An Introduction to Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire (shortened as Herts) is a county in southern England whose southern border is just 12 miles from the centre of London. Hertfordshire is East/central England. The county figured prominently in the military history of England, particularly during the Wars of the Roses. The Wars of the Roses is the traditional name given to the intermittent struggle (1455–85) for the throne of England between the noble houses of York (whose badge was a white rose) and Lancaster (later associated with the red rose).

From some towns in south Hertfordshire, central London is less than 20 minutes away by train. The county has a population of about 1,000,000 residents. Other counties that surround Hertfordshire are London (south), Buckinghamshire (west), Bedfordshire (north), Cambridgeshire (north-east) and Essex (east). Hertfordshire is well served by London Luton Airport and London Stansted Airport, both of which are situated a few miles outside the county, while London Heathrow Airport is less than 1 hour away.

The county is full of contrasts which blend together to create a superb quality of life for residents and visitors. Thriving modern towns have developed amongst historic market towns. Country lanes and sleepy, picturesque villages are never far away. The close proximity of London provides employment opportunities with commuters making the most of the fast train links into central London.

The largest town in Hertfordshire is Watford, situated within the M25 motorway and has a thriving shopping centre and business parks. Other large, historic towns include St Albans, Hitchin and Hertford. New towns include Letchworth and Welwyn Garden City.

Hertfordshire has a fine selection of historic houses, museums and other tourist attractions.