Hertford

Hertford is the county town of Hertfordshire, England. It lies on the River Lea about 19-20 miles north of central London and forms part of the London commuter belt. The town has a long history dating back to the medieval period and earlier, with Hertford Castle as a prominent landmark. The castle was a Norman fortress dating from the 11th century and later used by English royalty; today the motte, earthworks and gardens remain visible within the town park.

The historic town centre features timber-framed houses, Market Square, and the Shire Hall on Parliament Square, an 18th-century building that houses parts of the county administration. Hertford's market has run since the 12th century and remains an active local market.

Administratively, Hertford is the county town and serves as the seat of East Hertfordshire District Council. It offers local services and is connected to the wider region by rail and road. Rail services operate from two stations, Hertford East and Hertford North, providing links to London and neighboring towns; the road network connects to the A1, A10, and the M25 corridor.

Notable institutions include Richard Hale School and the Hertford Museum, which documents the town's history. The surrounding countryside, parks and waterways contribute to a compact, historic townscape that serves as a local center for commerce, culture, and administration.