Hertford tourist information

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 1700's 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.

A 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.