Hertford’s still one of those towns where you can spend an afternoon visiting a few pubs and find cask ale on nearly every bar. Some focus more on food, some on sport, and some on the beer itself — but between them all, there’s still a proper pub scene here.
Here’s an honest look at a few of the town’s other real-ale houses — the ones we’d happily recommend to anyone who appreciates a pint done right.
The White Horse – Castle Street
Dating back to Tudor times, the White Horse has been a fixture of Hertford for centuries. It’s a split-bar pub with a big fireplace, a cosy feel, and a small courtyard out back. For twenty years it ran as a Fuller’s tenancy, and it’s now owned by Admiral Taverns.
They usually keep four to six cask ales — London Pride, Tring favourites, and the odd guest. It’s a genuine local’s pub, and when the beer’s on form, it’s excellent. Consistency can be hit and miss, but when they get it right, it’s a lovely place for a quiet pint in front of the fire.
The Black Horse – West Street
Just off the town centre, the Black Horse used to be a Greene King pub but now trades as a free house. They typically offer up to six cask ales, all priced around £5 a pint, alongside the familiar keg range. It’s got a decent garden, an annexe room for private parties, and in summer they fire up a pizza oven.
It’s the home of the local rugby crowd, with Sky Sports on the TVs, and it’s one of those friendly, community-driven pubs that still does things properly. You can get a good pint, good chat, and a bit of noise — in the best way.
The Old Barge – The Folly
The Old Barge sits right on the river and has long been one of Hertford’s most recognisable pubs. It’s a free house, although most of the cask lines are supplied by Adnams, and prices can run high compared to the rest of town.
It’s very much a food-led operation these days, but they still keep a good pint, and their quiz nights are always packed. The garden’s a great spot on warm evenings, and it’s a reliable choice if you’re looking to eat and drink somewhere scenic.
The Salisbury Arms – Fore Street
After a £4 million refurbishment, the Salisbury Arms is now one of the smartest operations in Hertford. It’s a McMullen-owned pub with a single main bar, a separate restaurant, and high-quality letting rooms above.
It’s not a traditional alehouse anymore, but you’ll still find McMullen’s beers well kept and the atmosphere relaxed. It’s a good option for visitors or anyone after a more polished pint experience.
Where The Old Cross Tavern Fits In
Then there’s us — The Old Cross Tavern, a proper drinker’s pub where cask ale still leads the show. We don’t serve food or have Sky Sports, and we’re fine with that. What we do have is eight rotating handpulls, a cellar that’s cared for like a brewery lab, and a loyal crowd that knows a good pint from a tired one.
We’re proud to be part of a town that still values real ale. Hertford’s best pubs each bring something different to the table, and together they keep the local scene alive — but if you’re looking for the place where beer still comes first, you’ll find it here.
