Formerly known as The Harrier and before that The Hilltop, owners McMullen opted for a "does what it says on the tin" approach with their latest rebrand, naming it The Hatfield Tap. While the refurb is clearly aimed at attracting more students from the nearby University of Hertfordshire, the pub remains a friendly community local with something for all age groups. Pool, darts, shuffleboard and a variety of board games are available, while major sporting fixtures are shown on a giant TV screen. Regular quiz and bingo nights are held along with occasional live music events.
Food (including burgers, chicken wings and sharing platters) is served throughout the day. On the drinks front, an array of cocktails and the like is complemented for more traditional tastes by McMullen's usual range of ales.
Historic Interest
Originally called the Hilltop, then subsequently for several years known as the Harrier, this pub has been operated by McMullen's Brewery of Hertford since it opened in 1959. With an exterior look very much of its post-war time, it was designed by Lionel Gordon Baliol Brett, later 4th Viscount Esher, as part of the New Town development of Hatfield. Inside it has undergone refurbishment, most recently in 2022 when it was renamed the Hatfield Tap. A more detailed history of the pub and some wonderful images of its past can be found here: https://boakandbailey.com/2018/11/hilltop-a-new-venture-in-public-houses-1959/
This Pub serves 1 changing beer (New River Gade was the guest on visiting.) and 1 regular beer.
Source: National
Cask Ale
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The Charter Market Quarter has many historical links. One of the only free-standing medieval civic clock towers, the site of the First Battle of St. Albans in 1455, during the Wars of the Roses. Allegedly the Boot Inn played host to soldiers fighting in the battle. There used to be 23 pubs around the Market area!
The northern end of the Market is dominated by St. Peter’s church, one of the three churches originally built by the Saxon’s on the main pilgrim routes into St. Albans. Soak up the history and architecture of the area, as well as music history!
This area is packed with history and interesting pubs, some open, and some no longer with us.
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