Attractions and Places To See around Hatfield Heath - Top 20

The most prominent natural attraction is Hatfield Forest, a National Trust-managed ancient royal hunting forest. It features woodlands, grasslands, a lake (Hatfield Forest Lake), and marshland, home to diverse wildlife and ancient trees. The Pincey Brook also flows through the parish, and the village green offers a central natural space.

Yes, Hatfield Heath offers excellent opportunities for walking and hiking. You can explore the extensive trails within Hatfield Forest. For structured routes, komoot offers several options, including easy hikes around Hatfield Heath, such as the 'Hatfield Forest Cafe loop from Great Hallingbury' or 'The White Horse loop from Hatfield Heath'.

Hatfield Heath is rich in history. You can visit Holy Trinity Church, an Anglican parish church built in 1859, or the Victorian St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End. Other notable historical landmarks include Down Hall, a Grade II*-listed building with origins as a 14th-century monastery, and Lea Hall, a historic site with a double moated enclosure.

Absolutely! Hatfield Forest Lake and the wider Hatfield Forest are ideal for families, offering space to explore and spot wildlife. Parndon Mill and Lock, now a community arts hub, can also be an engaging visit. Additionally, The Snug at High Easter and Fyfield Village are noted as family-friendly spots.

The area around Hatfield Heath offers various cycling opportunities. You can find several MTB trails around Hatfield Heath, including routes like 'Cycle Stortford Meeting Point – Much Hadham Ford loop from Bishop's Stortford' or 'St. James' Church, Thorley – Sidehill Wood Bluebell Walk loop from Bishop's Stortford'.

Hatfield Forest is a remarkably well-preserved ancient royal hunting forest, dating back to the time of the Norman kings. It was established in the late eleventh century, primarily for deer hunting, and is considered one of the best-preserved medieval forests globally. It also contains a prehistoric site at Portingbury Hills, suggesting even earlier human activity.

The village hosts the annual Hatfield Heath Festival, also known as "Hatfest," on the village green every summer, offering a weekend of community events. Slightly outside the village, Parndon Mill and Lock has been transformed into a community arts hub with studios, galleries, and workshops for local artists.

The village green is surrounded by various establishments. You can visit The Thatchers, a 16th-century pub, The Village Tearoom, or The Little Seafood Bar for fresh seafood. The Snug at High Easter is also a great little cafe with plenty of seating and a good selection of food and drinks, known for being cycling-friendly.

Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and historical significance of the area. The ancient woodlands of Hatfield Forest, with its diverse wildlife and serene lake, are a major draw. The charm of the village, its historical churches, and the community spirit, especially during events like Hatfest, also contribute to a memorable experience.

Yes, there are several running trails available. Komoot offers a selection of running trails around Hatfield Heath, including routes like 'The Cock Inn – Flooded Road loop from Hatfield Broad Oak' and 'Woodside Green Common – Easy Downhill Westbound loop from Thorley Wash Nature Reserve'.

Yes, Hatfield Forest is an excellent location for wildlife spotting. It is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects, and various birdlife. The ancient trees and varied habitats of woodlands, grasslands, and marshland provide a rich environment for many species.