A day trip from London with links to Tudor royalty and one of Britain's best pubs

Yahoo

a day ago

Just 25 minutes from London by train you can visit the Hertfordshire village of Hatfield, which has links to royalty, named one of London's best commuter towns.
When considering day trips from the capital Hatfield, with its links to Elizabeth I who grew up there and its countryside views, is a worthy candidate just under 30 minutes from London by train from Kings Cross.
The town was also recently named by Phil Spencer as the 8th best Commuter Town from London.
The town of Hatfield is well known for its rich history and architecture. (Image: Diamond Geezer/Flickr)
The town is well known for its rich history and architecture, from its stately homes to its museums and galleries.
England's former queen grew up in the residence of Hatfield House, built in 1611 the country house is one of the finest examples of Jacobean architecture, with 42 acres of deer parkland and gardens.
Hatfield House is one of the finest examples of Jacobean architecture. (Image: Maggsinho/Flickr)
Less grand, but with just as much historical significance, Mill Green Museum – Hatfield's 18th century Watermill – provides a glimpse into the history of the UK's grain and flour industry.
Mill Green Museum – Hatfield's 18th century Watermill – provides a glimpse into the history of the UK's grain and flour industry. (Image: Peter O'Connor/Flickr)
The town is also home to a number of historic pubs including The Woodman, which was recently named by The Telegraph as one of the 500 Best Pubs in England.
The pub's history dates back to 1664 when it was originally known as the Tollgate, and has been a part of the community ever since undergoing a major expansion in the 1930s and a further revamp in 2019.
Today, the pub features two adjoining bar areas — a traditional main bar and a more formal restaurant section — both decorated with low-beamed ceilings, vintage mirrors, horse brasses, and other classic pub touches.
The Woodman was recently named by The Telegraph as one of the 500 Best Pubs in England. (Image: Google)
The menu is centered around its popular Sunday carvery, offering generous portions of roast meats and trimmings.
For nature lovers and those looking for outdoor activities, Stanborough Park is a family-friendly spot offering lakeside walks, boating, fishing, and even watersports during the warmer months.
For fans of aviation or engineering, the de Havilland Aircraft Museum just outside Hatfield pays tribute to the town's significant role in the development of British aviation.