Harpenden Estate Agents
49 High Street
Harpenden
AL5 2SJ
Hertfordshire is an extremely popular destination for regular commuters into London who want quick and easy access to the capital whilst still enjoying the fruits of a rural, country life.
St Albans Estate Agents
15 London Road
St Albans
AL1 1LA
Situated in southern England, Hertfordshire boasts a rich mixture of large, vibrant towns and traditional countryside, as protected by the Metropolitan Green Belt which sweeps across the south of the county.
Hertfordshire is famed for its wealth of intact medieval Tudor buildings which provide a fascinating insight into both the county and country’s intriguing past. This is especially prominent in St Albans where remains of the ancient town Verulamium still exist today. The county is further blessed with a good mix of large towns such as Welwyn Garden City and Hertford which provide quick and easy links into London – and picturesque villages like Berkhamsted which fit seamlessly into the sprawling countryside.
The residential sales team in Strutt & Parker’s St. Albans and Harpenden offices sell a wide-range of properties across the region, from secluded thatched cottages and country houses, to modernised, new-build flats in more locations.
Things to do in Hertfordshire
Wildlife, nature and the outdoors
Even though it’s on London’s doorstep, Hertfordshire has huge expanses of countryside which makes it a quick and easy getaway for anyone looking for some fresh country air. With charming villages, rolling green spaces and wildlife parks, it’s the perfect place for a day or weekend away from the hustle of city living.
For families, Butterfly world is a fun day with the opportunity to study fascinating creepy crawlies. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, Hertfordshire has a wealth of tranquil parks and gardens including St. Albans Verulamium Park, Harpenden Common, Redbourn Common and Rothamsted Park.
History
Hertfordshire has a rich history and heritage that stretches back centuries. Start your journey at the beautiful cathedral city of St Albans and marvel at the arresting medieval architecture and Roman influences, including the Roman theatre at Verulamium.
Then there’s Knebworth House and Berkhamstead Castle, showcasing royal affluence and design, as well as the two beautiful garden cities of Welwyn and Letchworth. Kids can also get involved and visit the Celtic Harmony Camp where they can live with a Celt for the day and experience what life was like in the Iron Age.
Culture, shopping and nightlife
Once you’ve had your fill of outdoor action and historical exploration, it’s time to kick back with some great food, drink and shopping. With shopping centres, buzzing high streets and farmers markets, there’s something for everyone. If a tipple and good pub grub is your thing, Hertfordshire is home to a number of venues ranging from popular chains through to charming independent eateries.
Hertfordshire is home to a number of events and festivals all year round, the largest of which is St. Albans Festival which presents live music, comedy, dance, food and street entertainment for the whole family.
Why we love Hertfordshire
Close, but different
One of Hertfordshire’s greatest strengths is its proximity to London, with city-dwellers taking the opportunity to have homes outside of the city in more peaceful and rural surroundings without having to travel too far. Offering a better quality of life is one thing, but it’s the ease at which commuting back to the city where the true value lies.
Over its 643 square miles, Hertfordshire has just the right balance of urban living and green space to make this a great place to live or visit. Most notable for hikers and ramblers, Lee Valley Regional Park, on London’s fringe, is the Capital’s biggest open space and has everything from sports and leisure facilities through to gardens, heritage sites and beautiful nature walks.
History and property
Combining this with the rich history of the region, the beautiful architecture to be found in the towns and villages and family-friendly activities, it’s no wonder it’s a strong contender when looking for places to live. St. Albans itself was originally developed during the Roman conquest of Britain, a heritage that still proudly exists amongst the more modern touches.
Taking all this into account, property in Hertfordshire is in demand, but does not reach the prices seen in nearby central London. Property options range from town to town but include everything from detached and semi-detached houses through to country cottages and modern flats.
View All
Key villages & towns in Hertfordshire
Hertford
The county town of Hertfordshire since the Saxon times, Hertford is at the junction of four river valleys and is well-known for its medieval layout and ties to a rich historical foundation. Although considered more upmarket than nearby towns, the area is very popular for visitors and locals because of its healthy local economy, excellent schools and small-town charm. With the green common, campsite and multiple cycling and walking paths, there’s plenty to do for fans of the great outdoors. History buffs also have their share of highlights, including Hertford Castle, The Lost Churches and Hertford Priory.
Hitchin
Featuring the largest parish church in Hertfordshire, Hitchin is an historic market town that is rich in beautiful architecture and ambience from a time passed long ago. With a weekly market and ample grassland, there is plenty to see and do in and around this charming, leafy location and visitors interested in history won’t be short of intriguing old streets and buildings to explore. The town is well connected to surrounding towns and villages and has good connections to major locations such as London, Newcastle, Scotland and York.
Watford
The largest town in Hertfordshire, Watford is situated in the south of the county and a popular destination for commuters to and from London, with trains to Euston Station taking just 20 minutes. Modern shopping and cultural attractions are in abundance; with The Palace Theatre and Harlequin Centre providing a wealth of options for locals and commuters.
There is a strong business presence in Watford with several large industrial estates and business parks around the outer regions of the town. Watford’s history and heritage can be discovered further through a visit to the Watford Museum, whilst Cassiobury Park provides the perfect surroundings for a peaceful stroll or round of golf at excellent nearby course.
St Albans
The thriving city of St Albans lies to the south of Hertfordshire and is renowned for its rich history and attractive architecture. Once Britain’s third largest Roman city, St Albans is laden with cultural sights; St Albans Cathedral and Verulamium Park are two key spots of attraction, whilst the St Albans Museum gives an insight into the town’s intriguing past.
Situated between the M25, M1 and A1, there is no shortage of transport links by road. For commuters into London, St Albans has two train stations which connect to nearby Watford and London Kings Cross Station.
Welwyn Garden City
Founded in 1920 by Sir Ebenezer Howard, Welwyn Garden City was the second ‘garden city’ in England. Its purpose was to provide a town that incorporated the best elements of city and rural living, providing rich social life whilst still maintaining a strong rural green belt at its core.
The neo-Georgian town centre offers a variety of shopping facilities, with the modern Howard Centre and John Lewis being prime points of interest for local shoppers. The town also has an array of different properties, from older town houses to new and modernised developments which are perfect for families. Nearby attractions include a visit to the Roman Baths which are located just off junction 6 of the A1.
Radlett
Radlett is regarded as one of the most affluent villages in the country. Nestled in South Hertfordshire, the village is surrounded by the local Green Belt and boasts an impressive number of considerably sized detached properties and charming Victorian terraced houses. Its close proximity to London and charming selection of local shops and restaurants have led to the village becoming a property hotspot.
For commuters there are frequent trains running from Radlett railway station to London Kings Cross, whilst international transport links are also in abundance, with London Gatwick, Heathrow and London Luton airports all accessible by train or car.
Chorleywood
The affluent town of Chorleywood has become a popular suburban town in recent years. Access to the Metropolitan Line on the London Underground and close proximity to the M25 has allows for a quick and simple commute into London and the surrounding area.
An array of small local shops, charming pubs and restaurants and the 200 acre Chorleywood Common ensure there is always something in the town to get you excited. The Common in particular provides for pleasant walks and outdoor activities and also homes the excellent Chorleywood Golf Club.
Schools in the area
With numerous well-sized towns positioned evenly across the country, there is always an excellent school for any age nearby to your area.
There is an abundance of schools catering for all ages across Hertfordshire. The county boasts an impressive 26 independent schools and 73 state secondary schools as well as the University of Hertfordshire which is based predominantly in Hatfield.
The Abbey Church of England Primary School in St Albans has an excellent reputation and has consistently scored highly in league tables for a number of years. Other key primaries are Crabtree Junior School, Kimpton Primary School and a number of first class private schools found in Harpenden
At a secondary level of education Hertfordshire has a number of fantastic schools. In St. Albans, there is Beaumont School and St. Albans Girls School and Harpenden has St. John’s, St. Georges and Roundwood Park.
For a more comprehensive list of schools in the area we recommend the Good Schools Guide.
Transport links
By train
Hertfordshire also has many options for those who prefer to travel by rail, with four principal lines connecting the county with North Wales, The Midlands, Northern England and Scotland. As well as the mainline services, Virgin’s high speed intercity trains also go through Hertfordshire, together with a range of local services within the county itself. Fast train services run into St. Pancras International Station from both St. Albans (19 minutes) and Harpenden (29 minutes).
By train
Ideally placed for a number of road connections, Hertfordshire has access to some of the best roads in the country for long and short distance travel. Among these are the A1 (the longest numbered road in the UK) which connects the county with destinations such as London, Edinburgh, Leeds, York and Newcastle upon Tyne. Other principle roads include the A5, A6, M1, M11 and the M25.
Hertfordshire has it all – it’s a place that has something for everyone with beautiful outdoor space, a vibrant culture and a rich history, all within a stone’s throw from London.