Hatfield House
A grand Jacobean mansion and sprawling parkland, steeped in royal history and a filming favorite.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Hatfield House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand Jacobean mansion and sprawling parkland, steeped in royal history and a filming favorite.
"One of the most beautiful houses we have ever visited, made special by the wonderful staff."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the park and gardens! :athletic_shoe:
Check House Opening Times
The house interior has limited opening days. Always check the website before visiting. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Old Palace & Elizabeth I's Oak
Old Palace Garden
Stand where Queen Elizabeth I learned of her accession to the throne under a historic oak tree.
+1
Jacobean Architecture
Hatfield House Exterior
Marvel at the magnificent Jacobean mansion, a stunning example of early 17th-century architecture.
+1
Extensive Park and Gardens
Hatfield Park
Wander through beautifully curated gardens and vast parkland, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for House Access
Explore Beyond the House
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the park and gardens! :athletic_shoe:
Check House Opening Times
The house interior has limited opening days. Always check the website before visiting. :ticket:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the vast parkland with a picnic lunch. :sandwich:
Dog-Friendly Park
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the park and woodland walks. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking in the park and gardens! :athletic_shoe:
Check House Opening Times
The house interior has limited opening days. Always check the website before visiting. :ticket:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the vast parkland with a picnic lunch. :sandwich:
Dog-Friendly Park
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the park and woodland walks. :dog:
Bridgerton Filming Location
Spot filming locations from popular shows like Bridgerton. :tv: +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hatfield House for its magnificent architecture and beautifully maintained gardens and parkland. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are frequently highlighted as enhancing the visitor experience, making it feel welcoming and special. While the house interior has limited opening days, the extensive grounds offer ample opportunity for exploration and enjoyment. [^Reviews]
"One of the most beautiful houses we have ever visited. The trip here was made so much more special by Dermot. A huge thank you for making us feel so welcome Dermot. We felt like we got the VIP treatment, you are a wonderful asset to such a magnificent house, it was a pleasure to meet you.
The staff make this place. They are incredibly kind and have a wealth of knowledge. It was not busy at all when we visited which added to the charm. It’s also impeccably kept. We did the wood walk after we visited the house which I would also recommend. I was so impressed I’ll be telling everyone to visit."
Remy Naidoo
"Beautiful historic home and gardens/park.
Went on a guided tour whilst there was filming/ photos being taking for ? Fashion event but the tour was well worth it, as very detailed and professional aswell as engaging.
Beautiful gardens and park and can do a alot of walking.
There are some lovely shops and cafe outside the main part too where we grabbed some yummy icecreams.
They also give you a map with the different walking routes to talk with sights/ landmarks on the way.
I would love to go back and visit again"
Charlotte White
"Visited the gardens only. Some of the most beautifully curated public gardens in SE England. Very lucky to be able to visit the East Garden which is only open to the public on certain Wednesdays. Some nice woodland walks as well although I would have to say that these aren't fantastically signposted."
Andrew Myers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hatfield House is easily accessible by train from London King's Cross, taking about 25 minutes to Hatfield station. From the station, it's a short walk to the house and park. Driving is also an option with free parking available.
Yes, there is free parking available for visitors to Hatfield House and Park.
Absolutely! The nearest train station is Hatfield, with regular services from London. Buses also serve the local area.
Taking the train from London King's Cross to Hatfield station is highly recommended for its speed and convenience, followed by a short walk.
While the park offers space, some areas might be challenging with buggies or walkers. The staff are helpful with lift access where possible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary depending on what you wish to visit (house, gardens, park). A family ticket for the park, gardens, and woodland walk was around £36. Check the official website for current pricing and any closures.
Hatfield House has specific opening days and hours, and the interior may be closed for private events. The park and gardens often have different hours. Always check the official website before your visit.
It's advisable to book tickets in advance, especially for the house interior, as it has limited opening days and can be closed for private events.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets for the house, gardens, and park separately or as a combined ticket. Some areas like the East Garden may only be open on specific days.
While the park and gardens are beautiful, there is an admission fee to enter the woods and parks.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the magnificent Jacobean house, wander through the stunning gardens, walk in the extensive parkland, and discover the historic Old Palace where Queen Elizabeth I spent her childhood.
Yes, the vast parkland offers plenty of space for children to run around, and the gardens are beautiful to explore.
Photography is generally allowed in the park and gardens. For interior photography, it's best to check specific rules on the day of your visit.
Yes, guided tours are available and are highly recommended for their detailed and engaging insights into the history of the house. [^Reviews]
There are various walking routes through the park and woodland, with some routes highlighting specific sights and landmarks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are lovely shops and a cafe located outside the main part of Hatfield House where you can grab refreshments like ice cream.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity in the extensive parkland of Hatfield House.
The cafe offers light refreshments, including ice creams, and is a pleasant spot to relax after exploring.
📸 📸 Photography
The Jacobean architecture, the manicured gardens, the historic Old Palace, and the expansive parkland all offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic estates like Hatfield House. It's best to check their specific drone policy before visiting.
The stunning architecture and beautiful gardens make Hatfield House a picturesque backdrop for engagement photos.
Visitors often capture the grand architecture, the seasonal beauty of the gardens, and the historical ambiance of the estate.
Photography rules inside the house can vary. It's always best to check with staff on the day of your visit for any specific restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the house interior might have limited appeal for very young children, the outdoor spaces offer endless entertainment. The historical connections, like Queen Elizabeth I's childhood, can also be a fun way to introduce kids to history in an engaging setting. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's plenty of ground to cover!
🏰 History Buffs
+1Guided tours provide in-depth historical context and insights into the lives of the Cecil family, who have owned the estate for centuries. The opportunity to see where significant historical events unfolded makes Hatfield House a must-visit for anyone interested in British history. [^Reviews]
📸 Photographers
The historical ambiance, coupled with the natural beauty, creates a unique photographic environment. Whether you're interested in architectural photography, landscape shots, or capturing the essence of a historic estate, Hatfield House provides a rich canvas for your creativity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Royal Childhood: Elizabeth I at Hatfield
+1Visitors can explore the Old Palace Garden, which evokes the atmosphere of Elizabeth's time. While the original palace is largely gone, the garden and the stories associated with it offer a tangible link to this pivotal period in British history. The presence of the 'Elizabeth Oak' (though a later planting on the original site) serves as a poignant reminder of her early life and future reign.
+1This royal connection is a major draw for history enthusiasts and those interested in the Tudor era. The estate actively highlights this aspect of its past, making it a compelling destination for learning and reflection.
Filming Location Spotlight: Hatfield House
Most notably, Hatfield House has been featured in productions like 'Bridgerton,' where its stately rooms and gardens have doubled for Regency-era estates. Other productions have also utilized the estate, drawn to its authentic historical ambiance. This cinematic connection adds another layer of appeal for visitors, allowing them to step onto the sets of their favorite shows.
For fans of film and television, exploring Hatfield House offers a chance to see firsthand the real-life locations that have graced the screen. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the magic of filmmaking in a historically rich setting.
Exploring the Grounds: Park and Gardens
The gardens are meticulously maintained and offer a more formal experience. Visitors can admire the curated flowerbeds, intricate designs, and seasonal blooms. Some areas, like the East Garden, are only open on specific days, adding an element of exclusivity for those who time their visit right. The woodland walks provide a more natural and serene environment, ideal for a peaceful escape.
Navigating the grounds is generally straightforward, with maps available to guide visitors along different routes. The combination of formal gardens and wilder parkland ensures there's something to appeal to every preference, making it a highlight of any visit to Hatfield House.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit