The Crabtree

You'll find The Crabtree tucked away on Leverstock Green Road, the sort of place that doesn't try too hard because it doesn't need to. It's got that comfortable, lived-in feel you want from a proper pub — the kind where regulars actually know the staff and newcomers feel welcome straightaway. The food's solid rather than flashy: think classic pub fare done right, without any pretentious nonsense. With over 1,600 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, it's clearly doing something right in a town that's spoilt for choice. You're looking at reasonable prices (around ££) for what you get, which in Hemel these days is refreshing.