City Escape Collection

This weekend, I swapped city life for something quieter — a little riverside escape in Hertford, less than an hour from London. It wasn’t really planned; it came from an opportunity. I had guests in my London flat, and a fellow Airbnb host suggested a swap with her home in Hertfordshire. She’ll be heading to my place in Carcassonne, and I got the chance to explore this lovely spot just outside the city.

The place sits right on the River Lea, with peaceful waterside views, boathouses and that quiet, countryside feeling — yet it’s incredibly close to London. I couldn’t believe how easy it was to get there. One direct train from Tottenham Hale took just 40 minutes, or you can come from Liverpool Street in about the same time.

What I Loved About This Little Getaway

The riverside — sitting on the terrace, watching the boats go by, feeling the cool breeze after the heat of the day. The town itself — a proper market town, with its cute pubs, local shops, and a slow, peaceful rhythm. Running through nature this morning — within minutes, you’re surrounded by greenery and countryside paths.

A Great Option for a Day Trip or a Short Break

Right now, with the scorching heat of late June, sitting by the water feels like a luxury. This is probably one of those spots that’s best enjoyed in spring or summer, when the weather lets you make the most of the outdoors.

If you’re staying at my place in London, Hertfordshire could be a perfect next step — a little getaway without the hassle of airports or long drives. Just hop on a train and, within an hour, you feel miles away from the city noise.