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Hertford is
an attractive market town dating back to Roman times.
The town was always of strategic
importance and the Normans built a castle here after the Battle
of Hastings. Flour mills and malting played a major
part in the town's prosperity and much of this produce was
transported by barge to London.
In the 1700s the great improvements
made to the Lee Navigation canal system gave a great boost
to the town's economy.
Hertford has retained many fine
old buildings, including some outstanding pargeted houses
in Fore Street and an antique shop in Andrew Street is housed
in a splendid 15th century building.
Hertford's moated Norman castle
has long since vanished but the 15th century gatehouse of
Edward IV's castle has survived. After careful restoration
the gatehouse is now occupied by the council but is open to
the public on a limited basis.
The extensive castle grounds
beside the river, with the massive flint walls of Henry II's
castle, are always open to the public.
Another striking building on
the riverside is the Victorian McMullens Brewery, one of the
town's most important employers.
The River Lee (or Lea), a tributary
of the Thames, flows through Hertford on its way to London.
At Hertford it is joined by the rivers Mimram, Beane and Rib.
Today narrow boats can be hired for pleasure use on the Lee
Navigation and the many rivers and canals also provide a variety
of interesting walks around Hertford.
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Hertford
Hertford
Castle, Hertford's
moated castle was built by the Normans after the Battle of Hastings. It
has long since vanished and today the oldest parts of the castle
are the massive flint walls built as part of Henry II's strengthening
works in the 1170's. The 15th century gatehouse of Edward
IV's castle has also survived. Restored and used as council
offices. The gatehouse is open to the public on a limited
basis but the extensive castle grounds beside the river are
always open to the public. Gatehouse open: first Sunday
of the month May - Sept, excluding August. For guided
tours ring 01992 584322. Free admission. 
