herts

Hertfordshire, commonly abbreviated to Herts, is a ceremonial county in South East England. It lies directly north of Greater London and forms part of the London commuter belt. It borders Buckinghamshire to the west, Bedfordshire to the north, Cambridgeshire to the northeast, Essex to the east, and Greater London to the south. The county town is Hertford, while the largest town is Watford. The name Hertfordshire is derived from the county town Hertford and the historic concept of a shire.

Geography and settlements in the county range from the southern Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, to flatter northern countryside with farmland and towns. The area supports both suburban and rural communities. Hertfordshire is administratively divided into 11 districts and boroughs, and has several larger towns including Watford, St Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City and Letchworth Garden City.

History and points of interest in Herts reflect a long settlement history. Verulamium, near modern-day St Albans, was a major Roman town, and Roman and medieval sites remain prominent in the landscape. Notable cultural and historic attractions include St Albans Cathedral and Verulamium Park, as well as film and media facilities such as Leavesden Studios near Watford.

Economy and governance: the county has a diversified economy focused on services, light industry, and technology, with higher education anchored by the University of Hertfordshire at Hatfield. Transport links connect the area to London and the East of England via the M25, M1, M11 and A1(M) corridors, complemented by rail services from towns like Hemel Hempstead, Watford Junction, St Albans, and Stevenage. Local government operates two-tier, with Hertfordshire County Council and 11 district/borough councils.