Attractions and Places To See around Bishop'S Stortford - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Bishop'S Stortford include historical landmarks, natural river features, and extensive parklands. This historic market town in Hertfordshire offers a blend of medieval sites, such as Waytemore Castle, and significant natural spaces like the River Stort and Southern Country Park. Visitors can explore ancient woodlands, wetland reserves, and cultural hubs, providing diverse points of interest. The area features a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions.
Best attractions and places to see around Bishop'S Stortford
- The most popular attractions is Hatfield Forest Lake, a lake that is part of an ancient royal hunting forest. It is considered one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world, featuring ancient trees, diverse wildlife, and a lake.
- Another must-see spot is Barwick Ford and Footbridge, a bridge and ford combination. Visitors can use the footbridge to cross the water or experience the ford directly.
- Visitors also love Parndon Mill and Lock, a historical site and viewpoint. This location, once a watermill, is now a community arts hub with studios and galleries, offering views of the river.
- Bishop'S Stortford is known for historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural venues. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from medieval castles to nature reserves and arts complexes.
- The attractions around Bishop'S Stortford are appreciated by the komoot community, with 7 highlights and 20 photos shared, receiving 28 upvotes.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Hatfield Forest Lake
Highlight โข Lake
The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, cafรฉ and river that meanders through.
Tip by
St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End
Highlight โข Religious Site
In 1850โs there was a move by the gentry to construct
Churches to provide a Christian faith for the less
fortunate.
On Friday 5th August 1859 the consecration of this neat
little structure, situated in the ancient forest of Hatfield,
and on what was formerly considered the most wild and
destitute part of the parish.
Two notable men lay at the heart of the Church. These
being:
John Archer Houblon
Rev. Thomas Francis Hall
The early yearsโฆโฆ.
๏ง The church was built in the Gothic style favoured
at that time
๏ง The foundation stone was laid on 8th July 1856
and can be seen on the outside of the south-east
end of the church, it reads:
๏ง โTo the glory of the eternal Trinity. This dedication
stone of the church of St John the Evangelist was
laid July 8 1856 by Sarah daughter of the late
Stanes Chamberlyne Esq. formerly of the Ryes in
this parishโ.
The connection with Hatfield Forest
The names of the Houblon family and the Rev T Hall occur many times in the history of the church.
The Houblon family owned Hallingbury Park that once stood adjacent to the forest. It was used as a hunting forest and they enjoyed country pursuits by the lake. Indeed the famous landscape gardener Capability
Brown redesigned the lake and surrounding parkland.
The stained glass windows of the apse of St Peter was presented by Georgina Anne Archer Houblon in 1857.
The centre window is that of the patronal dedication - St John the Evangelist. This was given in memory of Robert Impey first born child of Thomas Hall MA Vicar of the parish and Mary Phillippa his wife. The right hand window was presented by Joseph Clarke Esq. the
Diocesan architect in 1844.
There are also two in Hatfield Heath church in memory of Mr Hallโs infant daughter Mary jane who died from scarlet fever in 1844. Mr Hall himself died in 1858 one
year before the consecration of the two churches that
he brought into being. Indeed it was said that he died
in consequence from anxiety, of frequent disappointment and of over exertion in his endeavors
to get the churches built!
Mr Houblon indeed was to say at the consecration โโฆ.had he lived to see these churches consecrated he
was sure it would have been one of the happiest days of his life.โ
The Parish of Bush Endโฆ.
The power of faithโฆ.
๏ง In 1864 Bush End became a separate parish but was resided by the vicar of Hatfield Broad oak as was Hatfield Heath. In 1929 the living became vacant and since that date has been linked with that of Broad Oak. Indeed the name Broad Oak is linked to that of the famous Doodle Oak tree that stood in the Hatfield Forest parkland.
๏ง The church has an early english inscription of the ten commandments written in red and black. It is worthy of record that whereas the neighbourhood used formerly to be the most notorious for thieves, poachers and deer stealers, not one of the reverendโs gentlemenโs flock has been before the magistrate since the vicar was resident within them!
Dedication of organ as a war memorial at Bush Endโฆ..
Within the church there once was a church organ donated by the Rev. F W Galpin as a memorial to those who fell in the great war 1914-1919 within the parish.
The only evidence today is the brass plaque that would have been located on the organ.
Itโs cost was ยฃ200 but sadly this memorial was either sold or donated to another church.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Parndon Mill and Lock
Highlight โข Viewpoint
The original mill was burnt down by a fire in 1897, but rebuilt in 1900 and transformed into a community arts hub. The mill has studios, galleries, and workshops for local artists and craftspeople. There's also a pretty lock and great views down the river from here, a nice place to sit and enjoy a snack.
Tip by
Barwick Ford and Footbridge
Highlight โข Bridge
Tip by
Scenic Country Lane
Highlight (Segment) โข Cycleway
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Bishop'S Stortford.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Bishop'S Stortford
Other adventures around Bishop'S Stortford
Tips from the Community
Smooth fast gravel surface Byway, mostly flat straight lines with some technical bits thrown in. Recommended in dry conditions/maybe passable in the wet, too - with the right tyres/bike. ๐ฒ ๐ต
0
0
An artists' hub - glass blowing, painting, pottery, even a luthier (guitar maker)! Remember to walk your bike through the gate and across the bridge so as not to upset those working at the Mill.
0
0
Scenic route but narrow with frequent piles of loose stones in the middle of the road so watch your line especially in the corners.
0
0
Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest for hunting. Today you'll find deer aplenty still, though no longer pursued for the same reason. The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, cafรฉ and river that meanders through.
1
0
Parndon Mill has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, when it operated as a busy watermill. The original mill was burnt down by a fire in 1897, but rebuilt in 1900 and transformed into a community arts hub. The mill has studios, galleries, and workshops for local artists and craftspeople. There's also a pretty lock and great views down the river from here, a nice place to sit and enjoy a snack.
1
1
If heading northbound, watch out for the hill you hit at Pinchpools Farm. An absolute gut-buster to get up. Obviously fly down as fast as you dare southbound. The wind can be a killer up on the northerly plain.
1
0
Stunning section of connected lanes where you'll hardy see a car. Lots of opportunities for great photos.
2
0
Nice glide down towards Ford. Ride through but careful of the gaps in road.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Bishop's Stortford?
Bishop's Stortford offers several historical sites. You can visit the remains of Waytemore Castle, a Norman motte-and-bailey castle within Castle Gardens. St Michael's Church, rebuilt in the 15th century, is another significant landmark. For a deeper dive into local history, the Bishop's Stortford Museum, located within the Rhodes Arts Complex, houses artifacts from the town's past. Further afield, St John the Evangelist Church, Bush End is a historical religious building with a rich past.
Are there any natural parks or green spaces to visit?
Yes, Bishop's Stortford is surrounded by beautiful natural spaces. Southern Country Park features woodlands, grazing areas, and a natural pond with a boardwalk for wildlife viewing. Hatfield Forest, a National Trust property, is one of the best-preserved medieval hunting forests, offering walking and cycling trails, ancient woodlands, and a beautiful lake, such as Hatfield Forest Lake. You can also explore Birchanger Woods for walks or Thorley Wash Nature Reserve for birdwatching and wildflowers.
What cultural attractions are available in the area?
The Rhodes Arts Complex is a central cultural hub, featuring a museum, theatre, and art gallery with various performances and exhibitions. Parndon Mill and Lock, once a watermill, is now a community arts hub with studios and galleries, offering a unique blend of history and contemporary art.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions?
Absolutely! Many attractions are suitable for families. Southern Country Park provides informal play spaces and streams for children. Cammas Hall Farm offers seasonal pick-your-own fruit and vegetables, a maize maze, and nature trails. Mountfitchet Castle is an open-air museum where families can experience medieval life and interact with free-roaming rescued animals. The Vire activity center in the city offers escape rooms and virtual reality experiences for older children and teens.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near Bishop's Stortford?
The area around Bishop's Stortford is excellent for walking. You can explore the trails at Southern Country Park or the extensive woodlands of Hatfield Forest. The Waterside Stortford trail offers a scenic 3.5-mile (5.6km) riverside walk. For more structured routes, you can find various options, including easy hikes, by exploring the easy hikes around Bishop'S Stortford guide or the general hiking guide.
Are there any cycling routes or mountain biking trails?
Yes, the region offers several cycling opportunities. Hatfield Forest has trails suitable for cycling. You can also find a Scenic Country Lane that is popular with cyclists. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the MTB Trails around Bishop'S Stortford guide provides detailed routes, including those passing by Barwick Ford and Footbridge.
What is the best time of year to visit Bishop's Stortford?
Bishop's Stortford is enjoyable year-round, but the best time depends on your interests. Spring and summer (April to September) are ideal for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and enjoying the natural parks and pick-your-own farms. The wetland wildlife at Southern Country Park, including dragonflies and damselflies, is particularly active in summer. Autumn offers beautiful foliage in the woodlands and seasonal attractions like maize mazes at Cammas Hall Farm.
Are there any unique natural features or viewpoints?
The River Stort is a key natural feature, and the Waterside Stortford trail offers scenic views along its banks. Barwick Ford and Footbridge provides a unique experience where you can cross the water directly or use the footbridge. Parndon Mill and Lock also offers great views down the river.
Can I find dog-friendly places or walks?
Many of the natural outdoor spaces around Bishop's Stortford are dog-friendly. Hatfield Forest, Birchanger Woods, and Southern Country Park are popular choices for walks with dogs, though it's always advisable to check specific rules regarding leads and access, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions?
While popular spots are well-known, Thorley Wash Nature Reserve offers a peaceful haven for birdsong and wildflowers, featuring a unique Sculpture Trail that many visitors might overlook. The various community art spaces, such as those at Parndon Mill and Lock, also provide a chance to discover local talent away from the main tourist paths.
What are the transport options to reach attractions outside the town center?
While some attractions like Waytemore Castle and the Rhodes Arts Complex are within Bishop's Stortford town center, others like Hatfield Forest and Cammas Hall Farm are a short drive away. Public transport options, such as local bus services, connect the town with some surrounding villages and attractions. However, for maximum flexibility, driving is often recommended for reaching destinations further afield.
Most popular routes around Bishop'S Stortford
Most popular attractions around Bishop'S Stortford
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight youโre looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
