best houses to visit hertfordshire

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The Best Hertfordshire Castles and Stately Homes

The stately homes and castles in Hertfordshire have been the homes of Kings, Queens, and British Prime Ministers. And with Hertfordshire’s close proximity to London, these historic houses can easily be visited on a day trip from London.

Hertfordshire is one of the home counties and it’s located north of London. The county has historic villages and beautiful landscapes such as the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Hertfordshire castles and country houses are a treat for every member of the family. Besides learning more about their fascinating histories, you can also wander in the beautiful gardens, play in the adventure playgrounds, or stay the night in one of the country house hotels in Hertfordshire.

These are the best country house and castles in Hertfordshire.

Hertford Castle

The original castle was a Norman structure that was built by the River Lea. Most of that building has not survived. What you see today is the Tudor gatehouse.  The castle was greatly used during the Tudor royal times, as a royal residence and as a prison. Some of the Knights Templar were imprisoned at Hertford Castle as well as King David II of Scotland and King John II of France.

The Tudor Kings often granted Hertford Castle to their wives.

In 1418, King Henry V gave the castle to his wife Catherine of France and they spend much time there. After the War of Roses, King Edward IV granted the castle to his wife Elizabeth Woodville. And Henry VII gave the castle to his wife Elizabeth of York. Queen Elizabeth I was also a frequent visitor to Herford Castle as she spend much of her childhood here.

Where: Hertford

Built: 11th century & 1540s

Style: Tudor

Visitor information : the castle is occasionally open to the public. Visit the website for more information.

Brocket Hall

Brocket Hall is a Neoclassical country house that was built in 1760. The house was the home of two British Prime Ministers: Lord Melbourne and Lord Palmerston. During Lord Melbourne’s time as a prime minister, Queen Victoria often visited the hall. There was also scandal in his life as Lord Melbourne’s wife, Lady Caroline Lamb, had an affair with Lord Byron.

When Lord Melbourne died, the estate passed to his sister who was married to Lord Palmerston, another Prime Minister.

Brocket Hall is now an event venue with a golf course, and a restaurant. Melbourne Lodge (a Georgian coach house) is a holiday accommodation.

Where: Welwyn Garden City

Built: 1760

Style: Neoclassical

Visitor information: Visit the website for more information.

Hatfield House

Built by Sir Robert Cecil, 1 st Earl of Salisbury, Hatfield House is one of the finest Jacobean country houses in England. The house was built in 1611 next to the Old Palace of Hatfield and was meant to entertain the Royal Court. The house has splendid State Rooms with fine paintings, furniture, and tapestries as well as a richly carved wooden Grand Staircase.   

The Old Palace of Hatfield, from which some remains have been preserved, was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I and King Edward VI. Due to this connection, Hatfield House holds many items belonging to Queen Elizabeth I, including the “Rainbow Portrait” that hangs in the Marble Hall.

The estate houses 42 acres of gardens that were designed in the early 17th century by John Tradescant the elder.

Where: Hatfield

Built: 1611

Style: Jacobean

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

Knebworth House

Knebworth House is a Gothic Tudor country house in Hertfordshire. The romantic exterior with turrets, domes, and gargoyles is a grand example of Victorian Gothic architecture. However, the house is far older than that. The history of the house goes back 500 years to Tudor times when a red brick manor was built.

The house has had some notable residents such as author and politician Sir Edward Bulwer Lytton, Lady Constance Lytton (a Suffragette), and architect Sir Edwin Lutyens who also redesigned the interiors.

Knebworth House is currently the home of screenwriter Henry Lytton-Cobbold. The grounds include 28 acres of formal gardens, an adventure playground, a dinosaur park,  and a tea room. The grounds are also the location of the Knebworth Festival.

Where: Knebworth

Built: 15th century/19th century remodel

Style: Gothic

Gorhambury House

Gorhambury House is a Palladian-style country house near St Albans. The house was built between 1777 and 1784 for James Grimston, 3 rd Viscount Grimston, after a design by Sir Robert Taylor.

Architect Sir Robert Taylor is mainly known for designing The Bank of England and villas surrounding London. Gorhambury is one of the largest completed houses by his design. Like many of his designs, Gorhambury has a spiral cantilevered staircase and a double-height hall. Other notable features of the house are fireplaces designed by Piranesi.  

Old Gorhambury House

Gorhambury House was designed to replace the crumbling Old Gorhambury House. This building was built in the 16th century by Sir Nicholas Bacon, Lord Keeper of the Great Seal for Queen Elizabeth I.  

Eventually, the house fell into ruin, what remains are a two-story porch, chapel, and clock tower.

Where: St Albans

Built: 1563–68 (Old Gorhambury House) 1777-84 (New House)

Style: Palladian

Visitor information: Both houses are open to visitors. Visit the website for more information.

Rye House is a former fortified manor house in the Lee Valley Regional Park. The only structure that remains of this house is the gatehouse. The manor house was the home of the Parr family in the 16th century. Future queen Catherine Parr (the sixth and last wife of King Henry VIII) lived here until 1531.   

The house gave its name to the Rye House Plot, a plan to kill King Charles II of England and his brother James, Duke of York. At that time, the house was leased by Republican and Civil War veteran Richard Rumbold. He was exiled for his role in the plot and two years later he was executed for taking part in the Argyll’s Rising.

Where: Hoddesdon

Built: 15th century

Visitor information: the gatehouse is open to the public. Visit the website for more information

Shaw’s Corner

Shaw’s Corner is an Edwardian Arts and Crafts home that was the home of Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw. Originally, the house was built as a rectory and Shaw lived here from 1906 until his death in 1950. In 1925 George Shaw was awarded to Nobel Prize in Literature.

At the bottom of the garden, a small hut was built which Shaw called “London”. So that when unwanted visitors called on the house, they could be told that Shaw was “visiting the capital”. A bust of George Bernard Shaw designed by Rodin can also be seen at the house.

Where: Ayot St Lawrence

Built: 20th century

Style: Arts and Crafts

Visitor information: the house is owned by the National Trust and is open to visitors. Visit the website for more information.  

Related Post: Visit Famous Writers’ Houses in England

Berkhamsted Castle

Berkhamsted Castle is a ruined motte and bailey castle that was built after the Norman conquest of England. The castle was built in a strategic location on a key route between London and the Midlands.

The castle was used between the 11th century and the 15th century. It was besieged and captured by Prince Louis (later King Louis VIII), a year later the royal forces retook the castle after which it was granted to Richard, Earl of Cornwall who also added a 13th century palace complex.

Where: Berkhamsted

Built: 11th century

Visitor information: the castle is owned by English Heritage and is open to the public. Visit the website for more information. 

Wrotham Park

Wrotham Park is a neo-Palladian country house designed by Isaac Ware for Admiral John Byng (4th son of Admiral Sir George Byng). The house is located only 17 miles from Hyde Park Corner and it’s one of the largest private houses near London.

In 1883, a large fire broke out at the top of the house. Fortunately, all important content was saved and the interiors were rebuilt. The house still belongs to the Byng family.

The house is often used as a film location, mainly for period dramas such as Sense and Sensibility , The Crown, and Bridgerton .

Where: South Mimms

Built: 1754

Style: neo-Palladian

Visitor information: the house is an exclusive event venue and it is not open to the public.

Country House Hotels in Hertfordshire

You can also stay in some of the fine country houses in Hertfordshire. These countryside hotels with spas, swimming pools, and golf courses are a wonderful countryside retreat while still close to London.

The Grove Hotel

The Grove is a Palladian country house that is now turned into a luxury hotel only 18 miles from London. The house was built in the early 18th century and for 150 years it was the family seat of the Earls of Clarendon. In the early 20th century the house was turned into a five-star hotel set in 300 acres of stunning Hertfordshire countryside. It has a spa, a championship golf course, and several restaurants.  

Book your stay at The Grove Hotel

Fanhams Hall

Fanhams Hall is an 18th century country house built in Queen Anne Style. Though in the early 20th century the house was enlarged into a Jacobean style country house.

The house is the birthplace of Sir Henry Page-Croft (Lord Croft) who was Winston Churchill’s Under-Secretary of State for War.

Surrounding the house are formal gardens with ornamental lakes created by Japanese gardeners. The house is currently a hotel and wedding venue.

Pendley Manor Hotel

Pendley Manor is a Victorian country house near Tring.  The house was built near the site of an old manor house by Joseph Grout Williams, a local landowner and mill owner. BBC show jumping commentator Dorian Williams was the last private owner of the house. He turned it into a center for adult education and the arts after World War Two. The Pendley Open Air Shakespeare Festival has been held on the grounds since 1949.

Since the late 20th century, Pednley Manor has been a four-star country house hotel with a spa and an indoor swimming pool all set in 35 acres of wooded parkland.     

Book your stay at Pendley Manor Hotel

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20 Gorgeous Hertfordshire Villages To Visit

Hertfordshire villages, in the area just north of London, don’t have the most glamourous of reputations.

Many people would see the county as a suburb of London, or commuter belt at least, forgetting that it’s a home to wonders such as St.Albans and some lovely villages which are the equal of the more famous counties of Surrey and Suffolk , say.

We feature 20 of the latter, lovely Hertfordshire villages, here:

Table of Contents

Aldbury is a village and civil parish in the Borough of Dacorum, Hertfordshire. The parish including Aldbury Common, is about four miles (6.4 km) south-east from Tring and six miles (9.7 km) north-east from Hemel Hempstead, in the Chiltern Hills area of England.

Much Hadham

Much Hadham is one of the most popular Hertfordhsire villages, and civil parish, in the Borough of Dacorum, Hertfordshire. It is about three miles (5 km) north-west from Hemel Hempstead. The village, including the hamlet of Little Hadham, is a conservation area.

Nascot is a village and civil parish near to Watford in Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. It is situated approximately 6 miles (9.7 km) north-east from Hemel Hempstead and about 10 miles (16 km) south-west from London. At the 2001 census, it had a population of 591 and at the 2011 Census the population was 637.

One of several pretty Hertfordshire villages near Standon (see below)

In the Domesday Book, Westmill was listed as Wistelai and consisted of two manors. The manor on the east side of the parish is now known as Standon and is within a mile (1.6 km) of East Mill Lane. The manor on the west side is known as ‘West Mill’.

The name ‘West Mill’ may have originated from one of two things: it may have been called ‘The West Vale’ or named in order to distinguish it from Standon village which lay directly across what would now be called Old Church Lane. It was likely to be called ‘The Western Manes’ because it was situated

Standon is a village in the parish of East Mill, Hertfordshire, England. It is situated approximately three miles (5 km) to the north-west of Hemel Hempstead.

Standon consists of four distinct hamlets, each one with its own historical identity: West Mill (already mentioned), East Mill, Mill Fold and Standon Green.

The churchyard of Standon church contains the grave of a 15th-century blue plaque winner; Sir Henry Marney who was master of the Royal Hospital at Chelsea. Standon was recorded in the Domesday Book as ‘Westone’.

Therfield is a village in the borough of Dacorum, Hertfordshire. It is also located about three miles (5 km) north-west of Hemel Hempstead.

In the Domesday Book, Therfield was listed as Terachou and consisted of two manors. The manor on the east side of the parish is now known as Bygrave and is within a mile (1.6 km) to Bygrave Mill Lane and about eight miles (13 km) from Old Hemel Hempstead Road. The manor on the west side is known as Therfield Hall Farm and has been demolished but was found to be inhabited by Daniel Collin in 1377.”

Wheathampstead

Wheathampstead is a town in the county of Hertfordshire, England. It has a population of approximately 5,000. Wheathampstead is located about four miles (6.4 km) north of St Albans and not far from Welwyn Garden City, it lies just off the A1 road. It is contiguous with the village of Wheathampstead Common, where (in 1841) the population was enumerated.

Redbourn is a large village in northern Hertfordshire, England. It is about three miles (5 km) north of the town of Hitchin. The population of the civil parish at the 2011 Census was 4,940.

Some notable features of Redbourn are a Tudor stone church on Church Hill, an ancient settlement fortification and Greenhill House which has been designated as a Grade I listed building because it was built by Sir John Gresham in 1565-6. On 17 July 2004, Redbourn was declared an Unitary Benefice with St Andrews Church to form Trowbridge cum Redbourn.”

Whetstone is a village in the parish of Adwell, Hertfordshire, England. It is located approximately one mile north of Tring.

Flaunden is a village in the parish of Chipperfield, Hertfordshire, England. It is located about three miles (5 km) north-west from Hemel Hempstead.

It was recorded in the Domesday Book as Floandene and was listed as having six households. The spelling continued to evolve into Florendene by 1435 and eventually Flaunden by the 20th century.

Hunsdon is an ancient village and civil parish in the Borough of Dacorum, Hertfordshire. The parish, including the hamlet of Browning’s Green, is about three miles (5 km) north-east from Hemel Hempstead and eight miles (13 km) east from Stevenage.

The local old airfield was used as a base by the Royal Air Force under the name RAF Hunsdon.

Brent Pelham

Brent Pelham is a small village, with some of the prettiest cottages of the Hertfordshire villages we feature here. It was once in the ancient parish of Welwyn, which now lies in the district of Hertsmere.

Brent Pelham sprang up around 1850 around a public house known as the Cock Inn, which was located on what would now be called Park Lane.

The area surrounding Brent Pelham is mostly rural with agriculture being the main economic activity.

Great Amwell

Great Amwell is a village in the county of Hertfordshire, England. It is located about four miles (6.4 km) south-west from Hemel Hempstead and nine miles (14 km) north-east from Stotfold.

The village has its own parish church: St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Great Amwell – it was partially rebuilt after the Civil War in 1648.

Great Gaddesden

Great Gaddesden is a village in the county of Hertfordshire, England. The village is located within the borough of Dacorum about six miles (10 km) north-west from Berkhamsted.

Great Gaddesden was listed as having four households in the Domesday Book. The area surrounding Great Gaddesden is mostly rural with agriculture being the main economic activity.

Codicote is a village in the parish of Great Gaddesden, Hertfordshire. It is located two miles (3 km) to the north-east from Little Gaddesden.

This village comprises mainly terraced “Old English” style housing and some more modern development. The local school is Codicote C.E Primary School which was established in 1933 and for which Princess Anne was appointed as patron in 1987.

Gilston is a village in the parish of Great Gaddesden, Hertfordshire. It is located about one mile to the north-east from Little Gaddesden.

The built up area surrounding Gilston includes mainly “Old English” style housing and some more modern development. The local school is in Little Gaddesden which was established in 1932 and for which Princess Anne was appointed as patron too in 1987.

Ayot St. Lawrence

Ayot St. Lawrence, one of the ‘Ayots’, is a small village in the eastern part of Hertfordshire. It is within the parish of Bushey Heath, which lies within the district of Dacorum.

The Ayots chapel was built in 1836 by Rev. George Bourne and his wife as a memorial to their daughter Eliza who died on 7 October 1835 aged 19 years. The site is at the foot of Green Lane, near the church and school and surrounded mainly by fields but also partly by woodland.

St Ippolyts

St. Ippolyts is in a gap in the Chiltern Hills to the south east of Hitchin.

The old parish church of St Ippolyts is dedicated to Saint Ippolytus, a martyr also known as Ilya of Kuarin. It is situated in the village of Bushey Heath and is a Grade II listed building. It was built in 1876 and has been designated as a Grade II* listed building by English Heritage for its “particularly fine interior”.

Perry Green

Perry Green is a small village near Much Hadham.

It was where the sculptor Henry Moore settled and his house, Hoglands, is not the home to the Henry Moore Foundation.

Little Berkhamsted

Little Berkhamsted is the little brother of Berkhamsted, a nearby market town.

It is a cosy place with a local shop and fine pub, the Five Horseshoes.

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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.

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.

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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.

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The 49 best places to visit in Hertfordshire

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1 Hatfield House

2 Knebworth House

3 Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

4 st albans cathedral, 5 hitchin lavender.

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6 National Trust - Ashridge Estate

7 national trust - shaw's corner, 8 hertfordshire zoo (formerly paradise wildlife park), 9 verulamium park, 10 verulamium museum, 11 fairlands valley park, 12 heartwood forest, 13 hertford castle, 14 royston cave, 15 the cathedral and abbey church of st alban.

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16 Natural History Museum at Tring

17 aldenham country park, 18 rickmansworth aquadrome, 19 welwyn roman baths, 20 lee valley regional park authority, 21 benington lordship gardens, 22 celtic harmony, 23 lee valley white water centre, 24 cassiobury park, 25 mead open farm.

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26 De Havilland Aircraft Museum

27 ye olde fighting cocks, 28 stanborough park, 29 henry moore foundation (henry moore studios & gardens), 30 hare krishna temple watford - iskcon bhaktivedanta manor, 31 cheslyn house & gardens, 32 rspb rye meads, 33 hertford museum, 34 farmyard funworld ltd, 35 stevenage museum.

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36 Whitewebbs Museum of Transport

37 scott's grotto, 38 hatfield park, 39 amaravati buddhist monastery, 40 herts young mariners base outdoor centre, 41 puddingstone distillery – the home of campfire gin, 42 bayfordbury observatory, 43 panshanger park, 44 cromer windmill, 45 bury lane fun barn.

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46 Sopwell House

47 arkley fine art, 48 the grove, 49 the pop up farm, top searches in hertfordshire, what's the weather like in hertfordshire.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Hertfordshire for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Hertfordshire in January
• Weather in Hertfordshire in February
• Weather in Hertfordshire in March
• Weather in Hertfordshire in April
• Weather in Hertfordshire in May
• Weather in Hertfordshire in June
• Weather in Hertfordshire in July
• Weather in Hertfordshire in August
• Weather in Hertfordshire in September
• Weather in Hertfordshire in October
• Weather in Hertfordshire in November
• Weather in Hertfordshire in December

Explore nearby places

• Hertfordshire
• Wheathampstead
• Welwyn Garden City
• Watton at Stone
• Bayfordbury
• Little Berkhamsted
• Brookmans Park
• Potters Bar

All related maps of Hertfordshire

• Map of Hertfordshire
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• Map of Little Berkhamsted
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• Map of Brickendon
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• Map of Ware
• Map of Letchworth
• Map of Shenley
• Map of Potters Bar

Hertfordshire throughout the year

• Hertfordshire in January
• Hertfordshire in February
• Hertfordshire in March
• Hertfordshire in April
• Hertfordshire in May
• Hertfordshire in June
• Hertfordshire in July
• Hertfordshire in August
• Hertfordshire in September
• Hertfordshire in October
• Hertfordshire in November
• Hertfordshire in December

Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in St. Albans
• Top things to do and attractions in Luton

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in St. Albans
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Luton
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Hitchin
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Stevenage
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Welwyn Garden City

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15 Best Places to Visit in Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire is a beautiful county in Southern England bordering with Greater London. Hertfordshire has a lot to offer to travellers whether you’re traveling in a couple, with friends or as a family with kids. Anyone can find a suitable activity or a place to visit in Hertfordshire.

Why you should take recommendations from me? I live in Hertfordshire for 3 years now and I completely fell in love with the country.

Best Places to Visit in Hertfordshire

• Panshanger Park: Panshanger Park is 1,000 acre of beautiful nature with lakes, river and wildlife. In a hot summer day you could also dip your toes in the river.

2. St Albans Cathedral: Locally referred to as “The Abbey”, St Albans Cathedral features stunning architecture dates from Norman times. It is located next to a beautiful park which makes it a lovely day trip.

3. The Pop Up Farm: What better than a farm featuring different crops according to the season? From pumpkins to lavender and sunflowers, the Pop Up Farm is a great place to visit whether you are traveling with your family or even just for the photo opportunities.

4. The Grove: One of the most luxury hotels in the area is The Grove. Whether you’re looking for a spa break or an indulgent afternoon tea The Grove is the go-to hotel.

5. Frithsden Vineyard: At the edge of Hertfordshire in the Chiltren Hills is a boutique English vineyard. It makes a fun day trip with a cafe on-site and vineyard tours on offer.

6. Sopwell House: Sopwell House is a luxury country house hotel located at the heart of Herfordshire. It provides a countryside escape and a sanctuary featuring a relaxing spa and an indoor heated pool.

7. Harpenden: This lovely village of Harpenden is Hertfordshire’s hidden gem. From cute cafes to boutiques picturesque village walks- Harpenden is worth a visit.

8. Hatfield House: Hatfield House is a country house rich in history set in a large park. The house and woodlands, as well as a cafe and shops, are open to the public. Make sure you purchase your tickets in advanced.

9. Brocket Hall: Brocket Hall is another country house in herfordshire rich in history. Over the years, house was owned by many influential people such as John Brocket in the 50s and it also been a film location for a number of movies. Today Brocket Hall is used as a wedding venue, a hotel and is home to a golf course.

10. Elstree Manor: Tucked away at the middle of the countryside is a lovely Manor House. The Manor is a cozy hotel currently hosting weddings and events. It als has a variety of dinning options including afternoon-tea.

11. Heartwood Forest: Visiting Heartwood Forest is a great day trip. It is the home to the largest continuous new native forest in England.

12. Knebworth House: This medieval church is a must-visit for architecture lovers. It is best known for being a rock concert venue on the 70s and 90s. Nowadays, visitors can visit the house and gardens. Tickets should be purchased in advanced.

13. Shenley Park: Shenley is a great local park. It features a 22- acre of Orchards and a tea room.

14. Gobion Woods: This beautiful woods is the perfect place to walk and be surrounded by nature. It is perfect for a visit with the family for its nature trails.

15. The Pancake House: Located in a grade II listed building featuring conserved watermill, is a fanstastic restaurant loved by locals and tourists alike. Waffle House is a family business since 1978, specialising in sweet and savoury Belgian waffles using the finest ingredients.

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Family travel adventures

40 places to visit in Hertfordshire in 2024

• smudgedpostcard
• 4th March 2021
• Hertfordshire

I’ve lived in Hertfordshire for about ten years now. Over the years I have enjoyed getting to know my new home and exploring all the interesting places to visit in Hertfordshire. Despite its proximity to London, there’s plenty of outdoor space to enjoy in Hertfordshire – not just parks but proper rural areas which stretch for miles.

If I’ve missed any great places to go in Hertfordshire, please drop me a line in the comments below so I can add them to this collection. Happy reading!

Table of Contents

Family days out in Hertfordshire

Most of the ideas listed in this article are suitable for families but the places to visit in Hertfordshire detailed here will be particularly popular with children.

If you’re looking for cheap days out in Hertfordshire for kids, fear not – I’ve written a separate post all about free and good value things to do in Hertfordshire for families .

Willows Activity Farm near London Colney

This is one of the best places to visit in Hertfordshire with kids. Despite visiting on a rainy day in December, our boys spent the entire day running around and had a fantastic time. There are lots of different areas to explore – an assault course with wooden climbing frames, a Peter Rabbit play space which is perfect for would-be Mr MacGregors to chase little rabbits through and lots more. There’s also a huge soft play area indoors and regular seasonal events.

The farm part just about got a look in during our visit – there was a bit of rabbit and guinea pig cuddling and a bumpy trip on the tractor-trailer through the fields but otherwise it was all about running wild from the moment we arrived until the moment we left.

Find out more about Willows Activity Farm

Berkhamsted Castle

If you fancy a free family day out in Hertfordshire, the market town of Berkhamstead is a great little destination to explore.

The town’s motte and bailey Norman castle is a highlight. Although it is now a ruin, Berkhamsted Castle has a long and fascinating history which is likely to capture the imagination of young and old alike. Most notably, following the Battle of Hastings, the Saxons relinquished the crown to William the Conqueror at Berkhamsted Castle.

Over the centuries, the castle was home to various monarchs and noblemen and it was the site of numerous battles. Close to Berkhamsted Castle is the Grand Union Canal, perfect for a waterside walk (there’s also a play area) and a spot of industrial history – the canal runs all the way from London to Birmingham.

Find out more about Berkhamsted Castle

Westmill Farm near Ware

Not so much a farm as an outdoor activity centre, Westmill Farm is an ideal destination if you have a family with a wide range of ages and interests. There’s high ropes, Segways, archery and climbing available, plus fishing and golf. In summertime, one of the three lakes has an inflatable assault course and there’s a decent campsite (perfect if, like us, you fancy a staycation or a birthday camping trip for kids close to home) and there’s a glamping area too.

As well as outdoor pursuits, there’s also an indoor soft play area (Woody’s Play Barn) and an excellent art centre called the Art Shed which offers a wide range of brilliant arty activities for everyone. You’ll also find a restaurant near the art centre – with seating indoors and outside.

Find out more about Westmill Farm

Paradise Wildlife Park near Broxbourne

Although I’m not a big fan of animals in captivity, this zoo near Broxbourne does a lot to raise vital conservation funds for both UK animals and creatures across the world which are represented at the zoo. Paradise Wildlife Park is definitely one of the most popular places to visit in Hertfordshire for local residents.   

Aside from a traditional zoo visit, there are lots of experiences at Paradise Wildlife Park should you wish to make your trip there particularly unique – feeding the lemurs, zoo keeping experiences and even the chance to stay overnight. These all attract an additional charge obviously!      

On our visits, we’ve particularly enjoyed the reptile house, and the big cats are a highlight of any trip to the park. There’s also an excellent play area (which my children actually prefer over the animals). And if you fancy a Jurassic Park experience, there’s an impressive animatronic dinosaur section where you can pretend giant pre-historic beasts are gobbling up your children.

Find out more about Paradise Wildlife Park

Warner Bros Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter, Leavesden 

Recommended by Cathy from Mummy Travels

If you’re looking for the most magical day out in Hertfordshire with kids, you simply cannot beat the Warner Bros Studio Tour – or the Harry Potter Studio tour as it’s often known. Transporting you into the wizarding world, it’s the only place where you can find Hogwarts (even if it’s a bit smaller than you expect), as well as dragons, the whomping willow, fantastic beasts galore and countless wonderful props from the films. 

Kids can do everything from jumping on a broomstick against a greenscreen to boarding the Hogwarts Express and trying butterbeer, as well as walking through the Forbidden Forest and having a basic wand lesson. For fans, it’s heaven: there’s so much detail in all the items on display that you wouldn’t notice just from watching the movies, and new sections or themed events constantly added. 

While it’s unlikely to appeal to toddlers, even younger Harry Potter fans will have a great time, plus it’s cleverly designed so that you can whisk them past some of the scarier bits, including the Dark Arts section and Aragog.  

Booking in advance is essential as tickets sell out very quickly, especially during school holidays or at popular times like Halloween and Christmas. And do allow plenty of time: although you could dash around in a couple of hours, you could very easily spend all day – or at least until everyone’s energy runs out. There’s a café on the site as well as space to eat your own picnic.  Not far from Watford, with a shuttle bus which runs from the station, it’s only a 20-minute train journey from Euston if you’re combining your visit with a few Harry Potter days out in London too. 

Find out more about the Warner Bros Studio Tour

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay near the Warner Bros Studios, check out my post about glamping in Hertfordshire which includes a Harry Potter themed glampsite!

The Snow Centre at Hemel Hempstead

If you’re feeling cheated by the lack of snow in the UK, the Snow Centre will provide a proper winter experience with real snow. And it’s not just for skiers looking to polish their skills pre-Alps, there’s sledging for little ones and a special area called the Ringo Slide where you can jump on a rubber ring and zip down the slope. Booking is essential.

Find out more about the Snow Centre

Take the kids to jail in Hoddesdon

There’s a great charity in Hoddesdon – Teens Unite: Fighting Cancer. And one of the fundraising attractions is the Jailbreak Cafe. Here you can sit in a cell while you have tea and cake, served from the county where prisoners used to check in to the police station jail.

Opening hours vary, please check the website for details.

Find out more about the Jailbreak Cafe

Houses and gardens to visit in Hertfordshire

Knebworth house.

Although known to many for its music events – Queen, Rod Stewart and Oasis have all played here – Knebworth House is also a great day out in Hertfordshire for families.

There’s an excellent dinosaur trail through the woodlands with huge models of the ferocious beasts dotted around for little people to discover. Further away from the main house (families tend to drive between the two areas) is an impressive adventure playground with a big wooden fort and lots of space for picnics. The slides are particularly good fun. This area is surrounded by vast open fields – it’s a lovely setting for an afternoon of play.

The house itself – a Gothic revival mansion – can be visited too. There are guided tours during the week and at weekends the house can be explored independently. There are attractive formal gardens around the house as well as a steep hill which is perfect for kids to roll down.

You can easily spend a whole day at Knebworth, there’s a café near the house and a snack kiosk by the adventure playground. Just bear in mind that Knebworth doesn’t open until 11am so don’t make the mistake I once made of arriving there at 10am. Knebworth shuts for an extended winter break.

Find out more about Knebworth House.

Henry Moore Studios and Gardens

The Henry Moore Studios and Gardens has a huge body of this 20 th century sculptor’s artwork set across 60 acres of grounds. Some of the pieces are positioned in the gardens, others are located in the surrounding fields. There’s a particularly brilliant sculpture set on a hill quite a distance from the gardens, it’s a great piece to discover.

The Henry Moore Studios and Gardens is one of my favourite places to visit in Hertfordshire and it’s a brilliant destination for families – children can actually touch the bronze sculptures and run around the grounds – very different to a traditional gallery setting. One of my boys has always found it very difficult to resist touching things in museums so the tactile nature of the artwork here is perfect for him.

There are tours around the artist’s former home – Hoglands, and temporary exhibitions are held each year in the indoor gallery spaces which focus on a particular area of Moore’s work.

There’s a café on site and arty events are organised during the school holidays, there’s also a fun trail for kids to follow. The gardens are shut over the wintertime.

Find out more about the Henry Moore Studios and Gardens

Hatfield House

Recommended by Kat from Wandering Bird

If you’re enjoying a day out in Hertfordshire, be sure to make time to visit beautiful Hatfield House. 

This Jacobean Country house was built around the 17th century by Robert Cecil (Minister to King James I) and has been the family home of the Cecil family ever since. 

Before that, the palace which stood on this site was the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I and King Edward VI and was used as a prison for Queen Mary I. The history you’ll find (and feel) here is incredible. 

Inside the house, as well as the opulent rooms and furnishings, you can see items that belonged to Queen Elizabeth I, plus a huge (nearly seven metres) ancestral family tree showing the lineage of the family.

As well as exploring inside the house, be sure to allow time to explore the gardens and ‘Great Park’- covering 42 acres. There are fountains, lakes, orchards, herb gardens and a maze, as well as thousands of trees, plants and flowers. There are several signed walks through the grounds and they allow picnics. 

The house is not part of the National Trust or English Heritage, so you will need to pay to visit, but it’s worth every penny to wander through this incredible site. There is plenty of parking, even if you’re on a motorhoming holiday and have a larger vehicle. There’s also a restaurant on site. 

The house is only open on specific days and only during the summer, although the woodlands and park open for visitors around Easter. 

Find out more about Hatfield House

Benington Lordship

Benington Lordship is an intriguing place – not least because it’s only open a couple of times a year. The main manor house is of 18th century origins but the estate dates back to Saxon times. In the grounds are the earthworks of a a medieval motte and bailey castle and the ruins of a Norman keep.

Each February visitors are welcomed to the grounds of the house for the annual snowdrop display and then at the end of August there is a chilli festival where locals descend en masse to enjoy everything chilli-related. There are chilli plants for sale (lots of varieties), chilli food and of course a chilli eating contest. The contest is a bit grim with contestants quite literally dropping out – when we were there one year several people ended up in the bushes feeling rather unwell.

During the snowdrop season, refreshments can be purchased and there’s plenty of spicy delights during the chilli festival.

Find out more about Benington Lordship

Cheslyn House and Gardens

Hidden away in the north of Watford is this delightful house with surprisingly exotic gardens – perfect for anyone daydreaming about travels further afield. The 3.5 acre property was designed by architect Henry Colbeck and his wife Daisy who filled the gardens with plants they had collected from their extensive travels across the world.

There are plenty of pathways to explore – perfect for children who like to get lost in the outdoors. The gardens also feature a woodland area and a pond – there is plenty of inspiration for any budding gardeners!

Find out more about Cheslyn House and Gardens

Hitchin Lavender

When I told my boys we were going to a flower farm last summer they weren’t overly enthusiastic. However, when they discovered they could run up and down the rows up lavender and clamber onto hay bails they soon agreed it was actually a pretty good day out. They even admitted that lavender ice cream is surprisingly tasty.

I was impressed by how tolerant the busy bees were of all this activity but I suppose when you’re surrounded by so much of your favourite food you can ignore all the humans wading through the fields. The lavender farm is rather popular with Instagrammers – it’s a very scenic spot for a photoshoot.

When is the best time to visit Hitchin Lavender Fields? We visited in early July – that vivid purple should look good all through July and into August, but check the website for up to date information.

Find out more about Hitchin Lavender.

Shaw’s Corner, near Welwyn

Located in the village of Ayot St Lawrence near Welwyn, this was the home for more than 40 years of playwright George Bernard Shaw. The house was built at the beginning of the 20 th century in the arts and crafts style with stained glass windows and hearts cut into the banisters. Shaw was a good friend of William Morris – this is reflected in the choice of furnishings in the house.

Shaw’s Corner is packed with artefacts from the playwright’s life – an Oscar trophy for his screenplay of Pygmalion, a sculpture of Shaw carved by Rodin, and an extensive library. There are of course plenty of everyday objects – everything from toothbrushes to clothing and electric heaters. A visit to Shaw’s Corner offers a fascinating insight into one of the UK’s most significant writers.

Find out more about Shaw’s Corner

Parks in Hertfordshire

Rickmansworth aquadrome.

Recommended by Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

Rickmansworth Aquadrome is a public park and an award winning local nature reserve five miles west of Watford.  

Spread over 100 acres of land,  Rickmansworth Aquadrome  consists of three stunning lakes, plenty of walking paths, the Grand Union Canal, wildlife watching, ample car parking space and children’s play areas. One can also indulge in water sports like windsurfing, jet-skiing, sailing or canoeing. 

Batchworth Lake is used by a water skiing club that hosts various water skiing events. Adjacent to this is Bury Lake, that hosts Bury Lake Young Mariners dedicated for sailing and canoeing.  

Stockers Lake is the largest of the three lakes in Rickmansworth Aquadrome, and is a popular place for bird and wildlife watching. There are designated hides to watch the birds. Herons, coots, terns, geese, grebes, not to forget the ducks and swans, this is a paradise for bird watchers. Spread over 40 hectares, there are as many as 60 species of birds.

The aquadrome is a popular attraction in the area for families and couples. Not only for locals, but visitors from other neighbourhoods visit here to enjoy the open space, canal walks and water sports.  Whatever the weather is, a walk along the serene outdoors does lift one’s mood immensely.

The park is open all year long, with free car parking, toilet, café, disabled access and a dog free picnic area.  If you are driving, the car park is off Frogmoor Lane in Rickmansworth.

Find out more about Rickmansworth Aquadrome

Fairlands Valley Park in Stevenage

This 120 acre park in Stevenage offers a wide range of facilities. There’s a large lake for water sports – kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and sailing. Younger children love the splash park and playground while older kids can enjoy the climbing wall and high ropes course.

Fairlands Valley has plenty of open space for walks and bike rides (there are a few hills) and there are woodlands to explore as well.

Find out more about Fairlands Valley Park

Cassiobury Park in Watford

This is a large park right in the centre of Watford. There are two good playgrounds with facilities for children of all areas and also two cafés – each conveniently situated close to one of the play areas. There’s also a children’s splash park and plenty of fields for a game of football or to fly a kite.

A river runs through the park and there’s extensive woodlands (great for bluebells in spring, and conkers in autumn) plus a network of pathways running through it.

Find out more about Cassiobury Park

Cedars Park in Cheshunt

This is a great day out in Hertfordshire for little children. Cedars Park has lots of flat paved tracks which are perfect for young kids who have just learnt to ride a bike. There’s an excellent café and a really lovely little nature centre where children can stroke a skunk (among other activities) – a particular highlight for my two boys.

The park has royal origins – the Palace of Theobalds, owned by King James I, was once sited here and a few ruins remain today. Cedars Park has been really well maintained and has plenty of keep visitors engaged – including formal gardens and an arboretum.

Find out more about Cedars Park

Aldenham Country Park near Elstree

This country park close to the M25 is a really brilliant destination for families. There’s camping and glamping, a farm to explore and nature trails. The adventure playground has a special time slot for visitors with SEND.

You’ll also find 100 Acre Wood at the country park – children will enjoy hunting for Pooh, Piglet and Tigger.

Aldenham Country Park is a not-for-profit organisation run by the same team as Church Farm in Ardeley .

Find out more about Aldenham Country Park

Lee Valley Regional Park

Stretching across parts of Essex and London as well as Hertfordshire, Lee Valley Regional Park is a vast open space of 10,000 acres. It has been developed over the last 50 or so years to offer local people a green area to enjoy various pursuits.

There’s an extensive range of activities from water-based sports to glamping and camping. It’s an excellent destination for cycling with a dedicated network of trails of varying lengths and plenty of walking routes too.

If you’re visiting the park with children, the sculpture trail is a good place to start – there’s a variety of sculptures dotted along a three mile trail which should keep little ones engaged.

Find out more about the Lee Valley Regional Park

Museums in Hertfordshire

We are lucky to have a really great selection of museums in Hertfordshire. Most towns have their own museum, so I have just included a selection here. For a complete list of local museums, check out the Hertfordshire Museums website .

Tring Natural History Museum

This is a great alternative to London’s Natural History Museum. There’s some excellent exhibits but far fewer visitors. Originally owned by a member of the Rothschild family, it is now run by the main London museum.

There are six galleries displaying everything from dogs to crocs to monkeys. It’s a brilliant destination for families looking for school holiday rainy day activities – the museum organises events for children.

Find out more about the National History Museum at Tring

De Havilland Aircraft Museum near London Colney

This independent museum showcases the contribution the De Havilland company made to British aviation. There’s an interesting collection of aircrafts ranging from the 1930s wooden Dragon Rapide passenger aircraft to the World War II Mosquito bomber, and the world’s first jet airliner, the Comet.

The museum is located in the grounds of Salisbury Hall – where the prototype Mosquito was originally developed.

Find out more about the De Havilland Aircraft Museum

Verulamium Park and Museum in St Albans

St Albans sits on the edge of what was once the third largest Roman city in Britain, Verulamium. Visitors can see the remains of the city walls, the hypocaust (underground heating), mosaic floor and the Roman amphitheatre.

The museum features recreated Roman rooms and interactive zones plus a collection of Roman gold coins which were discovered as recently as 2012 by a metal detectorist. It’s encouraging to know there might still be hidden treasure buried out there somewhere!

The park has a lake and play area as well as sports facilities and a café.

As an aside , if you’re visiting St Albans with Lego fans, there’s a great little Lego shop in the town called Brick Traders where you can make your own mini figures and buy new or second hand sets – or simply gaze at huge completed sets in the window. We have to visit this shop every time we go to St Albans.

Find out more about Verulamium Park

Stevenage Museum

If you’re visiting Stevenage for some shopping, it’s worth popping into the town’s museum – it has a particularly good collection of local artefacts and exhibits.

We’ve visited Stevenage Museum a couple of times with our kids and they’ve really enjoyed it. One of the highlights is a section on highwaymen – the main road from London to Cambridge passed close by – there’s a highwayman’s hat and a big carriage wheel. Elsewhere, you can put a would-be criminal in the dock and interrogate them or frighten the kids with a “man trap” – a nasty metal contraption which would have caught poachers on the surrounding estates.

Stevenage Museum also features a 1950s kitchen where younger children can recreate The Tiger Who Came to Tea – the book, the tiger and a tea set are all supplied.

The museum is definitely one of the best places to visit in Hertfordshire for a free rainy day outing.

Read our review of Stevenage Museum

Unusual places to visit in Hertfordshire

If you’ve already ticked off the main places to visit in Hertfordshire, here are a few off the beaten ideas – including some which I’ve yet to check out.

Bayfordbury Observatory

Located just south of Hertford, this Hertfordshire University observatory is predominantly for teaching students but it does offer open evenings to groups during the winter months. Several years ago, we arranged for a group of families from our village to spend an evening of stargazing at the observatory. The evenings can be tailored to specific age groups and interests.

Find out more about Bayfordbury Observatory

Puddingstone Gin Distillery

If you’re stuck for gift ideas for your significant other, you could do far worse than buy them a tour of the Puddingstone Gin Distillery – home of Campfire Gin.

Tours of the distillery include a history of gin and how it is produced. There’s a tasting experience with the chance to sample five different gins. I just wish Puddingstone wasn’t located at the other end of Hertfordshire to where I live.

Find out more about Puddingstone Gin Distillery near Tring

Scotts Grotto in Ware

Scott’s Grotto is such an intriguing place – perfect for anyone, young or old, with a vivid imagination. Built by 18th century poet John Scott, the grotto consists of a series of chambers decorated with stones, shells and coloured glass. Although there is a certain amount of lighting, it’s recommended that you bring a torch to explore the grotto properly.

This little place is definitely one of the most unusual things to do in Hertfordshire. Located on an unassuming residential street in the town of Ware, the house it was built for has since been demolished and it’s now in a little plot of land surrounded by trees and modern houses. It’s only open on Saturday afternoons in summertime so you need to plan ahead if you fancy a visit.

Find out more about Scott’s Grotto

Royston Cave

Keeping with the subterranean theme, Royston Cave is another man-made cavern – but a much older one. Said to possibly date back to the Knights Templar in the 12th century, Royston Cave is a beehive-shaped chamber covered in carvings.

Find out more about Royston Cave

Celtic Harmony near Hertford

I have really fond memories of visiting Celtic Harmony with my children – it’s one of the best days out in Hertfordshire for young children who like to be outdoors. This living museum recreates Iron Age life with a collection of round houses and there are lots of crafts and activities for children to get involved in.

Halloween – or Samhain, the Celtic new year – is particularly good fun. There’s broomstick making, archery, a spooky trail through the woodlands and lots more.

There’s even the chance to spend the night at Celtic Harmony – sleeping in a roundhouse – glamping as it was 2,000 years ago!

Find out more about Celtic Harmony

If you’d like to find out more about open air museums, I’ve written an article all about the best open air museums in the UK.

Amaravati Buddhist Monastery near Hemel Hempstead

Now, here’s one of the places in Hertfordshire which is likely to see a surge in visitors when it re-opens post-lockdown. Meditation and silence are the key practices here – something any home-schooling parent will be longing for.

Home to monks and nuns practicing the Therada form of Buddhism, the monastery welcomes visitors. Amaravati is open from early morning until late evening – although if it’s your first visit the best time to come is at meal time (you’re encouraged to bring a food donation) – around 11am. This will give you the opportunity to chat with some of the residents.

There are meditation workshops every Saturday afternoon and it’s also possible to stay overnight as part of a retreat.

There are family events and events for specific age groups – who’s tempted to send their teenager…?

Find out more about Amaravati Buddhist Monastery

Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, near Enfield

We love this little museum hidden away near Enfield. I’m sure we’d visit more frequently if it wasn’t for the rather limited opening hours – ensure you check before heading there.

The museum has a surprisingly extensive collection of transport modes – a great range of bicycles, fire engines and even a model railway housed inside an old railway carriage.

There’s a café at Whitewebbs but it’s rather old fashioned – it’s a mug of coffee type of place rather than cappuccino territory. However, there’s plenty of space outside for a picnic.

Whitewebbs is one of those hidden gems which is a delight to discover – particularly with young children.

Find out more about Whitewebbs Museum of Transport

River swimming in Hertford

If you fancy a swim in the open air, head to Hertford where the rivers Beane and Lea meet in Hartham Common. There’s a lovely wide stretch of the combined rivers which is perfect for wild swimming. It’s wonderfully scenic and on a warm sunny day it feels pretty amazing to be swimming there.

I’ve written a whole article about where to swim outdoors in Hertfordshire: click here to find the best places for an open water swim .

Cromer Windmill near Stevenage

If you like your cultural experiences on the slightly old-fashioned side, you’ll enjoy exploring this 17 th century windmill. It’s located in a really picturesque setting, close to the tiny villages of Cromer and Ardeley and surrounded by fields.

There are steep steps leading to the upper floor of the mill, while the ground floor has a short video explaining the history of the windmill. Friendly volunteer guides are on hand with further information.

Find out more about Cromer Windmill

If you’re looking for good value places to visit in Hertfordshire with little kids, I’ve put together a collection of ideas which don’t cost the earth: free and cheap things to do in Hertfordshire with kids .

Best places to eat in Hertfordshire

We have some fantastic pubs and restaurants in Hertfordshire. I’m lucky to live close to quite a few of them. This is a rather incomplete list, I’m working my way through updating it. By the way, this isn’t so much a list of the most exclusive places to dine at – it’s simply a selection of places which I think deserve a special mention for one reason or another!

The Lussmanns chain of restaurants: St Albans, Hitchin, Hertford and Harpenden

Until lockdown hit, we really enjoyed eating at our local branch of Lussmanns in Hertford. It’s one of those places where the waiters really know the food and the wine and you can trust their judgement. Everything I’ve eaten at Lussmanns has been delicious.

Find out more about Lussmanns

Enjoy a pub lunch in Braughing

As is often the way in English villages, the tiny settlement of Braughing (pronounced Braffing) has a particularly good ratio of pubs to residents. There’s three to choose from in Braughing: the Axe and Compasses , the Brown Bear and the Golden Fleece . They all serve very good food.

The village and surrounding countryside is lovely for walking if you need to work up an appetite (or work off a pudding). And there’s a funny tradition in this village: on 2 nd October the locals celebrate Old Man’s Day commemorating the funeral of a local chap who turned out not to be dead on the way to his service. He was woken from his deep slumber by one of the pallbearers who slipped on some leaves on the pathway, dropping the coffin. Each year, local children sweep the roads of leaves in his memory.

Pizzas and football at the Cricketers in Weston, near Stevenage

This is such an idyllic place to enjoy a summer’s afternoon in Hertfordshire. The Cricketers has a huge garden – there’s a great climbing frame and a football pitch – yes you read that correctly – plus lots of tables spread out across the spacious lawns. The pizzas are very good but it’s the setting which we really love.

The Tilbury, Datchworth

This is one of our local pubs and it has been pulling out all the stops during lockdown to bring posh pub nosh to people’s homes – you can even order cocktails to take away.

Seafood often features on the menu at the Tilbury as well as plenty of pub classics and it has a kids’ menu too.

If you’re looking for a pub in Hertfordshire to visit with your kids, you’re in luck – I’ve compiled a list of family friendly pubs in Hertfordshire for you to work your way through.

And if you fancy afternoon tea in Hertfordshire , I’ve got that covered too – I’ve compiled a list of 49 places (at the last count!) ranging from vintage tea rooms to luxury hotels.

Places to walk in Hertfordshire

As well as the various places in Hertfordshire to visit which I’ve recommended above, there are plenty of other wild and rural places to walk in Hertfordshire. I’ve written about autumn walk in Hertfordshire and where to find bluebells in Hertfordshire on the blog, but here’s a few of my favourite places for a stroll.

Panshanger Park, near Hertford

Panshanger is a place we regularly return to for walks, although we have had to give it a wide birth during lockdown as it’s been so busy. It is a huge space – one thousand acres – brilliant for cycling, walking and picnicking. Previously a quarry, it is now being maintained as a nature reserve by the Wildlife Trust and plans are afoot to provide a café and toilet facilities in the future.

Highlights of Panshanger include bluebell woods in spring and blackberries galore at the end of summer. The woods are great for den building and the fields are perfect for cycling and long walks. There are several lakes which attract a multitude of dragonflies and birdlife in the summer.

Towards the far end of the park is an ancient oak tree. Apparently it is the oldest maiden oak in the country. If, like me, you have no idea what that means, I’ll explain. Many of the old trees in our country were pollarded (and still are) – the upper trunk and branches are removed for timber and the tree regrows from what remains – pollarded trees can be identified by their short trunks and low branches. A maiden tree is one which has not been pollarded so its trunk grows much higher before its boughs appear. It is said that the Panshanger oak was planted by Queen Elizabeth I, making it over 400 years old.

Find out more about Panshanger Park

Heartwood Forest near St Albans

A more recent planting exercise has been undertaken at Heartwood Forest near St Albans. Although there are sections of ancient woodland here, the majority of Heartwood is newly planted, creating the largest new native woodland in the country.

There are lots of walking, cycling and horse riding trails of varying distances, some designed specifically for children. In spring, one of the established woodland areas is carpeted with bluebells while summertime brings wildflowers to the meadows.

Heartwood is a massive and impressive undertaking, definitely worth exploring. There are no facilities so bring a picnic.

Find out more about Heartwood Forest

Broxbourne Woods Sculpture Trail

We love this woodland – the Broxbourne Woods Sculpture Trail is perfect for young children who need something to encourage them to walk that little bit further. Older kids enjoy the area for den building and it’s also perfect for longer walks and cycling. Broxbourne Woods is a National Nature Reserve and there are trails of up to 17 kilometres.

There’s around nine sculptures to find along the trail – including a Roman soldier, foraging wild boars and a brilliant metal sculpture of a stag. They all relate to the local area either environmentally or historically (or both) – the Roman road from London to York passed close by Broxbourne and wild boar used to inhabit the woodlands.

Although there are no facilities at Broxbourne Woods, there are plenty of good pubs close by. Take a look at my blog post about the best family friendly pubs in Hertfordshire for a full list.

Find out more about Broxbourne Woods Sculpture Trail

Ashridge Estate, near Tring

The National Trust Ashridge Estate is a huge area of woodland and meadows in the Chiltern Hills with that essential café in which to grab a bite to eat and a coffee. Bikes are welcome – Ashridge stretches over 5,000 acres so there’s plenty of space for walkers, cyclists, dogs and horses.

Our favourite time to visit the Ashridge Estate is in spring when the woods are filled with bluebells.

Looking for other places for a springtime walk? Read my post about where to find bluebells in Hertfordshire .

Find out more about the Ashridge Estate

Across the border….

We only have two National Trust places to visit in Hertfordshire but there’s a few really great places close by. Just over the border into Essex is the brilliant Hatfield Forest – a huge area of woodland, fields and lakes along with a great little café.

Just north of Herts in Cambridgeshire is the impressive Wimpole Estate which is great for long walks across the fields – there’s a ruined folly hidden away on a hill which is worth seeking out. Our kids loved the play area outside the café.

And my other National Trust recommendation close by is Dunstable Downs in the Bedfordshire Chilterns– it has to be one of the best kite flying destinations in the country.

Additional outdoor places to visit in Hertfordshire

As well as the places detailed above, there are of course an almost endless list of beautiful outdoor places to visit in Hertfordshire. Instead of listing all of them here, below are some links which you should find helpful.

Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust – this details all of the nature reserves in Hertfordshire. We have lots of favourite spots near us which are perfect for walks of varying lengths. There’s a useful map function on the site to give you an overview of where all the various reserves are.

Woodland Trust – similar to the Wildlife Trust, you can search for woods to walk in near where you live – there are lots of little pockets of woodland which you can find on the map. Some are established with a dedicated car park while others require more creative ways of accessing them. If you’ve exhausted all the well known spots in your area, this is a great resource for finding new places to explore.

RSPB nature reserves – there’s only one RSPB nature reserve in Hertfordshire – Rye Meads. But there are other reserves worth visiting not far over the border into the neighbouring counties. Again, there’s a map search function to help you choose.

Herts Garden Trust – this charity researches and protects historical parks in Hertfordshire. Some of the destinations I’ve mentioned above feature on the website but there’s quite a few others too. The website also has a section on Hertfordshire walks.

Parks Herts – this is a really useful website detailing all of the parks in Hertfordshire. You can search by various themes – family, cycle, picnic and so forth. It’s a brilliant resource for anyone looking for a green space in Hertfordshire.

Prompted by the need to find places to meet my family and friends outdoors during the pandemic, I’ve also written an article about places to visit outdoors which covers sculpture parks, open air museums, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and National Nature Reserves. This is a countrywide article.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Hertfordshire, I’ve compiled a list of glamping sites – some rustic, some rather luxurious – all in beautiful parts of the county.

I’ve written a similar article to this one about things to do in Hertfordshire, so if you can’t find what you’re looking for here, do check that out for more ideas.

Do you live in Hertfordshire? Where are your favourite places to visit in Hertfordshire? Let me know in the comments below.

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Things to do in Hertfordshire – 16 must-visit places in Herts!

Best things to do in Hertfordshire England – from great market towns to chocolate-box villages, there are many places to see in Herts this weekend!

Hertfordshire is one of the most visited counties in the South of England . Wonder why? With so many famous sites such as Hatfield House, St Albans Cathedral or the magical Warner Bros Studio – you just can’t go wrong if you visit this county!

Have you already ticked off the main places in Hertfordshire? Do not worry! We have covered a few unusual things to do in Herts – perfect ideas for your next day trip from London !

The county of Hertfordshire is also one of the most popular places to call home – if you work in London. Due to its proximity to the capital, some of the top commuter towns near London are based in Herts.

Main cities and towns in Hertfordshire

• Hemel Hempstead
• Rickmansworth

Explore the best places to visit in Herts England and top ideas for things to do in Hertfordshire this weekend:

Top places to visit in Hertfordshire

1. hitchin lavender.

Where to go in Herts? Visit Hitchin Lavender! A small family-run farm where you can explore endless rows of lavender, many acres of sunflowers and also wildflowers.

If you are looking for ideas for your next day out of London , this amazing place in Hertfordshire just has to be on your list!

The car park is free of charge and there are a few other facilities you can enjoy while visiting the farm – café, a gift shop and a play area.

Address: Cadwell Farm, Arlesey Rd, Ickleford, Hitchin SG5 3UA

2. St Albans

Nice places to visit in Hertfordshire? Buzzing with life, history and entertainment, St Albans is a must-visit place in the Herts.

It is home to many amazing cafes and top-quality British pubs . The historic town centre is so beautiful that many visitors consider relocating there. In fact, St Albans is one of the most popular commuter towns around London .

If you haven’t been to this part of Hertfordshire, we strongly recommend visiting St. Albans !

3. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

Must-visit places in Hertfordshire? It’s only a 3rd position on our list of top places to visit in Hertfordshire but for many people, this is the number one attraction in the Herts!

Visit these iconic sets and discover what it took to bring the Harry Potter films to life at Warner Bros, Hertfordshire.

If you wish to see how the magic is made and make some too, then there is no other choice than to go for a trip to Warner Bros .

Book a ticket and explore the magical world of Harry Potter ! Rady for a Studio Tour from London ?

Best Hertfordshire things to do? There are many Hertfordshire destinations you just must-see! If you fancy quintessential British villages then head out to Aldbury!

Aldbury is not only a top place in the Herts but also one of the most popular villages near London .

You might recognize it from TV as it has appeared on the screen a few times as one of the Midsomer Murders locations .

With so many amazing Hertfordshire attractions to visit, the village of Aldbury has to be top of your list!

5. National Trust – Ashridge Estate

Where to go in Hertfordshire? Located in the Chiltern Hills , the Ashridge Estate consists of 5,000 acres of chalk downlands, woodland and lush meadows.

If you fancy a great walk near London this place in Herts is for you! You really can walk for miles here and even spot a variety of wildlife.

There is also one other big reason why Ashridge Estate is a top place to visit in Hertfordshire – bluebells!

Fun fact: Ashridge is one of the top places in the whole country to see bluebells. Many people do return each year during the last week of April and the first week of May to enjoy the dense carpet of amazing bluebells.

Days out in Hertfordshire? Best to visit this market town on the way to Hitchin Lavender farm – a perfect family trip from London !

Hitchin, a historic market town in Hertfordshire, is also located only four miles from Letchworth Garden City. If you have more time, you are welcome to visit it as well.

Due to its location and size, Hitchin has just over 30,000 residents, the town is a perfect place to call it home. In fact, this really is one of the most popular commuter towns London .

7. Ickleford

What to see in Herts? Known as a getaway to Hitchin Lavender Farm, this beautiful village is situated on the northern outskirts of Hitchin in Hertfordshire, England.

If you are looking for nice villages near London , the Ickleford in Hertfordshire should be very top on your list!

8. Hatfield

What to do in Hertfordshire? With a population of just under 40,000 Hatfield is one of the must-see towns in Hertfordshire.

Visit Hatfield House or spend a day in Stanborough Park. This town offers many attractions for everyone visiting it on a day trip from London .

It is also worth visiting De Havilland Aircraft Museum – Britain’s oldest aircraft museum – which is located just outside of Hatfield.

9. Rickmansworth Aquadrome

Nice places to visit in Hertfordshire? A public park and Local Nature Reserve in Rickmansworth, Rickmansworth Aquadrome really is a must-visit location in Hertfordshire.

It is known as a top destination for water-skiing, canoeing and sailing, as well as a popular area with a number of attractive walks around the lakes.

If you are looking for top places to hike near London , add Rickmansworth Aquadrome Circular walk to your list.

This 6-mile loop trail located near Rickmansworth is a moderate walk – perfect for families on a day out in Hertfordshire.

10. Hill Farm near Ashridge Estate

Best things to do in Hertfordshire for adults and kids? If you like the British countryside , then visit Hill Farm in Hertfordshire. This really is one of the best cafes near London!

With homemade cakes and bakes, jams, money and other local produce the café shop is a great place to get something sweet you can take home with you ?

Address: Northchurch Common, Berkhamsted HP4 1LS

11. Berkhamsted

Looking for best towns in Hertfordshire? Berkhamsted was named in the past as one of the best places to live in the South East of England – no wonder it is a top commuter town near London .

This historic market town in Hertfordshire, England is located in the Bulbourne valley just over 25 miles northwest of the capital city.

From Norman Castle and Grand Union Canal to stunning walks and amazing café – there are many things to do in Berkhamsted !

12. The Snow Centre

Top places to visit in Herts England? The UK is not really blessed with great winter weather but if you are a fan of snow – you can enjoy it all year round in the Snow Centre in Hertfordshire.

Need a ski lesson? No problem! Whether you’re a beginner or pro they have lessons at any level. The huge 160m main slope is covered with the perfect snow and there is also a Lodge Bar with a wide choice of drinks, snacks and full meals.

If you are looking for a fun day out from London this is the top location in Hertfordshire! ?

Address: St Albans Hill, Hemel Hempstead HP3 9NH

13. Verulamium Park

Best things to do in Herts? This Verulamium Park is the most scenic green space in St. Albans , Hertfordshire.

With Roman ruins, lakes and the opportunity to spot swans and ducks, this is a perfect location for a family walk near London .

There is also a good cafe in the park and several great pubs nearby – if you are looking for the best pubs near London , then why not give it a go!? Just visit the Verulamium Park in Hertfordshire!

14. Rickmansworth

Whats on Hertfordshire? If you are looking for a combination of countryside and city convenience, then why not call Rickmansworth home? In fact, this is one of the most popular commuter towns near London !

This place with a village-style vibe and plenty of green space is only a 30-minute away from the capital city!

If you are not planning to move to Hertfordshire you should at least give it a go and spend a day out in Rickmansworth – it really is one of the top places to visit in Herts!

15. Tring Reservoirs

Best places to visit in Herts? Tring Reservoirs is a group of four reservoirs near Tring. It is located in the Chilterns just on the border of Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire .

Names of the four reservoirs are:

• Startops End

This is one of the best circular walks near London and one of the most notable birding spots in the South of England . It is welcoming over 250 different species – from swans and herons to many kinds of ducks.

16. Ashridge House

Top places to visit in Herts county? This used to be a royal residence to Henry VIII and Princess Elizabeth I.

Today, the Ashridge House is home to very expensive venues such as weddings, conferences and other events. Do not worry if you can’t afford it, you can still spend some time walking around the 190 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens.

Summer is a magical time and if you a fan of open-air cinema you will be delighted to know that there are outdoor screenings at Ashridge House for you to enjoy summer evenings!

Is it worth visiting Hertfordshire?

Hertfordshire really has a lot to offer. Due to its location, it is one of our favourite counties in the south of England . Yes, it’s a perfect location for a day trip from London ! With so many historical sites to visit and beautiful British villages , there is a bit of everything for everyone!

So, are you planning to visit Herts in the next week or two? 😉

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13 best hotels in Hertfordshire for a break in the countryside

Discover the best places to stay in hertfordshire, from cosy pubs with rooms to stately georgian country house hotels.

H ome to attractive market towns, one official city — St Albans — and the UK’s first garden cities, Hertfordshire lends itself easily to a relaxing short break. There’s no shortage of luxury hotels sprinkled around the countryside, including some with golf courses attached or nearby. There are plenty of pretty villages spread around the county, so you don’t have far to go to find a rural pub that doubles as a boutique hotel and has an excellent gastropub menu.

There’s plenty of countryside to go around, from the Chiltern Hills in the west to the nature reserves around the rivers Stort and Lea in the east. Add some long-distance footpaths, including the Hertfordshire Way, and some impressive National Trust properties and you have the makings of a refreshing break. Here are the best hotels in Hertfordshire.

Main photo: St Michael’s Manor Hotel, St Albans

1. Sopwell House, St Albans

Best for country luxury You’ll have 12 acres of lush countryside to roam in at Sopwell House, a few miles south of St Albans. This majestic Georgian manor house has been added to over the years and now features 128 stylishly decorated rooms. It’ll be hard to resist the Spa at Cottonmill, with its indoor pool, two hot tubs, sauna, steam room, fitness centre and relaxation areas. Order a moreish selection of Asian-inspired sharing plates at Omboo, or go for classic British and Mediterranean dishes at the light-filled Brasserie.

Spa Y Pool Y Price B&B doubles from £249

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2. The Grove, Chandlers Cross

Best for five-star luxury A favourite among Londoners who want to wallow in 300 acres under three miles from Watford Tube station, the Grove is an easy escape to the country. You won’t want to leave the grounds of this 18th-century mansion and its 215 elegant rooms, not when there’s an outdoor heated pool with its own beach within a walled garden, a sumptuous spa, a championship golf course, tennis courts and woodland trails to explore by free bike or on foot. Choose from four restaurants — the classy Glasshouse, the Stables gastropub, Indian food at Madhu’s and the spa’s Sequoia Kitchen.

Spa Y Pool Y Price B&B doubles from £490

3. Kings Arms, Berkhamsted

Best for small-town charm This 18th-century former coaching inn on Berkhamsted High Street is a short walk from the train station — handy for weekend walks along the Grand Union Canal and in nearby Chiltern Hills. Original features, including a hunter’s fireplace and lots of exposed beams and brick, add to the warm atmosphere in the public rooms, and a distinct Mediterranean flavour infuses the restaurant menu. Go for one of the attractive rooms in the original pub with exposed ceiling beams and four-poster beds.

Spa N Pool N Price room-only doubles from £59

4. Hanbury Manor Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Ware

Best for golfers Spreading across 200 acres just north of Ware — including a championship golf course — Hanbury Manor provides a taste of gracious country life in this grandiose Jacobean manor house. As you would expect in such a stately place, its 161 rooms are traditionally swish, some with four-poster beds. Golf is the focus here (including an indoor golf simulator), but the indoor spa, pool and fitness centre will keep golf widows and widowers happy. Its ambience will put you in the mood for visits to Hatfield House, one of Henry VIII’s former homes, only 13 miles away.

Spa Y Pool Y Price B&B doubles from £158

5. St Michael’s Manor Hotel, St Albans

Best for city-centre convenience St Albans Cathedral is less than ten minutes’ walk from St Michael’s Manor Hotel, but this 17th-century townhouse is in its own tranquil spot. Surrounded by five acres of lovely landscaped gardens, including its own lake, the hotel has an instantly relaxing effect. Most of its 30 pleasingly traditional rooms are in the main house, with eight in the newer garden wing. Book one of these and you’ll have your own patio leading to the gardens. The refined British cuisine in the restaurant attracts locals as much as hotel guests.

Spa N Pool N Price B&B doubles from £167

6. Baileys Farm, Breachwood Green, Hitchin

Best for farm stays and early fliers If you’re catching an early flight from nearby London Luton Airport — or, more likely, just want to have a break in the countryside — then Baileys Farm is for you. This 15th-century farm has three studio apartments in converted outbuildings, all with fridges and microwaves as well as patios with views of paddocks and the farm pond. It’s a nicely rural base for exploring local landmarks such as Shaw’s Corner and Knebworth House, and the airport is only four miles away.

Spa N Pool N Price B&B doubles from £110

7. Number One Port Hill, Hertford

Best for romantic cosiness Equidistant from Hertford North and Hertford East railway stations, this intimate B&B in a handsome Georgian townhouse is handy for a weekend away in pleasant Hertford. The style in the three bedrooms and sitting room is lavishly eclectic: lots of gilt mirrors, plush fabrics, antiques and comfy overstuffed furniture. Indulge in a big breakfast either in the ornate breakfast room or the plant-filled courtyard garden. It’s immediate obvious why it’s so popular with brides-to-be, who book it to get ready for their weddings.

Spa N Pool N Price B&B doubles from £150 (minimum two-night stay)

8. Fanhams Hall, Ware

Best for group celebrations They know how to put on a party at Fanhams Hall. This sprawling country house hotel combines a medieval hall and Jacobean mansion in a huge Japanese garden that also features a Japanese teahouse — and also an Austrian teahouse. There’s plenty of space for family gatherings as well as business get-togethers. Its 77 rooms, either in the main house or in the courtyard, range from low-key contemporary to elaborate with four-poster beds. Choose from an all-day menu in either the Atrium Bar or the Conservatory, but book ahead if you’re there at the weekend. There’s no spa, but there is a fitness room.

Spa N Pool N Price B&B doubles from £109

9. Tewinbury, Welwyn Garden City

Best for family fun on the farm Over the years, this 700-acre dairy farm has been transforming itself into a rustic chic complex of rooms, cabins, shepherds’ huts, bars, restaurants, a wedding venue and even a cookery school. Tewinbury gets you into rural life but in total comfort: stay in one of the smart rooms in the original farmhouse, or rent one of the cabins or huts overlooking the fishing lake, some with their own hot tubs. Feast on the farm’s own produce and lamb in the Cowshed restaurant. Both the Farm Shop Bar and Stable Bar occasionally have live gigs. Borrow a bike to explore the peaceful surrounding countryside.

Spa N Pool N Price B&B doubles from £136

10. Hotel Cromwell, Stevenage

Best for value What used to be a 16th-century farmhouse once owned by Oliver Cromwell’s secretary is now a stylish spot that, even with 77 rooms, manages to have the feeling of a boutique hotel. There’s a pleasing mix of contemporary and traditional — wood-panelled walls, bold colours, a bit of mid-century here and Victoriana there. At the Rump & Wade brasserie — a popular place for locals as well as hotel guests — the emphasis is on fresh ingredients from nearby suppliers used in creative British dishes, Sunday lunch and afternoon tea.

Spa N Pool N Price room-only doubles from £65

11. The Fox at Willian, Letchworth

Best for village life Country walks on your doorstep, a sleepy village, even a dinky village green next door — the dog-friendly Fox has all that plus a pub garden and a smart restaurant serving locally sourced food. The eight rooms have a fresh contemporary look that works perfectly with heavy wooden floors. Go for the top-floor room with a roll-top bath, or pick one of the garden rooms, which have their own patios. It’s owned by Anglian Country Inns, which means lots of fresh seafood from Norfolk in the restaurant.

Spa N Pool N Price B&B doubles from £145

12. The Farmhouse at Redcoats, Little Wymondley

Best for a foodie country escape About halfway between Hitchin and Knebworth House, the Farmhouse at Redcoats attracts food lovers who want a chilled-out countryside break. Over the years, the Farmhouse has grown from its original five bedrooms in the old farmhouse, adding seven rooms in the coach house and stables and 15 slightly more contemporary rooms in the converted grade II listed barn. Local farmers and Norfolk fishermen supply the food in the plant-filled conservatory restaurant, which has a vegan menu to go with its Sunday lunches and afternoon tea. Not surprisingly, the 18th-century barns make appealing wedding venues.

Spa N Pool N Price B&B doubles from £135

13. Shendish Manor Hotel & Golf Course, Hemel Hempstead

Best for Harry Potter fans Spread across 160 acres of gardens outside Hemel Hempstead, Shendish Manor Hotel is handy for Harry Potter fans on a Warner Bros Studio Tour five miles away. Eighteen of the 70 traditionally furnished rooms are in the main Victorian manor house, with the other 52 more modern rooms in a newer wing. If you want full-on Victoriana, book one of the four-poster rooms with a free-standing bath. There’s elegant dining in the Orangery restaurant as well as food in the lounge bar and at the 18-hole golf course. Wedding parties are attracted to the large banquet rooms and garden gazebos.

Spa N Pool N Price room-only doubles from £89

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The 21 best places to visit in the east of england.

With famous sites such as Holkham Hall in Norfolk and Knebworth in Hertfordshire, here are the best places to visit in the East of England.

Encompassing famous countries such as Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex, the East of England is a haven for historic houses and gardens, including grand country estates such as Holkham Hall and Knebworth house, to beautiful more intimate spaces such as Stody Lodge and The Gibberd Garden. Take a look below to see where you can visit or view a map of the houses and gardens here .

Cambridgeshire

Elton Hall & Gardens, Peterborough

A visit to Elton Hall is like a walk through history as it reflects the changing tastes and vision of each generation, making it the unique and magical place it is today.

Every room is packed with magnificent treasures – antique furniture and a superb collection of fine paintings including important works by Old Masters dating from the early 15th-century to remarkable 19th-century works by J. F. Lewis, Landseer & Millais.

The Manor, Hemingford Grey, Huntingdon

Cottage garden in a formal setting of lawns and topiary surrounding a 12th-century Manor House.

The garden was originally created by the author Lucy M Boston who based her Green Knowe children’s books on both house and garden. The seasons of interest start in January with a mass of snow drops and winter flowering shrubs, followed by the excitement of Spring, the bearded irises, the old roses and then interesting summer annuals take the garden through to the first frosts.

Travel sustainably

We’re keen to encourage you to explore the East of England sustainably, so have teamed up with Good Journey to help you find car-free means of exploring the range of historic houses and gardens in the area. Take a look at Good Journey’s website here to find means of exploring the area now.

Hedingham Castle, near Halstead

The 900 year old Norman keep of Hedingham Castle stands in 160 acres of spectacularly beautiful landscaped gardens and woodland where the Lindsay family, descendants of the original owners, the De Veres, still live.

The Norman keep forms the centrepiece of the estate. With woodland, lakes and formal gardens surrounding the Georgian Mansion House, it is an enchanting place to visit.

Ingatestone Hall, Ingatestone

Ingatestone Hall is a 16th-century mansion built by Sir William Petre, Secretary of State to four Tudor monarchs.

The Hall stands in open countryside, one mile from the village of Ingatestone and substantially retains its original Tudor form and appearance with its mullioned windows, high chimneys, crow-step gables and oak-panelled rooms. It is surrounded by ten acres of enclosed gardens comprising extensive lawns, walled garden and stew pond.

Layer Marney Tower, Colchester

The tallest Tudor gatehouse in the country, Layer Marney Tower was built in the 1520s by Lord Marney, friend to both Henry VII and Henry VIII.

A statement house, of grand design, decorated with ornate terracotta, Layer Marney has been a family home for over 500 years. Lord Marney planned a much larger house, with three additional wings built round a grand central courtyard, but he died before it was finished and his only son died two years later.

The Gibberd Garden, Harlow

Located on the outskirts of Harlow, The Gibberd Garden is an inspirational Grade II listed garden. Designed by Sir Frederick Gibberd, a leading Twentieth Century architect and Master Planner of Harlow.

The garden comprises of formal lawns, streams and glades, a mature lime avenue, a wild garden with a tangle of paths, 90 artefacts and sculptures and a moated castle. The Gibberd Rooms contain Sir Frederick Gibberd’s archive, Library and living area, set as it was during his lifetime.

The home of Governor of the Bank of England

Moggerhanger House in Moggerhanger, Bedfordshire, is a Grade 1 listed house designed by the eminent architect, Sir John Soane Designed in 1792 as the country home of the Governor of the Bank of England, Godfrey Thornton.

Hertfordshire

Benington Lordship, Stevenage

The garden at Benington Lordship sits on an ancient fortified site which has been occupied since Saxon times. What you see today are the earthworks of a medieval motte and bailey castle and the ruins of a Norman keep, now a listed monument.

The gardens were initially laid out in the early 20th-century and surround the manor house, the core of which was built around 1700.

Knebworth House, Knebworth

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

It is remarkable for having been home to the Lytton family for more than 500 years, and for its romantic exterior complete with turrets, domes and gargoyles, which conceal a red brick house dating from Tudor times.

Hindringham Hall, Hindringham

The house is warm brick and cool flint and you get to it across a lovely little brick bridge. You are crossing a moat that has gone all the way round since 12th-century…

The house is Tudor, built c.1538 by a courtier who had got rich in the service of Henry VIII’s illegitimate son Henry Fitzroy. It was in decline before Gerald Gosselin from Bengeo Hall in Herts restored it in 1900.

Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea

Steeped in history, Holkham Hall on the north Norfolk coast has the perfect setting; surrounded by rolling parkland, rich in wildlife. This magnificent 18th-century Palladian hall is home is to the Earls of Leicester and the family takes great pride in sharing the house and its treasures with visitors.

The state rooms offer superb collections of ancient statuary, original furniture, tapestries and paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck, Gaspar Poussin and Gainsborough.

Houghton Hall & Gardens, Kings Lynn

Houghton Hall is one of the grandest survivors of the Palladian era, built in the 1720s for Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole.

It is a showcase of the work of architects James Gibbs and Colen Campbell complemented by the richly ornamented interiors of William Kent, and furnished to reflect Walpole’s wealth and power. The Hall is currently the home of the 7th Marquess of Cholmondeley, Walpole’s descendent, and his family.

Hoveton Hall, Norwich

Hoveton Hall Gardens is a must-visit whatever the season. Enjoy a visit to the gardens in early spring when the grounds are carpeted with many different varieties of snowdrops and daffodils.

May and June see the azaleas and rhododendrons take centre stage – an amazing collection of colour which has been described as one of the best displays in Norfolk.

Mannington Hall, Norwich

The gardens feature roses, especially classic varieties, themed borders, a ruined church, Victorian follies, wildflower meadow, birdhide and arboretum.

Visits to the gardens are free to Historic Houses members. Tours of the Hall are available through Invitation to View.

Interested in attending events at historic houses?

The East of England is a hub for wonderful events on the estates of famous historic houses and gardens. From car shows to festivals, art exhibitions to plant fairs, there’s so much to do beyond simply viewing these great spaces. Take a look at the range of events happening at these estates in the East of England here.

...also in Norfolk

Raveningham Hall & Gardens, Norwich

Raveningham Hall is the Grade II* listed home of Sir Nicholas Bacon Bt OBE DL and his family. The Bacons have been at Raveningham since 1735, today the site comprises 10 acres of gardens and a 5,500 acre rural estate.

Raveningham Gardens, like many others is the work of one person – Sir Nicholas’s mother, Priscilla Bacon. She lived here for 50 years and in that time greatly enlarged the garden, creating magnificent herbaceous borders.

Sandringham House, Sandringham

Sandringham House, the Norfolk country retreat of Her Majesty the Queen, is set in 60 acres of beautiful gardens and open daily April until the end of October.

Enjoy the main rooms of the magnificent House, explore the fascinating museum with extensive Royal car collection, the charming parish church, 600 acres of Country Park, playground , waymarked trails, Restaurant, Tearoom and Gift Shop.

Stody Lodge Gardens, Melton Constable

Stody Lodge Gardens bursts into spectacular colour each spring thanks to its collection of over 200 varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas.

Spread over 14-acres, its avenues and winding pathways are also lined with magnolias, camellias, mature and specimen trees and carpets of spring bulbs. There is also magnificent yew hedging and expansive lawns to enjoy.

Walsingham Abbey, Little Walsingham

Walsingham Abbey is famous for the spectacular remains of the mediaeval Priory and place of pilgrimage, destroyed at the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

The Grounds are also renowned for snowdrops filling the woodland garden in February. Both bring visitors from all over the world, all year round.

Helmingham Hall Gardens, Stowmarket

Helmingham and the Tollemache family have been together for many hundreds of years. The Hall and the old oak trees that stand today have seen much of the history of England pass before them, and many generations of this family.

Helmingham Hall was completed in 1510, surrounded by its deep moat, serene gardens and ancient 400 acre deer park which is the home to herds of both red and fallow deer.

Kentwell Hall, Long Melford

Kentwell Hall is Suffolk’s hidden gem and one of England’s finest Tudor houses that stands within the most extensive moat in the county and nearly 30 acres of formal gardens and grounds.

A privately owned house that is fully moated, Kentwell is truly a stunning property with a character and an individuality not often seen in great venues these days.

Somerleyton Hall, Lowestoft

Somerleyton Hall is one of the finest Victorian Stately homes in the country, let our expert team of guides bring this fabulous Hall to life with their history tours that run throughout the day.

Somerleyton Hall has 12 acres of magnificent gardens. The charming sunken white garden to the north of the Hall is set within the footprint of the former winter garden.

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Hertford (Hertfordshire, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Hertford (Hertfordshire, England)

Hertfordshire’s county seat is a small but well-preserved market town at an ancient crossing on the River Lea.

The English church’s first general Synod happened in this place in 673, when the date for Easter was decided on.

Not long after, the Anglo-Saxons identified Hertford as a strategic site at the confluence of four rivers, and Edward the Elder built defences over the Lea’s ford.

One of these would evolve into Hertford Castle, a royal palace up to the reign of James I and with riverfront gardens open to the public.

Among Hertford’s many small but interesting sights are the oldest purpose-built Friends Meeting House (1670), the house that the naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace grew up in and lots of 17th-century and Georgian architecture.

1. Hertford Heritage Trail

To show just how many curiosities await you on Hertford’s streets, there are more than 41 stops on the town’s Heritage Trail.

In the shadow of the grand Georgian Shire Hall, Fore Street is extremely pretty.

The entire length of the street merits a look, but the western end is a joy for the rare pargeting (decorative stuccowork) visible on the Salisbury Arms (1570) and the terrace of mid-17th-century houses at 3-13. Wallace House at 11 St Andrew Street is obligatory.

This was the childhood home of naturalist Alfred Russell Wallace (1823-1913), who travelled to the Amazon Basin and Malay Archipelago and independently came up with a theory of evolution at the same time as Darwin.

2. Hertford Castle

Straddling the River Lea, Castle Gardens is a beautiful place to pass an hour or two.

These are the grounds of Hertford Castle, on a site first fortified by the King of the Anglo-Saxons, Edward the Elder in the early 10th century.

This was turned into a Norman motte-and-bailey castle in the 11th century, and that earthwork mound can still be seen beside the Lea.

The castle was rebuilt in stone by Henry II in the 1170s and over the coming centuries was a royal residence, often used for important prisoners like Knights Templar, and King John II of France and David II of Scotland during the Hundred Years’ War.

In 1563 Parliament met at this very building during an outbreak of plague in London.

This was the castle’s high point before a long decline.

Along with Henry II’s flint and stone wall, the main surviving structure is the gatehouse, remodelled in a Gothic Revival style in the late-18th century.

This is a private building for weddings, but can be visited during Heritage Open Days in September, while the gardens are always open to the public.

3. Hertford Museum

The Hertford Museum dates back to 1903, and was founded by a pair of businessmen, the Andrews Brothers, calling on their own collection.

The current location is a 17th-century townhouse, and the museum was given a Heritage Lottery makeover a decade ago, reopening in 2010. There are more than 100,000 objects in the collection so only 5% of this sizeable reserve can be shown at one time.

As you’d guess, the exhibition jumps from topic to topic, covering fine art, geology, ethnography, archaeology, ceramics, photography, the Hertfordshire Regiment and local ephemera to give a sense of the day-to-day in Hertford over the years.

Always on show and not to be missed is the Roman corn-drying oven (for beer), dating back to the 4th century and weighing 20 tons.

There has been no equivalent find in the UK.

4. Riverside Trail

You can get a feel for Hertford and the River Lea on the Riverside Trail, which guides you along to the neighbouring town of Ware, and then back to Hertford on a Figure of Eight.

This easy stroll is just under six miles and carries you over the Lee Valley floodplain, past the Hertford and Ware locks, waterside gazebos, the remnants of 18th-century watermills and a historic pump house.

At Chadwell Springs you’ll see the “New River”, a manmade waterway from 1613, intended to supply London with drinking water (London still gets much of its water from the Lea). The King’s Mead, also just outside Ware, floods over in winter to provide a feeding ground for migrating and overwintering birds like teals, gadwalls and shovelers.

5. Scotts Grotto

If you take the walk to Ware on a Saturday, you have to make the short detour to Scotts Grotto, a set of interlinked chambers lined with flint, coloured glass, shells and fossils and extending 20 metres into the chalk hillside.

The Grade I-listed Scotts Grotto used to be part of garden of Amwell House and was ordered by the Quaker poet John Scott (1731-1783). This complex would have taken several years and cost as much as £10,000 to complete, an astronomical sum at the time.

It is though that Scott just wanted somewhere to write, although the word “FROG” in the main “Council Chamber” is a tribute to his wife, Sarah Frogley.

The estate has since been redeveloped, but the grotto remains and can be visited on Saturdays (14:00-16:30) between April and September.

6. Quaker Meeting House

At 50 Railway Street stands the oldest purpose-built Friends’ Meeting House in the world to have remained in unbroken use.

The first Quaker preacher came to Hertford in 1655 and practised in private houses until this building was completed in 1670. If you’re interested in seeing the typically low-key but atmospheric interiors there’s an open day on the second Sunday of the month between May and September.

7. All Saints’ Church

Aside from St Albans Cathedral, Hertford’s All Saints’ Church is the largest church in Hertfordshire.

This Grade II* building is newer than it seems, having been completed in 1905 after the previous church was destroyed in a fire in 1891. The design is Perpendicular Revival, in a Northern style, using red sandstone from Runcorn.

Although little is more than 100 years old, the degree of workmanship is high, on the stained glass windows (east window by Charles Eamer Kempe), polished limestone font, pulpit, sedilia and piscina in the chancel and the three-manual organ (1900) by Henry Willis & Sons.

Among the memorials are pieces of brasses dating back to the 1400s rescued from the previous church.

8. Hertford Theatre

This modern complex at The Wash by the River Lea is Hertford’s main performing arts venue.

The Hertford Theatre is handy if you want to sample local productions (the Ware Operatic performs here), classical music, as well as touring musicians and comedians, and talks by cultural figures and politicians.

The theatre doubles as a cinema, showing Hollywood blockbusters and more obscure independent films.

Also on the programme are screenings from major cultural institutions like the National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Society productions.

9. Panshanger Park

The picturesque country estate on Hertford’s western fringe is actually owned by Tarmac, which bought the land for sand and gravel extraction.

And while the Gothic Revival house might have been demolished in the 1950s, a lot of the land has been kept as a nature reserve.

Some 200 acres were opened to the public in 2014, comprising a tapestry of habitats including grassland, wetlands and reedbeds.

Ospreys, kingfishers and a variety of wildfowl have been recorded at the reserve.

Traces of the historic estate, like the orangery, stables and nursery garden wall, remain, while the park grows the country’s largest maiden oak (girth of 7.6 metres), and a tree planted by Winston Churchill.

The remainder of the estate will be opened to the public when the quarrying comes to an end.

10. Shire Hall

The head-turning monument on Market Place and Fore Street is the Grade I-listed Shire Hall, an 18th-century construction by James Adam, son of the famed Robert Adam.

Dating to the late-1760s, the Shire Hall was built to house the Corn Exchange (up to the 1850s), as well as courts, a council chamber and assembly rooms.

This imposing building has four storeys, composed of bricks, as well as dressed Portland stone for the arcades, window arches, ledges, garlanded frieze and Ionic columns.

Shire Hall is currently used as a family magistrates court, but is worth a second glance as you wander the town.

11. Hartham Common

Bounded by the Rivers Lea and Beane, Hartham Common is a green space to the north of the town centre, first mentioned more than 1,000 years ago and left unsown.

Once a site for jousting contests and archery competitions, the common is crossed by public rights of way, and you may see cattle grazing in the meadows.

A few sports clubs, like the Herts Canoe and Hertford Lawn Tennis Club are based on the common.

For public facilities, there’s a fenced children’s play area, a skate park and a cafe.

Hartham Leisure centre is here on the south side, and has a pool, tennis courts, 3G and grass football pitches and an 85-station gym.

12. Bayfordbury Observatory

Taking advantage of the sparse countryside south of Hertford, the University of Hertfordshire’s Bayfordbury Observatory dates back to 1969 and is one of the biggest teaching observatories in the country.

The facility has seven optical and four radio telescopes, the largest being a 20-inch J.C.D Marsh Cassegrain Telescope.

If you’re around between October and March you can sign up for an open evening, normally held around once a month.

For amateur astronomers this is a privilege, including the chance to look through one of the seven optical telescopes, study the night sky live at the planetarium, meet researchers and students to discuss their work, attend talks and watch demonstrations by experts.

13. Corn Exchange

This grand Neoclassical hall on Fore Street was opened in 1859, and in the 20th century became a live music venue.

The likes of The Kinks and The Who played the Corn Exchange before it lay empty for 30 years, to be revived in the last decade.

The Corn Exchange books lots of live music, from cover acts to well-known touring artists.

There’s also lots of stand-up comedy, and a diversity of club nights, centred on anything from ska to drum and bass, Argentine tango, 80s disco and soul music.

14. Charter Market

Trading on Salisbury Square, Maidenhead St, Railway St and Bircherley Green, there’s a retail market every Saturday in the centre of town.

You can peruse these stalls for fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, fresh bread and pastries, eggs, flowers, fashion accessories, homewares and lots more.

On Market Place on the second Saturday of the month there’s also a Farmers’ Market from 08:30 to 13:00 selling poultry, dairy, fruit and vegetables, bread, cakes, honey and all manner of homemade condiments from local farms.

15. Lee & Stort Boat Co

A slightly confusing thing about the River Lea is that the navigable arm of the river is called the “Lee” Navigation.

Well, from Easter to September you can make the idyllic journey from Hertford to Ware on the Lee, via the Ware and Hertford Waterbus.

On a wide barge that can be modified according to the weather you’ll float through the nature-rich floodplains for about 90 minutes each way and navigate the Hertford and Ware locks.

Services depart on Saturdays and Sundays, from Bircherley Green Shopping Centre in Hertford.

15 Best Things to Do in Hertford (Hertfordshire, England):

• Hertford Heritage Trail
• Hertford Castle
• Hertford Museum
• Riverside Trail
• Scotts Grotto
• Quaker Meeting House
• All Saints' Church
• Hertford Theatre
• Panshanger Park
• Hartham Common
• Bayfordbury Observatory
• Corn Exchange
• Charter Market
• Lee & Stort Boat Co

Things To See & Do in Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire is brimming with fantastic things to see and do, so you are sure to discover something wonderful on your visit in this beautiful hidden gem of a county.

Hertfordshire - or 'Herts' as the locals call it - is just north of London and its array of attractions and destinations can be reached in as little as 20mins by train from the capital. So you can immerse yourself in stunning countryside and incredible cultural sites in next to no time!

If you don't know where to begin, why not head to our Visit Herts Blog for great ideas of what to see and do in Hertfordshire, today, this week or this season? For year round top tips, our Inspirational Ideas  section has plenty of top ten ideas for family days out, romantic escapes, historic sites, and even the best places to find afternoon tea in Hertfordshire!

But if you know you're more of an adrenaline junkie than culture vulture, then browse through our selections below for ideas on different themed things to do in our county - active adventures, family fun, arts and culture, heritage and gardens, or nature and wildlife. Browse them all and start building your perfect itinerary!

When you're finished, make sure you visit our Stay and Eat pages and then see What's On during your visit at our events page.

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Waterfalls in Iceland
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Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

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World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

Watch: From Nepal to Kosovo, here's how countries are celebrating Pride

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This Gorgeous California State Park Was Just Named the Best Place for Stargazing in the U.S.

All you need to do is look up.

Kevin Key/Slworking/Getty Images

The 2024 eclipse may have come and gone, but it left plenty of people hungry for more astrotourism. And luckily, there are plenty of fantastic spots to stargaze across the United States, and HomeToGo has rounded up a few of the best destinations in its new Stargazing Index . 

“Astrotourism has emerged as the defining travel trend of 2024 so far, with April’s total solar eclipse generating a notable uplift in demand. Leading up to the event, the search demand for vacation rentals in towns along the path of totality skyrocketed by 139 percent week-over-week on HomeToGo, with median nightly prices registering increases of 40 percent,” Eleanor Moody, a spokesperson and travel expert at HomeToGo shared in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure . “We predict that this piqued interest in celestial tourism will persist further into the year, and have curated HomeToGo’s 2024 Stargazing Index with a new wave of eager astro-travelers in mind.”

As Moody explained, the new index is designed to assist travelers in discovering all the darkest places to ensure the best view of the stars above. 

In total, it found 24 Dark Sky communities across nine states, including California, Arizona, Texas, Indiana, Utah, Colorado, Illinois, Idaho, and Florida.

It then ranked them on five indicators, including an "under-the-radar score," which it gave based on their search volume (the lower the search volume the higher the score); an "affordability score" based on the median nightly price per person for a vacation rental on HomeToGo; an "availability score," based on the number of vacation rentals in each destination bookable on HomeToGo; a "clear sky score" based on the average number of clear days in each community; and a "solitude score," based on the size of each certified International Dark Sky Place and the area's population size. (For the latter, the lower the population density, the higher the score.)

After looking at all that data, it named Borrego Springs, California, the home of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , to be the No. 1 astrotourism spot. "This small community is the only International Dark Sky Community in California," the findings noted. "Dedicated to protecting the night sky from light pollution, backyard stargazing parties are a daily occurrence. Visitors are invited to embrace the local natural and cultural wonders with the annual Night Fall Star Party, southern California’s prime opportunity to view the night sky with others." 

It was joined by two Arizona locations: Fountain Hills at No. 2, followed by Flagstaff in third. Dripping Springs in Wimberley, Texas, and Cottonwood, Arizona, came in fourth and fifth, respectively.

Ready to get out and enjoy a blanket of stars? Check out the full findings at hometogo.com .