough to leave anyone impressed (we’re looking at you, history-phobics!). So why not take a tour around one of the most fascinating sites in the county, learning about those who lived, worked, and passed through here.

Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club

Discover a new definition of luxury at Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club. Located on 200 sprawling acres of immaculately landscaped grounds in the charming town of Ware in Hertfordshire, this stately Jacobean-style hotel showcases unmatched grandeur, a wealth of 5-star amenities and superb placement only 25 miles from London.

Pendley Manor

Surrounded by 32 acres of Hertfordshire countryside, Pendley Manor in Tring is the ideal place to enjoy a picturesque garden escape. This Grade II listed Victorian Manor House Hotel has 84 well-appointed, newly refurbished, and comfortable bedrooms for a guaranteed good night’s sleep. Plus, with new leisure facilities including a spa, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, and a fully equipped gym, you’ll be tempted to stay just that one extra night! 

Down Hall Country House

Dating back as early as 1322, Down Hall has long been a home to socialites, politicians, and art dealers. So why not see for yourself what all the fuss is about and complete your trip with an overnight stay? Go for strolls throughout the grounds and in the walking trails nearby, have a game of croquet on the lawn, and enjoy a hearty meal on The Terrace to put you in that holiday mood.

Sopwell House

For a stay filled with comfort, beautiful views, and warm welcomes, look no further than Sopwell House. A 4-star Georgian country house hotel within easy reach of London, you can spend your stay enjoying their host of events, luxury spa, amazing restaurants, and cocktail lounge.

Ashridge House

Venture to the bio-diversely rich land of Ashridge House which lies on the picturesque Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The landscape features beech and oak woodlands, commons, and chalk downlands. Pop into the visitor centre to discover popular forest routes and explore the area by foot or bike, down the miles of footpaths and bridleways.

Hatfield Park

Hatfield House’s seventeenth century designed gardens are the perfect location for a day out with friends and family. With a herb garden, sundial garden and pleached lime walk for those warmer September days, it won’t only be the childhood house of Queen Elizabeth I you will be admiring. If you’re lucky enough to spot the leaves turning before Hatfield House closes at the end of September, the woodland garden and parkland will certainly be worthy of an autumn stroll so have your blanket scarves and knitwear at the ready.

Knebworth House

Known for its filming heritage, we can’t blame any visitors of Knebworth House for wanting to spend hours snapping pics of this picturesque Grade II listed building. You might have seen it in the background of films like The King’s Speech, Batman, or even the hit Netflix TV series, You. Well, now you can take the on-screen magic and put it right in front of your eyes as you explore this magnificent country house and its stunning gardens for the day.

Brocket Hall

Stood tall within 543 acres of beautiful parkland, Brocket Hall is the place to be for all of your accommodation, dining, relaxing and (we know some of you will love this one!) golfing needs. As one of the country’s finest stately homes, it’s drawn in some well-known names throughout the years, and it’s no surprise – their golf courses offer an afternoon of leisure for golfers of all abilities and, once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to the irresistible Auberge du Lac restaurant on site. A meal here will provide you with some of the finest, locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients. At the end of the day, rest your head in one of the rooms at the Melbourne Lodge – tranquillity, luxury, and comfort await!

Benington Lordship Gardens

Seven acres of beautiful grounds await at Benington Lordship Gardens, so keep an eye out for their open days so you can get a true taste of the Hertfordshire outdoors. Spend a relaxed afternoon wandering the rose and kitchen gardens of the fortified estate and enjoy views across the parkland and the first sightings of spring. Nothing says relaxation like a stroll in the beautiful outdoors!

Henry Moore Studios & Gardens

Rolling hills, big blue skies, and fantastic art are all to be found at the Henry Moore Studios & Gardens. This is always one of our top recommendations, with a day out here filled with inspiration and creativity that’s sure to ignite your inner artiste. The gardens themselves are dotted with works from some of the world-renowned artist, giving you a glimpse into his life and perhaps some of the same inspiration that he once found while living in Hertfordshire.

• Advertise with us

• History Magazine
• Destinations UK

Historic Hertfordshire Guide

Ben johnson, facts about hertfordshire.

Home to two ‘garden cities’, Welwyn and Letchworth, Hertfordshire nevertheless boasts a rich heritage. Visit the cathedral city of St Albans and explore not only the famous cathedral but also its beautiful medieval architecture and the city’s Roman past. The Roman theatre here at Veralumium is one of the finest examples in England.

There are many historic attractions in Hertfordshire including stunning Knebworth House, seat of the Lytton family since 1490, and Berkhamstead Castle, a fine example of an 11th motte-and-bailey Norman castle. One of the 12 beautiful Eleanor Crosses is to be found at Waltham Cross. King Edward I had one of these crosses erected at each overnight stop of his queen’s funeral cortege on its way from Harby in Nottinghamshire to Westminster Abbey.

Hertfordshire was also home to the famous sculptor Henry Moore. His house at Perry Green is open to the public and well worth a visit. Shaw’s Cottage near Welwyn was owned by the playwright George Bernard Shaw and has been preserved as it was during his lifetime. Visitors can also view the revolving summerhouse where he liked to write.

Children will enjoy living as a Celt for the day and experiencing life in the Iron Age at Celtic Harmony Camp near Hertford. And of course, a visit with the family to Hertfordshire would be incomplete without a trip to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour near Watford; a must for all Harry Potter fans!

History in your inbox

Sign up for monthly updates

Advertisement

Next article.

Harry Potter Film Locations

You've read the books, you've seen the film - now discover the superb film locations.

Popular searches

• Castle Hotels
• Coastal Cottages
• Cottages with Pools
• Kings and Queens

Top Castles in Hertfordshire: A Guide to England’s Best

Gazing upon Berkhamsted Castle, the site of a Norman castle, I was transported back to a time when the English throne was a symbol of power and intrigue. Hertfordshire, a county rich in history and peppered with remnants of royal heritage, is like stepping into a page of England’s medieval past. Just north of the buzzing Outernet London, this land of winter adventures and tales of monarchs, such as the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, offers a magical experience. Its castles, steeped in popular culture and history, stand as testaments to the grandeur and tumult of yesteryear. Join me as we explore these majestic sites, where every stone and turret has a story to tell – from royal escapades to the secrets of kings’ second wives. Welcome to a journey through castles in Hertfordshire, where history is not just learned but vividly experienced.

Berkhamsted Castle

Berkhamsted Castle , a site steeped in the history of the English throne, now stands as a modest echo of its former self. Originally a Norman castle, this historic site once served as a strategic fortress and a royal residence, pivotal in the saga of the English monarchy. Built in the 11th century, it has been a Norman stronghold, a royal palace for generations of English kings, and the birthplace of the famed Thomas Becket. Today, its ruins, while lacking the grandeur of yesteryears, still resonate with the legacy of power and politics that once played out within its walls. The remnants of this Norman stronghold offer a stark yet captivating contrast to its illustrious past, inviting visitors to explore the quietude of this ruined castle, a humble testament to its once-imposing role in England’s royal history.

Many are needed to plant a tree, yet few to cut it down. Thomas Becket

The Splendor of Hatfield House

While Berkhamsted Castle conjures images of medieval nobility, the stately Jacobean manor of  Hatfield House  transports you to the era of extravagant 17th century courts. With its perfect manicured gardens, elaborate sculptures, and imposing facade of glass and stone, Hatfield House is an exercise in elegant excess.

Stepping inside this grade one historic house, it’s easy to imagine oneself as a guest of some duke or marquess playing courtier games down the sumptuous corridors. Of course, Hatfield House’s claim to fame comes from its most famous resident – Queen Elizabeth I. Princess Elizabeth spent much of her childhood here after Henry VIII seized the estate for use as a royal residence and nursery.

It’s said that Elizabeth was sitting beneath Hatfield’s famous oak tree when she received the news that she had become queen at the tender age of 25. One likes to imagine young Elizabeth frolicking through Hatfield’s gardens, blissfully unaware of the royal duties in store!

Many decades later, director Shekhar Kapur brought Elizabeth’s early years at Hatfield vividly to life in the 2007 drama film Elizabeth: The Golden Age starring Cate Blanchett. Visitors can currently tour the grand old estate and see places featured in the film, like the Great Hall, while marveling at Hatfield’s blend of Tudor and Baroque architecture. Drink an iced tea in the West Garden while picturing an oblivious young princess daydreaming the days away! Prices : Hatfield House is one of the more expensive estates to tour at around $27 per adult ticket. But the splendor of this iconic Jacobean house and its immaculate gardens make it worth the cost in my book! Plan on spending at least 2-3 hours visiting. The admission covers access to all rooms, parklands and West Garden. Or just enjoy a light lunch at the onsite cafe!

Hertford Castle Gatehouse: A Portal to the Past

Imagine stepping back in time as you approach the  Hertford Castle Gatehouse . This architectural marvel, a Grade 1 listed building, dates back to the 14th century and stands as a testament to England’s rich royal history. Once a royal residence, it has witnessed centuries of historical events, with its walls echoing tales of monarchs and nobles who walked its corridors.

Today, the gatehouse has transformed into a vibrant hub, offering a unique blend of history and modernity. As you wander through the lush gardens along the River Lea, you’re not just exploring a castle but experiencing a slice of English heritage. It’s a place where history meets the present – where the past is not just remembered but celebrated.

The castle is available for private hire, making it an ideal venue for those dreaming of a fairytale wedding or a corporate event with a historic twist. Imagine hosting your special day amidst the grandeur of a 15th-century gatehouse, with the picturesque backdrop of ancient trees and turreted walls. Hertford Castle offers this and more, with flexible options to hire just a single room or the entire suite, ensuring your event is as intimate or grand as you wish.

Walking through the castle, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere of regal elegance, with each corner offering a new discovery. It’s not just a visit; it’s an experience – an affordable, inspiring journey through time.

So, if you’re looking to add a touch of historic charm to your next event or simply wish to immerse yourself in England’s royal past, Hertford Castle Gatehouse awaits. Embrace the opportunity to create your own unique and bespoke occasion in a setting that’s both timeless and enchanting.

Knebworth House: A Blend of History and Culture

At first glance, the Victorian gothic facade of  Knebworth House  appears transplanted from a Bronte novel, all turrets and towers! But parts of this stately country manor date back over 500 years to its origins as a fortified medieval household. Walking its palatial grounds today with their whimsical gardens, it’s hard to imagine Knebworth began as a defensive structure on the edge of the Chiltern Hills.

But the splendid house and 250-acre grounds have born witness to many eras, from medieval warriors to Victorian aristocrats to modern rock concerts. Yes, in an unexpected twist, Knebworth House has become an iconic music venue! Since the 1970s, the lush gardens have hosted everyone from The Rolling Stones to Robbie Williams to Oasis. The blend of heritage property by day and rocking concert stages by night makes Knebworth House a truly unique Hertfordshire experience.

Beyond the concerts, history lovers will enjoy touring the family apartments, extensive wine cellars, and colorful gardens cultivated for over 400 years. The fortified exterior hides a lavish interior with rare paintings, tapestries, furniture, and porcelain to delight art fans. And literature buffs may recognize locations featured in several films like The King’s Speech and Batman. Fusing so much history with modern culture, Knebworth House has to be included in any Hertfordshire journey!

Waytemore Castle: Echoes of Norman Conquest

Tucked away in the countryside near the village of Tring lies the atmospheric ruins of  Waytemore Castle , one of the oldest Norman fortifications in Hertfordshire. Constructed shortly after William the Conqueror’s decisive invasion in 1066, this motte and bailey castle formed a strategic stronghold near the prehistoric Icknield Way.

Today, its weathered earthworks and crumbling masonry walls sprouting wildflowers evoke the turbulent era of political turmoil and clashing cultures after the fateful Norman conquest. One can almost hear the clatter of horses’ hooves and clash of swords from over nine centuries ago!

Though time has worn Waytemore Castle down to broken foundations and rubble outlines, it’s still possible to explore the inner bailey and stone keep remains. Scrambling up grassy mounds for scenic views, history seems to come alive in this isolated site. Displays on location outline Waytemore’s initial wooden construction on William’s orders and its later 12th century stone reinforcements.

The surrounding meadows dotted with cows make a quintessential English countryside backdrop for picnicking and quiet contemplation. One can’t help but reflect on the legacy of 1066 while sitting within this conquered landscape. Small and nearly consumed by nature, Waytemore nevertheless represents the sweeping tide of political change sparked by Norman ambition.

The Rich Heritage of St Albans

No castle tour of Hertfordshire would be complete without a visit to the charming cathedral city of  St Albans . Settled since ancient Roman times when it was called Verulamium, St Albans offers a condensed dose of English history with its wealth of heritage sites.

A stroll through its medieval streets lined with Tudor facades and independent boutiques transports you back through the ages. History lovers could spend days exploring must-see destinations like the impressive  St Albans Cathedral , the Verulamium Museum park showcasing ancient Roman town ruins, and the 800-year old Clock Tower marking the old town hall.

But beyond the headline attractions, hidden gems scatter the city streets too. The bowed timbers of the 14th century Six Bells pub hint at its past as an inn for pilgrims journeying to the shrine of St Alban. And grand Herfordshire country houses like Shaw’s Corner reflect St Alban’s strategic location near London during the English Civil War era. This riverside manor was even used as a Parliamentary garrison when the city was besieged!

With roots stretching to the Iron Age, St Albans provides the perfect base to explore Hertfordshire’s castle heritage. Its own history is equally as rich and colorful. Wandering St Albans’ atmospheric lanes and gardens, one truly appreciates how this landscape renders England’s storied past visible at every turn.

Two-Day Castles of Hertfordshire Itinerary

Day 1: Berkhamsted Castle & Surroundings

• Morning:  Begin at Berkhamsted Castle, exploring the ruins and learning about its history.
• Lunch:  Dine in Berkhamsted town, savoring local delicacies.
• Afternoon:  Visit nearby attractions like the Grand Union Canal or the Ashridge Estate for a scenic walk.
• Evening:  Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Berkhamsted, experiencing the town’s cozy ambiance.

Day 2: Hertford Castle & Knebworth House

• Morning:  Head to Hertford Castle Gatehouse, marveling at its royal past and picturesque gardens.
• Lunch:  Try a quaint cafe in Hertford for lunch.
• Afternoon:  Conclude at Knebworth House, exploring its grand architecture and beautiful gardens.
• Evening:  End your journey with dinner in Hertford or a concert at Knebworth, if available.

Activities and Experiences Around Hertfordshire’s Castles

Beyond marveling at crumbling ruins and admiring aristocratic architecture, Hertfordshire offers many modern-day attractions to delight travelers near its fabled castles. When you’ve had your fill of soaking in centuries of history, enjoy countryside diversions from golfing and cycling to vineyards and wildlife parks.

Near the long-standing royal residence of Hatfield House sprawls the scenic Heartwood Forest visitor center with over 850,000 trees, walking trails, and craft workshops. Or take a train from Welwyn Garden Station to tour the tunnels of the abandoned silver mining works at Aldwych.

Active travelers will love conquering the challenging hatchet-shaped golf course at Berkhamsted Common, looking out over the Bulbourne valley. And wine connoisseurs can sample a flight of homegrown reds and whites at family-run Sarratt Vineyard, nestled right beside the medieval moat of Sarratt Church!

Whether you’re searching for kid-friendly falconry displays at Hertford Castle, biking through centuries-old hunting grounds, or enjoying a magical lantern festival at Knebworth House, the landscapes surrounding Hertfordshire’s castles promise delight beyond the artifacts of history. Blend past and present for a truly unforgettable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the Black Prince and what was his connection to Berkhamsted Castle?

The Black Prince was Edward, Prince of Wales, and the eldest son of King Edward III. Berkhamsted Castle was one of the Black Prince’s favorite residences, and he spent over 4 million pounds modernizing it into a comfortable palace in the 14th century.

What major historical events occurred at Hertford Castle?

Hertford Castle was the site of Parliamentary gatherings and witnessed the scheming of powerful figures like John of Gaunt, brother to King Edward III. Nobles like the Earl of Cornwall also frequently stayed in the castle apartments while traveling to London.

Which castle is located alongside an old Norman railway site?  The ruins of Waytemore Castle near Tring village occupy the site of a former Norman motte and bailey fortification constructed after the 1066 Battle of Hastings invasion.

Who was held prisoner at Berkhamsted Castle in the 14th century?  In the 1300s, King Richard II held King David II of Scotland captive behind Berkhamsted Castle’s formidable curtain walls after David’s defeat and capture.

Why did King John of France stay at Someries Castle in the 14th century?  Following his capture in 1356, King John of France was housed for a period as a prisoner of war in Someries Castle while England and France negotiated terms. The Treaty of Bretigny was eventually signed in 1360 to set King John’s ransom.

What is the county town of Hertfordshire near several famous castles?  The city of St Albans is considered the county town of Hertfordshire. Its strategic location near London and proximity to estates like Hatfield House and Shaw’s Corner intertwine St Albans with important eras in English history.

What type of fortified medieval structure was Knebworth House originally built as?  Knebworth House first emerged in the 15th century as a fortified manor house constructed for defensive purposes and hosted many nobles over the centuries before becoming an elegant Victorian Gothic palace.

What events led Waytemore Castle to become a ruined site?  Following its peak role housing Norman troops in the 12th century, Waytemore Castle was mostly abandoned by the mid 1300s and left to gradually fall into a picturesque ruin over subsequent years.

Conclusion: Reflecting on the Castles in Hertfordshire

In conclusion, the Castles of Hertfordshire are not just remnants of stone and mortar; they are vibrant chapters of England’s royal narrative. Each visit to these historic sites offers a unique opportunity to walk through the corridors of time, where the echoes of the past meet the whispers of the present. Hertfordshire’s castles, from the regal Berkhamsted to the enchanting Hertford, are treasures of heritage awaiting exploration. They stand as proud sentinels of history, inviting us to uncover the stories and legends that have shaped England’s royal legacy.

In exploring the Castles of Hertfordshire, we’ve ventured through a realm where history comes alive in its most tangible form. If your curiosity about the UK’s historic castles has been ignited, I invite you to delve into my other articles . Each piece is a unique journey, taking you through the sprawling landscapes and storied walls of the UK’s most iconic castles .

(877) 764-9152

Delta, united, american, book/change/cancel, need a visa or passport.

Save 20% Now on All Travel Document Fees!

Create My Packing List

Other posts.

Castles in Hertfordshire

This page Berkhamsted Castle

• Map of Castles in Hertfordshire
• Map of ALL Castles in England
• Map of all attractions in Hertfordshire

The well-tended ruins of an important 11th-century motte and bailey stronghold built by William the Conqueror's half-brother, the Earl of Cornwall. Extended by Thomas Becket, besieged by the French Dauphin, and rebuilt by Edward, the Black Prince, Berkhamsted is one of the most impressive motte and bailey castles in England. White Hill, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, England, HP4 1LJ

Hertfordshire

Attractions.

• All attractions
• Attractions map
• Countryside
• Historic Buildings
• Historic Churches
• Historic Houses
• Roman sites
• Towns & Villages

Accommodation

• Self Catering

Stunning UK prints for sale by award-winning photographer David Ross, editor of Britain Express, the UK Travel and Heritage Guide.

Berkhamsted Castle

• First slide
• Second slide
• Third slide

• next section

Welcome to one of England's hidden heritage hotspots. Located just 25 miles outside London, Berkhamsted Castle is steeped in over 950 years of history. It was here that the Anglo-Saxons surrendered to William, Duke of Normandy in December 1066, and he became “The Conqueror”. Within these walls have walked numerous English Kings and Queens, Thomas Becket, Edward the Black Prince and Geoffrey Chaucer.

Begin your historical adventure today!

Visit Berkhamsted Castle Today

Berkhamsted Castle is only only 35 minutes by train from London, nestled in beautiful Hertfordshire countryside.

 Opening hours

950 years of history.

For centuries, Berkhamsted Castle was a royal stronghold. From the Norman Conquest onward, kings, queens and princes lived within the castle walls and shaped the course of English history.

The Dukes of Cornwall

Berkhamsted Castle was once the administrative centre of the Duchy of Cornwall. Learn about the Earls and Dukes of Cornwall who once walked within these walls

The Berkhamsted Mappa Mundi

A medieval map connected to Berkhamsted and the Earls of Cornwall has been discovered hidden in an archive....

Historic places

What links Canterbury Cathedral, Waltham Abbey, Crécy-en-Ponthieu and Rheinland-Pfalz with Berkhamsted Castle? Discover our forgotten links across England and Europe on an interactive map

Discover a Heritage Hotspot

Explore the ruins of Berkhamsted Castle with this interactive guide – discover the hidden history of a royal palace and the site of an ancient siege.

Berkhamsted Castle Trust is run by local volunteers to promote and preserve our precious heritage. Find out how you can help us by donating or volunteering.

Social Media

Tripadvisor reviews.

  All fields are required

Message sent

Sign Up Today

Start your 14 day free trial today

The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 of the Best Historic Sites in Hertfordshire

Trace hertfordshire's history at these sites and attractions..

Kyle Hoekstra

20 jun 2022, @kylehoekstra.

The landlocked southern English county of Hertfordshire boasts country houses and medieval remains, from Ashridge House to the impressive Welwyn Roman Baths.

Among Hertfordshire’s historic sites number St Albans Cathedral, the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain, and the Tudor mansion Old Gorhambury House, home to Sir Francis Bacon.

Here are 10 of the best historic sites in Hertfordshire.

1. Ashridge

With a history dating back over 700 years, Ashridge House in Hertfordshire has been lived in by King Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. It has also served as a wartime hospital. The present house is regarded as one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the UK and is a Grade I listed building.

2. Verulamium

Verulamium was a prominent Roman settlement near modern day St Albans in Hertfordshire, England. Formerly the tribal capital of the native Catuvellauni tribe, Verulamium was conquered by the Romans during their invasion of Britain in 43 AD.

By 50 AD, Verulamium had become a major Roman town, and as such was a prime target during the revolt of Boudica in 61 AD, when it was burnt to the ground. The Romans crushed the revolt and re-built Verulamium, and it remained a central Roman town for the next 400 years.

The Roman remains at Verulamium Park consist of a variety of buildings – a basilica, bathhouse, part of the city walls and an outline of the London Gate. The most impressive are the remains of the roman theatre which lie across the road.

3. Berkhamsted Castle

Berkhamsted Castle was an 11th century Norman castle in Hertfordshire, built as a strategic stronghold between London and the Midlands . Though today in ruins, visitors are able to trace the dramatic earthworks and stone remains of what was once a thriving medieval palace.

Today Berkhamsted Castle is managed by English Heritage and is protected as an ancient monument. Visitors may traverse the site ruins, including the remains of the castle’s large outer defences and some of the structures within the bailey, one of which was likely a chapel.

4. Hatfield House

Hatfield House is a Jacobean country house built on the site of Hatfield Palace, where Elizabeth I spent much of her life.

Built in approximately 1485 by John Morton Bishop of Ely, Hatfield Palace came into the possession Henry VIII in the 16th century where it was installed as the home of his young children.

During the Stuart era the Palace was given to favourite of James I , Robert Cecil, the 1st Earl of Salisbury, who duly ripped down three wings in 1608 and rebuilt the current structure in 1611. Renamed Hatfield House, it has since been owned by the Cecil family and remains their family home.

5. St Albans

Originally a Celtic British settlement known as Verlamion, the town of St Albans was conquered by the Romans and re-named Verulamium. Despite suffering great destruction during the revolt of Boudicca in 60-61AD, the town was re-built and became a thriving settlement.

The impressive site of St Albans Cathedral contains the shrine of St Alban – a Roman convert to Christianity who became Britain’s first martyr after he was executed for sheltering a Christian priest. The Norman building replaced an earlier monastery, and significant restoration work took place in the 19th century.

6. Knebworth House

Knebworth House is a Grade II listed English country house in Hertfordshire, England, and was home to the 19th century writer and politician Sir Edward Bulwer-Lytton, today remembered for his coining of the phrases “It was a dark and stormy night” and “the pen is mightier than the sword”.

Knebworth House is marked by its turrets and domes on the exterior, but behind its Victorian stucco lurks a red brick Tudor house. The house traces 500 years of Lytton family history, with each generation leaving their fingerprints on the rooms.

7. Welwyn Roman Baths

The Welwyn Roman Baths complex houses the remains of a Roman bathhouse dating back to the 3rd century AD. The village of Welwyn was once the site of a Romano-British settlement, where a Roman road crossed the river Mimram.

Originally part of a larger Roman villa (the Dicket Mead villa), the bath house remains are a scheduled ancient monument, with the layout of the cold, warm and hot rooms and the heating system remarkably well preserved.

Today visitors to Welwyn Roman Baths can view the remains of the small bath complex , discover information on the Roman’s elegant culture and approach to bathing and view an exhibition detailing the history of the site and other relevant archaeological finds from the local area.

8. Bushey Museum

Bushey Museum in Hertfordshire is dedicated to the history of the local area, including many works from its notable local artists.

Bushey’s reputation as a centre of artistic output derives from the 19th century, when Hubert von Herkomer moved to the area from Bavaria in 1874. He founded the Herkomer’s Art School in 1883, which over its 21-year lifespan attracted some 500 art students to the area, many of which stayed there to set up their own studios.

These art schools, along with their founders and students, formed the basis of the Bushey Museum and Bushey’s wider artistic legacy.

9. Bennington Lordship

Bennington Lordship is a Georgian house with landscaped park and gardens listed as Grade II which occupy 7 acres of Hertfordshire country landscape. Though Bennington Lordship is a private home, its gardens are open during advertised hours between February and August.

A motte-and-bailey castle was built in the surroundings in the 11th or 12th century, which was finally destroyed in 1212 following Robert Fitzwalter’s rebellion against King John. Earthworks from the keep remain from the original structure.

10. Old Gorhambury House

Set in picturesque countryside, Old Gorhambury House is a Tudor mansion built from 1563 to 1568, which gained repute as the home of the Lord Keeper Sir Nicholas Bacon and later his celebrated son Sir Francis. It was visited by Queen Elizabeth I on a number of occasions.

The site is maintained by the English Heritage Trust and is open to visitors. Set against the backdrop of the pleasant St Albans countryside, the ruins make for an interesting and picturesque day out.

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in Hertfordshire (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in Hertfordshire (England)

One of the Home Counties, Hertfordshire borders London to the north and its recent history is anchored in its proximity to the capital.

“New Towns” like Stevenage and pioneering Garden Cities like Welwyn and Letchworth popped up in the 20th century, all to give people the joint advantages of the city and countryside.

But what is most inspiring about Hertfordshire is the profusion of oddities: Medieval caves with indecipherable carvings, a massive taxidermy hoard owned by a Victorian eccentric, and a huge fairytale grotto created by a Quaker poet.

For more mainstream history St Albans and its Roman heritage is an essential first step towards the south of the county.

1. St Albans

Known as Verulamium to the Romans, St Albans was the second city in Britain after London 2,000 years ago.

And today this market town has its share of ancient sites and artefacts.

Go straight to Verulamium Park, where traces of a spa were excavated in the 1930s, revealing a wondrous mosaic and hypocaust.

Just by the park is the Verulamium Museum, with yet more mosaics and display cases full of coins, ceramics and even a soldier’s helmet and mask discovered in the theatre, which makes up the museum’s exterior.

Elsewhere, contemplate the 15th-century clock tower, a logo for St Albans, and unusual in England for being a belfry unattached to any church.

Slotted into a gap in the Chilterns is the sweet little market town of Tring, which has gorgeous 19th-century architecture and a branch of the Natural History Museum.

Lionel Walter Rothschild is the man responsible for this, as he was obsessed with zoology, and even rode around the town in a carriage drawn by zebra-horse hybrids.

So now, in a delightful Victorian hall that he built for his many taxidermies there’s a creepy if informative assortment of mounted stuffed animals, among them extinct species like thylacines and quaggas.

Ending at the marvellous Ivinghoe Beacon hill a couple of miles from Tring is the Ridgeway National Trail, which follows the Celtic Icknield Way from Avebury in Wiltshire over the North Wessex Downs and the Chilterns.

3. Hatfield

If you’re a student of Elizabeth I Hatfield House will be a treasure trove as it has a variety of things that are connected to the queen.

Although the building was altered in the century that followed, Hatfield House was where Elizabeth spent a lot of her childhood and it was her preferred residence as an adult.

There are gloves and silk stockings belonging to her, as well as the original of the famed Rainbow Portrait from the turn of the 17th century.

Another British icon tied to Hatfield is the defunct de Havilland aircraft manufacturer, which was based here for much of its life.

Ten minutes in the car and you’ll be at the great De Havilland Museum at London Colney, with some of the earliest jet planes ever made.

4. Welwyn Garden City

The city planner Sir Ebenezer Howard developed his utopian idea of a Garden City in the early-20th century, as a town with good transport links to London but all the peace and greenery of the countryside.

And nearly a century after Welwyn Garden City was completed it’s still a very liveable place.

If you’re into things like town planning and urban design you could entertain yourself just by poking around for a couple of hours or taking some time out by the water at Stanborough Park.

Towards the north of Hertfordshire, Hitchin is a delightful town, made to be seen on foot.

Especially pretty are the cobblestone streets around Market Place, hemmed by characterful old houses and St Mary’s Church.

This building is an archetypal Wool Church, built too large for what would have been a small-ish town in the middle ages, but funded by wealthy wool merchants.

St Mary’s was built over a 7th-century basilica from the earliest days of Christianity in England.

Come around July and August, when the undulating lavender fields outside the town are at their most vibrant.

Hitchin Lavender is a farm that lets you pick your own for a small fee, and also sells a range of giftable fragrant soaps and candles in its shop.

6. Letchworth

As the world’s first garden city, no building you see in the centre of Letchworth is older than the 20th century.

You may be fooled by the historical design of much of the architecture, which owes its appearance to the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Like Welwyn, Letchworth is an Ebenezer Howard-designed, pre-planned town with lots of green space, easy access to the countryside and industry kept apart from residential areas.

A perfect expression of the Arts and Crafts style can be seen at the Spirella Building, a listed former factory for a corset-maker, which, true to the spirit of the town, provided its workers with a library, gymnasium, baths and even a cycle repair centre.

7. Hertford

Hertfordshire’s county town is modest in size but brims with history, and there’s a few low-key sights to tick off on a saunter around these old streets.

The Grade I-listed Shire Hall is a magistrates’ court built in 1789 and conceived by Robert Adam, who was one of the era’s foremost architects, active across Britain.

The marvellous gothic house at Hertford Castle replaced a Norman fortress in 15th century and was a childhood home for Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century.

You can dip into the tales behind these buildings at Hertford Museum, which itself is set in a 17th-century house.

The first floor dedicated to the town, while the remainder of the museum has anything from samurai armour to fossils.

8. Berkhamsted

The history of Berkhamsted begins in the very year of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Not only that, but William the Conqueror’s  half-brother Robert of Mortain was most likely responsible for building Berkhamsted Castle, and most definitely lived there in the 11th century.

The castle is now an atmospheric ruin, and with intact earthworks and large chunks of the curtain walls still standing, it’s easy to see where the keep would have been.

On sunny days the green towpath of the Grand Junction Canal is ideal for a reflective stroll by the water.

Visually-speaking, Watford might not be as prepossessing as Hertfordshire’s more rural towns and villages.

But all the same, it’s a clean and well-off town with a few things to keep you occupied.

The placid Cassiobury Park was once the grounds of a country estate, and is now a sizeable nature reserve a brief jaunt from the town centre.

There are two country houses to visit nearby, one of which, Bhaktivedanta Manor is a half-timbered Tudor building converted into a Gaudiya Vaishnavism temple.

A tad more conventional is Cheslyn House and Gardens,  a haven of peace with gardens that are a riot of colour in spring.

Watford also have a Premier League football side, nicknamed the Hornets and playing home games at Vicarage Road from August to May.

10. Stevenage

Another one for the urban planning historians, Stevenage was England’s first “New Town”, laid out in a matter of a years after the Second World War.

The population exploded from just a few thousand at the start of the 1900s to more than 80,000 today.

The old town is still intact, with the pubs and half-timbered houses on its typical country high street, and the Church of St Nicholas which dates to the 12th century.

Pop historians on the other hand will have heard all about Knebworth House, where bands like Pink Floyd, the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin have played to enormous crowds.

The gothic-revival house and grounds are open to the public, and there’s a dinosaur park for kids in the park’s woodland.

11. Bishop’s Stortford

Convenient to Stansted Airport without being too close, Bishop’s Stortford is a quintessential country market town dominated by a neoclassical late-18th-century Corn Exchange.

Friday and Saturday evenings in the summer are a fine time to be in the town, when its residents who work in London are back in the town and filling the pubs and restaurants.

Right up against the centre of the town is a park containing the unmistakeable earthworks for a Norman fortress.

At the top of this mound are the ruins of Waytemore Castle dating to the 1100s, which later became a prison but was torn down in the 1700s.

12. Royston

There’s a man-made cave directly beneath the centre of this town at the very north of Hertfordshire.

Royston Cave may not be well-known but if you’re in the area you have to check in for a tour.

This eight-metre-high chamber has eerie carvings on its walls, which are most likely from the late-medieval period.

The cave was sealed up and rediscovered in 1742, and despite being studied for more than 250 years nobody has put a definite date to these sculptures.

The Icknield Way that passes through Tring continues on to Norfolk, and comes right by Royston.

You needn’t go that far, but for an hour or two you can navigate the local chalk hills on a path beaten by pre-Roman tribes.

One of the many great things about Ware is the River Lea.

The banks are adorably quaint and picturesque, thanks to the old buildings on the waters’ edge.

These include former “maltings”, which were part of the beer-brewing process, where grains would be soaked in the river’s water to produce malt.

You’ll also find twee old gazebos, with tiny wharfs where boats can be moored.

An astounding monument in Ware is Scott’s Grotto, fashioned by a John Scott a gardener, and Quake port: This building is partially dug into the hillside, with six different chambers, each with walls covered with glass, fossils and glass.

The structure is from the 18th century and we’re sure you won’t have seen anything like it!

14. Much Hadham

A famous former resident of Much Hadham is the 20th-century sculptor Henry Moore.

His old house is the site of the Henry Moore Foundation, and a unique chance to see many of his works on show in one place.

Though not blessed with shops, the parish village of Much Hadham is chock full of imposing old buildings, partly because it was also a stopping point on the road between Cambridge and London.

In this one place there are four Grade I-listed buildings, including two spectacular Georgian country houses.

After hot-footing it around the village you could drop by at the Old Bull Inn for a pint or meal.

15. Wheathampstead

For the traditional pleasures of an English country town, Wheathampstead on the River Lea merits a detour for a pub lunch and a wander.

There are Georgian townhouses and older wattle and daub buildings on the high street, and the leafy banks of the Lea are exceptionally pretty, with benches where you can pause for a minute or two.

The attractions in and near Wheathampstead are all quite modest, but it’s the scene and ambience of the place that makes it worthwhile.

Nomansland Common is just southwest of the town and in old times it was a venue for banned sports like bare-knuckle boxing, set away from the reach of the authorities.

15 Best Places to Visit in Hertfordshire (England):

• Welwyn Garden City
• Berkhamsted
• Bishop's Stortford
• Much Hadham
• Wheathampstead

Places to visit in Hertfordshire

Visit Hertfordshire for rambling country estates, orderly garden towns and cathedral cities. Picnic outside revival mansions with forest backdrops, redbrick Jacobean manors with mazes and gothic courts encrusted with gargoyles. Span centuries in St Albans' Roman amphitheatres and Norman cathedrals. You can come face to face with dragons and ghouls straight from the Harry Potter films and get close to endangered snow leopards at exciting wildlife parks. This home county hasn't forgotten its shopaholics either, with outlet malls and new towns aplenty. Top places to visit in Hertfordshire include St Albans Cathedral, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Cassiobury Park and the De Havilland Aircraft Museum.

16 Experience Results

View results as:

• (-) Remove Hertfordshire filter Hertfordshire
• London (1) Apply London filter
• Cycling (1) Apply Cycling filter
• Walking and hiking (1) Apply Walking and hiking filter
• Watersports (1) Apply Watersports filter
• Autumn Break Ideas (1) Apply Autumn Break Ideas filter
• Free (1) Apply Free filter
• City (2) Apply City filter
• Gardens and Parks (1) Apply Gardens and Parks filter
• Festivals and carnivals (1) Apply Festivals and carnivals filter
• Literature, film and TV (2) Apply Literature, film and TV filter
• Music festivals in England (1) Apply Music festivals in England filter
• Outdoor art and sculpture (1) Apply Outdoor art and sculpture filter
• Seasonal celebrations (1) Apply Seasonal celebrations filter
• Days Out in England (2) Apply Days Out in England filter
• August events (2) Apply August events filter
• July events (2) Apply July events filter
• Local events (1) Apply Local events filter
• November events (1) Apply November events filter
• Attractions (2) Apply Attractions filter
• Indoor Activities (1) Apply Indoor Activities filter
• Outdoor Activities (1) Apply Outdoor Activities filter
• Theme Parks (1) Apply Theme Parks filter
• Toddler Friendly Holidays (1) Apply Toddler Friendly Holidays filter
• Zoos wildlife and safari parks (1) Apply Zoos wildlife and safari parks filter
• Eating out (1) Apply Eating out filter
• Pubs and cocktail bars (1) Apply Pubs and cocktail bars filter
• Castles and Historic Properties (4) Apply Castles and Historic Properties filter
• Autumn (6) Apply Autumn filter
• Spring (1) Apply Spring filter
• Summer (9) Apply Summer filter
• Winter (1) Apply Winter filter

Gold winner: Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

Discover how the cultural icon that is Harry Potter came to life on the big screen at our Large Visitor Attraction of the Year 2023.

Go White Water Rafting at Lee Valley White Water Centre

Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the same course used by top athletes in the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Location: Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire

Rainy Day Activities: Enter the magical Warner Bros Studio Tour

Step inside the wizarding world of Harry Potter at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and feel the films magically come to life.

Location: Leavesden, Hertfordshire

Go picnicing at Rye House Gatehouse

The medieval Rye House Gatehouse makes an imposing background to any picnic.

Location: Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire

Walk among Henry Moore’s sculptures

At Perry Green you can wander Moore’s own gardens peppered with his works of art.

Location: Much Hadham, Hertfordshire

Get closer to the animals at Paradise Wildlife Park

Venture to Hertfordshire for an exciting day out with the family at this award-winning zoo; see a range of exotic animals and enjoy a whole host of experiences and attractions.

Location: Broxbourne, Hertfordshire

Enjoy a pint in ‘England’s oldest pub’

Experience a meal at Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, ‘England’s oldest pub’ according to Guinness World Records, where Oliver Cromwell dined in the 1600s.

Location: St Albans, Hertfordshire

Visit a secret roman city near London

Spend a weekend in the historic city of St Albans, just a short journey from the centre of London.

Visit the enchanted forest of Ashridge Estate

Walk the magical woods of Ashridge, like fairies and witches before you.

Location: Little Gaddesden, Berkhamsted

Rock concerts and Gothic architecture at Knebworth House

Set in 250 acres of rolling Hertfordshire countryside, Knebworth House is one of England's most colourful stately homes.

Location: Knebworth, Hertfordshire

Discover the history of Hertford Castle

As part of National Heritage Weekend, Hertford Castle will open its doors to the public free of charge.

Location: Hertford, Hertfordshire

November events: Get into the festive spirit at Hertford Christmas Gala

Start off the festive season at Hertford's annual Christmas Gala.

Walking and Cycling in Hertford

Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the magnificent county town of Hertford and its surrounding areas.

July events: Standon Calling

Head to Standon in Hertfordshire for a three-day summer party featuring huge music acts, an on-site nightclub and bars that never close.

Location: Standon, Hertfordshire

July events: Teddy bears’ picnic at Hertford Castle

Enjoy a whole day packed with free child-friendly entertainment and activities on the grounds of Hertford Castle.

Location: Hertford, Hertfordhsire

August events: Enjoy a brass band concert at Hertford Castle

On the 18 August, Hertford Castle Gatehouse will open its doors to the public - free of charge - with a brass band concert on the Castle lawn.

August Events: Take in the big screen at Hertford Castle Open Air Cinema

Grab your popcorn and enjoy a weekend of open air cinema under the stars with the beautiful Hertford Castle providing a suitably dramatic backdrop.

Related Items

Nearby places to visit.

Visit Essex to explore wild countryside, spot some of England’s most varied wildlife, and see masterfully preserved heritage. There’s something for everyone in this seaside county.

Visit Cambridge to see the world’s fourth oldest university. Hire a punt, look round the galleries and explore its 31 colleges, it’s impossible not to be captivated by the academic spirit.

We've something we want to share

Want to receive travel tips and ideas by email?

VisitEngland would like to invite you to take part in a short survey about our website, it should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Go to the survey

To add items to favourites …

… you need to be logged in.

If you already have an account, log in.

Or register a new account

Access your account

Hertford Castle

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Hertford Castle - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Mon - Thu 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Fri - Fri 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
• (0.13 mi) Salisbury Arms Hotel
• (0.10 mi) Hertford House
• (0.09 mi) Castle House
• (0.27 mi) Number One Port Hill
• (0.21 mi) Cinnabar Hertford Hotel
• (0.08 mi) Old Siam
• (0.09 mi) The Blackbirds
• (0.08 mi) Oishii By Elle Japanese Restaurant
• (0.11 mi) Turkish Kitchen Hertford
• (0.08 mi) Elle's Kitchen

THE 5 BEST Hertfordshire Castles

Castles in hertfordshire.

• Churches & Cathedrals
• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Historic Sites
• Sacred & Religious Sites
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Berkhamsted Castle

2. Hertford Castle

3. London Gate

4. Waytemore Castle

5. Old Hatfield House

What travellers are saying.

• Hertford Castle
• Berkhamsted Castle
• Waytemore Castle
• London Gate
• Old Hatfield House

• Open menu Close menu
• Animal Encounters
• Food/Drink Producer
• Indoor Sports & Leisure
• Outdoor Activities & Recreation
• Workshops & Rural Crafts
• Castles and Stately Homes
• Forests & Woods
• Historic Interest Sites
• Open Spaces
• Art galleries
• Music venues & Nightclubs
• Theatres & Cinemas
• Farm Shops & Local Produce
• Home & Garden Centres
• Outdoor Stores & Hire
• What's On

Wigmore Castle

Wigmore was one of many castles built close to the England–Wales border after the Norman Conquest. Founded in 1067 by William Fitz Osbern, it was a major centre of power for over 500 years, and played host to several kings and queens. It was held by the Mortimer family from about 1075 to 1425, when it passed to the Crown. Roger Mortimer is perhaps the family’s best-known figure. He became virtual ruler of England after he and his lover, Isabella, Edward II’s estranged queen, had engineered the king’s deposition and murder in 1327.

In 1329 Mortimer held a lavish tournament at Wigmore, attended by the young King Edward III and his mother. His influence was shortlived, however: in 1330 Edward III asserted his authority, arrested Mortimer and had him executed for treason.

The castle fell into ruin after the Civil War and remained an untouched ruin until the 1990s, when English Heritage conserved it in a way that ensured the castle’s natural environment was preserved.

Directions & Parking

Paviour and Davies Plants

Wheely Wonderful Cycle Hire

Wheely Wonderful Walking Holidays

Wheely Wonderful Cycling Holidays

Visit Herefordshire | Cathedrals, Pretty Rivers & Castles

Herefordshire is one of the off the beaten track counties in Western England on the Welsh Border.

Despite its low profile there’s lots to do and see in this lovely place. The area has a bloody history – England and Wales being at each others throats for much of the last 100 years – and is home to some fantastic castles.

It’s also got some lovely rivers and forested woodland that’s a haven for walkers.

But we start with the town that gave the county its name…

Table of Contents

1. Hereford

Hereford ( (listen)) is a cathedral city, civil parish and county town of Herefordshire, England. It lies on the River Wye, approximately 16 miles (26 km) east of the border with Wales, 24 miles (39 km) southwest of Worcester, and 23 miles (37 km) northwest of Gloucester. Source Source

2. Wye Valley

The Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB; Welsh: Dyffryn Gwy) is an internationally important protected landscape straddling the border between England and Wales. It is one of the most dramatic and scenic landscapes in Britain. Source Source

3. Hergest Croft

Hergest Croft Gardens lies in the heart of the Welsh Marches. Set in 70 acres, the Gardens are internationally renowned with a spectacular collection of more than 5,000 trees and shrubs as well as gorgeous flower borders, an old fashioned Kitchen Garden – all for you to discover, enjoy and relax in. Source

4. Malvern Hills

The Malvern Hills are a range of hills in the English counties of Worcestershire, Herefordshire and a small area of northern Gloucestershire, dominating the surrounding countryside and the towns and villages of the district of Malvern. The highest summit of the hills affords a panorama of the Severn Valley with the hills of Herefordshire and the Welsh mountains, parts of thirteen counties, the Bristol Channel, and the cathedrals of Worcester, Gloucester and Hereford. Source Source

5. Hereford Cathedral

Hereford Cathedral is the cathedral church of the Anglican Diocese of Hereford in Hereford, England. Its most famous treasure is Mappa Mundi, a medieval map of the world created around 1300 by Richard of Holdingham. Source

6. Eastnor Castle

Eastnor Castle, Eastnor, Herefordshire is a 19th-century mock castle. Eastnor was built for John Cocks, 1st Earl Somers, who employed Robert Smirke, who was later to work at the British Museum, as his architect. Source

7. Eardisland

Eardisland ( URDZ-lənd) is a village and civil parish on the River Arrow about 5 miles (8.0 km) west of the market town of Leominster, Herefordshire. The civil parish includes the hamlets of Upper Hardwick, Lower Hardwick and Lower Burton. Source

8. Mappa Mundi

The Hereford Mappa Mundi is a medieval map of the known world (Latin: mappa mundi), of a form deriving from the T and O pattern, dating from c. 1300. It is displayed at Hereford Cathedral in Hereford, England.[1] It is the largest medieval map still known to exist. A larger mappa mundi, the Ebstorf map, was destroyed by Allied bombing in 1943, though photographs of it survive. Source

Ledbury is a market town and civil parish in the county of Herefordshire, England, lying east of Hereford, and west of the Malvern Hills. It has a significant number of timber-framed structures, in particular along Church Lane and High Street. Source

10. Brockhampton Estate

The Brockhampton Estate is a farmed estate in Herefordshire, England, which is owned by the National Trust. The Brockhampton Estate is located on the edge of Bringsty Common near the town of Bromyard. Source

11. Hampton Court Castle

Hampton Court Castle, also known as Hampton Court, is a castellated country house in the English county of Herefordshire. The house is in the parish of Hope under Dinmore 4 miles (6.4 km) south of Leominster and is a Grade I listed building, which is the highest category of architecture in the statutory protection scheme. [Not to be confused with Hampton Court, Henry VIII’s London palace] Source

12. Hereford Cider Museum

Hereford Cider Museum Trust was founded in 1973 to preserve the history of cider making worldwide. The extensive collection includes cider mills, presses, bottles, old photographs, watercolours, advertising memorabilia and a rare collection of English lead crystal cider flutes. It is housed in the original 1888 Bulmer’s factory, and it tells the story of cidermaking across Britain, although local social history of course features very strongly. Source

13. Mortimer Trail

The Mortimer Trail is a waymarked long-distance footpath and recreational walk in the counties of Shropshire and Herefordshire in England. Source

14. Leominster

Leominster (pronounced Lem-Star) is a market town in Herefordshire, England, at the confluence of the River Lugg and its tributary the River Kenwater 12 miles (19 km) north of Hereford and 7 miles south of Ludlow in Shropshire. With a population of 11,700, Leominster is the largest of the five towns (Leominster, Ross-on-Wye, Ledbury, Bromyard and Kington) in the county. Source

15. Brilley Green Dingle

A wooded nature reserve showing the results of different management histories within an area. Source

16. Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean is a geographical, historical and cultural region in the western part of the county of Gloucestershire, England. It forms a roughly triangular plateau bounded by the River Wye to the west and northwest, Herefordshire to the north, the River Severn to the south, and the City of Gloucester to the east. Source

17. Croft Castle

Croft Castle and Parkland is a National Trust property comprising a country house, park, church and garden, in Croft, Herefordshire, England. Source

18. Hay-On-Wye

Hay-on-Wye, often abbreviated to just “Hay” (the community uses the short version) is a small market town and community in the historic county of Brecknockshire (Breconshire) in Wales, currently administered as part of the unitary authority of Powys.[2] With over twenty bookshops, it is often described as “the town of books”, and is both the National Book Town of Wales and the site of the annual Hay Festival. Source

19. Goodrich Castle

Goodrich Castle is a Norman medieval castle ruin north of the village of Goodrich in Herefordshire, England, controlling a key location between Monmouth and Ross-on-Wye. It was praised by William Wordsworth as the “noblest ruin in Herefordshire” and is considered by historian Adrian Pettifer to be the “most splendid in the county, and one of the best examples of English military architecture”.Goodrich Castle was probably built by Godric of Mappestone after the Norman invasion of England, initially as an earth and wooden fortification. Source

20. Queenswood Country Park

Once part of the vast ancient oak wood that once stretched to the Welsh borders and beyond, today Queenswood Country Park and Arboretum comprises 123 acres of ancient native woodland, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) surrounding a 47 acre tree collection with over 1,200 rare and exotic trees from all over the world. Source

Remember To Check Out Our Most Popular Posts:

The Cotswolds: The 20 Best Places To Visit

English Villages | What Makes The Perfect Village In England (With Examples)

Visit Yorkshire, England: York, The Dales & More

English Cathedrals: The 20 Best Cathedrals In England

The Best 20 Castles To Visit In England

London Travel: The Ultimate Guide. Tips, Attraction Reviews & More

The Kings And Queens of England: From William the Conqueror To Charles III

British Insults, Slang & Phrases: The Ultimate Guide

10 Fun Facts About England: Weird English Traditions

The Yorkshire Dales | The Best Places To Visit

Gorgeous Images Of The English Countryside

Visit Somerset, England: Cider, Bath, Glastonbury & More

20 Gorgeous English Thatched Cottages

Take our London Quiz: How Well Do You Really Know London?

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy

Visit European Castles

The Best Stately Homes in Bedfordshire

Bedfordshire is a county in the East of England with the largest cities being Luton and Bedford. There are also beautiful castles and country houses in England.

Bedfordshire is located close to London and the surrounding home counties . It features beautiful countryside with many walking and cycling tracks in the Forest of Marston Vale, Greensand Ridge, and the Dunstable Downs.

Enjoy the English countryside and visit or stay in the grand Bedfordshire stately homes and historic houses.

Woburn Abbey

Woburn Abbey is a country house and seat of the Duke of Bedford. The house is built on the site of a Cistercian Abbey that was founded in 1145. After the dissolution of the monasteries by King Henry VIII, the estate was granted to the 1st Earl of Bedford.

The house was largely rebuilt in 1744 by architects Henry Flitcroft and Henry Holland. Anna Russell, Duchess of Bedford started the afternoon tea ritual in England. She was a lifelong friend of Queen Victoria and also served as Lady of the Bedchamber.

In 1786, future American presidents John Adams and Thomas Jefferson visited Woburn Abbey as well as other grand houses in the area. The house also features a large art collection as the Duke of Bedford owns some of the finest private collections in the country. The collection includes work by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Canaletto.  

After the Second World War, a large part of the house was demolished due to dry rot. The house was then opened to the public and over the years they added a Safari Park.

Where: Woburn

Built: 1744

Visitor information: the house is open to visitors. Visit the website for more information.   

Luton Hoo is a grand country house and estate on the border of Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire . In 1763, the estate was bought by former Prime Minister John Stuart, 3rd Earl of Bute. He built a neoclassical house after a design by architect Robert Adam and the park was redesigned by Capability Brown.

The grandson of the third Earl redesigned the house into the building we see today. Architect Robert Smirke added Gothic and Greek Revival elements to the house. A large fire destroyed much of the house in 1843, but a few years later, John Shaw Leigh bought the house and restored it.    

In the late 19th century, the lady of the house held lavish parties at Luton Hoo, it was at this country estate that Prince Albert, Duke of Clarence and Avondale (grandson of Queen Victoria) proposed to Princess Mary of Teck.

In 1903, the house was bought by Sit Julius Wernher, who remodeled the interiors in Belle Epoque style to the designs of the architects of the Ritz Hotel. Since 2007, the country house is a hotel, with golf course and spa.

The estate houses an octagonal walled garden which was designed in the 1760s and is open to the public in the Summer months.

Wrest Park is an early 19th century country house and estate in Bedfordshire. The house was built by Thomas de Grey, 2nd Earl de Grey who got inspired by French buildings after a trip to Paris.

The interiors of Wrest Park are some of the earliest Rococo Revival interiors in England.  In the Frist World War, the house was used as a military hospital.

Wrest Park has 92 acres of gardens which take you on a journey of three centuries of garden design. At the park, you have beautiful countryside views as well as woodland walks. The park also houses the Baroque Archer Pavilion which has spectacular wall paintings.

Where: Silsoe

Built: 1834–39

Style: French/Rococo Revival

Visitor information: parts of the house are open to visitors and the garden as well. Visit the website for more information.

Shuttleworth House

Shuttleworth House or The Mansion House (Old Warden Park)   is a 19th century country house designed by Henry Clutton. The Jacobean-style house was built for Joseph Shuttleworth and had to rival Gawthrope Hall in Lancashire which was also owned by the Shuttleworth family.   

Inside, the rooms have many period details such as gold-leafed ceilings, paneled walls, a Victorian Grand Piano, and chandeliers.

Surrounding the house lies the Swiss garden, a beautiful Victorian and Regency garden with wildlife, an Indian kiosk, bridges, and a grotto.

Where: Old Warden

Built: 1875

Style: Jacobean

Visitor information: the house and garden are open to visitors. Visit the website for more information.

Someries Castle

Someries Castle is a ruined 15th century castle in Hyde. Despite the name, it wasn’t actually a castle but a fortified manor house instead. The house was built around 1430 by Sir John Wenlock and it is considered one of the first brick buildings in England.

After the battle of Tewkesbury, where Wenlock died, the manor was acquired by the Rotherham family. The house was demolished in the 18th century but parts of the structure remains in the gatehouse, the chapel, and the lodge.  

Where: Hyde

Built: 15th century

Visitor information: the ruin is free to visit

Moggerhanger House

The original house was a small Georgian manor but in 1790 Godfrey Thornton (director of the Bank of England), bought the estate and ask John Soane to remodel the house. It is one of the most complete houses that has survived of John Soane.

The house is set in 33 acres of parkland and woodland. The gardens were designed by Humprhy Repton.

In 1994, the house was in bad state but all original features were still present. In recent years the house and garden have been restored.

Where: Moggerhanger

Built: 1790

Visitor information: the house is open for guided tours on selected days. The grounds are open daily. Visit the website for more information.  

Turvey House

Turvey House is a country house and garden that is home to the Hanbury family. The house was built in the 1790s by John Higgins. It was originally built as a Georgian manor house but later the house was redesigned in Neoclassical style.

The grounds also house a walled kitchen garden, an ornamental garden, and pleasure grounds.

Where: Turvey

Built: 1790s

Style: Neoclassical

Visitor information: the house is open to visitors. Visit the website for more information.

Harlington Manor

Harlington Manor is a manor house that dates back to the 14th century. For 470 years, the house was the home of the Burwell and Wingate families.

In 1660, author John Bunyan was imprisoned and interrogated a Harlington Manor. He was sent to Bedford goal where, in the next 12 years, he would write The Pilgrim’s Progress which is one of England’s best-selling books.

Today, Harlington Manor is used as a bed and breakfast though pre booked group tours can also be arranged.

Where: Harlington

Built: 14th century

Visitor information: visit the website for more information about the group tours.  

Eggington House

Eggington House is a 17th century manor house in Bedfordshire. At the time of the building it was innovative in its design, which was especially unusual in more rural areas of England. The house was built for Huguenot John Renouille (or Reynal), who would become Sheriff of Bedfordshire.  

Eggington House in still in private ownership but can be booked for weddings and events .

Where: Eggington

Built: 17th centuruy

Style: Queen Anne

Similar Posts

The Best Castles and Stately Homes in Derbyshire

13 Baroque Country Houses in England

Visit The Best Historic Castles in Kent, England

The Best Castles & Stately Homes in Devon

The Best Hertfordshire Castles and Stately Homes

27 Tudor Manor Houses in England You Can Visit