Top Pubs to Visit for a Drink with Friends

There is no better way to celebrate the longest day of the year than with a trip to the pub with friends. Dacorum has so many pubs offering a wide range of drinks and food, some even offer accommodation so you don’t have to worry about the journey home!

We have saved you the research time by giving you a list of some of the best pubs that Dacorum has to offer.

Remember this doesn’t even scratch the surface of what is available so make sure you explore the rest of our website to find the perfect place for you.

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A historic building at night, featuring a pub with a sign and warm lighting. The structure has multiple windows and a decorative exterior, surrounded by other shops. Subtle light trails hint at passing traffic.

Olde Kings Arms, Hemel Hempstead Old Town

Looking for a classic pub in an historic area?

Try the Olde Kings Arms in the Old Town high street in Hemel Hempstead which dates back to the early 1500s! You can also grab a bite to eat including delicious stonebaked pizzas to accompany your drink.

You don’t even need to worry about driving home as there are 9 hotel rooms that you can stay in which all include a full English breakfast in the morning.

View more information including menus and opening times.

A stylish restaurant interior featuring neatly arranged tables, colorful chairs, and hanging glassware. Soft lighting creates an inviting atmosphere, with a cozy seating area visible in the background.

The Grand Junction, Tring

Are you interested in grabbing a drink somewhere that oozes comfort and cosiness?

The Grand Junction has returned to its roots with the original horseshoe shaped bar being reinstated and the restoration of the open fireplace. This all helps to provide a stylish and comfortable experience.

You can even book an Oakpod and enjoy drinks and dinner under the stars. With an integrated music system, a ‘call for service’ button and heating control to set the temperature, you’re in control.

View how to book an Oakpod for your next night out.

A colorful narrowboat named "DICK'S FOLLY" is moored in front of a charming riverside pub with outdoor seating and lush green surroundings, under a bright blue sky.

The Boat, Berkhamsted

Looking for the perfect stop for a drink after a lovely walk along the grand union canal?

The Boat in Berkhamsted is dog friendly, family friendly and has comfy sofas so you can have a truly relaxing experience. Having been newly refurbished in 2016 this is a wonderful place for any occasion whether it’s a drink with friends or hiring for private events – The Boat has it all!

Find out how to book and have a look at all the food and drink on offer.

A cozy, rustic dining area featuring wooden furniture, a bar counter, and a checkered floor. Warm lighting and decorative elements create an inviting atmosphere, suitable for casual dining.

Bricklayers Arms, Flauden

The Bricklayers Arms is a classic pub which is a perfect setting for a summer drink.

Not only is it surrounded by beautiful countryside, it is also award winning having won Hertfordshire dining pub of the year in 2020. It’s hard to believe that such a wonderful place was originally two cottages built in 1722 playing host to a butchers and a blacksmiths forge.

Book a table and discover the full history of this picturesque pub.

A quaint pub named "The Alford Arms," featuring a charming, rustic exterior adorned with plants. Bicycles are parked in front, highlighting a welcoming atmosphere for cyclists and visitors.

Alford Arms, Frithsden

Did you know that our local area has so much to offer in terms of produce?

The Alford Arms takes full advantage of the local area with the food menu changing every week in order to make the best use of the seasonal local produce. There are also a number of ales from local breweries including Tring, Rebellion and Chiltern.

Whether it is on a table on the heated terrace or at the bar, this pub is one to put on the bucket list.

Find out how to book a table and to read more about the ethos of this pub.

A quaint pub named "The Saracens Head" with whitewashed walls and hanging flower baskets, set against a blue sky. Nearby buildings offer a charming village atmosphere.

The Saracen’s Head, Kings Langley

Are you looking for a place where you can grab a drink as well as catch the latest sport fixtures?

The Saracen’s Head in Kings Langley does just this with the warm and welcoming atmosphere that shows a wide range of sports such as the darts, golf tournaments and F1 races. As well as sports, there are a number of tribute nights here so it makes the perfect setting to enjoy a drink and a dance.

View details including when sport fixtures and tribute nights are happening.

A cozy, illuminated outdoor dining pod is shown at night, with people seated inside, enjoying their meal surrounded by twinkling lights.

The Red Lion, Water End

The Red lion has a classic pub feel with a Mediterranean twist.

Open all day from 8am, they serve a seasonal menu with a Mediterranean influence sourcing the meat and poultry from British farmers, and selecting free-range eggs and responsibly sourced fish. If you are coming as a family, there is a bespoke children’s menu that comes with an activity pack.

Have a look at both the food and drink menu including information on how to book.

A charming brick building featuring multiple pitched roofs and decorative elements, with lush greenery around the windows. A car is parked in front, and the sky is bright with scattered clouds.

Bridgewater Arms, Little Gaddesden

Are you on your way back from the Ashridge Estate and looking for a place to stop for a drink?

The Bridgewater Arms is a beautiful country pub set in 5000 acres of national trust land. They serve three Cask Marque approved real ales and a wide selection of meals, there is something for everybody.

See what you would fancy from the delicious food and drink menu.

A charming riverside pub, The Paper Mill, features a wooden terrace lined with tables and chairs, surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil waterway, showcasing a blend of brick architecture and inviting outdoor seating.

The Paper Mill, Hemel Hempstead

Did you know that The Paper Mill is a stone throw away from Apsley train station?

This makes it the perfect place to have a drink either before or after heading on the train to your next destination. There are also quiz nights and music events on offer here so it makes a great place for a night out with friends. All of this plus there is outdoor seating that overlooks the Canal for those who prefer a calmer experience.

View the latest information on upcoming events and information on how to book.

A quaint pub with a white exterior, surrounded by lush greenery and manicured bushes. The establishment features large windows and signs reading "Café & Hotel." An inviting outdoor area with umbrellas adds to its charm.

Cart and Horses, Chipperfield

Are you looking for a true hidden gem in Dacorum?

The Cart and Horses is a wonderful spot which includes a beer garden and an online shop offering butchers, greengrocers and fishmonger shops. There is even a takeaway menu so you can enjoy their delicious food wherever you want.

Enjoy a short walk round Chipperfield Common and find this beautiful pub where you can enjoy a well-earned drink.

View all the information you need to get the most from this location.

A charming pub with a traditional design, adorned with vibrant flower arrangements. The warm glow of exterior lights illuminates the building, creating a cozy atmosphere against a twilight sky. A sleek car is parked nearby on the street.

The Bell Inn, Bovingdon

No matter what you have planned this is the place to go!

The Bell Inn is a lovely 18th Century Grade II listed family run pub offering traditional low ceilings, cosy log burning fires and even a pretty garden terrace. This means that it is perfect for all occasions! From Business meetings to walking parties, they can tailor a menu to suit any event.

View more information including how to book.

A cozy interior of a restaurant featuring a brick fireplace, a chalkboard menu, and wooden furniture. The space is warmly lit with carpeted flooring and decorative wallpaper, creating a welcoming atmosphere for diners.

The Greyhound Inn, Aldbury

Our final pub on this list is truly one for the bucket list!

The Greyhound Inn is an idyllic and charming traditional country pub, nestling beneath the beautiful National Trust land of Ashridge Estate, in the Village of Aldbury, near Tring. Treat yourself to their own range of Badger Beers which are sold only in Hall and Woodhouse pubs. It is brewed in the heart of Dorset and transported to The Greyhound Inn just for you!

Learn more about this pub including how to book a table and even a room to stay in to truly maximise your experience.

Remember we have more pubs advertised on our website so make sure you check these out after you have completed this list. Make sure you follow us on social media and tag us @enjoydacorum to show us which pubs you have enjoyed in Dacorum.

Remember, if you are a business in Dacorum that would like some FREE advertisement on our Enjoy Dacorum Social Medias and website, including any events you may be hosting, email us at business@dacorum.gov.uk