ewinbury Farm Hotel is a beautifully restored 4-star countryside retreat set on a working 700-acre farm along the River Mimram near Tewin, Hertfordshire. Housed in converted barns and farm buildings, it offers 53 individually designed rooms, lakeside and woodland huts (some with private hot tubs), shepherd’s huts, and the exclusive Kingsbridge Estate with cinema, gym, games room—and two hot tubs. Guests rave about the laid-back, farm-to-fork dining experiences at venues like The Cowshed, Granary Kitchen, and the Farm Yard event space, plus award-winning afternoon tea in The Cow Shed restaurant. A full cookery school, farm shop, scenic walking trails, alpacas, lakes, and live-music nights add charm and variety to every stay. Ideal for leisure stays, weddings, conferences, and team-building events, Tewinbury features versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces (e.g., the Tythe Barn, Meadow Barn, Millstream Suite) accommodating from 10 to over 450 guests. Sustainability is a priority: onsite solar panels and a borehole-fed water system help reduce environmental impact. Easily accessible—just off the A1(M), 15 minutes from Luton Airport, and with its own Welwyn North station (approximately 30 minutes to London King’s Cross)—this unique farm-hotel blend offers rustic charm with contemporary comforts.

Town: Tewin

The Horns at Bulls Green is a beautifully preserved 16th-century country pub nestled in the hamlet of Bulls Green near Datchworth. With its white weatherboard exterior, timber-framed interior, roaring fire, and rustic charm, it’s a favourite among locals and walkers alike. A free house, it serves well-kept ales typically including Sharp’s Doom Bar and rotating guests alongside hearty homemade dishes like bangers and mash, casseroles, and acclaimed Sunday roasts. The pub hosts regular events such as Curry & Quiz nights and an annual beer and cider festival. Reviewers praise the warm, dog-friendly atmosphere, generous portions, and excellent customer service. The Horns remains a quintessential English country pub, cozy, characterful, and full of charm.

Town: Bulls Green

The Cross Keys at Gustard Wood is a welcoming 17th-century country pub nestled in the Hertfordshire woodland, full of rustic charm with its exposed beams, open log fire, and friendly, dog-friendly atmosphere. A proper free house, it serves Greene King IPA and rotating local guest ales, alongside a menu of homemade pub classics like burgers, lasagne, scampi, and notably good curries. The food is consistently praised for its quality and warmth, with highlights including hearty Sunday roasts and imaginative vegetarian options. With a lovely beer garden and cosy interior, it's a favourite among walkers, locals, and families. Most agree it’s a delightful, down-to-earth pub with genuine hospitality.

Town: Gustard Wood

The Reading Rooms in Wheathampstead is a charming, community-focused micropub run by Farr Brew, housed in a former florist’s on the High Street. It offers a warm, intimate setting with book-lined walls, Chesterfield armchairs, and an upstairs nook perfect for quiet conversation or reading. A true free house, it features a rotating range of Farr Brew ales—such as porters and golden ales—alongside guest beers, real cider, locally sourced gins, wines, coffees, teas, cakes, and snacks. Visitors praise the welcoming staff, relaxed atmosphere, and the pub’s unique, bookish charm. It’s known as a calm, conversation-driven space with no TVs or music, fostering a strong sense of community.

Town: Wheathampstead