HArts Fest 2025

A FREE family event at Hertford Castle to celebrate art and literature in Hertford. 

From 12pm - 4pm, in the beautiful grounds of Hertford Castle, visitors will be able to browse art, literature and craft stalls and enjoy a series of art and literature-based activities on the main lawn, hosted by The Wonder Den and Hertford Library. We will also be joined by the Hertford Art Society and Herts Book Fest. 

In collaboration with Herts Book Fest there will be a programme of author led craft and writing workshops taking place inside the Castle and they will be running a Book Exchange – ‘Bring a book, Take a book’, all free of charge.

Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a live programme of entertainment from local musicians and dance groups, plus Boxmoor Yoga will be running a session for children. 

View the full programme here

The Castle will also be open for visitors to explore free of charge.

Event Sponsors

For sponsorship opportunities please email events@hertford.gov.uk

Event Information

Location 

Hertford Castle, Castle Street, SG14 1HR 

Entry Information 

The event is FREE of charge to attend, you are however welcome to donate to the Mayor of Hertford’s Charity Appeal Fund  which this year is supporting Hertford and District Guides & Citizens Advice East Herts.

The Castle grounds can be accessed by foot at any of the following pedestrian gates: Castle Street, St Andrew Street Car Park, Main Castle Gate off The Wash or through the Moat Garden on Castle Street.

Travelling to the Event

Hertford Town Council declared a Climate Emergency in July 2023 and has committed to taking action to protect human health and our natural world to the maximum extent its powers allow. We therefore encourage people to come to our events by public or active transport. The two Hertford railway stations, Hertford North and Hertford East, are a short walk from the Castle, and bus services are available to the Wash and Hertford bus station. Please visit National Rail for live train times and Intalink for bus routes.

Parking

Unfortunately, there is no public parking at Hertford Castle (including disabled) but there are a number of car parks close to the Castle. Please click here for more information and map. 

Amenities 

Toilets are located to the side of the main lawn on the footpath by the Ashley Webb Shelter. 

Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available inside the castle, please speak to a volunteer for access. 

First aid will be provided by St John Ambulance and will be located on the main lawn.

Dogs are welcome, however they must be kept on a lead at all times and we kindly ask that dog waste is picked up and put in the bins provided.

The nearest Changing Places toilet is located in the foyer area of BEAM on The Wash. There is step-free access from the main entrance to the Changing Places toilet. Please be advised that there isn't a permanent attendant. For further information please get in touch here .