Community directory

Hatfield House

Visit this stunning Jacobean house within an extensive Park. Home of the 7th Marquess of Salisbury and the Cecil family for 400 years, the house is steeped in Elizabethan and Victorian political history. Hatfield House has a fine collection of pictures, tapestries, furnishings and historic armour.

Delightful formal gardens, dating from 1611 when Robert Cecil employed John Tradescant the Elder to collect plants for the new scheme. The West garden includes scented garden, herb garden and knot garden. The adjoining wilderness areas are at their best in spring with masses of naturalised daffodils. The East garden's elegant parterres, topiary and rare plants are a delight for the gardening enthusiast and for those wishing to spend a quiet time in idyllic surroundings.

Within the gardens stands the surviving wing of The Royal Palace of Hatfield where Elizabeth I spent most of her childhood and held her first Council of State in November 1558. An oak tree marks the place where the young Princess Elizabeth first heard of her accession to the throne. Visitors can enjoy walking in the 1000 acres of park with woodland trails plus areas and a children's play park.

Please check website www.hatfield-house.co.uk or phone 01707 287010 for details of special events which are held throughout the year.

Opening Hours:
Easter Saturday to end September: Wednesday to Sunday & Bank Holidays

• House open from 12.00noon to 4.00pm
• Park, West Gardens, Restaurant & Shop open from 11.00am to 5.30pm

Standard admission charges:

• House, Park and West Garden:
  £11.50 adult, £6.00 child; Seniors £10.50.
• Park and West Garden:
  £6.50 adult, £4.50 child.
  £3.00 adult, £2.00 child (Park only)
• East Garden:
  Open Thursdays only - additional charge £3.50.

Hatfield House is an approved ceremony venue

Hatfield House is the ideal country setting for your special day. Choose either the Grade I listed Old Palace, childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I or the beautifully refurbished, contemporary Riding School.

Venues and capacities:

• Old Palace - 150 for Civil Ceremony; 250 if just reception
• The Riding School - 170

Both venues are licensed for Civil Ceremonies along with Partnership Ceremonies.

Please contact or visit the web site for further information.