The Town of Hertford, North Carolina
A riverside community known for its walkable waterfront feel, deep colonial history, and small-town pace—set on the beautiful Perquimans River in the Inner Banks.
River Life on the Perquimans
Hertford sits directly on the Perquimans River, offering a relaxed water-centered lifestyle—perfect for boating, fishing, and paddling. The town highlights the river as a core part of local life and recreation. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
On-the-Water Days
Enjoy calm river conditions that are ideal for paddling, small craft boating, and easy shoreline views. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Downtown + River Access
Downtown Hertford promotes kayaking and river exploration right in town—simple, local, and scenic. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Inner Banks Setting
Hertford is part of North Carolina’s Inner Banks region—rivers, shoreline, and historic communities. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
A Town with Deep Roots
Hertford was established in 1758 and is described by the town as North Carolina’s seventh oldest town. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4} That long timeline shows up in the architecture, the river history, and the character of the downtown streetscape.
- Historic town identity tied to the Perquimans River :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Walkable historic core recognized as a historic district (National Register) :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- Landmarks and preserved buildings spanning centuries of NC coastal-plain history :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Landmarks & Places to See
Hertford’s appeal is how naturally it blends “everyday town” with historic significance. Here are a few standout highlights:
Newbold-White House
VisitNC describes it as the state’s oldest known brick house, dating to 1730. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Perquimans County Courthouse
A historic courthouse built in the early 1800s and recognized on the National Register. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Hertford Historic District
The historic district includes hundreds of contributing buildings and notable church architecture. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
How Far Is Hertford from Chowan Beach?
Hertford makes a convenient companion town to the Edenton/Chowan Beach area. Using published geographic coordinates for Hertford and Chowan Beach, the distance is about 14 miles as-the-crow-flies. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12} Actual driving time varies by route and traffic, but it’s typically an easy regional drive.
- Quick trip for dining, errands, or a change of scenery
- Great for day outings: river views + historic landmarks
- Easy way to expand your “Inner Banks” lifestyle radius