Standing as the UK's second garden city, Welwyn Garden City and nearby Hatfield are waiting to be discovered. Combining urban living with a country twist, the area infuses history, retail therapy and endless options for places to eat.
Welcome to Welwyn and Hatfield! Standing as the UK's second garden city, Welwyn Garden City and nearby Hatfield are waiting to be discovered. Combining urban living with a country twist, the area infuses history, retail therapy and endless options for places to eat. Journey through time at Hatfield house which has been home to the Cecil family for over 400 years and explore the gardens elegantly designed by Robert Cecil in the 17th century. If you're a savvy shopper and history lessons aren't your thing, a trip to The Galleria designer outlet is a must, with over 80 shops and boutiques you're sure to find a bargain. If you're looking for a short break that combines rolling countryside, fascinating history and urban culture, then Welwyn Hatfield is the perfect destination for your escape.
See our suggestions of how to spend 48 hours in Welwyn Hatfield below...
MORNING
Hatfield House
Step through 400 years of British history and discover Hatfield House. Stroll the 40-acre picture perfect gardens that surround the Jacobean architecture of the house. The gardens were intricately designed in the 17th century after Robert Cecil employed John Tradescant the Elder to collect plants from all over Europe. The variety of trees, bulbs, plants and fruit trees that had not previously grown in England, crafted the remarkable, fragrant gardens that boast picturesque beauty today. Hatfield House has become a famous landmark in film and television, making many appearances on screen including in multi - Oscar winning film 'The Favourite'. Feeling peckish? A visit to The Coach House Kitchen at Hatfield House is definitely worth the bite.
LUNCH
Bebo Cafe' and The Rookery Cafe
If you’re in need of a pick me up from the morning’s history dive then a visit to The Bebo café in Welwyn Garden City should do the trick. This quaint coffee shop is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a busy morning, when the sun is shining, dine outside this pavement cafe and watch the world go by. If you're less in the mood for a light-lunch and would rather feast on a fry-up then The Rookery Cafe should fill empty stomachs. With cooked breakfasts, burgers and milkshakes on the menu, the cafe' will have something for everyone.
AFTERNOON
Mill Green Museum
Only a short drive away you will discover the hamlet of Mill Green, situated between Welwyn Garden City and Hatfield. Explore the fascinating 18th century water mill at Mill Green Museum which has been fully restored to working order. Meet the miller who will tell you all about the machinery, he's often found milling flour which is sold to the county’s local baker ‘Simmons’. During summer time on a Sunday, why not treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea served from the onsite Cottage Kitchen?
EVENING
The Galleria
In need of some retail therapy? Well shop until you drop at The Galleria, with over 80 shops to choose from including fashion, beauty and gadget, you're certain to pick up a bargain here. If you really have dropped then recharge with a coffee from one of the cafe's. If you're still waiting for a tick on your entertainment boxes, then watching a film at the multi-screen Odeon Cinema should do the trick.
DINNER
If you consider yourself a foodie then you've probably got dinner on your mind, with a range of restaurants and pubs serving a variety of cuisines, there's an eatery to suit everyone's palette in Hatfield. For a delicious Japanese meal visit Here Japan to feast on fresh fish, devour some dumplings or nibble on noodles. If your stomach is rumbling for a terrific Turkish dish then Turkish Kitchen is definitely worth the trip. With a menu that features hot and cold meze dishes, yummy veggie options, fish plates and much more, there's a meal for everyone to take a bite out of. Or, if your taste-buds are crying out for some hearty pub grub then The Red Lion Pub, run by local Brewer McMullens, is the perfect place for you. With endless options for dinner, you'll be sure to go home in a food coma.
MORNING
Welwyn Garden City Town Centre & Gardens
For you savvy shoppers, take a morning stroll around The Howard Centre for some retail therapy (If The Galleria wasn't enough!) or explore what was known as 'The Welwyn Store' and is now a fabulous John Lewis. Grab a coffee to revitalise your second day at one of the cafes in the centre and then browse around the variety of stores. For some air, wander around the gardens that surround the town and admire the glorious greenery that Welwyn Garden City boasts.
LUNCH
The View
Infused with old rustic wood and new copper, The View located at Panshanger Golf Course allows you to dine with stunning views over the 18-hole golf course. Why not soak up the sun and dine alfresco on the outdoor balcony? Enjoy a bubbly beverage and watch the sunset over Welwyn Garden City if you’re planning on visiting in the evening. With a wide variety of meals available on the menu, this thriving eatery will be the perfect cherry on top of your trip. If you don’t fancy The View, other popular options are: Bill's, Café Trio, Doctors Tonic Pub and Two Willows Pub or venture further afield to Welwyn where you will find a raft of independent restaurants.
AFTERNOON
Welwyn Roman Baths
Travel through time and discover the fascinating archaeological site and museum of Welwyn Roman Baths. Unfortunately, you can't actually bathe here (we know you were thinking it) but you can still see the layout of this well-preserved bath house which once ran as a private villa for local farmers. Let the little ones dress as Romans or complete the quizzes to become real history buffs. With family fun days and craft activities put on through out the year, this is the perfect place to keep a smile on everyone's face!
EVENING
Campus West
Looking for a dash of entertainment on your trip? Well look no further, home to all your entertainment desires Campus West provides everything you need under one roof. With a cinema, rollerskating rink, soft play, two cafe's (one doubling as a bar) and a live theatre venue, the whole family can stay occupied for hours, you’ll never want to leave!
DINNER
It's time for dinner! On your second evening why not visit Welwyn Garden City? Dine in The Red Indian for a creamy curry, dip into some fantastic French cuisine with a trip to Cote Brasserie, or soak up the village atmosphere of Old Welwyn and indulge in a irresistible Italian meal at Vita Ristorante' to finish your trip. Whatever tantalises your taste buds, there will be something to fill everyone's tummies in Welwyn Hatfield.
