Why Hertford needs host families
Hertford Castle's gardens, riverside walks along the Lea and a compact centre of old streets and independent shops give the town an easy, friendly feel. Two railway stations offer direct trains towards London, so students can enjoy a quiet base and still reach the capital.
Hertford is not a language-school town, so hosting here typically means welcoming students who study elsewhere in Hertfordshire or in London, or who want a calmer homestay. Families near Hertford East or Hertford North stations are the most practical for schools.
If you have a room to spare, hosting brings company, conversation and a new link with another part of the world. In a small town, a student soon gets to know the local shops, cafés and faces, which helps their confidence grow quickly. You remain in charge of your dates and of which students stay with you, so it fits around family life.
Who you could host in Hertford
You choose the ages, lengths of stay and dates that suit your household.
How it works
1. Register for free
Create your host profile in a few minutes. There are no fees or subscriptions.
2. Get found by schools
Language schools that place students in and around Hertford search for hosts by location, rooms and availability.
3. Welcome your student
A school contacts you directly to arrange a placement. You decide which students you accept.
Earn up to £7,500 a year tax-free
Under the government's Rent a Room scheme, income from hosting students in your Hertford home is tax-free up to £7,500 a year.
- Applies whether you own or rent (with your landlord's permission)
- Claim it with a single tick box on your tax return
General guidance only. Read more on GOV.UK
Hosting in Hertford: common questions
Ready to host in Hertford?
Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Language schools can find you as soon as your profile is live.