New Build Homes in Hertfordshire

Looking for a new home in Hertfordshire?

This county features historic towns surrounded by protected green belt, with strong rail connections that make commuting to London practical without losing countryside appeal.

Hertfordshire is one of the UK’s most desirable counties, with a long and varied history, a significant presence in the global film industry, and notable attractions, such as Knebworth House and the Magic Roundabout in Hemel Hempstead.

The county is also a centre for film, media, and technology. It is home to Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, Elstree Studios, and to major employers such as GlaxoSmithKline. 

From the Roman heritage of St Albans to the retail and cultural hub of Watford, Hertfordshire appeals to families, professionals, and investors.

Whether you’re looking for a spacious family home or a contemporary apartment, our properties are located in well‑connected areas with strong local amenities.

We are currently offering homes in the Watford area in the South West of Hertfordshire.

View of the River Gade in Watford, Hertfordshire

About Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire is in the South East of England, just north of London, making it a popular location for commuters. It borders Bedfordshire to the north, Cambridgeshire to the northeast, Essex to the east, and Buckinghamshire to the west.

Despite its closeness to London, much of Hertfordshire is protected by the Metropolitan Green Belt, preserving countryside and limiting urban sprawl. The western part of Hertfordshire includes the Chilterns, a large, protected rural landscape made up of rolling hills, woodland, farmland, and traditional villages.

The River Lea and River Colne also flow through the county, creating fertile valleys and scenic walking routes.

Berkeley’s Hertfordshire houses at The Exchange Watford are set within green landscapes and benefit from the best that Hertfordshire has to offer.

Hertfordshire Highlights

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Excellent schools and healthcare
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Green Belt landscapes
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Strong community spirit
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Outstanding transport links
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Historic towns and architecture
Residents walking through landscaped green space in Watford, Hertfordshire

Living in Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire is often described as “London in the countryside” – giving you green spaces and quieter living while being close to the capital.

Many towns have a village feel but with modern amenities. Some areas are bustling market towns (e.g., Hitchin, Berkhamsted), while others are peaceful rural villages. Towns like St Albans and Watford offer residents excellent shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

There are a number of nature reserves, including places like Ashridge Estate and Tring Park that offer rich biodiversity and hiking trails.

Together, this balance of countryside, well‑served towns, and outdoor space makes Hertfordshire an attractive place to live for those who want breathing room without losing access to work, culture, and connectivity.

The Eight Gardens, Hertfordshire

Where to Live in Hertfordshire

Watford

Watford offers the perfect balance of city convenience and natural surroundings. The town centre is packed with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, while Cassiobury Park provides green space for outdoor leisure. Berkeley’s development at The Exchange Watford offers stylish homes just moments from Bushey Station, ensuring quick and easy access to London. 

Other places in Hertfordshire 

Beyond Watford, Hertfordshire is known for its towns and countryside. From the historic streets of St Albans to the market towns of Hitchin and Bishop’s Stortford, the county offers a diverse range of surroundings.

St Albans cathedral in Hertfordshire

History of Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire’s past spans more than two millennia, shaped by Romans, Saxons, medieval monarchs, and even the birth of Britain’s film industry.

Hertfordshire's most significant ancient site is Verulamium, the major Roman town that grew where St Albans now stands. Many remains from that era are still visible today.

The county went on to play an important role in the Wars of the Roses and later in the Tudor court. Home to Britain’s first Christian martyr, St Alban, and the magnificent Hatfield House where Queen Elizabeth I spent her childhood, the county blends centuries of heritage with modern living.

Today, its historic market towns, grand estates, and Roman ruins offer a glimpse into the past while providing all the conveniences of contemporary life.

Two women walking outside Watford Grammar School

Education in Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire is renowned for its excellent schools, offering a mix of high-performing state, partially selective, and independent options.

Top-rated institutions include St Albans Girls’ School, Beaumont School, and Loreto College, alongside prestigious independents such as Haileybury and St Albans High School for Girls.

Many primary schools in towns such as Hertford and Watford are consistently rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, with parents valuing their supportive learning environments and broad curriculums.

For further education, the county is home to Oaklands College and the University of Hertfordshire, while its proximity to London provides access to world-class universities.

With strong Ofsted ratings and range of extracurricular opportunities, Hertfordshire is an ideal choice for families seeking quality education in a well-connected location.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

Things to Do in Hertfordshire

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Man in a suit looking at his phone outside Watford Junction train station

Commuting from Hertfordshire

Hertfordshire is one of the best-connected counties for London commuters, offering fast and reliable transport links by rail and road.

Trains from Watford to London Euston take around 20 minutes via the West Coast Main Line, while St Albans to London St Pancras is approximately 20 minutes on Thameslink. Stevenage to King’s Cross is just 25 minutes, and Hertford to Liverpool Street takes about 50 minutes.

Road links are excellent too, with direct access to the M25, A1(M), and A414 for easy travel to London, Heathrow, and beyond.

With high-speed broadband and green surroundings, Hertfordshire is perfect for hybrid working.

Business hubs in Watford and Stevenage also provide local employment opportunities for those wanting to work closer to home.

The Exchange, Watford, Hertfordshire

New Build Homes for Sale in Hertfordshire

Berkeley Group creates premium new communities in some of the South East of England’s most desirable and well‑connected locations. Each development is crafted with sustainability, energy efficiency, and long‑term wellbeing front of mind, ensuring every home is built for comfort, convenience, and a better quality of life.

Our Hertfordshire neighbourhoods combine contemporary design with thoughtfully landscaped outdoor spaces, creating peaceful, modern environments that support everyday living.

Close proximity to parks, transport links, shops, and cultural attractions ensures residents enjoy the perfect balance of nature and connectivity.

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Hertfordshire Property FAQs

Are there good shopping and dining options in Hertfordshire?

Absolutely. Hertfordshire boasts a vibrant food scene, from Michelin-recognised gastropubs and fine dining at places like Auberge du Lac to stylish eateries in St Albans and Watford. For shopping, you’ll find everything from boutique stores in historic market towns to major retail destinations like Atria Watford and The Galleria outlet centre. Farmers’ markets and independent shops add to the county’s charm, making it a haven for foodies and shoppers alike.

How does Hertfordshire compare to neighbouring counties like Buckinghamshire or Essex?

Hertfordshire is closer to London than Buckinghamshire and offers more rural charm than Essex, making it a great middle ground for those seeking connectivity and greenery.

Is Hertfordshire more rural or urban?

Hertfordshire offers the best of both worlds. While much of the county is covered by countryside and green belt land, around 88% of its population lives in urban areas, including thriving towns like Watford, St Albans, and Stevenage. This means residents enjoy easy access to modern amenities while being just minutes from picturesque villages and open countryside.

Is Hertfordshire suitable for retirees?

Yes, Hertfordshire is a good choice for retirement. The county combines peaceful countryside with easy access to London, offering a relaxed yet connected lifestyle. Retirees can enjoy tranquil walks in Heartwood Forest, cultural attractions like St Albans Cathedral, and vibrant market towns with independent shops. There’s also a strong community network and services tailored for older residents, ensuring comfort, convenience, and plenty of opportunities to stay active and social.

What outdoor activities can you enjoy in Hertfordshire?

Hertfordshire is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore scenic walking trails in the Chiltern Hills, enjoy watersports at Stanborough Park, or take a family day out at Paradise Wildlife Park. For something different, try go-karting in Hoddesdon, golf at Topgolf Watford, or paddleboarding on the River Stort. Historic sites like Berkhamsted Castle and sprawling estates such as Hatfield House offer beautiful grounds for leisurely strolls.

New Homes Hertfordshire – Key Sources

Content created by Berkeley Content Team. (Last updated March 2026)