Berkhamsted

Settlement in Hertfordshire Dacorum

England

Berkhamsted

Berkhamsted is a historic market town located in the county of Hertfordshire, England. Situated approximately 26 miles northwest of London, it lies in the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town has a population of around 20,000 residents.

Berkhamsted is known for its rich history, dating back to the Saxon period. The town played a significant role during the Norman conquest of England and was the site of a famous castle, constructed in the 11th century. Today, the ruins of Berkhamsted Castle serve as a popular tourist attraction.

The town boasts a charming, picturesque high street lined with a mix of traditional and modern shops, cafes, and restaurants. It offers a range of amenities, including schools, a library, and healthcare facilities, making it an attractive place to live for families.

Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the beautiful countryside surrounding Berkhamsted, with numerous walking trails and parks in the area. The Grand Union Canal runs through the town, offering scenic views and opportunities for boating and fishing.

Transportation links are excellent, with Berkhamsted railway station providing regular train services to London Euston, as well as other major cities such as Birmingham. The town is also conveniently located near major road networks, including the M25 and M1 motorways.

Overall, Berkhamsted is a charming and historic town that successfully combines its rich heritage with modern amenities, making it an appealing destination for residents and visitors alike.

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Berkhamsted Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.763679/-0.574632 or Grid Reference SP9808. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The Boat pub

Mark Percy

The Rising Sun pub

A canalside pub dating back to the 1880s.

Mark Percy

Canadian totem pole

The totem pole was given to John Alsford in 1968 when he owned the timber yard that was originally on the site where it stands. The red cedar wood pole was carved and designed by the Kwaguilth artist Chief Henry Hunt of the Kwakiutl tribe. The carving is a fertility symbol and legend has it that women wishing to conceive should make three wishes for the child they dream of.

Mark Percy

Berkhamsted Castle ruins

Berkhamsted can trace its origins to Saxon times when there was an important fort here guarding one of the principal routes through the Chilterns. It was to Berkhamsted that William, Duke of Normandy came in 1066 after defeating Harold at Hastings and where he was offered the English Crown by Archbishop Ealdred and various noblemen before proceeding to London. William granted the Manor and Honour of Berkhamsted to his half-brother, Robert, Count of Mortain who built a typical Norman motte and bailey castle including an earthen mound surrounded by a defensive enclosure. The earliest stone buildings appeared in the mid-12th century when the castle was rebuilt. In 1216 the castle was besieged by Prince Louis of France. Castles of this type fell out of favour at the end of the 15th century and Berkhamsted was abandoned in 1495. Although much of the stone was plundered in subsequent centuries, the ruin has always been a significant feature of the town and is now in the care of English Heritage.

Mark Percy