Things To Do
in Letchworth
Letchworth Garden City was founded in 1903 as the world's first garden city. Designed by Raymond Unwin and Barry Parker, it paired housing with lush green spaces and pedestrian-friendly streets. Today the town preserves its modernist heritage while offering a warm, walkable town center full of parks, cafes and family-friendly attractions.
From the arcaded Market Place to Norton Common and easy rail links to London, Letchworth makes a convenient base for exploring Hertfordshire.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a charming café in the heart of Letchworth. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, admiring the stunning arts and crafts architecture that dates back to the early 20th century. Don't forget to stop by the Letchworth Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the town's fascinating history.
In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Broadway Gardens, where you can relax amidst the manicured lawns and vibrant flower beds. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the natural beauty, or grab a bite at a nearby bistro. After lunch, explore the local shops and boutiques, picking up unique souvenirs and handcrafted items.
As the sun sets, head to the nearby Broadway Cinema for a unique film experience in one of the oldest cinemas in the UK. After the movie, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that offers a farm-to-table menu featuring seasonal produce. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk back through the illuminated streets of Letchworth.
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Letchworth Garden City, the world's first garden city. Stroll through the lush parks and gardens, taking in the serene landscapes that inspired urban planning worldwide. Stop by the local farmer's market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Spend your afternoon visiting the historic landmarks such as the Spirella Building and the Letchworth Arts and Leisure Center. Engage in a creative workshop at the arts center, where you can try your hand at pottery or painting. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, savoring local flavors while soaking in the artistic atmosphere.
As dusk approaches, take a leisurely walk along the Garden City’s scenic pathways. Find a cozy pub for dinner, where you can enjoy traditional British fare and perhaps a local ale. Wrap up the evening with a stroll through the gardens, illuminated by soft lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city centre, monthly) | $1,000-1,500 |
| 🚆Public transport pass (monthly) | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Walkable town center with green spaces
- Rich garden city heritage and architecture
- Easy rail links to London and Cambridge
- Calm, family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller selection of international dining options
- Public transport less frequent on Sundays
Places to Visit in Letchworth
Visit one of these nice places.
Grade II listed 1910s shopping arcade with glass roofs, ornate plasterwork and period shopfronts.
Expansive green space with mature trees and ponds, ideal for wide landscapes and reflections.
Historic square framed by arcades and classic Hertfordshire architecture.
Brick-and-stone façades surrounded by greenery, a tangible piece of garden city design.
Food in Letchworth
Letchworth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty plate with eggs, bacon, sausages, beans and toast, widely available in cafés and pubs.
Must-Try!
Scones with clotted cream and jam served with a pot of tea, a classic Hertfordshire treat.
Cheese, pickle, crusty bread and salad—common on pub menus for a light, satisfying meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, cheese and hot street-food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently in shops and on buses; Brits value orderly lines and politeness.
Respect quiet times in residential areas after 10pm; greet hosts politely and avoid loud public displays.
Safety
Tipping in Letchworth
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In pubs and casual cafés roundings or small tips are common; in restaurants 10-15% is typical if service is not included.
Cards (contactless and chip-and-PIN) are widely accepted; cash is still useful at markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long, light evenings with outdoor markets and cafés buzzing. Bring sunscreen and water; expect occasional showers.
Crimson and gold foliage in Norton Common; comfortable temperatures for walking; harvest stalls appear in town.
Cool to cold days with frosty mornings; shorter daylight hours; cozy pubs and indoor cultural events are popular.
Blossoms in parks and gardens; mild temperatures and fresh produce in markets; great for long walks.
Letchworth at Night
Hiking in Letchworth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient route through Hertfordshire offering rural landscapes and countryside views.
Scenic paths within a short drive, linking villages and green spaces for longer hikes.
Airports
How to reach Letchworth by plane.
About 25 miles away, easy rail and road access from Letchworth for international and domestic flights.
Approximately 40-45 miles away; reachable by road or rail connections via Cambridge or Tottenham Hale.
Around 60 miles away; best reached by road or via London rail links.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of family housing, parks and schools; active community groups.
Quiet residential neighborhoods and accessible services attract long-term residents.
Commuters who travel to larger towns for work and study; enjoy a café culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular amateur and community football across local clubs and schools.
Seasonal matches and practice at local clubs and parks.
Public courts and clubs offer tennis through the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Letchworth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; most places offer vegan choices if requested.