Hidden Hertford #1, Thomas' Folly Traditional Cache

Hidden in the grounds of an old people's home is a tower. This cache is hidden by a public footpath, where you can just see the tower (through the trees).

The Cache has now been moved a little nearer to the car park, to see the tower you need to walk a little further down the path. The view is best in the winter when there are no leaves on the trees

The Tower

Despite it's appearance, this ruin is in fact a late nineteenth century construction. It was built by Thomas Smith, a local architect, who lived in North Road House, and it was in the grounds of the house that he constructed this folly. The Tower formed the centrepiece of landscaping improvements that Smith made in the grounds including low waterfalls and bridges. He also designed a number of prominent buildings in the town including the County Hospital, the Congregational Church and Christ Church. His reputation was international and in addition to buildings in the town he also designed several villas and a hotel in Cannes plus churches in Nice, Naples and Stuttgart. In 1830 he married Elizabeth Bellchambers, whose family had a shop in Fore Street. In 1868 Thomas Smith also became the Mayor of the town. A leaflet giving more details can be obtained from Hertford Library.

There is parking very nearby in Beane River View (off Port Vale), or you can approach from Hertford North Station.