Looking for a festive day out with Christmas markets, independent shops and plenty of seasonal entertainment? Make Hertford your destination this Christmas. From the annual Christmas Gala and market in the grounds of Hertford Castle to ballet screenings, family theatre, Christmas carols and creative workshops, there's plenty happening in this Hertfordshire market town.
Getting there is easier than ever. From December 2026, four trains per hour will run between London and Hertford North during the daytime and early evening, Monday to Saturday, making it even more convenient to plan a festive day out.
How to enjoy the ultimate festive day out in Hertford
Hertford Town Christmas Gala
One of the highlights of Christmas in Hertford is the annual Town Christmas Gala, bringing festive entertainment and market stalls into the heart of the town.
Taking place on Friday 27 November 2026, the event marks the start of Hertford's main Christmas celebrations. The town centre will host the Christmas Gala from 3pm with market stalls, food stands, carol singers, and fairground rides, leading up to the festive lights switch-on at 6pm.
Hertford Castle Christmas Market
For festive shopping in a historic setting, make your way to Hertford Castle. Its grounds provide the setting for the annual Hertford Castle Christmas Market, returning from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 November 2026.
Expect stalls selling gifts, homeware, crafts and jewellery, alongside food and drink. Fairground rides and live entertainment add to the festive fun, making it perfect for families and anyone looking to get some Christmas shopping done.
Whether you're searching for something really special to give as a present or simply want to enjoy a festive market, it's a good opportunity to support local traders and independent makers.
Catch a festive show at BEAM
If you're looking to add some entertainment to your Christmas visit, Hertford's BEAM arts and entertainment venue has a varied festive programme in December.
On Sunday 13 December 2026, enjoy a screening of The Nutcracker, Tchaikovsky's much-loved Christmas ballet, performed by the Royal Ballet. It's a chance to experience one of the most recognisable festive productions on the big screen.
Families with younger children have two more dates to look forward to. Dear Santa Live arrives on Saturday 19 December, from 2pm to 3pm. Based on Rod Campbell's popular children's book, this stage production is aimed at children aged two to seven, with the added excitement of meeting Santa and receiving a gift.
Then, on Sunday 20 December, BEAM is hosting The Polar Express Pyjama Party. Families are encouraged to wear their nightwear for a cosy screening of the much-loved Christmas film, making it a fun festive outing for children and grown-ups alike.
Join the Christmas carols at Courtyard Arts Centre
For a traditional festive celebration, head to Courtyard Arts Centre on Sunday 6 December 2026 for Carols at Courtyard. This free annual event brings the community together for an afternoon of Christmas music, with traditional carols and a cappella performances from the Courtyard Quartet. There are also homemade mince pies to enjoy, adding a seasonal touch to the occasion. It's a lovely opportunity to enjoy some live music and festive singing while supporting one of Hertford's local arts venues.
Christmas shopping in Hertford
Christmas shopping doesn't have to mean heading to a large shopping centre. Hertford has more than 250 shops, with a mix of independent businesses and familiar names spread across its town centre.
Start on Fore Street, where you'll find a selection of shops, restaurants and bars. Continue towards Maidenhead Street, a pedestrianised shopping area with a range of shops and places to eat, before heading to St Andrew Street for more traditional high-street shopping.
For gifts with a little more individuality, Hertford also has independent vintage, antique and gift shops. Magpie Amore, Mark Wines, Eye Mind Heart and Five & Dime are among some of the most well-known and loved by locals. It's a lovely way to combine Christmas shopping with a few hours enjoying the town.
Make time for a festive meal or drink
After browsing the Christmas markets and shops, take a break at one of Hertford's pubs, cafés or restaurants. Fore Street is a particularly good starting point, with several places to eat and drink within the town centre.
For a restaurant meal, Lussmanns offers a modern brasserie experience, while the town's pubs provide another option for a more informal get-together.
Getting to Hertford by train this season
Planning a festive visit to Hertford is becoming even more convenient, with an enhanced Great Northern rail service at Hertford North. From December 2026, four trains per hour will operate between London and Hertford North during the daytime and early evening, Monday to Saturday.
Hertford North is conveniently located for accessing the town centre, making it a practical option for visiting the Christmas markets, enjoying the festive entertainment or meeting friends for a seasonal meal.
If you’re heading to Hertford as a family, make the most of Kids for £2. If you’re travelling in a group with 3-9 adults, GroupSave will save you up to a third off your fares. Travelling by train also means you can enjoy a festive drink without worrying about driving home!
