Plan your trip to the pretty town of Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire
Berkhamsted is a charming market town surrounded by the rolling green Chiltern Hills. With its half-timbered buildings, cobbled streets and chic shops, it’s a great place to while away an afternoon. Looking to extend your stay? Here are five reasons to linger longer in this attractive town.
Things to do in Berkhamsted
Explore 950 years of history by visiting the ruins of Berkhamsted Castle, one of England’s oldest motte and bailey castles. From the Norman Conquest onward, numerous royals and notable historical figures have lived within the castle walls including Edward the Black Prince, Thomas Becket and Geoffrey Chaucer. Take your historical adventure further with an escape room style game played in the Castle grounds. Book at www.adventureoutgames.co.uk and work as a team searching for clues and solving puzzles.
Berkhamsted Cinema
Set in a glorious art deco building, The Rex is an independent cinema showing vintage classics to modern blockbusters on a huge screen with luxurious seating throughout. There’s no dress code, yet most arrive in their best to sit at the cabaret style tables with swivel chairs in the stalls. Don’t expect a bucket of popcorn here; it’s a far more civilised experience with cheese boards and wine to enjoy anywhere in the auditorium while watching the film.
Where eat in Berkhamsted
Located in what was the original foyer of the restored cinema, The Gatsby Restaurant and Piano Bar evokes all the glitz and glamour of F.Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel. Here, you can sip cocktails and dine on modern European cuisine with a piano accompaniment in ornate, art deco surroundings. If you have tickets for a movie, the lunch menu doubles as a pre-cinema two or three-course feast and includes a glass of wine or half of beer.
Walks in Berkhamsted
Born in Berkhamsted in 1904, Graham Greene became one of the most successful British authors of the 20th century. The Graham Greene Trail takes you through the town that Greene knew so well, highlighting the local places which had an influence on his life and work. If you’re visiting in September you can catch the International Graham Greene Festival, a four-day celebration of the author with talks, films, exhibitions and social events.
Enjoy a Waterside Stroll
The Berkhamsted Waterways Walk starts at the station and explores the River Bulbourne chalk stream and Grand Union Canal which run through the town. Along the walk you’ll find The Boat pub, with its waterside terrace, and The Rising Sun, a great place for canal side refreshments. Cross the canal bridge on Castle Street and you’ll be met by an unexpected sight – situated on the tow path is a genuine Canadian totem pole traditionally carved in cedar. Some believe the carving to be a fertility symbol and that women wishing to conceive should visit and make three wishes for the child they dream of!
