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Hertford lies at the confluence of four rivers - the Lee, Mimram, Beane and Rib. The principle of these is the River Lee (or Lea) which is navigable all the way down the Lee Valley to Bow in London, where it joins the River Thames. Narrowboats are a common sight on the river, especially during the summer. Boat hire and river cruises are available nearby at Broxbourne.

Hertford has its' own small marina at the Hertford Basin,which is home to number of boatowners. At the navigational head is the charming Barge public house, which serves food and real ale. (See also Public Houses).

History

The Lee Navigation was extended to Hertford in 1767. The significance of the river to the town and its' history cannot be understated, not least because of the ford that gave it's name to the town. Much of the town's past prosperity is due to the link that the river provided with London, which allowed the transport of goods, especially crops. Hertfordshire was the main corn producing county in England during the 18th century and barley too was important, with malting being one of the town's principal industries.