Hatfield is a civil parish and town in Hertfordshire. It’s part of the borough of Welwyn Hatfield and has a population of more than 29,000. The town is 20 miles from London and is home to the University of Hertfordshire. It is twinned with the Dutch town, Zierikzee and is part of the Welwyn Hatfield Constituency. The town has an oceanic climate, characterised by cool summers and moderate winters.
Hatfield’s origins can be traced back to the Saxon period. The town originally went by the name, Hetfelle, and was later changed to Haethfield, under King Edgar’s rule. In 1226, King Henry VIII gave instruction for the town to host a four day fair and weekly market, and, with that, the town was renamed Bishop’s Hatfield.
Hatfield is home to Hatfield House: a historic country home, currently home to Robert Gascoyne- Cecil - 7th Marqueess of Salisbury. During Tudor times, Queen Elizabeth was confined there and spent three years occupying the home. The house has since been transformed into a historic landmark.
During the early 20th century, Hatfield became a site for aerospace engineering. In 1930, a major aircraft factory opened in the Hatfield, and, by 1949, was the biggest employer in the town.
Right now, Hatfield is both a sightseeing spot and commuter hub. Popular attractions include the Mill Green Museum, Stanborough Park, Hatfield Park Farm, Heartwood Forest and the de Havilland Aircraft Museum. For shopping, head to the Galleria Outlet, and, for nightlife, play a visit to the Woodman pub. Other places worth visiting are the Barn Theatre and St Alban’s Clock tower - located just 5 miles from the town.
Hatfield can be reached via the A1 road which runs underneath the town and connects to the M25. Hatfield railway station lies on the East Coast Railway line and offers regular connects to both London and York. The station also forms part of the London underground via the Victoria line. The closest airport to Hatfield is London Airport, at just 14 miles away.
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