visit santa bishops stortford

Everywhere you can visit Santa Claus and his elves in Hertfordshire this Christmas

Children can wave to the jolly man in red this month

• 08:00, 3 DEC 2022

Christmas is just around the corner and is the time everyone up and down the country is getting excited to see the man in red fly down their chimneys. Children will also be hugely excited during the countdown to Christmas and one of the best parts of Christmas is getting to see Santa.

Many places, including in Herts, give you a sneak peek of Santa and his little helpers before the big day. From local meet and greets to festive activities, there is a range of ways for you and your children to meet Father Christmas.

Below is a list of places all around Hertfordshire where you can take you little ones to see the jolly man this Christmas time.

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Burston Garden Centre

Santa will be visiting Burston Garden Centre ready to meet the local children. Santa first arrived at the Burston Garden Centre on the November 19 and will be remaining there until Christmas eve December 24 .

Costing £10 per child and £1 per adult, you can take your children to Santa’s grotto where they will be met by one of his elves and walk through a magical world and start of the magic of Christmas getting to visit Santa Clause.

Santa’s grotto has also developed some additional needs sessions to provide a more relaxed environment for your children. These sessions are the first sessions of the day when the garden centre tends to be a little quieter.

This year you are able to take your own photographs within the grotto as well as having some professional snaps taken which you can then get to view and choose between a selection of photo gifts on your way out.

Times to visit Santa may vary and you must pre-book your ticket before you go so visit their website on: https://www.bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/burston where you can book your ticket to visit Santa at Burston Garden Centre.

You can find Burston Garden Centre at: N Orbital Road, St. Albans, Hertfordshire AL2 2DS

Santa Spectacular Willows Farm Activity Farm

You can enjoy a festive day out with the family and take your little one to visit Santa at Willows Farm where you will be able to take a trip through the magical winter wonderland where you can then find Santa in his grotto. You can even meet some of Santa’s reindeer in the farmyard.

Under 2’s go free while an adult ticket to Willow Farm Santa Spectacular is £25 while a ticket for your child is £49 which includes a visit to see Santa in his Grotto and receive a key to his Toy Shop to choose any gift. Your visit also includes make-a-bear cuddly toy, gingerbread decorating, NEW Snow Girl Show, Reindeer Hunt with prize, magical (synthetic) ice skating, festive shows, festive funfair rides, adventure play, animals and Peter Rabbit's Adventure Playground.

You must prebook your tickets which you can do on their website: https://willowsactivityfarm.digitickets.co.uk/category/42181?_ga=2.38363299.1469476383.1669818455-1414924730.1669818455

You can find Willows Farm at: Coursers Rd, St Albans AL4 0PF

Christmas at Hatfield Park

From November 25 until December 31you and your family can immerse yourself in an after dark illuminated trail through the festive Hatfield Park.

You and your family can walk under the giant baubles or through the sparkling tunnels and catch a glimpse of Santa Clause on your trail. You can grab some delicious food from the food vendors along the way and enjoy a nice warm hot chocolate.

The trail is open from 4.30pm until 10pm and you can book your tickets at: https://christmasathatfieldpark.seetickets.com/raymondgubbay/christmas-at-hatfield-park

You can find Hatfield Park at: Hatfield AL9 5HX

The Magic of Christmas seasonal retail outlet

You can now visit one of the largest Christmas shops in Hertfordshire and take your little one on a trip to visit Santa. You can be met by one of Santa’s elves who will take you through a mystery trail to meet Santa at his grotto.

Santa arrived at the grotto on November 26 and will be there until December 23 when he will then be busy loading his sleigh for his Christmas Eve journey.

The grotto is open on Saturdays between 9am-6pm and Sundays between 10am and 4pm with bookings costing £9 per child.

Pre-booking is advised which you can do by calling the following number: 0143861100. You can find this seasonal retail outlet at: The Old Rectory Farm, Walkern, Hertfordshire SG2 7PD

Bishops Stortford

H@me and eat

For £12.50 per child from December 3 until December 24 your child can meet Santa after being guided by his helpers, the elves where you can visit Santa’s magical grotto. Santa will then check his list to see if your child has been naughty or nice before presenting them with a special toy. You will be able to get your picture taken with Santa by yourselves in the grotto.

H@me and Eat Santa’s grotto is open 9.30am-4.30pm. If you want a more personalised visit you can include your children’s hobbies and interests for Santa to mention in the visit if you fill out the details on your order form.

Each core booking slot gives you 10 minutes with Santa and you can book your tickets at and find out more about the extra treats you can get on your visit by visiting their website: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/santas-grotto-hme-eat-bishops-stortford-tickets-430940724307

You can find H@me and Eat at: Unit 3 Birchanger Industrial Estate Bishop's Stortford CM23 2TH

• Borehamwood

Allum Manor House

Opening on December 17 until December 24 you can take your child to meet Santa at his grotto where they will receive a wrapped present from Santa himself.

Free car parking is available and Allum Manor house is just a 3 minute walk from Elstree and Borehamwood station giving you easy access to go and meet Santa.

Tickets are £10 per child and it is recommended you book before you go so your little one doesn’t miss out on their chance to have a chat with Santa and you can book your tickets on Eventbrite online here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/santas-grotto-at-allum-manor-house-elstree-17th-24th-december17-20th-tickets-456886609147

You can find Allum Manor House at: 2 Allum Ln, Elstree, Borehamwood WD6 3PJ

• Paradise Wildlife Park

Santa will be visiting Paradise Wildlife Park every weekend from December 3 and every day from December 17 until December 24 leaving you plenty of time to take you little one to meet Santa.

Santa’s magical grotto will be based at the Safari stage where your little one can join him for a photo free of charge. There are no guarantees you’ll get to meet Santa on the day of your though so you’re advised to come early and hop in the queue.

There will be a glorious festive fairy light tunnel to walk through and enjoy with your loved ones and you’ll be able to visit Santa’s reindeer on the woodland walk.

You can find Paradise Wildlife Park at: White Stubbs Ln, Broxbourne EN10 7QA

Santa's Grotto at The Little Gym

On December 23 rd between 10am and 2pm Santa is bringing his grotto to the Little Gym where there will be a selection of winter wonderland activities and crafts. Children up to 12 years old are welcome and tickets cost £30 per child with 1-1.5 hour time slots.

Starting times are 30 minutes apart and you can book your Christmas experience at: https://bookedit.online/little-gym-harpenden-santa-grotto/

You can find Santa’s Grotto at the Little Gym at: Rothamsted, West Common, Harpenden AL5 2JQ

• Hemel Hempstead

You can take your child to the Marlowes magical Christmas experience where they can get their own elf name and help sort through letters and care for reindeer.

Your child will then be able to meet Father Christmas himself and will be given a magical treat to leave out for the reindeer on Christmas Eve. This event is free, though donations to the DENS charity would be accepted gratefully as Marlowes chosen charity.

Marlowes Magical Christmas experience is taking place from November 19 until December 24 with opening times varying. You can book your slot on their website: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/magical-christmas-experience-at-the-marlowes-tickets-451025488377

And you can find Marlowe’s Magical Christmas Experience at: HP2 4TU.

Meet Father Christmas in Hertford Town

On December 11 Santa is taking his grotto to the courtyard of the Leaf Cafe in Hertford where you can take your little one to meet the man in red himself. Your child can talk with Santa and get a professional photo taken available to buy to commemorate the event.

Children will also be given a small present from Santa with the whole experience lasting around 30 minutes.

Tickets are £30 and can be bought from: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/meet-father-christmas-in-hertford-tickets-457076356687

You can find the Leaf Café in Hertford at: 8 Old Cross, Hertford SG14 1RB

Santa’s Grotto at the Orange Tree

You can come and meet Santa in his grotto on December 10 where you child will have the chance to meet Santa and come away with a little gift.

Tickets cost £10 per child where you are advised to book in advance to avoid disappointment. You can find The Orange Tree at: Hitchin SG4 9DR

• Potters Bar

The Strafford

Santa’s grotto is coming to the Strafford on December 3 where you can bring the whole family to enjoy a fun day of community festive spirit.

You can bring your child to meet Father Christmas when he and his elves will be at the Strafford from 12-3pm where all the proceeds from the day will be being given to the Ukrainian Save The Children Fund.

The day will also have an elf disco and there will be some mulled wine for the adults. Tickets cost £5 per child and you can get your tickets at: https://truepub.touchtakeaway.net/menu/Grotto/Strafford

You can find the Strafford in Potters Bar at: Cranborne Parade, Mutton Ln, Potters Bar EN6 3BA

Save our Christmas! XMAS SHOW & SANTA MEET & GREET

You can take your little one to meet Santa for £5 with your show ticket which costs £8. Performances start from December 4.

Children will be given a mystery gift and will get to meet Santa after the show which the whole family can enjoy. You can find Save our Christmas! Xmas Show & Santa Meet & Greet at: The Crow's Nest Theatre Melbourn St, SG8 7BP Royston.

You can take your little one to meet Santa guided by his helpers where your child can discover if they’ve been naughty or nice before taking away a special little gift.

Tickets to visit Santa cost £12 per child which gives them a 20 minute time slot to visit Santa.

Santa’s grotto offers a selection of photo gifts you can buy where the whole family can get a picture taken with Santa. Father Christmas will be at Van Hague’s between December 1 st and December 10 and you can book your tickets to visit Father Christmas here.

You can find Van Hague’s at: Van Hage, Great Amwell, Ware, SG12 9RP

Santa’s grotto- Intu

Santa’s grotto has arrived next to Next at Intu in Watford.

You can take your children to the letter writing station where they can write their letter to post to Mr Clause himself and at the end of the journey you can take your children into Santa’s grotto where you little ones can see if they’re on the naughty or nice list before meeting the man in red himself.

You children will then be given a special gift from Santa himself. The times the grotto varies over the month.

The grotto is open from November 14 until December 24 so there is plenty of time to take a trip to visit Santa. It costs £3 per child and adults go free, there will be the chance to buy a photo or photo gift of your time with Santa.

You can find Santa’s grotto at: 201 The harlequin, Watford WD17 2UB

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Ten great days out in and around Bishop’s Stortford

Published 10 may 2022, written by sarah wilson, days out | uncategorised.

Bishops Stortford is a town on the Herts and Essex boarder which has great transport links into London and is only a 10-minute drive from Stansted airport. I moved here 3 years ago from Hertford and have spent my time exploring the area with my partner and 3 year-old son. 

Here are my top ten places to visit in and around Bishops Stortford. 

Sworders fields

Right in the centre of the town we have Sworders Fields which is home to a large children’s playground, an adventure park, a splash park, a skate park and lots of lovely walks along the river. There is a coffee man near the playground who always has a queue for his excellent coffee and 2 ice cream vans – one near the splash park and one near the skate park. It is the perfect place to burn off some energy after having lunch in town or strolling around the shops. There are often events held in Sworders Fields like funfairs and concerts – we had an open air cinema there last year. 

Southern Country Park

Based on the outskirts of Bishops Stortford, Southern Country Park is an idyllic place for a stroll. There is a children’s playground with a huge zipwire and a selection of equipment as well as a dog training area with a variety of apparatus. You can walk down to the pond where there is lots of wildlife and ducks who are always grateful for some food! There are lots of different routes to explore and for those people wanting a longer walk there are footbridges over the A120 which lead to farmland and public rights of way. 

Wickham Hall

There are lots of walking routes around Wickham Hall – one way you can walk is to Bishops Stortford town centre and another way is to Little Hadham. There is a lovely coffee shop (Rosey Leas) so it is a great place to start or finish a walk. A lot of the pathways are set up for farm traffic and so it is one of the few countryside walks that are easy to do with a buggy. 

Hatfield Forest

Hatfield Forest is run by the National Trust and is a 15 minute drive from Bishops Stortford. There is a lovely walk around the lake and there is a boarded area thorough the forest which makes it not too muddy in the winter. There are lots of routes available so adventurers never get bored exploring. There is a café near the car park that is outdoors which is great for a cup of coffee and a sausage roll to warm you up on those winter walks! Grange Paddocks

They have just built a fab new leisure centre at Grange Paddocks with a main pool, a learner pool and a separate splash pool which is perfect for toddlers. There is a gym and studios where they have a variety of classes everyday. There are 2 playgrounds outside the leisure centre one of which is set in a giant sand pit – both playgrounds are aimed at younger children. There is a café in the main entrance hall which has a selection of hot and cold food.    Cammas Hall

Cammas Hall is a fruit picking farm just outside Bishops Stortford with a lovely little farm shop and cafe. They do some brilliant events throughout the year. The pumpkin picking is not to be missed – they have a spooky trail through the growing tunnels which is really entertaining and lots of photo opportunities. The Easter trail is a really fun way to spend a morning and they have lots of outdoor seats a café and a playground.   Mountfitchet Castle

Mountfitchet Castle is a historic castle in the village of Stansted Mountfitchet which is a 10 minute drive from Bishops Stortford. There is lots of information about the history of the Castle which was an Iron Age Fort and then a Saxon and Viking settlement before being attacked by William the Conqueror in 1066 who built a wooden Motte and Bailey Castle. The Castle and Village has been re-constructed on the original historic site and you can explore the Castle and Norman village – there are several interactive features including bow and arrows. There are animals who roam freely around the site including goats and a peacock. They have a toy museum here which is full of vintage toys. The Castle is a really enjoyable way to spend a day for both adults and children.   Frinton

Frinton isn’t in Bishops Stortford but it is our nearest beach – about 50 minutes drive. It is a picturesque little beach town with lovely sandy beaches and a green which is the ideal spot to have a picnic looking out over the waves (if you don’t want sand in your sandwiches!). Perfect for a sunny day; digging sandcastles, eating ice cream and having a paddle in the sea. We love it here in the colder weather too when we put on our puddle suits and wellies and blow away the cobwebs with a winters walk along the beach.  Twyford Lock

If you drive along Pig Lane there is a car park by Twyford Lock. From here you have the option of walking along the river towards Sawbridgeworth or towards Bishops Stortford. Either way you choose, offers a lovely walk full of wildlife and boats and occasionally you get to see a canal boat navigating the locks which is very exciting for young children. Phisobury Park

Phisobury Park is in between Sawbridgeworth and Harlow and is a park with Grazing cattle wandering freely and several woodlands to explore and see some wildlife. From here you can walk down to the River Stort and enjoy a walk along the river either towards Harlow or towards Sawbridgeworth. Parking is free and there is a picnic area near to the car park.    

I have lots of other ideas for days out on my Instagram page @bishopsstortfordmum

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• Cammas Hall Farm
• Bishop’s Stortford Museum
• Rhodes Arts Complex
• Waytemore Castle
• Jackson Square
• Bishop's Stortford Escape Rooms
• Ace of Lanes

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Top attractions in bishops stortford.

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What travellers are saying

• Cammas Hall Farm
• Bishop’s Stortford Museum
• Rhodes Arts Complex
• Waytemore Castle
• Jackson Square
• Bishop's Stortford Escape Rooms
• Ace of Lanes

Bishop's Stortford

• 1 Understand
• 2.2 By road
• 2.3 By train
• 2.4 By bicycle
• 3 Get around
• 6.1 Supermarkets
• 6.2 Cyclists

Bishop's Stortford is an historic market town in Hertfordshire . The historic core of Stortford is covered by a Conservation Area, with 105 heritage-listed buildings. Much of the Conservation Area is also an Area of Archaeological Significance. Many of its 41,000 residents (2020) commute to London for work.

Understand [ edit ]

A market town established during the rule of the Roman Empire, but then abandoned after the Romans withdrew from the UK. Then, during the Saxon era a new settlement developed at the same location known as Steort-ford. Then in 1060, the Bishop of London purchased the manor house, resulting in the name of the town today. The town lies on the River Stort, the river being named after the town (not the town after the river).

Get in [ edit ]

By air [ edit ].

• London Stansted Airport ( STN  IATA ) – 5.5 mi (8.9 km) miles to the E of the town.

By road [ edit ]

• Take Junction 8 (A120) of the M11.
• The town is 7½ miles to the E from the London - King's Lynn A10 main road (via the A120).

By train [ edit ]

By bicycle [ edit ].

• The town is on National Cycle Route 11 from Harlow to King's Lynn .
• The town is on National Cycle Route 16 that runs from town to Southend-on-Sea .
• National Cycle Route 1 Dover to Shetland Islands passes 5 miles to the E of the town and 7 miles to the S of the town.
• Regional Cycle Route 50 passes a few miles to the E and N of the town.

Get around [ edit ]

The town is small enough to be seen on foot.

See [ edit ]

• 51.94465 0.275 2 Stanstead Raceway ( Banger Racing ), Lovecotes Farm, Chickney Rd, Henham Village CM22 6BH , ☏ +44 7851 204063 (mobile) . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.86724 0.16287 3 Empire ( Cinema ), Anchor St Bishop's Stortford CM23 3BP . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.8633 0.1643 4 Bishop's Stortford Museum , 1-3 South Rd, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG , ☏ +44 1279 710200 , [email protected] . M-F 10AM-5PM (last entry 4PM), Sa 10AM-4PM (last entry 3PM) . Housed in the birthplace of Cecil Rhodes ( updated May 2017 )

Do [ edit ]

• Whoosh Explore ( Canoe & Kayaking Club, Training & Hire ), ☏ +44 1279 815258 , [email protected] . ½-day hire kayak £25, canoe £35 . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.8733 0.2795 2 Clay Shooting Lessons , Parkers Farm, Smiths Green, Takeley CM22 6NY ( 6 miles E of town ), ☏ +44 1440 420543 , [email protected] . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.8623 0.1651 3 The Little Arts Workshop ( Pottery Painting & Clay Modelling ), Unit 3, Millside Industrial Estate Southmill Rd, Bishops Stortford CM23 3DP , ☏ +44 7599 409668 (mobile) , [email protected] . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.8715 0.1892 4 Bishop's Stortford Golf Club , Dunmow Rd Bishop's Stortford CM23 5HP , ☏ +44 1279 654715 . ( updated May 2017 )
• Rugby Union: Bishop's Stortford RFC play in National League One, the third tier. Their home ground is Silver Heys off Hadham Rd, a mile northwest of town centre.

Buy [ edit ]

• 51.87122 0.15865 1 Chartered Market , South St, Potter St, Market Sq and North St . Th Sa 8AM-2:30PM . ( updated May 2017 )

Supermarkets [ edit ]

• 51.87283 0.16026 2 Waitrose ( Supermarket ), Northgate End, Bishop's Stortford CM23 2BA , ☏ +44 1279 466556 . M-Th Sa 8AM-8PM, F 8AM-9PM, Su 10AM-4PM . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.8672 0.1662 3 Aldi ( Supermarket ), 34 London Rd, Bishop's Stortford CM23 5NF . M-Sa 8AM-10PM, Su 10AM-4PM . ( updated May 2017 )

Cyclists [ edit ]

• 51.86467 0.16492 4 Bakers Cycles , Unit 11 Southmill Trading Estate, Bishops Stortford , ☏ +44 1279 758718 , [email protected] . M-F 10AM-1:30PM, 2:40-5PM, Sa 9:30AM-5PM . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.8737 0.1901 5 Paddock Cycles ( Sales, Accessories, Parts & Workshop ), Suite 2, Block H Peek Business Centre, Woodside, Dunmow Rd, Bishop's Stortford CM23 5RG , ☏ +44 1279 657499 , [email protected] . M-F 8:30AM-6:30PM, Sa 9AM-7:30PM . ( updated May 2017 )

Eat [ edit ]

• 51.872038 0.15971 1 [formerly dead link] The Lemon Tree , 14-16 Water Ln, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2JZ , ☏ +44 1279 757788 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa noon-2:30PM & 6-9:30PM, Su noon-3PM . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.871908 0.158428 2 Cote Brasserie , 17 North St, Bishop's Stortford CM23 2LD , ☏ +44 1279 657190 , [email protected] . M-F 8AM-11PM, Sa 9AM-11PM, Su 9AM-7:30PM . Free Wi-Fi ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.86823 0.16069 3 South Street Pantry ( Tea & Cakes ), 70 South St, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3AZ , ☏ +44 1279 659510 , [email protected] . M-Sa 9AM-6PM, Su 10AM-4PM . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.8675 0.16086 4 Shadhona ( Indian Restaurant & Take-away ), 69 South St, Bishops Stortford CM23 3AL , ☏ +44 1279 656320 . M-Sa noon-2:30PM & 6-11PM; Su noon-2:30PM & 6-10:30PM . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.86691 0.16087 5 [dead link] The Blue Elephant ( Indian Restaurant & Take-away ), 55 South St, Bishop's Stortford CM23 3AL . M-Sa noon-2PM & 5:15-11:30PM; Su 12:30-10PM . ( updated May 2017 )

Drink [ edit ]

• 51.86781 0.16284 1 The Rose & Crown ( Pub ), 16 Station Rd, Bishops Stortford CM23 3BL , ☏ +44 1279 652515 . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.86914 0.16204 2 The Port Jackson ( Pub & Food ), Ground Floor Units D1/D2, Block D, Riverside Wharf, Riverside, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3GN , ☏ +44 1279 714460 . M-W 8AM-midnight, Th-Sa 8AM-12:30AM, Su 8AM-midnight . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.86675 0.15915 3 The Castle ( Pub ), Castle St, Bishops Stortford CM23 3TG , ☏ +44 1279 755094 . M-F 4:30-11PM, Sa noon-11PM, Su noon-11:30PM . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.868 0.16082 4 The Bridge House ( Pub ), 78 South St, Bishops Stortford CM23 3BG , ☏ +44 1279 755705 . M-Sa 11AM-2AM, Su noon-2AM . ( updated May 2017 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• 51.864924 0.161326 1 Jolly Brewers Free House Inn , 170 South St, Bishop's Stortford CM23 3BQ , ☏ +44 1279 836055 , [email protected] . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.872078 0.193857 2 Days Inn London Stansted Airport , Welcome Break Service Area ( On the M11 at Junction 8, next to Starbucks and near Stansted Airport ), ☏ +44 1279 656477 . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.876235 0.192398 3 Travelodge Stansted Bishops Stortford Hotel , Birchanger Ln, Birchanger CM23 5ST , ☏ +44 871 984 6444 (premium) . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.8669 0.2101 4 Great Hallingbury Manor Hotel , Great Hallingbury, Bishops Stortford CM22 7TJ , ☏ +44 1279 506475 , [email protected] . ( updated May 2017 )
• 51.86994 0.1737 5 Phoenix Lodge ( B&B ), 91 Dunmow Rd, Bishop's Stortford, CM23 5HF , ☏ +44 1279 659780 , [email protected] . Check-in: 2-11PM . Payment cash or cheque only Single from £39; Double from £55 . ( updated May 2017 )

Connect [ edit ]

• 51.86689 0.16064 1 Post Office , 102 South St, Bishops Stortford CM23 3AA . M 9AM-5:30PM, Tu 9:30AM-5:30PM, W-F 9AM-5:30PM, Sa 9AM-12:30PM . ( updated May 2017 )

Go next [ edit ]

• Stansted Mountfitchet
• Buntingford

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Santa's Grottos in Bishop's Stortford for 2024

View all Santa's Grottos in Bishop's Stortford for 2024. As Christmas approaches get into the festive spirit with a visit to a local Santa's Grotto! Check out our growing list of grottos in Bishop's Stortford below.

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• Places to visit

Bishop's Stortford

Planning your visit, local events.

History & heritage

Things to do and see

Getting here.

Download your free local map

Address: Station Road, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 3BL View on Google map

Price: Once you're parked up, it won't cost you a thing

Toilets: There are toilets at the station, Grange Paddocks and Waytemore Castle

Once an important market town and a coaching stop at a crossing on the River Stort , Bishop's Stortford still has many of its historical features. So it's an ideal place to explore the river valley and the countryside.

While the town is at the end of the navigable river, you can walk north along the towpath and find the Castle Gardens Park, with play area and the Waytemore Castle mound. Further along there's Grange Paddocks and plenty of places for a picnic.

Back at the riverside wharf, you find the area has been redeveloped with shops and, importantly, some great places to stop for a cooling drink and bite to eat.

• Walking and dog walking

Places to eat:

• The Rose & Crown
• The Bridge House
• The Port Jackson
• Prickly Pear restaurant

Wildlife spotting:

As well as coots, moorhens and swans, look out for Little grebes and water voles

By car - there's a town centre pay & display, and a car park at Bishops Stortford Station

By train - Bishops Stortford Station is just a tree minute walk to the canalside

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Bishop's Stortford Town Council and Tourist Information

• Get in touch
• Useful links
• Tourist Information Centre

2 Market Square Bishop's Stortford Herts CM23 3UU 01279 715001   [email protected]

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We are open Monday to Saturday 9:30am - 4pm, Closed between 12:25pm and 1pm for lunch, Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Call in and meet our professional team of friendly staff where you can:

• Help finding accommodation 
• Collect free UK holiday brochures
• Buy souvenirs of the town and London
• Find out What's On in the area
• Information on local productions and concerts
• Photocopying service

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Bishop'S Stortford

Attractions around Bishop'S Stortford

The top 5 attractions around bishop's stortford.

Hatfield Forest

Hiking Highlight

Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest … read more

Barwick Ford

Road Cycling Highlight

Ford, thankfully with a footpath bridge!

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St John the Evangelist

The street (that is actually the name).

Road Cycling Highlight ( Segment )

Heading westbound over the open fields between Sheepcote Lane and East End is not for the faint of heart, uphill most of the way and no matter the weather, the wind is always blowing a gale in your face.

Henry Moore Studios and Gardens

Henry Moore was one of the world's greatest sculptors, creating many celebrated monumental bronze artworks. Before his death in 1986, he lived here in Perry Green. The site has since … read more

Explore these attractions on the map

Popular around bishop's stortford.

Running Collection by komoot

Bike Touring Collection by komoot

Mountain Biking Collection by komoot

Hiking Collection by komoot

Explore the most popular Tours around Bishop'S Stortford

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

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10 Best Things to Do in Bishop's Stortford

Find fun in this historic market town.

Bishop's Stortford is a fun market town where you can enjoy a variety of attractions whether you're interested in history, shopping or fun contemporary activities. Several museums are located in town, along with the remains of Waytemore Castle.

The shopping centre is also quite popular, or you can challenge yourself with an escape room or a spot of bowling. You'll also find a wide array of theatre performances here. Try out the 10 best things to do in Bishop's Stortford .

What are the best things to do in Bishop's Stortford?

Cammas hall farm, explore a lovely farm.

Cammas Hall Farm offers opportunities for fun all day long, as you can enjoy fresh food, nature trails, the picturesque countryside and activities for the little ones. The farm produces some of the best food in the area, so if you're in the market for produce, there's hardly a better place in Bishop's Stortford.

Many of their attractions are seasonal, like the maize maze in autumn and the pick-your-own fruit and vegetables experience that runs during the summer and into early autumn. You'll find Cammas Hall Farm about 20 minutes southeast of the Bishop's Stortford city centre.

Location: Cammas Hall Farm Needham Green, Hatfield Broad Oak CM22 7JT, UK

Open: Tuesday–Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays)

Phone: +44 (0)1279 718777

Bishop's Stortford Museum

Learn about local history.

The Bishop's Stortford Museum houses fascinating artefacts from the famous Cecil Rhodes as well as remnants from Bishop's Stortford's extensive past. Rhodes is the star of this museum, however, as the founder of the De Beers diamond mining company was perhaps the most well-known resident of Bishop's Stortford.

Within the museum, you'll find many items from his life, including artefacts he gathered from his travels in South Africa. You can even see a reconstructed middle-class Victorian drawing room. This museum is located in Hockerill, just a short walk from the city centre.

Location: South Rd, Bishop's Stortford CM23 3JG, UK

Open: Monday–Friday from 10 am to 5 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm (closed on Sundays)

Phone: +44 (0)1279 651746

photo by Acabashi ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

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South mill arts, catch a live theatre performance.

South Mill Arts, formerly known as Rhodes Arts Complex, is a popular theatre complex where you can enjoy live performances by local production groups and touring professionals. In the 300-seat theatre, you can see actors perform dramas, comedies and musicals in addition to watching dancers, musicians and comedians take the stage.

The complex also features an art gallery where you'll find impressive works on canvas alongside expertly crafted photos. South Mill Arts can be found in Hockerill, a few minutes' walk south of the city centre.

Waytemore Castle

Visit a ruined castle.

Waytemore Castle is a famous ruined castle that's mostly known for its massive motte, though there is still a bit of the tower's foundation left as well. When you consider the towering castle that stood in this spot centuries ago, the context brings a sense of awe to this destination.

It's also a premier destination if you're looking for a scenic viewpoint to take in Bishop's Stortford. You'll find the ruins just shy of the city centre within Sworder's Field by the River Stort.

photo by PAUL FARMER ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) modified

Hatfield Forest

Go for a lovely walk.

Hatfield Forest is an ancient hunting forest packed full of natural splendour you can enjoy by traversing its many scenic walking paths through trees and around lakes. This forest is known for being able to evoke the feel and atmosphere of a medieval hunting forest like no other, and you can find trees over 1,000 years old.

Among the ancient trees, you’ll also find fascinating wildlife, including some rare insects, fungi and lichens. You’ll find this forest a few miles to the east of Bishop’s Stortford’s town centre.

Location: Takeley, Bishop's Stortford CM22 6NE, UK

Phone: +44 (0)1279 870678

photo by Airwolfhound ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) modified

Test your wits

Vire is an activity centre where you can indulge in interesting challenges from escape games to virtual reality experiences and foam-dart shootouts. The escape rooms are the most popular attraction, forcing you and your group to put your heads together to find a solution to the puzzles and riddles that lie within.

You'll have 60 minutes to escape the nuclear countdown or house invaders scenario in the escape room to win. All this fun can be found in the city centre west of Sworder's Field.

Location: 10-12 Potter St, Bishop's Stortford CM23 3UL, UK

Open: Monday–Thursday from 11 am to 6 pm, Friday from noon to 8 pm, Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm, Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm

Phone: +44 (0)3303 030888

Ace of Lanes

Ace of Lanes is a popular bowling alley that's designed to offer an entire night of fun with bowling and other games that everyone can enjoy. You'll find 12 bowling lanes within this venue, but that's just the beginning.

Ace of Lanes is also home to a bar and restaurant along with a TrackMan golf simulator. You'll additionally find several pool tables if you're looking to test a different kind of skill. You can find Ace of Lanes southeast of the city centre in Hockerill.

Location: 4 Anchor St, Bishop's Stortford CM23 3BP, UK

Open: Monday–Friday from noon to 10 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm

Phone: +44 (0)1279 295095

Jackson Square

Go for a spot of shopping.

Jackson Square is a popular shopping centre that offers a wide variety of shops to peruse with budget-friendly items and luxurious fare in equal measure. Clothing and shoe shops tend to take precedence here, but you'll also find shops for more niche interests like video games, photography and children's toys.

Don't forget to check out the diverse array of local restaurants as well. You'll find proper meals in addition to quick snacks and cafes. Jackson Square is located next to the Castle Gardens in the city centre.

Location: 11 Devoils Lane, Bishop's Stortford, CM23 3XQ, UK

Open: Monday–Saturday from 9 am to 5.30 pm, Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm

Phone: +44 (0)1279 757723

Mc Friday Night Magicians

See a magic show.

Mc Friday Night Magicians is a fun theatre experience where you can see comedic magic performances that delight with tricks and laughs all night long. Created by Martin Cox, this show hosts some of the best comedic magicians in the UK who not only specialise in impressive tricks and illusions but also offer close-up performances.

This intimate environment lets you examine any trick closely, and the magicians know it. To keep the illusions, they have to display a great level of skill. It's much more impressive than standard magic fare. You'll find this venue on the east side of town in Hockerill.

Location: Dunmow Road, Bishop's Stortford CM23 4AS, UK

Open: Last Friday of every month at 8 pm

Phone: +44 (0)1279 659562

Laughing Bishops Comedy Club

Enjoy a laugh at a comedy club.

Laughing Bishops Comedy Club is a popular venue with hilarious acts put together by comedy circuit veteran Paddy Lennox to ensure a whole night of laughs. Lennox is a local of Bishop's Stortford, but he frequently brings in acts from elsewhere to add some variety to the performances while still maintaining the level of quality that audiences have come to expect.

To reach this high standard, Lennox brings in touring acts from London and other popular destinations across the UK. You'll find this comedy club on Water Lane near the city centre.

Location: 18 Water Ln, Bishop's Stortford CM23 2JZ, UK

Open: Saturday from 7.30 am to 11.15 pm (closed rest of the week)

Phone: +44 (0)7901 552660

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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