Hertfordshire has so many possibilities for outdoor adventures! With so many digital distractions, it's never been more important to get out, stretch your legs and get some fresh air in our beautiful rolling countryside! Here are some of the classic trails for you to tackle right now...
As Hertfordshire residents, we absolutely love the scenic walks and stunning countryside views that our county provides. But did you know that Ashridge Estate’s special area of woodland and unique habitats is currently at risk? Together with Natural England, the National Trust, and other local authorities, Dacorum Borough Council are working on a new programme designed to protect this Special Area of Conservation's wildlife, habitats and woodland from damage caused by walkers. So, in an effort to help us all respect and protect this beautiful landscape, we're sharing some of the many other glorious spots where you can stretch your legs and enjoy the Hertfordshire countryside.
If you’d like to find out more about the programme, visit the webpage here.
The Chilterns
Gracing the west edge of Hertfordshire are one of the country's most beautiful AONBs, the Chilterns. With its hills and wooded areas and of course the views (oh, the views!), the area is popular with walkers wanting to discover more of the great outdoors. Amble the Chilterns
Tring Park
Walking gently through a shaded woodland, on a warm springtime day sounds quite ideal no? Not all walks you venture on need to be tough, over 10 miles or time limited, and Tring Park is perfect for a mellow wander. In the 264-acre park you can discover the history of what was once a Rothschild estate, and explore the natural features such as wildflowers to the viewpoint ‘rond point’, with views stretching to the Chilterns and the man-made ones such as the Rothschild gamekeepers summer house. All walks of life in Tring
Whitwell and St Paul's Walden
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Herts countryside, while adding in a sprinkle of the county's iconic history. Start your journey in the village of Whitwell, where a warming cuppa and slice of homemade cake at Emily's Tea Shop will set you on your way. See beautiful Georgian buildings as you pass through the town, before heading through rolling hills, crossing over the River Mimram, before coming to the house which was once childhood come to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Soak up the history of the area before heading back to complete this wonderful 2-hour walk.
Alban Way
Between St Albans and Hatfield there was once a branch railway line that connected the Great Northern Railway that closed in 1969. Today, the six-and-a-half-mile route is open to cyclists and walkers to enjoy traffic free. Start your walk off in Cottonmill Lane in St Albans and spot sights such as the Blackberry Arch and the River Ver, through to Wrestlers Bridge in Hatfield. You could even extend the jaunt to Hatfield Park. Get on your way
Chess Valley River Walk
Chess Valley is a 10 mile walk through the Chilterns. This walk offers fantastic views along the River Chess and many of the surrounding villages. The walk promises a look at some of its local wildlife and maybe you'll learn something new as you pass the 13th century Chenies manor.
Colney Heath
Colney Heath's beautiful lake is an excellent place to visit for a walk as you can loop around the entirety of the lake. You're bound to spot some of its local wildlife from fish to birds to just about everything else. This route is sure to be loved by hikers, fishers and runners.
Ware
Ware's a great place for a stroll if you want a shorter route. The old village is a perfect place for sight-seeing especially if you want to see some quaint British architecture and views of wildlife in the river.
Broxbourne Woods
Broxbourne woods is sure to be an excellent choice for walking if you love woodlands, especially as it has over 239 hectares! These woods are fun to explore if you have children, or if you just want to take the dog for a walk. We're sure they'll thank you later!
Hemel Hempstead
We're lacing up our boots and reach for the Hemel Green Walk map this winter, a walking route around Hemel Hempstead. The map shows off some of the best places of the town, from the vibrant town centre to idyllic green spaces in Two Waters and Gadebridge Park.
The map can be followed using the LoyalFree app - which can be downloaded free of charge from the App Store or Google Play.
Hertfordshire Health Walks
Don't fancy going it alone? Free and available for all abilities and ages, Hertfordshire Health Walks are group wanders, led by friendly volunteers, ranging from a short 20-30 minutes, to 90 minutes. With over 100 walks scheduled across the county, you're sure to find the perfect weekend or weekday wander, plus maybe even make a rambling friend or two.