The perfect recipe for a seriously snug pub? A crackling fire to warm those rosy cheeks beside, inviting interiors that’ll make you feel right at home, and plenty of hearty food and local ales. So, order a tipple and settle in as we bring you our pick of Hertfordshire’s cosiest pubs…
The Bricklayer's Arms, Flaunden
If ever there was a pub perfect for a winter walk followed by a cosy drink and delicious lunch, this is it. With walking routes straight from the car park of this delightful rural gem, you can stroll through the countryside, before returning for local food, roaring fires and a tipple or two. Trust us when we say, this a local favourite for a reason!
Image Credit: Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks – St Albans
If you’re looking for a tempting, traditional pub, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks is about as historic as it gets. Deemed the oldest pub in England according to the Guinness Book of Records, this gem offers a warm welcome, medieval charm, and sensational local food and drink, all tucked away just a stone’s throw from stunning St Albans Cathedral. Cosy up in Britain’s oldest pub
Image Credit: The Alford Arms
Alford Arms – Frithsden
It might be a little out of the way, but we can promise you - this jaunt is worth the distance. Nestled in a secluded wooded valley, with the broad sweep of the Chiltern Hills as its backdrop, find The Alford Arms and you'll never utter the term 'gastro-pub' ever again. Featured in The Michelin Guide and The Good Pub Guide, don’t just take our word for it, this pub has more than earned its (impressive) stripes… Just between me and brew
Image Credit: The White Hart
The White Hart - Welwyn
Find a cosy bolthole at The White Hart, situated just off the main high street in the village of Welwyn. Family-run, this pub offers real ales, an extensive gin range, classic cocktails and an exciting wine list; the perfect spot for an evening with friends or a long, leisurely lunch. And, with 13 bedrooms upstairs boasting 4 AA Stars for quality, why rush off?
A pub with 'hart' and soul
Image Credit: The Golden Fleece
The Golden Fleece – Braughing
This beautiful country pub in the traditional village of Braughing dates back to the 17th century. It may have had a renovation since then, but the timbered interior still retains its old-world charm. With a wide drinks offering, and Michelin Guide featured Sunday roasts, you’ll find us curled up here of a weekend, easing ourselves back into the mentality of Monday…
A gold medal-worthy local
Image Credit: The Bull - Watton at Stone
The Bull – Watton at Stone
Tartan pillows scattered over inviting leather sofas, colourful books lined up along higgledy-piggledy shelves, and a roaring open hearth... yes, this landmark period pub, just seven miles south of Stevenage, has it all. Offering a warm welcome, friendly service, and outstanding food, this is the ideal place to head now the evenings are drawing in, the temperature’s falling and the rotten rain is unrelenting. Last orders please!
