Hitchin in Hertfordshire is a desirable place to live for anyone working in London as it is on a direct rail link to Kings Cross Station. The town is also within an ideal commuting distance for workers in Stevenage and Peterborough as Hitchin is only three miles from the A1(M) and just a short 15-minute drive from Luton Airport for overseas travel.
The town still retains many old-world charms with its iconic gothic Church set within a traditional cobbled town centre. St Mary’s is quite an imposing sight and is the largest parish church in Herefordshire. Hitchin has a rich medieval history that isn’t lost in a contemporary world.
An ancient market town, Hitchin is often seen as being quite a picture-perfect place to live. The area has been used as a backdrop for film and TV shows, yet it isn’t an old-fashioned or stuffy place to reside.
The town has excellent appeal for growing families because it has good local schools, shopping and leisure facilities right on the doorstep. Plus, London and other key cities are within easy reach for a fun-packed family day out.
Local attractions
Hitchin is home to the largest open-air market in the county, and the streets are lined with plenty of local shops, gift shops and cafes. The town centre is a vibrant and buzzing place that hosts regular Farmer’s Markets, craft fairs and a festive Christmas market each year.
The town holds an Annual Festival throughout June and July each year and features lots of entertainment and special events to keep local residents entertained.
The area is also well known for the ‘Hitchin Lavender’ fields on the outskirts of town that stretch over 25 miles. During the summer, this is a popular visitor attraction and attracts more people to the town to take in the cafes and gift shops.
The British Schools Museum can also be found in the town centre, featuring the world’s only fully preserved Monitorial (mutual instruction) schoolroom, dating back to 1837. This is a popular destination for school and educational trips as well as for local residents.
Escape to the countryside
As the town is set in beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, it is easy to escape the city for some fresh air and exercise in open green spaces. Residents often head up to Windmill Hill for a picnic and a bit of kite-flying.
This area is also popular with local running clubs who make the most of the open space and enjoy running through beautiful scenery. If you prefer football, Hitchin is allegedly home to one of the oldest Southern football teams, Hitchin Town FC, known as the Canaries.
Families can find plenty to do at the Bancroft Recreation Ground, which offers a play park with tennis courts. The Hitchin Swimming Centre has two indoor pools and an outdoor pool for summer use.
Hitchin schools
The local schools are well-established, and mostly Ofsted rated as outstanding or good. The two most popular and well-respected schools include the Hitchin Boys’ School and Hitchin Girls’ School. These are sought-after education opportunities for families moving to the area.
Hitchin housing options
As a popular commuter town for London executives, the housing stock features some outstanding detached homes at the higher end of the market. However, the town has a very eclectic mix of old and new properties on the market that are ideal for single people and growing families.
There is a wide selection of semi-detached homes, older style and new-build townhouses, and tastefully converted apartments closer to the town centre.
Why not contact our friendly team to find out what Hitchin properties we have on our books. If you are planning to move to this area, Leysbrook can keep a list of your requirements and match you with a perfect property once one becomes available.