Hitchin City Guide

Pubs serve British classics like fish and chips. There's a good selection of international cuisines, with vegan and vegetarian options widely available. Late-night food is mostly takeaways and some pubs.

Pubs and bars offer live music and DJ nights on weekends. The scene is lively but not extensive.

Good selection of independent cafes and chains with specialty coffee.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10-15% at restaurants if service is good. Round up taxi fare or add 10%. Small tips for other services.

SIM cards are easy to get from phone shops or supermarkets. Providers include EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three. eSIMs are becoming common. No ID needed for pay-as-you-go SIMs.

Streets are generally clean, especially in town center. Waste collection and recycling are regular.

Limited 24/7 options. Some petrol stations have minimarts open all night. Late-night food is mostly takeaways.

Supermarkets like Waitrose, Sainsbury's, and Lidl stock local and international products. Markets run three days a week. Shops have fixed prices and typical hours are 7 AM to 10 PM on weekdays.

Most places accept card payments. Cash is rarely needed for daily use.

ATMs are common on the high street and near major banks. Some independent ATMs may charge fees, but banks generally do not.

Local primary and secondary schools are good. No major international schools in town, but options exist nearby. Instruction is in English.

Small nomad presence. Networking mostly through local business groups or online forums.

Parks like Bancroft Gardens provide plenty of green space and shaded paths for walking and running.

Good running routes through parks and countryside. Local running clubs available. Air quality is good.

Options include a 24/7 gym, swimming, and wellness centers. Local sports clubs are also active.

Tennis courts available at Hitchin Lawn Tennis Club and public parks.

Padel courts are rare in Hitchin but growing in the UK.

Several yoga studios offer various classes with English-speaking instructors.

Several clubs offer judo, boxing, karate, and taekwondo. Some may offer BJJ and Muay Thai. English-speaking instructors are common.

No skiing nearby. Indoor ski centers exist about an hour away.

Limited water sports; some kayaking or paddleboarding in local lakes or rivers.

No surfing; town is inland.

No diving opportunities here.

Lister Hospital nearby offers full services. Hitchin has local GP clinics. Pharmacies like Boots and Lloyds provide medicines and advice. Emergency number is 999.

Tap water is safe to drink.

Kid-friendly cafes and playgrounds like Bancroft Gardens are common. Attractions include Hitchin Lavender and British Schools Museum.

High acceptance and legal protections. No specific LGBTQ+ venues but the town is inclusive.

Many pubs and cafes welcome dogs. Vet services and pet supplies are easily found. Parks are suitable for walking pets.