Hatfield House, Park and Gardens
A grand Jacobean mansion set in 420 acres of parkland and gardens, once home to Elizabeth I and now a captivating blend of history, architecture, and nature.
Set in 420 acres of Hertfordshire parkland, Hatfield House is a magnificent Jacobean mansion with formal gardens, ancient woodland, and sweeping lawns. Once a royal residence and childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I, it offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and nature. Visitors can explore the opulent State Rooms, stroll through the East Garden’s elegant parterres, wander the park’s woodland walks, and enjoy seasonal events and on-site dining. A classic English country estate experience just 20 minutes from central London.
A brief summary to Hatfield House, Park and Gardens
- Hatfield, AL9 5HX, GB
- +441707287000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 11 am-3 pm
- Sunday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Check the official website before visiting to confirm opening days and times for the house, gardens, and park, as they vary by season and can be affected by events or filming.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and during seasonal events; the park and gardens are at their most peaceful in the morning.
- Bring comfortable shoes for walking, as the park and woodland paths can be uneven; also consider a light jacket as it can be breezy in the open parkland.
- Picnics are allowed in the park (but not in the formal gardens), so pack a lunch to enjoy on the lawns; remember that BBQs and portable stoves are not permitted anywhere in the park.
- If mobility is a concern, ask at the Stable Yard about the golf buggy service, which can assist with transport from the car park to the house and gardens.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From London King’s Cross, take a Thameslink or Great Northern train to Hatfield station; the journey takes about 20 minutes. From the station, it’s a 15–20 minute walk along the Great North Road and through the park entrance to the Stable Yard and visitor facilities.
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Car
Hatfield House is located just off the A1(M) near junction 6, with clear signage to the estate. On-site visitor parking is available at George’s Visitor Car Park, with disabled spaces and access to the Stable Yard and ticket kiosks.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve Hatfield town centre; from there, it’s a 15–20 minute walk along the Great North Road to the park entrance and Stable Yard. Check local timetables for the most direct service on your visit day.
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Walking
From Hatfield town centre, follow the Great North Road north for about 1.5 km to the park entrance and Stable Yard; the route is mostly on pavements and is suitable for families and casual walkers.
Hatfield House, Park and Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hatfield House, Park and Gardens
A Grand Jacobean Legacy
Hatfield House stands as one of England’s finest Jacobean mansions, built in 1611 by Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, on the site of the old Royal Palace of Hatfield. That earlier palace was a favourite residence of the Tudor monarchs and where the young Elizabeth I lived during her father’s reign. The current house retains much of its original grandeur, with red-brick façades, mullioned windows, and a dramatic Great Hall. Inside, the State Rooms are richly furnished with historic portraits, tapestries, and fine furniture, including the famous Rainbow Portrait of Elizabeth I. The Marble Hall, King James Drawing Room, and Long Gallery offer a vivid sense of aristocratic life across centuries.Formal Gardens and Hidden Corners
The gardens at Hatfield are a highlight in their own right. The formal gardens feature geometric parterres, topiary, and ornamental pools, blending 17th-century design with later Victorian and Edwardian influences. The East Garden, once the private garden of Lord and Lady Salisbury, opens on Wednesdays and is a particular delight for gardening enthusiasts, with rare plants, clipped hedges, and elegant planting schemes. Elsewhere, the grounds include the Italian Garden, the Wilderness, and the Broad Walk, all offering different moods and perspectives of the house and park. These spaces are carefully maintained, providing both structured beauty and quiet, shaded corners for contemplation.Expansive Park and Woodland Walks
Beyond the formal gardens, Hatfield Park stretches across 420 acres of ancient parkland and woodland. The park is home to mature trees, including some of the oldest oaks in Hertfordshire, and a network of well-maintained paths that invite leisurely walks and family exploration. The Woodland Walks take visitors through dappled glades and along the River Lea, offering a more natural, immersive experience. The park is also a haven for wildlife, with deer, birds, and small mammals often seen, especially in the quieter hours. Picnics are welcome in the park (though not in the formal gardens), making it ideal for a relaxed day out with children.Visitor Experience and Seasonal Highlights
Hatfield House and Park operate on a seasonal basis, with the house and gardens typically open from spring to autumn on selected days. The Park & Woodland Walks are accessible on weekends and bank holidays, with seasonal events such as Christmas light trails, historical re-enactments, and garden festivals adding extra appeal. On-site facilities include the Coach House Kitchen, a café-restaurant serving British fare, and the Stable Yard with boutiques and craft shops. The estate is family-friendly, with buggy services available for those who need assistance, and accessible routes to key areas. Whether you’re drawn by history, architecture, or simply a peaceful day in beautiful surroundings, Hatfield offers a well-rounded and memorable visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Premier Inn London Elstree / Borehamwood hotel
11.8 km
Comfortable, accessible 3-star hotel near Elstree Studios with great dining and easy London connections.
Scratchwood
14.0 km
Discover Scratchwood, a serene woodland retreat perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility and outdoor adventures in the heart of lush greenery.
Rye House Gatehouse
14.9 km
Discover the historical essence of England at the Rye House Gatehouse, a captivating landmark and museum in Hoddesdon, showcasing its rich heritage.
Bentley Priory Museum
17.2 km
Discover the fascinating history of Bentley Priory Museum, a key site of British aviation heritage during World War II, nestled in the serene Stanmore countryside.
St John the Evangelist, Stanmore
17.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of St John the Evangelist Church in Stanmore, a blend of rich history and stunning architecture for every traveler.
Middlesex University London
19.1 km
Discover Middlesex University London, where education meets culture in a vibrant campus setting, just a stone's throw from the heart of the city.
River Lee Navigation
19.1 km
Experience the tranquility of River Lee Navigation, a scenic waterway offering picturesque views, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities in the heart of England.
The Weald Stone
19.6 km
An ancient sarsen stone marking centuries of history and identity at the heart of Harrow Wealdstone.
Queen's Wood
20.4 km
Explore the tranquility of Queen's Wood, a serene nature reserve in London perfect for leisurely walks and wildlife spotting amidst stunning greenery.
Downhills Park
20.8 km
Explore Downhills Park, a tranquil oasis in London offering picturesque gardens, expansive green spaces, and enjoyable recreational activities for all.
Pinner Hill Golf Club
21.0 km
Discover Pinner Hill Golf Club, a beautiful golfing haven in Middlesex offering a stunning course and welcoming atmosphere for all golf enthusiasts.
Landmark Auctions London
22.6 km
Experience the thrill of property bidding at Landmark Auctions London, where investment opportunities await in the heart of Rickmansworth.
The King's Head Gantry
23.0 km
Historic King's Head Gantry in Harrow on the Hill, a royal relic and iconic village landmark steeped in centuries of heritage.
Royal Free Hospital
23.2 km
Discover the Royal Free Hospital, a historic healthcare institution in London, blending tradition with modern medical excellence.
The Gypsy Stone
23.5 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Enchanted England Tours
1.2 km
Discover England’s magic and history with bespoke private tours from Hatfield, blending folklore, royal heritage, and scenic beauty.
The Galleria
2.2 km
Hatfield’s covered outlet hub with 80+ stores, dining, cinema and family play, all under one roof just off the A1(M).
Lemsford Springs
4.1 km
A tranquil 4-hectare wetland reserve near Welwyn Garden City, rich in birdlife and spring-fed habitats for year-round wildlife viewing.
Panshanger Park
7.9 km
Explore 400 hectares of historic Hertfordshire countryside with ancient oaks, lakes, and abundant wildlife at Panshanger Park.
Willowmead
8.7 km
A tranquil riverside nature reserve in Hertford offering rich wildlife habitats and peaceful urban escape.
The Maltings
8.9 km
A historic and vibrant shopping centre blending heritage charm with modern retail in the heart of St Albans.
St Albans Market
8.9 km
A historic and bustling outdoor market in St Albans offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and vibrant community spirit every Wednesday and Saturday.
St Albans
9.1 km
Explore St Albans, a historic cathedral city blending Roman heritage, medieval grandeur, and vibrant market life just outside London.
The Clock Tower
9.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at The Clock Tower, a must-see landmark in St Albans that embodies the city's heritage and charm.
St Albans Cathedral
9.2 km
Discover the historic St Albans Cathedral, a majestic blend of architecture, history, and spirituality in the heart of England.
Abbey View Retail Park
9.4 km
Modern retail park with major stores, free parking, and convenient access south of St Albans town centre.
Roman Wall of St Albans
9.8 km
Explore the enduring Roman Wall of St Albans, a monumental relic enclosing the ancient city of Verulamium within scenic Verulamium Park.
Verulamium Park
10.0 km
Explore 100 acres of Roman history, scenic lakes, and family fun in the heart of St Albans at award-winning Verulamium Park.
Verulamium Museum
10.1 km
Step into Roman Britain at Verulamium Museum, where history, mosaics, and ancient ruins bring St Albans’ past vividly to life.
St Michael's Church
10.1 km
Discover the oldest Anglo-Saxon church in Hertfordshire, built on Roman ruins and steeped in over a millennium of history and artistry.
Essential places to dine
Cock o’ the North
3.5 km
A charming English pub in Bell Bar offering classic British fare, cozy fires, and a spacious beer garden near Hatfield.
Auberge du Lac
5.2 km
Elegant Modern British dining with estate-grown ingredients in a historic lakeside lodge at Brocket Hall Estate.
Cowper Arms Hertford
5.5 km
A charming Hertford gastropub blending traditional British fare with modern style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Waggoners
5.6 km
A charming French bistro nestled in a traditional English country pub setting, offering authentic cuisine and warm hospitality in Ayot Green.
Gables Restaurant - Home
7.2 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean cuisine and warm hospitality in the charming village setting of Hertford’s Gables Restaurant.
Hatche Bistro Grill & Bar
7.4 km
Family-owned Mediterranean bistro with charcoal-grilled specialties and warm hospitality on Potters Bar High Street.
The Wicked Lady
7.4 km
A charming Hertfordshire gastropub blending rustic tradition with modern British cuisine in a warm, inviting countryside setting.
Roy's Restaurant
7.7 km
A warm, modern British restaurant in Welwyn offering diverse dishes, attentive service, and a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Le Moulin Restaurant
8.3 km
Experience authentic French fine dining in the cozy charm of Wheathampstead at Le Moulin Restaurant.
Harvester Ancient Briton St Albans
8.7 km
Family-friendly British dining with hearty grills, fresh salads, and a welcoming atmosphere in St Albans’ charming Harvester Ancient Briton.
Phil Thompson Dining Ltd
8.7 km
Refined British fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service at Darcy's in St Albans.
Thompson St Albans
8.7 km
Experience refined modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with seasonal dishes and expertly paired wines at THOMPSON St Albans.
The Ivy St Albans Brasserie
9.1 km
Sophisticated British brasserie with Art Deco charm, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of historic St Albans.
Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen
9.2 km
Savor modern British cuisine with a sustainable focus in a stylish, welcoming setting in the heart of St Albans.
Loft St Albans
9.2 km
Stylish Mediterranean and Greek dining in St Albans with fresh seasonal dishes, a cozy lounge, and a welcoming wine bar atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Howard Centre
4.5 km
Welwyn Garden City’s vibrant shopping centre offering diverse stores, dining, and community events in a welcoming, accessible setting.
Spry Scents
5.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of fragrances at Spry Scents in Welwyn Garden City, where every scent tells a story.
Im Fine Wellbeing - St. Albans
7.3 km
A unique St. Albans wellness centre blending holistic therapies, mental health support, and mindful shopping under one welcoming roof.
The Dressing Room
9.1 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion and personalized service at The Dressing Room, a stylish boutique in the heart of St Albans.
Chloe James Lifestyle
9.1 km
Discover ethical fashion, unique jewellery, and curated gifts in the heart of St Albans at Chloe James Lifestyle boutique.
Christopher Place Shopping Centre
9.1 km
A stylish open-air shopping and dining destination at the heart of historic St Albans with top brands and family-friendly charm.
Olivia Rose Fairtrade
9.1 km
A colourful fair-trade gift shop in St Albans’ charming Village Arcade, offering handmade jewellery, bags, toys and homewares with a conscience.
Retail Therapy
9.6 km
Discover unique, stylish women's fashion curated globally in Hertford’s charming boutique since 2003.
Magpie Amore
9.7 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and gifts at Magpie Amore, Hertford’s curated boutique for exceptional style and sustainable shopping.
The Women's Society Boutique
9.7 km
Hertford’s award-winning independent designer boutique, offering curated womenswear, accessories and personal styling in a charming historic setting.
Frankie and Olive
9.7 km
Discover stylish, sustainable women's clothing and unique gifts at Frankie and Olive, Hertford’s ethical boutique gem.
Rossi's Attic
9.8 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and charming collectibles at Rossi's Attic, Hertford’s beloved boutique gift and antique shop.
Gingerlillie Boutique - Women's Clothing in Hertford
9.9 km
Discover curated designer women's fashion and accessories with personalized service in the heart of Hertford’s historic Market Place.
Ruby Room
10.0 km
Discover quirky, independent women’s fashion and unique gifts at Ruby Room, Hertford’s family-run boutique celebrating style across generations.
Eye Mind Heart
10.0 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish homewares, and charming toys at Eye Mind Heart, Hertford’s beloved boutique shop for all ages.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Horse and Groom
0.4 km
Historic 17th-century pub in Old Hatfield offering cozy ambiance, real ales, and classic British fare in a charming timber-framed setting.
The Great Northern
0.5 km
A vibrant Hatfield pub blending classic fare, lively events, and a welcoming community atmosphere near the Odyssey cinema.
Red Lion
0.8 km
A lively Hatfield pub-restaurant blending hearty British classics, quirky charm, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends.
The Woodman Wildhill
3.1 km
A cherished Hertfordshire country pub famed for its real ales, hearty fare, sunny garden, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Crooked Chimney
4.8 km
A cozy, rustic country pub in Lemsford offering hearty British fare and a warm, inviting atmosphere near Welwyn Garden City.
The Beehive
6.1 km
A charming Hertford country pub offering hearty British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in Epping Green.
Coach & Horses
7.3 km
Quintessential British pub in Hertford offering traditional fare, local ales, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere every day from noon till late.
Plume of Feathers
7.8 km
Historic 400-year-old country pub in Tewin offering traditional British fare, family-friendly gardens, and lively community events.
The Elephant and Castle
8.4 km
Historic 18th-century pub with spacious gardens, unique tepees, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Wheathampstead.
The Black Horse Hertford
9.4 km
Historic 1642 timbered pub in Hertford with wood-fired pizzas, real ales, a large garden, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Millstream
9.5 km
Classic British pub charm meets quality dining and warm hospitality in Hertford’s welcoming Millstream.
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
9.6 km
Step into England’s oldest pub, where medieval heritage meets riverside charm and authentic British ales in St Albans.
The White Horse Hertford
9.7 km
Classic British pub charm meets modern dining and lively atmosphere in the heart of Hertford’s Castle Street.
Old Cross Tavern
9.7 km
Historic Hertford pub renowned for award-winning ales, traditional charm, and a welcoming community atmosphere in a Grade II-listed setting.
Baar Baar- Multicuisine & Sports Bar
9.7 km
A vibrant multicuisine sports bar in Hertford blending lively atmosphere, great food, and live sports for an unforgettable social experience.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Forum Hertfordshire
2.5 km
A lively nightclub and live music venue at University of Hertfordshire, hosting diverse cultural events and vibrant nightlife in Hatfield.
Havana
8.8 km
Vibrant late-night nightclub and bar in St Albans offering energetic music and lively weekend entertainment.
—
9.8 km
Vibrant nightclub and Asian fusion lounge blending historic charm with lively nightlife in Hertford’s Parliament Square.
The Hertford Club
9.9 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
Canvas Bar & Nightclub
17.4 km
Experience vibrant nights of music, dancing, and cocktails at Canvas Bar & Nightclub in the heart of Watford’s High Street.
Popworld Watford
17.4 km
A vibrant late-night hotspot in Watford playing all your favorite 90s and 2000s pop classics with fun cocktails and a lively dancefloor.
VOLTS NIGHT CLUB/ COPPER BAR
18.2 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in Hemel Hempstead, Volts Night Club offers energetic music, friendly staff, and a lively dance floor for unforgettable nights out.
Mia Musica
18.8 km
Luton’s lively Romanian-themed night club and sports bar with authentic football culture and late-night weekend vibes.
The Bear Club
19.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bear Club, a premier jazz and blues venue in Luton, perfect for music lovers seeking unforgettable live performances.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
23.1 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
Monster Queen
24.5 km
Dive into Camden's dark heart at Monster Queen: intimate club nights pulsing with goth electronica, historic vibes, and non-stop energy till dawn.
Club Stable
24.6 km
Historic Camden stables turned electrifying nightclub: dance in Victorian horse stalls amid live music, cabaret, and pulsing beats in London's nightlife epicenter.
Lockside
24.8 km
Canal views, craft cocktails, and DJ-fueled nights atop Camden Market's vibrant West Yard—a daytime diner turned electric nightlife escape.
Electric Ballroom
25.0 km
A gritty, multi-level Camden music hall where loud live bands and club nights collide beneath theatrical lighting and raised balconies.
Egg London Nightclub
25.0 km
Experience marathon electronic music sessions in a converted Victorian warehouse with vibrant terraces and world-class DJs at Egg London Nightclub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
- Elegant
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
