The Hermitage Hitchin
Historic ballroom venue in Hitchin offering Mediterranean small plates, grill dishes, and a vibrant coffee bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live jazz music
The Hermitage Hitchin
Best Time
Live jazz music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic ballroom venue in Hitchin offering Mediterranean small plates, grill dishes, and a vibrant coffee bar.
"Lovely atmosphere in an old ballroom with incredible, fresh, and tasty food."
🎯 Book for Live Music
Secure your table in advance for Thursday live music nights to guarantee a spot.
☕ Coffee & Bagel Bliss
Enjoy quality coffee and bagels, perfect for a casual bite or a work session.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Ballroom Ambiance
Main Dining Area
Experience dining in a stunning, cavernous space that beautifully marries industrial chic with historic charm.
Mediterranean Small Plates & Grill
Restaurant
Savor fresh, tasty Mediterranean dishes and expertly grilled items prepared with evident chef experience.
Live Music Nights
Bar/Restaurant Area
Enjoy vibrant live jazz and other performances, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Coffee & Bagel Bar
Coffee & Bagel Bar
A great spot for coffee breaks, bagels, and even offers meeting spaces for up to 16 people.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
+1Embrace the Ambiance
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book for Live Music
Secure your table in advance for Thursday live music nights to guarantee a spot.
☕ Coffee & Bagel Bliss
Enjoy quality coffee and bagels, perfect for a casual bite or a work session.
☀️ Alfresco Dining Option
During warmer months, enjoy your meal outdoors with their alfresco dining setup.
🍽️ Be Patient with Service
Service can be slow at times, but the food quality often makes up for it.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book for Live Music
Secure your table in advance for Thursday live music nights to guarantee a spot.
☕ Coffee & Bagel Bliss
Enjoy quality coffee and bagels, perfect for a casual bite or a work session.
☀️ Alfresco Dining Option
During warmer months, enjoy your meal outdoors with their alfresco dining setup.
🍽️ Be Patient with Service
Service can be slow at times, but the food quality often makes up for it.
💡 Meeting Space Availability
Utilize their modern meeting spaces for business gatherings or group events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Hermitage Hitchin is praised for its stunning historic ballroom ambiance and fresh, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. While many enjoy the lively atmosphere, especially during live music events, some diners have noted occasional slow service and inconsistencies with certain food items like bagels. +3
"I couldn't fault this place in all honesty. We had an incredible meal that was fresh and tasty. The servers were very helpful. We were moved on request to another table due to the sun being in our eyes. It also has a lovely atmosphere in an old ballroom. Food tolerance was dealt with accordingly. We will be visiting again."
Penelope Hayden
"The food was very tasty, and you can really feel the chef’s experience in the dishes. Just a small suggestion: the mayonnaise with the truffle fries is completely unnecessary, and there’s a bit too much mayonnaise in other dishes as well. Other than that, everything was great."
Ewa Lewandowska
"The food and drinks are tasty. Fresh and good quality.
The atmosphere is also very pleasant.
No 5 stars because the service is so slow and the woman taking orders seems so annoyed and isn't friendly. The barista is tough."
Sarah F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hermitage Hitchin is located on Hermitage Road in Hitchin. It's easily accessible by car, with local parking options nearby. For public transport, check local bus routes that serve the town center.
While direct parking at the venue might be limited, there are several public car parks within a short walking distance in Hitchin town center. It's advisable to check local signage for the nearest available options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For general dining, booking a table is recommended, especially for evenings and weekends. For specific events like live music, booking is essential to secure a spot.
Opening hours can vary, particularly for the coffee bar versus the restaurant. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on daily opening times.
There is typically no entry fee for general access to The Hermitage Hitchin. Charges apply for food and drinks, and specific ticket prices may be in place for special ticketed events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hermitage Hitchin offers Mediterranean small plates and grill dishes, with a focus on fresh, tasty ingredients. They also have a popular coffee and bagel bar. +1
While specific menus can change, Mediterranean cuisine often includes a variety of vegetarian dishes. It's recommended to check with the venue directly or look at their current menu for detailed dietary options.
Yes, The Hermitage Hitchin is a popular spot for weekend brunch, offering a lively atmosphere and tasty food options. Booking ahead is advised.
Absolutely! The elegant ballroom setting and quality food make it a great choice for celebrations. Consider booking a larger table or inquiring about private hire options.
Based on reviews, the Mediterranean small plates and grill dishes are highly praised. Some diners also enjoyed the burgers and bagels. +2
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the venue's historic ballroom setting with industrial-chic decor provides a very photogenic backdrop. The lighting, especially with their carefully selected fixtures, adds to the ambiance.
The main ballroom area with its unique architecture and lighting is ideal. The coffee bar area also offers a stylish setting for casual shots.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is acceptable. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other guests and performers, and avoid using flash if it might be disruptive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While the main restaurant focuses on Mediterranean small plates, the general atmosphere is welcoming. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more relaxed experience for younger children. 💼 Business Travelers & Remote Workers
The blend of professional facilities and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a versatile choice for work-related needs.🎶 Music Lovers
The venue transforms into a lively spot with talented performers. Make sure to book your table in advance to enjoy the music and the vibrant atmosphere. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ambiance of The Hermitage
The careful selection of lighting fixtures, such as the Occular Square Projector range and custom bezel Eclipse Downlights, enhances this sophisticated vibe, blending the building's heritage with modern design sensibilities. This unique environment makes it a memorable spot for dining, coffee, or even events, offering a visual experience that complements the culinary one.This blend of old and new is a significant draw for visitors. Whether you're enjoying a casual coffee or a full dinner, the surroundings contribute to the overall experience. The spaciousness of the ballroom allows for comfortable seating arrangements, and the open kitchen concept adds a dynamic element to the dining floor.
Beyond the main dining area, The Hermitage also features a dedicated Coffee & Bagel Bar, offering a slightly different, yet equally stylish, ambiance. This area is perfect for a quick bite, a relaxed catch-up, or even for those looking for a unique workspace.
The venue's versatility in offering different atmospheres within one location caters to a wider range of visitor needs and preferences.Culinary Delights: Mediterranean Flavors and Freshness
While the food generally receives high praise, some diners have offered constructive feedback. For instance, one reviewer found the mayonnaise accompanying truffle fries to be unnecessary and noted a general overuse of mayonnaise in other dishes.
The venue also offers a dedicated coffee and bagel bar, providing a more casual dining option. This area is popular for its coffee and bagel offerings, making it a go-to spot for a quick breakfast or a mid-day treat.
+1 The inclusion of these diverse culinary options, from sophisticated dining to casual bites, ensures The Hermitage Hitchin can cater to a broad spectrum of visitor preferences.Events and Community at The Hermitage
These events draw in locals and visitors alike, transforming the space into a vibrant entertainment venue. Booking in advance is highly recommended for these popular nights. Beyond music, The Hermitage also partners with local businesses and fitness groups. For example, they've hosted fitness bootcamps followed by bagels and coffee, and have been a meeting point for running clubs.
+1 This collaborative spirit extends to supporting local businesses, with politicians visiting to discuss local economic issues. The venue also participates in local festivals, showcasing its role in the community fabric. Furthermore, The Hermitage offers dedicated meeting spaces within its expanded Coffee & Bagel Bar. These innovative spaces are equipped with high-end AV equipment and can accommodate up to 16 people, making them suitable for business meetings, workshops, or private gatherings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit