Whether you're designated driver, or simply just don’t fancy driving, much of Hertfordshire is accessible by a wealth of public transport - from buses to trains, we’re incredibly well connected and so make for a perfect overnight or few days’ stay. If you’re after countryside views, we’ve got it – if it’s city centre bustle with a countryside twist then you’re in the right place. So if you’re avoiding the car read on for itineraries on what to do …
Tring & Berkhamsted
Handily on the West Coast Main Line, with regular connections northwards to Northampton and into the capital via Euston, Tring and close-by Berkhamsted are countryside stops worth an overnight stay on the weekend. Once you’ve arrived, you’re spoiled for choice on where to rest with the likes of countryside gentile at Pendley Manor in Tring and town centre luxury at the King’s Arms in Berkhamsted. Nearby trips out are suitable for anyone, with Tring Brewery for those seeking a local taste, Berkhamsted Castle for those looking for 11th century history and the sister of the London Natural History Museum, in Tring for families. If you need to take some time to breathe, take the bus from Berkhamsted to Ashridge Estate and soak up nature.
St Albans
As we know, St Albans has a history and city that can’t be fully uncovered on an afternoon out, which is why it’s certainly an ideal destination for an overnight stay. As you arrive into either of its central stations with St Albans City served conveniently by Thameslink, head to Sopwell House to check in. We do however advise you avoid looking at the spa and its other leisure areas as you could easily want to be there all of your trip! For those who’ve not experienced the history and quaint streets of the city, take a wander to the centre of the town and walk under the clocktower toward the remarkable Cathedral which has the longest Cathedral nave in the country. Head even further back in time and take in some Roman history with the Verulamium Museum and its namesake Verulamium Park, which has remnants of a Roman wall, gate and mosaics.
Staying a little longer? Hop over to Hatfield with the bus and visit the iconic Hatfield House, which you may well have spotted in some of your favourite films!
Photo: @csearsphotography (on Instagram)
Hertford, Ware and Welwyn Garden City
County town Hertford is a quintessential British town to base yourself for a night or two. Sitting on the River Lea, you’re not short of cosy surroundings with buildings dating back hundreds of years with the likes of Grade I listed Hertford Castle in the centre. For the lovers of picturesque scenes, neighbouring town of Ware (a short bus ride away) is full of them! The picture to the left speaks for itself and we don’t really need to say any more, but we do highly recommend stops at Scott’s Grotto which is full of tunnels covered in shells and fossils, and a little further out of town the Amwell Nature Reserve for those seeking plenty of wildlife and green space!
Watford
A short hop from London is bustling Watford. With many people almost considering Watford a suburb of the capital, it’s certainly worth time beyond an afternoon. Not only is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter just north of the town, there’s the frankly immense Cassiobury Park which has acres of space home to small pools, to a miniature railway and of course wonderful green space. For those looking to pick up some early Christmas presents or treat themselves, Watford’s atria shopping centre is home to no less than 200 stores, making it a mecca for those nearby. When you’re ready to head back home, there’s handily a London Underground station and regular trains northward and southbound.