how to spend a relaxed English weekend in Tring + Berkhamsted
Tring and Berkhamsted in Hertfordshire offer the perfect setting for a relaxed English weekend. Grab brunch, wander the public trails, and rest up at stunning heritage hotels— this guide outlines the perfect weekend in the Midlands.
Antique shops, modern spas, delicious brunch, beautiful accommodation, and miles upon miles of walking trails— Tring is an ideal place to spend a quiet and cosy weekend. Located essentially down the road from Harry Potter Studios, Tring Tring and nearby Berkhamstead in Hertfordshire are quintessential English villages, like right out of a storybook. Roughly 40-minutes by train away from London, Tring isn’t a place that’s on the radar of those making a quick trip to the UK.
I’ll be the first to admit that, despite having spent nearly all my childhood and the last year and some change here, I only learned of Tring’s existence when looking for wedding venues {we’re not getting married in Tring but that’s a whole different story for another blog post}. Most of my British friends had to look it up on a map.
So, if UK residents and long-term expats haven’t even heard of Tring, you’re probably wondering why you would want to visit, right? Well, if you’re hopping over to the UK or it’s your first time visiting, I’d say you probably don't need to add Tring to your bucket list. Tring is best suited for those looking at longer trips around the UK, couples needing a quiet weekend away from London, or people who live in the UK and are searching for a laid-back “staycation”. Regardless, if you’ve found yourself here on my blog {psst…thanks for reading and continuing to support this space}, I think it’s only fair I make the best case for why Tring and Berkhamsted should be pinned on your Google Map.
where to stay in Tring ↴
Pendley Manor in Tring sets the benchmark high for accommodation in the area. This English manor house’s interior is the perfect mix of modern patterns, vibrant colours, and preserved heritage. It sits on 35-acres of beautiful, green land with peacocks roaming around the premise freely. Every room is super unique in its interior design elements, but all of them feel extremely cosy. Each room is equipped with teas, a Nespresso machine, and biscuits to curb your sweet tooth.
There are, of course, a number of beautiful AirBnBs in Tring, but Pendley is the only place I’ve stayed at {multiple times}, so I feel good and confident recommending it to anyone who asks.
We love using Booking.com to book the best places to stay around the world.
where to eat in Tring ↴
If you have one meal in Tring, make it brunch at Black Goo. I swear on all that is holy you will not be disappointed. Even the most classic brunch/breakfast options, like the Full Goo {aka their take on a full English brekkie}, are extra delicious. I still talk about the flat white at Black Goo, as it might be the closest to a New Zealand-level coffee I have found in England.
Places to eat that I recommend in Berkhamsted:
Blossom + Wild
Fred + Ginger Coffee
Thai Cottage
Copper House Bar
The Boat
Places to eat that I recommend in Tring:
The Akeman
Bhujon
Storia Tring
Cog Café
Mimi’s Kitchen + Bar
what to see + do in Tring ↴
hit the trails at Ashridge Estate
Some of our favourite memories from Tring and Berkhamsted have been made along the trails near Ashridge Estate. The estate features over 80 miles of designated walking trails. If you’re visiting in early spring, you might luck out and catch the bluebells in bloom. It’s free to roam around the grounds of Ashridge, so it should definitely be a stop on your Tring itinerary.
fan out on a Harry Potter Studios tour
Staying in Tring is the perfect opportunity to tour the Harry Potter Tour at Warner Brothers Studios in nearby Watford. Even in these wild times we’re living through, I found that touring Harry Potter in September 2020 felt safe. It was like a slice of “normality” I think we’ve all probably been craving, despite mask mandates and COVID protocol in place. You can book your tickets for a day of magic and wizards and all things Hogwarts here.
treat yo-self at Cecily Spa
Cecily Spa in Berkhamsted has quickly become my favourite spa I’ve been to in the UK, including quite a few swanky London spas. Not only is the spa space itself absolutely beautiful, but their brow tints and laminations will literally transform your face— I am not exaggerating. Book your appointments in advance and don’t forget to check out any promotions they might be having. I also highly recommend their Express Facial if you are short on time.
drop by the Bridgewater Monument
The Bridgewater Monument was built in 1832 in honour of the Duke of Bridgewater who used to live at Ashridge Estate. The tall, stone monument has a dedication around the base that reads: “For the father of inland navigation”, because the Duke was famous for engineering canals during the Industrial Revolution. When the monument is open, you can climb 172 spiraling steps to the top for views of the lush, green lawn below.
visit the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum at Tring is an awesome way to spend a few hours. Located just a few blocks off the high street, the museum is free to enter and filled with all sorts of information . In cooperation with current UK Government guidance, all visitors must book a free ticket in advance online.
OPENING HOURS | Tuesday through Sunday from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM
stop by Hatfield House
Hatfield House is a large country house that has been in the same family for 400 years. It is a prime example of Jacobean architecture. Hatfield House includes 42-acres of gardens and grounds, much of which is open to the public. You may have seen bits of Hatfield House in films such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, and Sherlock Holmes.
map ↴
Find everything you need to spend a relaxed weekend in Tring and Berkhamsted, U.K. on the map below.
