Five Horseshoes

Little Berkhamsted’s origins, however, date back to a Roman-era travellers’ site which occupied the current location of the Grade II listed Five Horseshoes pub. The village is best known for the Grade II* listed Stratton’s Tower, a well-preserved five-storey observatory erected for John Stratton in 1789. Stratton, a retired admiral, desired to view ships in the Thames discreetly as a non-conformist. Just a brief five-minute stroll from The Five Horseshoes is the Grade II* Little Berkhamsted House, an 18th-century residence distinguished by its grand Greek Doric porch. Merely four miles from The Five Horseshoes are the remnants of the historic Hertford Castle, initially built around 911 and later fortified with a motte and bailey. The castle has been favoured by various royals, including Edward III and Elizabeth I. Hertford Castle also served as a venue for the English Parliament during the Bubonic plague outbreak in London in 1563. The town has been home to notable figures such as anthropologist Alfred Russel Wallace and Jane Wenham, whose controversial conviction impacted the witchcraft discourse in England.

An appealing historic pub offering scenic views of the Hertfordshire countryside, The Five Horseshoes is a dog-friendly establishment ideal for enjoying delicious pub fare, leisurely Sunday lunches, quality wines, and refreshing cask ales.