Old Cross Tavern: Historic Hertford’s Beloved Free House
Historic Hertford pub renowned for award-winning ales, traditional charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere in a Grade II-listed setting.
Nestled in the heart of Hertford at 8 St Andrew Street, Old Cross Tavern is a charming Grade II-listed pub renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional selection of cask ales and Belgian beers. This historic free house, converted from an antiques shop, offers a traditional pub experience without TVs or background music, encouraging lively conversation and community spirit. Open daily with varied hours, it’s a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and locals alike.
A brief summary to Old Cross Tavern
- 8 St Andrew St, Hertford, SG14 1JA, GB
- +447547817270
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 2 pm-9 pm
- Tuesday 2 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 2 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 2 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit on the last Sunday of the month to enjoy the lively quiz night, perfect for socializing and testing your knowledge.
- Try the dark ale, a specialty that frequently receives high praise and reflects the pub’s dedication to quality cask ales.
- Arrive early on Fridays or Saturdays to secure a seat during peak hours when the Tavern buzzes with weekend energy.
- Engage with locals and enjoy the absence of TVs and loud music, fostering genuine conversation and a traditional pub experience.
- Explore the surrounding historic Hertford area before or after your visit to fully appreciate the town’s cultural heritage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Old Cross Tavern location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Old Cross Tavern
A Storied Venue in Hertford’s Historic Core
The Old Cross Tavern occupies a distinguished Grade II-listed building on St Andrew Street, Hertford, blending heritage with conviviality. Once an antiques shop, its conversion into a pub has preserved much of its historic charm while creating a warm, inviting space. The building’s architecture reflects classic English pub aesthetics, with period features that evoke a sense of timelessness and local tradition.A Haven for Beer Connoisseurs
The Tavern is celebrated for its outstanding beer selection, typically offering up to six cask ales including a notable dark ale, sourced from both large and small brewers. It also features a fine range of Belgian bottle-conditioned beers, catering to diverse palates. This dedication to quality has earned the pub multiple CAMRA awards and a regular spot in the Good Beer Guide since 2000, marking it as a landmark for real ale lovers.Atmosphere Rooted in Conversation and Community
True to its traditional pub ethos, the Old Cross Tavern eschews TVs and continuous music, fostering an environment where patrons engage in good old-fashioned conversation. Occasional live music on early Sunday evenings and a monthly quiz night add to its community spirit without detracting from its relaxed vibe. This approach creates a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to locals and visitors seeking authentic social interaction.Operating Hours and Local Engagement
Open from early afternoon through late evening on most days, the Tavern’s hours vary slightly throughout the week: opening at 2pm and closing by 9pm on Sundays and Mondays, extending to 11pm from Tuesday through Thursday, and staying open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule accommodates a range of social occasions, from casual afternoons to lively weekend evenings.Location and Accessibility
Situated centrally in Hertford, the Tavern is easily accessible and well-integrated into the town’s social fabric. Its location on St Andrew Street places it within walking distance of other local amenities and historic sites, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring Hertford’s cultural and architectural heritage.Distinctive Character and Recognition
The Old Cross Tavern’s blend of historic ambiance, award-winning beer offerings, and community-focused atmosphere distinguishes it as a cornerstone of Hertford’s pub scene. Its commitment to traditional values alongside quality and friendliness ensures it remains a cherished destination for both residents and tourists.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Ruby Room
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—
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
