Newgate Street is a village in the civil parish of Hatfield, located in the Welwyn Hatfield district of Hertfordshire, England. Situated approximately six miles south-west of Hertford, the village lies on elevated terrain amidst farmland and woodland, retaining a rural character despite its proximity to London, approximately 30 minutes by train via Cuffley Station.[2] The estimated population is around 400, with the 2011 Census population included in Hatfield.[1]
Newgate Street’s history is rooted in the Manor of Tolmers, a medieval estate recorded from the late 13th century as part of the Hatfield estates owned by the Bishop of Ely.[3] The name "Ponsbourne," linked to the village’s church and school, reflects its historical designation.[4]Tolmers Park House, built in 1761 by Sir Frances Vincent, replaced a Tudor predecessor and has served as a military hospital during World War I, a girls’ boarding school, a geriatric hospital under the NHS, and, since the late 20th century, luxury apartments.[5] In 1940, 50 acres of the estate were sold to the Boy Scouts Association to form Tolmers Scout Camp, which remains active.[6]
19th Century
By the 19th century, Newgate Street was a rural hamlet within Hatfield, characterized by agriculture and small-scale industries like milling.[3] Ponsbourne St Mary’s, a Grade II listed building constructed in 1848, became a central religious and social hub.[7] Ponsbourne Park, another notable estate, was built in the 19th century and featured early Victorian ferneries by landscape artist James Pulham II. It later housed a priory and, post-World War II, became a hotel and management centre.[8] The History, Topography, and Directory of Cambridgeshire (1851) notes the village’s agricultural character and key landmarks.[9]
20th Century
During World War I, Tolmers Park served as a military hospital, and in World War II, the village hosted evacuees, with nearby Cuffley supporting a school camp.[10] Local resident William John Warren was imprisoned as a conscientious objector during World War I.[11] A 1959 memoir by Alan Howarth describes Newgate Street’s rural charm, with a tight-knit community centered around a village shop and post office.[12]
Modern Developments
Ponsbourne Park Hotel, Newgate Street, Hertfordshire. Photo by Christine Matthews, 26 April 2009.
Newgate Street is a sought-after commuter village due to its proximity to London and greenbelt setting.[2] “The Ridings” at Ponsbourne Park, a development of seven luxury homes, caters to the equestrian community.[13] Property prices range from £890,000 to £1,115,400, with a noted 18% decline from a 2018 peak of £1,090,000.[14]
Geography
Hertfordshire Way near Newgate Street. Photo by Stephen Craven, 3 May 2009.
Newgate Street is located 15.88 miles north of central London, 9.64 miles east of St Albans, and 16.38 miles southeast of Luton, on a minor ridge near the Mimmshall Brook catchment area.[1] Surrounded by farmland and ancient woodland, it lies within the Hertfordshire Way, a 190-mile circular walking route connecting to Northaw, Cuffley, and Bayford.[15] Its greenbelt status preserves its rural character, attracting ramblers, cyclists, and equestrians.[16]
Demographics
The estimated population is around 400, primarily White British, consisting of families and older professionals.[17] Housing includes historic cottages, post-war developments, and modern infill properties.[17]
Ponsbourne St Mary’s C of E Primary School: A well-regarded Church of England primary school.[19]
Village Hall: A 200-square-meter facility hosting community events, clubs, and private functions.[20]The Coach and Horses, Newgate Street Village. Photo by Stephen Craven, 3 May 2009.
Pubs and Restaurants: The Crown and The Coach and Horses, the latter a Grade II listed building from the 17th century, and The Gables Restaurant offering British and European cuisine.[21][22]
The Gables Italian Restaurant, New Park Road, Newgate Street. Photo by Christine Matthews, 29 January 2006.
Ponsbourne Park Hotel: A luxury hotel with a 9-hole golf course.[23]
Outdoor Facilities: Two tennis courts, a cricket pitch, two acres of common land, and a dog-free children’s play area.[23]
Post Office: Operates in the village hall on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings.[23]
Tolmers Scout Camp: A recreational site since 1940.[6]
Community and culture
Newgate Street hosts an annual May Fayre, a produce show, and social gatherings at The Crown, on the second Friday of each month.[23] Historical accounts, including Eric Riddle’s commemorative bike rides and the diary of Benjamin Woodcock, highlight its regional significance.[24][25]
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