Things To Do
in Hitchin
Hitchin is a historic market town in Hertfordshire, about 30 miles north of London, rich in history and green spaces. The town center revolves around a medieval market square lined with timber-framed buildings and crowned by the tall spires of St Mary's Church. Its compact streets are perfect for wandering, with independent shops, traditional pubs, and a welcoming village-like atmosphere.
Hitchin serves as a convenient base for exploring the Chilterns and wider Hertfordshire countryside, while offering easy rail and road links to London.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic St. Mary's Church, where you can admire its stunning architecture and rich history. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Hitchin, where charming shops and cafes beckon. Don’t forget to stop by the Hitchin Market, which offers a delightful array of local produce and handmade crafts.
For lunch, savor some traditional British fare at a local pub or cafe, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town. Continue your exploration by visiting the Hitchin Museum and Art Gallery, where you can learn about the town's fascinating heritage. As the sun shines, relax in the nearby Hitchin Priory gardens, a serene spot perfect for unwinding.
As evening falls, enjoy dinner at one of Hitchin's acclaimed restaurants, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. After your meal, take a scenic walk along the River Hiz, where you can enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature. End your day with a drink at a cozy local pub, mingling with friendly locals and soaking in the town's nighttime charm.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day of exploration. Head to the nearby Oughtonhead Common Nature Reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature along well-marked trails. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including various bird species and the occasional deer.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the lush surroundings of the reserve, allowing you to fully appreciate the tranquility of the area. After lunch, continue your adventure with a visit to the nearby Ickleford village, where you can explore its charming countryside and historic sites. Spend the afternoon meandering through picturesque fields and woodlands, taking in the fresh air.
As the day winds down, return to Hitchin and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that specializes in seasonal dishes. If you're feeling adventurous, join a guided night walk to learn about the nocturnal wildlife of the region. Conclude your day with a cozy nightcap at a local bar, reflecting on the wonders of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Local transport (train/bus) | $4-10 |
| 🍺Beer at a pub | $5-7 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with rich history and green spaces
- Good rail links to London and Cambridge; easy day trips
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Smaller selection of international dining and nightlife venues
Places to Visit in Hitchin
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic spire and church facade, great for architecture and skyline shots as well as wide-angle cityscapes.
Historic market square with timber-framed buildings and arcades; ideal for daytime and golden hour photography.
Romantic ruins with tranquil grounds perfect for atmospheric photography.
Medieval-to-modern mix with shops and street activity for candid photography.
Food in Hitchin
Hitchin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty British pie featuring tender beef and robust ale gravy; best enjoyed in a traditional pub.
Must-Try!
Scones with clotted cream and jam, served with tea at a local cafe or tearoom.
Crispy battered fish with chips and tartare sauce, a classic takeaway or dine-in option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Market Place with fresh produce, baked goods, and street food stalls (seasonal).
Pop-up vendors offering regional and international bites around Market Place during market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue in order, greet staff modestly, and be patient during busy times. Punctuality is appreciated for arrangements.
Safety
Tipping in Hitchin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; a 10-15% tip in restaurants is common if service isn’t included. In pubs, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is fine.
Cash and card are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; digital wallets are increasingly used in shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, outdoor markets, and plenty of outdoor seating. Bring sunscreen and water; riverside walks and parks are popular.
Fall foliage and harvest events; cooler temperatures; ideal for moody photography and countryside walks.
Shorter days and potential frosts; seasonal lights and cosy pubs provide atmosphere; dress warmly for outdoor exploring.
Blossoms and renewed greenery; frequent local markets and outdoor seating return; good for walking tours.
Hitchin at Night
Hiking in Hitchin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hedgerows, viewpoints, and woodland trails suitable for easy-to-moderate hikes.
Pleasant countryside routes with wildlife and farm scenery, great for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Hitchin by plane.
Approx. 25-30 miles away; good for domestic and European flights; rail and road connections via motorway and train routes.
Approximately 35-40 miles away; convenient for international flights; accessible by road and rail via services from nearby towns.
About 55-60 miles away; major international hub; reachable by rail/road with longer travel times.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents and newer families attracted by good schools and community amenities.
People who commute to London or Cambridge for work; active in local pubs, cafes, and events.
Nearby colleges and training centers attract students who contribute to the town’s youthful energy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; matches and social leagues are common in the region.
Seasonal cricket grounds and clubs are common in Hertfordshire; community match days can be a social event.
Nearby clubs offer games and social events; suitable for spectators and players alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hitchin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues in Hitchin offer vegetarian options; ask for veggie mains, salads, and veggie substitutes. Many pubs can adapt a dish on request.