The town had a gorgeous high street and a fascinating history museum
The UK boasts numerous overlooked towns that frequently receive minimal tourist attention. I enjoy discovering them, whether that’s in the Cotswolds or further into North Wales.
I recently stumbled upon a charming town in Hertfordshire, which boasts a beautiful high street and an abundance of dining establishments.
Amongst Hertfordshire’s finest towns is Tring, a settlement with scenic beauty, fascinating heritage and excellent independent businesses. It’s genuinely an underappreciated spot, just an hour from London, and certainly worth visiting if you’re in the vicinity or keen to discover new places.
Positioned on the fringe of the Chiltern Hills, Tring is a historical market town in western Hertfordshire that has been accommodating guests for generations. With a population of slightly over 12,000, it provides all the charm of a traditional English town while also serving as a sought-after commuter settlement.
While evidence indicates people have inhabited the area since prehistoric eras, Tring gained significance during the medieval era after securing its market charter in the 14th century.
Its position along crucial coaching routes enabled the town to prosper, attracting commerce and visitors.
Nowadays, guests encounter elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture adorning the high street, which features independent shops, traditional pubs and artisan outlets.
Things to do in Tring
Natural History Museum
One of Tring’s principal attractions is the Natural History Museum at Tring, one of the most remarkable museums in the UK. The museum exists thanks to Lionel Walter Rothschild, the eldest son of the renowned banking dynasty.
From childhood, he cultivated a fascination with wildlife, gathering specimens from across the globe and ultimately amassing one of the most extensive private zoological collections in history.
In 1892, he made the museum accessible to visitors, showcasing thousands of preserved mammals, birds, reptiles and insects sourced from every continent. His collection gained international acclaim, and following his passing, it was handed over to the Natural History Museum in London, which continues to operate the Tring Museum to this day.
The museum proved captivating, with elegant wooden display cases containing everything from vibrantly coloured birds to uncommon mammals.
Explore the high street
Tring’s wide high street forms the town’s centre. Lined with independent boutiques, antique shops, gift shops and cafes, it’s an ideal way to pass a leisurely morning.
The blend of Georgian architecture and vibrant shopfronts generates an inviting ambience throughout the town.
Tring park
Formerly part of the Rothschild family’s estate, Tring Park offers panoramic views over Hertfordshire and the neighbouring countryside.
It boasts woodland trails, expansive grassland and scenic lookout points that make it particularly favoured among walkers and runners. The Grand Union Canal is also a popular destination for walkers and cyclists.
Food and drink
For a town of its size, Tring boasts an impressive array of independent cafés, pubs and eateries, making it a sought-after spot for culinary enthusiasts.
Begin your day at Black Goo Coffee, amongst Tring’s most beloved venues. Renowned for its expertly prepared coffee, the café also offers an excellent selection of food.
For a traditional British pub atmosphere, the Tufted Duck, previously known as the Akeman, features seasonal menus, locally sourced produce and an excellent beer garden. The historic establishment serves delicious fare, including Sunday roasts.
Italian food enthusiasts frequently visit Nonna’s, a family-run restaurant celebrated for its freshly made pasta and authentic pizzas.
Tring Brewery is equally deserving of a stop for ale aficionados. The award-winning brewery has been crafting traditional ales in the town since the early 1990s, and distributes to numerous pubs throughout Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
Nearby attractions
Ashridge Estate
A brief drive from Tring brings you to the magnificent Ashridge Estate, one of the National Trust’s most spectacular countryside destinations. Ancient woodlands, undulating hills and extensive walking routes draw visitors year-round.
Additionally, the food and drink options are delicious too.
Whipsnade Zoo
Less than 15 minutes from Tring, Whipsnade Zoo is one of Europe’s largest wildlife conservation parks. Home to elephants, rhinos, lions, giraffes and hundreds of other species, it’s thoroughly worth the visit for the whole family.
Berkhamstead
The nearby market town of Berkhamstead provides yet another fantastic day trip, boasting the impressive ruins of Berkhamstead Castle, charming independent retailers and a vibrant cafe centred around its impressive high street.
