The charming historic town of Buntingford lies in a shallow river valley in the centre of Hertfordshire’s north east rural corner. A by-pass protects it from the busy A10, yet it is still the main commercial centre of this predominantly rural area.

Though intensely rural, this area has never been considered remote. The town lies on the route of the Roman road, Ermine Street, which connected London with Lincoln and York.

The area now occupied and known as Buntingford used to lie in the parish of Layston which was mentioned in the Doomsday Book. Layston Church remains as a ruin further up on the banks of the River Rib on the edge of the present day town.

During Elizabethan times the town saw the rise of the merchant class and a requirement for more extensive travel. The period of coach travel stretching from the 16th century to the 19th century brought the hospitality trade to the towns and villages along the coaching routes. Buntingford thrived and supported no less than 15 inns and beerhouses at its height. Surrounding villages shared in the town’s success with Barkway to the north reputedly having 20 hostelries.

Today, Buntingford continues to thrive. The town has grown in recent years and is now one of the areas most sought after towns to live in. Buntingford is one of the few unspoilt traditional old market towns left in the area. Whilst other towns have grown, sometimes beyond recognition, Buntingford still offers its residents peace and tranquillity complimented by local shops, two supermarkets and highly regarded schooling. The High Street is still lined with period buildings with pubs and restaurants plying their trade.

The town is surrounded by some of Hertfordshire’s most beautiful countryside with many pretty villages found close by.

We believe that whilst we benefit from the facilities offered by the neighbouring towns of Hertford, Ware, Stevenage and Royston we are in no way adversely affected by them.

Buntingford may not have a station but residents here do not have far to travel to use one. They feel that this is a small price to pay for the enjoyment of such a lovely unspoilt town that is surrounded by so many pretty villages and beautiful countryside.

For further information contact www.buntingford.com