The town of Hertford has managed to escape the worst excesses of modern development and retained much of its distinctive medieval character. You'll find no better illustration of this than in the town's diverse variety of pubs. From hostelries of genuine antiquity through to old backstreet boozers, contemporary brewpubs and craft-beer bars, this ancient county town really does offer something for everyone.

Ware has a long and proud connection to the brewing industry. Its heyday as the country's major malting centre (by 1880 it boasted some 140 malting houses) may have long gone but the townsfolk continue to enjoy the hospitality offered by Ware's many watering holes. Today, thirsty locals can quench their thirst in bustling alehouses with live music or traditional taverns offering a more sedate atmosphere redolent of a seemingly bygone age.

Author Abigail Hamilton-Thompson is your guide as she expertly showcases centuries of pub heritage and how it has shaped the landscape of these two neighbouring and contrasting Hertfordshire towns.