Hertfordshire, we're welcoming you back! In celebration of weekend plans being back on the menu, we're sharing some of our top tips for a weekend break without the stress...that just happens to be right on your doorstep. Ready to start planning your perfect local escape?
Now, some may call us biased (and they'd probably be right), but with our miles of rolling countryside, glorious gardens, postcard-worthy villages, and architecture to make your heart swoon, we happen to think that Hertfordshire offers some pretty damn special views! Whether you're looking for the best walking routes, gardens or country parks in Hertfordshire, we've got it covered.
If you've spent the last few months poring over idyllic Instagram snaps, longing for your next adventure in the great outdoors, we think we might just have the perfect itinerary for you. So grab your walking shoes, and don't even think about leaving your camera at home, it's time to unwind and enjoy a picture-perfect escape in Herts...
Day 1
Morning - Hertford
Bursting with beautiful buildings, open spaces and a variety of enticing independant shops, riverside Hertford is the ideal spot from which to start your adventure. Take a slow stroll around the Saxon streets of this historic market town before pausing to admire the beautiful 15thcentury Hertford Castle Gatehouse - one of the childhood homes of Queen Elizabeth I - lying at the heart of the town.
Lunch - Foxholes Farm
Worked up an appetite? Perched on a hillside amongst 25-acres of countryside, and offering fantastic views of the landscape surrounding Hertford, Foxholes Farm is the perfect place to fuel up ahead of your afternoon adventure. Why not pre-order one of Foxholes' delicious Afternoon Tea or Picnic Hampers for collection; an indulgent way to enjoy fresh and flavoursome produce straight from the heart of Hertfordshire?
Afternoon - Henry Moore Studio & Gardens
For a great afternoon in the great outdoors, grab your loved ones and make a beeline to the Henry Moore Studios & Gardens in Much Hadham. Embrace your inner artist as you explore over 70 acres of tranquil grounds, housing some of the artist's most striking sculptures against the lush landscape he called home.
Stay - The Camping & Caravanning Club
Why let sundown put a pause on your alfresco adventure? It's time to get our the canvas and enjoy a night in the open air, camping in Hertfordshire. Neatly pitched between city and countryside, the Camping & Caravanning Club's Hertford Club Site is just a short walk from historic Hertford, and offers a fantastic base from which to explore our glorious county. Pitch up, grab a steaming mug of hot chocolate (or a hot toddy - the choice is yours!) and enjoy a night of blissful escapism beneath a canopy of stars...
Day 2
Morning - Hatfield House gardens and parkland
With acres of parkland to explore, ancient trees and sights that have remained the same since medieval times, it's safe to say there are plenty of views to discover in the grounds of Hatfield House, one of our favourite Hertfordshire parks. After taking one of three walks around the parkland, looking out for deer and wildlife as you go, we recommend strolling into the elegant gardens for the chance to see sculptures, the old palace and mini maze, not to mention the magnificent Hatfield House itself, the background to cinematic favourites, including The Favourite.
OR
Morning - St Albans
With its Roman ruins, iconic cathedral, and impressive collection of independant boutiques and foodie hotspots (not to mention the oldest pub in the country), the historic streets of St Albans are seriously Instagrammable. Trust us when we say you'll be needing a hearty breakfast before embarking on this afternoon's activities (no peeking ahead!) We recommend grabbing a tasty takeaway waffle from the Waffle House before heading straight to St Albans Cathedral to catch a glimpse - and a snap - of the longest nave in England!
Afternoon - Tring Park
It's time to lace up those walking shoes, you're about to experience something pretty special! At Tring Park, explore more than 250 acres of sweeping panoramas, open parkland, mixed woodland and rare chalk grassland across the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Whether you're a keen hiker hoping to tick a new challenge off your ever-growing list, or you're simply looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll whilst admiring stunning scenery, Tring Park is the perfect place for a wonderful walk amongst nature.
Dinner - The Alford Arms
It's time to treat those tired feet to a well-earned rest, and where better to retire for the evening than the award-winning Alford Arms? Nestled in the secluded wooded valley of Frithsden, this pretty pub boasts Ashridge forest right on its doorstep and the broad sweep of the Chiltern Hills as its backdrop. Whether you're after a delicious dinner, or simply a glass of something chilled to toast to memories made on your latest adventure, you'll find something to tickle the tastebuds on this pub's mouthwatering menu.