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Home , Aldbury, Ayot Green, Ayot Greenway, Ayot St Lawrence, Balls Wood, Barleycroft End

Record of HELC Walks From 08/06/2004 to 22/04/2020

DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2020-04-22 Park Jack Blackett Walk cancelled owing to the Corona Virus pandemic. Walk cancelled owing to the Corona Virus pandemic. 2020-03-25 Ayot St Vernon Clough This will be more of a gentle stroll than a walk. Just 3 miles around Ayot St Laurence. Mainly on dry Walk cancelled owing to the Corona Virus pandemic. Laurence paths with the occasional short muddy stretches. No stiles to clamber over. We will meet at at 10.00, pre-order lunch, and set off about 10.30. The Brocket Arms car park has a limited capacity. There is usually parking space on the road nearby. The walk will head out passed Ayot House to Abbottshay and down to the Kimpton Mill. From here we will pick up the Way alongside the . Reaching Bottom we take the track leading back to . Stopping to admire the views over the valley, we make our way back to the Brocket Arms. 2019-11-26 & Alan Falconer The November walk will be led by Alan Falconer and will start from The Red Lion at Studham, LU6 No writeup was forthcoming for this walk. Whipsnade 2QA. Please come to the for 10 o’clock to place lunch orders (and use the facilities) We will head towards Whipsnade Wildlife Park, skirting Holywell outbound and return to Studham for lunch (see map below). If time allows, we could check the church. There is very little road walking, no stiles and only gentle gradients through woodland and clearer ground with distant views. It is about 4 miles long and will take about 2 hours. Lunch has been booked for 12:30 so it would be good to set off soon after 10 o’clock, allowing for chat and photos if we’re lucky with Autumn colours, or even animals! Although there is some parking at the front of the pub, there is also a public parking area at the entrance to the common where Kensworth Road meets Road and opposite the war memorial. If we can double park here it will leave more room for the pub regulars. Regrettably, some of the field paths may be muddy and slippery, so strong footwear and walking poles are recommended. 2019-10-09 Four Woods Tony & 10 This walk, originally scheduled to take place in September has been moved to the above date. Ten walkers (and one dog) gathered at The White Horse in Burnham green on a bright morning, and Two Greens Rosemary We meet at 10:00 at The White Horse in the historic hamlet of Burnham Green (post code AL6 placed our orders for lunch and set off across the village green. ausing briefly at the Ordnance Rudkin 0HA) to order lunch, etc. before setting off at 10:30 for a leisurely 3½ to 4 mile walk taking in the Survey triangulation pillar we reflected on the claim that, travelling due East, there is no higher four woods (Barnes Wood, Harmer Green Wood, Foxley Grove and Lockleys Wood), making our point until one reaches the Ural Mountains. way back to Burnham Green via Harmer Green for lunch at 12:30. From Burnham Green we walked to Harmer Green and crossing the East Coast railway line began a There are no stiles to negotiate and most of the route is on well used footpaths. We do have a fairly steep descent beside Lockleys Wood and then over open farmland to reach the lowest point short distance to walk on country roads between footpaths. in our walk. Our path then took us past Foxley Grove and into Harmer Green Wood where a Burnham Green has two claims to fame – looking east the next highest land is the Ural mountains thoughtfully placed bench provided a photo opportunity before we crossed the railway line again. and a ghost of a headless white horse is said to haunt the lane at the side of the pub. We reached our fourth wood (Barnes Wood) and then joined the long path up the slope to The pub has plenty of parking space and its food gets good reviews. You can even sample the Burnham Green and back to the White Horse for an excellent (and filling) lunch. ‘Headless Horse’ beer.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2019-08-21 Moor Mill Irene Cowan 8 Although there was no information about the August walk in the July HELC Newsletter Irene Irene Cowan led our party of 8 (9 including her walk marshal dog Teddy) on a fine morning for this Cowan has agreed to lead a walk on Wednesday 21 August starting at Moor Mill, Smug Oak Lane, delightful circular walk along the Ver and Colne valleys starting from Moor Mill off the intriguingly Bricket Wood, Radlett, , AL2 3PN (map) (OS GR TL 151 024). We meet in time to set off at named Smug Oak Lane, Bricket Wood. 10:30am. There has been a watermill on the site since 1086 and it was recorded in the Doomsday Book. The walk is from Moor Mill, which is now a Beefeater with an attached Premier Inn hotel. The post The rent for the mill was in eels payable to St. Albans Abbey. The mill was rebuilt in 1762 and code may take you into Bricket Wood, so look for the sign on Smug Oak Lane which will lead you converted to a Beefeater pub in 1992, retaining parts of the rotating mill mechanism. Today the down Moor Mill Lane to the mill. Parking is beyond the Premier Inn. area is heavily built up, with Colney Street to the East, Bricket wood to the West and the M25 The route is along the which meets the Colne & then goes across fields of barley back to immediately north of the pub, so it was a lovely surprise to find ourselves in leafy countryside the mill. It is just under 4 miles easy walking with just one stile to cross. once It is probably easier to order lunch when we return to the pub at the end of the walk, as they are we crossed the lane and walked along the valley of the Ver-Colne river. We continued to the used to bringing up orders fairly quickly (the morning staff are not there at lunch time so pre- confluence of the Ver and Colne, where we posed on the stepping stones, then walked alongside ordering causes confusion!). The place will be open so we can use the toilets before setting off. the Colne, passing livery stables, before returning through barley fields. Teddy supervised our progress, sometimes up with the leaders and at other times checking on the back markers. On the way back we passed the Drop Lane pumping station, unusual in that it was built in a barn-like style at the request of Lady Yule so as to fit in with the rural landscape. We then relaxed over an inexpensive but tasty lunch at the Mill.

2019-07-25 Ian Williamson There are nature reserves, ancient monuments, wonderful views and historic landscapes to enjoy On Wednesday 24 July I tried my proposed July walk, as described in the HELC July Newsletter, and on this pleasant and easy 4.2 miles/6.8km walk around Totternhoe. We meet at 10:00am (for a decided that was both too hilly and strenuous in the heat forecast for Thursday 25 July, and too 10:30am start) at Cross Keys Public house on Castle Hill Road, Totternhoe, LU6 2DA (map exposed to the glaring sun (there was nowhere near enough shade). Consequently, I moved the https://goo.gl/maps/daikmhEZxNFGV3yH6), OS GR (SP 979 218). We have permission to leave our walk to one that was less strenuous and more in the shade that went from the Old Hunters Lodge, cars in the pub car park. Whipsnade, to Chilterns Gateway Centre. An easy 4 miles with no stiles, and lots of shade. After making our lunch choices we set off via Totternhoe Knolls and Castle Hill. This nature reserve On Thursday 25 July, the hottest day of the year, eight of us met at the Old Hunters Lodge, The of Special Scientific Interest is split into three distinct habitats; the Beechwood, a plantation dating Cross Roads, Whipsnade, and placed our lunch order. We set off along a short section of road to from about 1870, Castle Mound, and Little Hills, sited within an important medieval quarrying the Whipsnade Tree Cathedral, which was lovely and cool and shaded. We left by the North area, Tower, and followed the Sallowsprings private road, much of which was in the shade, until it now home to a range of wild flowers including seven species of orchid. Part of the walk follows turned into a track in some woods. Shortly before we came out of the woods we passed a the microwave relay tower that was being dismantled. One man was working by himself cutting up all Sewell , a path created from a former railway embankment and cutting: the railway the waveguide sections, they looked like Waveguide 16 or possibly WG15. We walked east across once the Dunstable linked Leighton Buzzard and Dunstable. We pass Maiden Bower, a truly historic site, although only Downs to the Chilterns Gateway Centre where we had a relaxing coffee break. apparent as a circular hedge which marks the boundary of an Iron Age fort, and return to the After the coffee break we walked back along the edge of the Downs, occasionally in the shade of Cross Keys for lunch at 12:30pm. Please join us for lunch if you are unable to come on the walk. some trees, and had a magnificent view across the Aylesbury Valley. As we approach the Zoo we turned left and walked down a submerged path, which was nice and shady. As that path approached the road we took a track to our left, back through the Tree Cathedral, and then along the road to the Old Hunters Lodge for lunch. The staff had taken care to put us in a cool part of the restaurant, with jugs of cold water on the table. The food was delicious: not surprisingly most of us had opted for a salad.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2019-06-12 Jane Kerr Meet at The Queen’s Head, Church End, Sandridge, AL4 9DL (OS Landranger 166 or Explorer 182, We met at the Queens Head, Church End, Sandridge. Thirteen of us, unlucky for some, but good GR.170-105) at 9.45 so we can pre-order lunch and make use of the facilities. We will set off no fortune prevailed as we seem to have picked a dry morning with before and after heavy rain. Led later than 10.15. by Jane Kerr we set out past the Church on the Hertfordshire Way. Once out of the village we As parking is limited, those unable to stay for lunch please park at the Spencer Meadow CP (free) turned northwards into the Heartwood Forest following a wide footpath surrounded by a by the village hall in the High Street (GR.169-103). If using the CP at Heartwood Forest (GR.168- colourful array of wild flowers. Jane told us of the Community Orchard we were passing through 107), walk down the track, through Pound Farm and across the High Street to the Queen’s Head where a variety of some 600 fruit trees had been planted by local children. We walked on through opposite. the recently established Arboretum containing 60 varieties of native trees. Our path brought us The walk of 4.25 miles, has no stiles and goes through the recently planted local community out at the crossroads of Nomansland Common. Seats adjoining the cricket ground provided a orchard, also the new arboretum (both part of Heartwood Forest, belonging to the Woodland pleasant drink stop. Trust). We then head towards Nomansland and the southern edge of , before From here part of the group took a short route directly back to Sandridge whilst the more returning to Sandridge and our lunch. energetic amongst us extended the walk by heading off in the direction of Wheathampstead. The latter group were soon to loop round across fields, through woodlands and back onto Nomansland Common. From here they joined the route of the first group back to the pub just as the rain started. A tasty lunch concluded a very enjoyable morning. 2019-05-09 Heath Sue & Ian Reeve 18 Notification by email. A good turnout of eighteen met at The College Arms in . Led by Sue & Ian Reeve we & We meet at The College Arms, 40 Road, Hertford Heath, Hertford SG13 7PW, at 10.00 am briefly headed northwards but were soon to turn in an easterly direction along footpaths across for a 10:30 am start. This is a gentle 3.5 mile walk across fields with extensive views. We enter the farmland affording extensive views over open countryside. Passing Stock Woods our circular walk Balls Wood Nature Reserve - look out for butterflies and birds - and finishes with a brief glimpse of turned south along a narrow country lane. Then cutting across fields we headed into Balls Wood the lovely heath land and Ermine Street (old Roman road). Although generally flat, the walk has nature reserve. one stile and could be a bit muddy if wet. Formerly belonging to the Forestry Commission, Balls Wood is the now a nature reserve managed Please join us for lunch at The College Arms at 12:15 pm if you are unable to join the walk. by the Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust. The Trust has created wide sunlight trails (rides) through the varied woodland and maintains a scattering of ponds, some believed to have been formed by bomb craters. Emerging from the woodland we had a brief glimpse of the lovely heathland and onto Ermine Street, a former Roman road. A little further on an elephant was spotted placidly grazing in a field! (Should have gone to Specsavers). Returning to the College Arms we enjoyed a good lunch accompanied by some pleasant banter. 2019-04-11 Cholesbury Jack Blackett 11 Jack Blackett is leading this walk of 3.8 miles. He promises an easy and interesting walk, part of A team of eleven met at the 17th century Full Moon pub in Cholesbury, an ancient hill top village which includes an iron age hill fort. "The fort is like a circular Graemes Ditch, with a deep trench with character cottages and a large com mon located on the Bucks / Herts border. According to and high walls. After 3,500 years it is amazing that it is still more than a dip in the soil." Wikipedia the village name is Anglo Saxon in origin, and means 'Cealwald's burh’ (or plateau We will meet at The Full Moon pub at Cholesbury at 10.00 for a 10.30 start. Lunch is booked for camp). This name refers to the Iron Age hillfort known as Cholesbury Camp close to the centre of 1.00pm. The pub is situated on Cholesbury Lane, (next to a windmill) Postal Code: HP5 2UH, Tel. the village. The fort is believed to have been constructed between 300 and 100BC, possibly on the 01494 758959. Incidentally the pub is dog-friendly if you want to bring your dog! site of an earlier bronze age settlement. Led by our own "local historian" Jack Blackett we set off across the common passing the stone monument erected in 1897 in recognition of 's Diamond Jubilee with a plaque added in 1999 to mark the end of the millennium. We then encountered three very large puddingstones two of which originally marked the entrance to the hillfort. Passing the Village Hall we took a path into the Cholesbury Camp, an Iron Age hillfort. The Fort covers an area of 10 acres surrounded by of a large, almost circular, ditch still very much in evidence, its ramparts now crowned by beech trees. As Jack explained it is amazing that the Fort's distinctive features are so prominent after some 3,500 years! Our path took us onward through woodland and then out into lovely countryside enhanced by bright Spring sunshine. The circular walk eventually brought us up a steep incline back onto the common. It was from here that we had the best view of the nearby windmill tucked away behind the pub. The windmill dates back to 1863 when it was used for flour milling. It was rescued from dereliction in 1968, restored as a dwelling and given a new set of dummy sails. It was only a few steps on to the pub, a warm fire, a vote of thanks to Jack and a convivial lunch.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2019-03-28 and Ian Williamson 10 We meet at the Chequers public house, Wareside, Ware, SG12 7QY, (OS GR TL 394156) at 10:00am Ten walkers met at the Chequers public house, Wareside, Ware, SG12 7QY; we placed our lunch the River Ash for a 10:30am start. This is an easy 3 1/2 mile walk that starts on high ground with some great order and then set of shortly before 10:30am. The weather was good. views. It then follows the valley where the meandering river Ash flows, a river that accompanies We walked up hill along the edge of a dry gully. At the top we walked along the road beside the more than half of the walk. Hopefully it will be a warmer day than when this picture was taken! Wareside Primary School for a short distance, and then left the road and walked into woodland. Please join us for lunch at the Chequers at 12:30pm if you are unable to join the walk. We were on high ground with some great views. For about half a mile we were walking steadily downhill. Then there was short steeper stretch down into a valley and then up again past Newhole Farm where the foot path turned into a metalled track. This track was fairly straight for about half a mile and dropped slowly to the B1004. After crossing the B1004 we walked down past Watersplace Farm to a ford over the River Ash for a photo opportunity. We then walked back towards the farm and along a straight track that Don Olsen advised us was a disused railway track. After about half a mile we left the disused railway track and climbed uphill, the steepest climb on the walk. At the top of the climb Ian Williamson rewarded us for our efforts with coffee and biscuits. After a pleasant break we went back downhill, crossed the River Ash and soon found ourselves on a farm track running alongside the disused railway track, which was in a cutting. At the bridge over the cutting we turned back towards the river and crossed it near a weir and Mardocks Mill. The walk then followed the meandering River Ash along the valley. After crossing the River Ash for the last time, where some of us played "Pooh Sticks", we headed back to Chequers for a tasty lunch.

2019-03-01 Vernon Clough 15 Notification by email. Some fifteen of us gathered at The Holly Bush, Church End Lane for a 2½ mile stroll around Meet at The Holly Bush, 33 Curch End, Redbourn, AL3 7DX Redbourn. Led by Vernon Clough we headed out towards St Mary's Church passing the Old This will be a gentle 2 ½ mile stroll around Redbourn. Mainly on dry paths with the occasional Workhouse, rebuilt in 1790. We paused briefly to look in the Church. The Norman nave and arcade short muddy patch. No stiles. One short flight of steps. We will meet at The Holly Bush at 10.00, date from the 12th century. The stained glass windows are attractive features but the most pre-order lunch, and set off about 10.30. notable feature is the Rood Screen. The original screen dates back to the 15th century and the The walk will head out through the St Mary's Church yard and then cross onto the . We present screen from 1987. follow the Nickey line eastwards for a mile or so before turning off towards the village, crossing Leaving the Churchyard we were soon to cross onto the Nickey Line. We followed the track of the the Ver and entering into Redbourn High Street. old railway eastwards for a mile or so before turning off towards the village, crossing the Ver and We may have the option of a short coffee stop at The Hub, in the High Street. entering into Redbourn High Street. We stopped for a short coffee break at the Enchanted Tea From the High Street we take the footpath around the north side of the common and eventually Rooms, a former High Street pub. From here we made our way onto Redbourn Common and took back onto Church End Lane. the footpath around the north side of the common. Arriving back at The Holly Bush a warm welcome and an excellent lunch awaited us.

2019-01-31 St Albans This will be a guided walk and museum tour, led by a St Albans Tour Guide, of approximately one There is a very detailed two page report in the March 2019 HELC Newsletter. Museum + Art and a half hours duration. The walk and tour will cover both the outside and inside of the That is too much to copy here. Gallery Museum + Gallery. The Museum + Gallery opened in June last year. Set over three floors the gallery spaces showcase over 2000 years of heritage together with some contemporary artworks. The tour will include the fascinating histories of the Town Hall, its Assembly Rooms, Courtrooms and Cells. The cost, including the guide and guide gratuity, is £7.00 (excluding lunch!). We will meet our guide(s) outside at the front of the museum at 10.30 prompt. There is a cafe on the ground floor and the toilets are down the stairs just inside and left of the main entrance. Please make your own way to St Albans. The recommended parking is at the Drovers Way Multi Storey Car Park, Drovers Way, AL3 5EB After the tour we plan to go for lunch at the Waterend Barn in St Peter's Street, AL1 3LE. Please let me know if you would like to stay for lunch.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2018-11-21 Alan Falconer 10 Alan Falconer will lead a walk of about 4 miles starting and finishing at The Lytton Arms, Old A beautiful bright Autumn day greeted the ten walkers who met at the Lytton Arms in Old House Park Knebworth, SG3 6QB. Parking is available. Meet at 10.00 o'clock (for 10.30 start) and place your Knebworth. orders for lunch service at 12.30 pm. Led by Alan Falconer we left the Lytton Arms in the direction of Codicote, shortly to turn The walk will take us through rolling countryside, quiet roads and part of Park. northwards into open parkland. It was not long before we encountered the Lytton family The inclines are not too challenging and the ground conditions underfoot are expected to be fair monument perched on a small mound in a somewhat isolated location. to good. Continuing on through gently rolling countryside we passed through Graffridge Wood onto a narrow lane. Here a local resident had festively decorated their fruit trees. Passing by Burleigh Farm we were greeted by a miniature pony and two donkeys. Further on our route we came close to Knebworth House, the much modified home of the Lytton family since 1490. From here we could see in the distance the vast complex of concrete buildings which make up the Glaxo SmithKline pharmaceutical factory. A blot on the landscape indeed, but no doubt a valued presence in . From here we made our way through the grounds of St Mary's church. We were soon out onto the road leading back through the village to the Lytton Arms where a fireside lunch rounded off a very pleasant morning.

2018-10-25 Heartwood Margaret and 10 Notification by email. We met at the Queens Head, opposite the Church, in Sandridge on a chilly, but bright sunny day. Forest Allan Allan & Margaret Goodfellow will lead an easy walk of about 3.7 miles in Heartwood Forest. The Led by Margaret and Allan Goodfellow we set off through the village and out into open Goodfellow walk has some gentle inclines which will be rewarded with fine views of the surrounding countryside. countryside. We were soon to reach the edge of the Heartwood Forest and took the path called Magical Meet us at 10.00 in the public car park in Sandridge village for a 10.30 start. The car park is on your Meander. We gently climbed to one of the forest high points, from where we had a fantastic view left if you are coming into the village from St Albans on the B651 and on your right if coming from eastward out over Sandridge and beyond to the transmitting towers at Brookmans Park. Wheathampstead. Parking is free and toilets are available. Note: Ignore signs directing you to the Heartwood Forest’s 347-hectare (858-acre) site was created in recent years from what was once Heartwood Forest car park. mainly agricultural land. It’s said to be the largest continuous new native forest in . Over On returning to the car park we shall drive to the King William IV pub, 185 Sandridge Road, St 600,000 new trees have been planted. The new woodland is interspersed with pockets of ancient Albans, for lunch. This should take only about 5-10 minutes. The King William has a good choice of bluebell woodland, old hedgerows, wildflower meadows and open grassland. The forest is owned dishes at reasonable prices. and managed by the Woodland Trust and trees that were planted only a few years ago now stand a few metres tall. We headed onwards in a north easterly direction, always with a part of the forest alongside our path. Turning past Round Wood we skirted the northwest side of the forest with pleasant views in the direction of Childwickbury and . A gentle relaxing walk that soon saw us heading back towards Sandridge, eventually leaving the forest via the Hertfordshire Way. Our walking group of ten became eleven for a pleasant, convivial lunch at the Queens Head.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2018-09-27 The Cock Inn Ian Williamson 6 Ian is leading a delightful walk through the Chess Valley. It is a 3.5 mile circular pub walk from The A very select group of six walkers enjoyed a walk led by Ian Williamson in fine weather. After and Chess Cock Inn, , but is different from the walk led by Irene in August. Meet at The Cock Inn on placing our lunch order at the Cock Inn we set off past a row of gothic brick cottages and turned Valley Church Lane, Church End, Sarratt, WD3 6HH (OS GR TQ 041 987) at 10:00 to order food and then into the grounds of The Church of the Holy Cross. set off at 10:30. After a brief visit to the delightful C12 Church we continued through a kissing gate and along the Enjoy the rolling hills, riverside paths, open meadows and woodland tracks. A pleasure at any time edge of a large field, though another kissing gate and then downhill into the Chess Valley. At the of year. The route follows a mixture of field, woodland and riverside paths some of which can be bottom we turned right along a concrete track which became a metalled road. After passing the quite soft underfoot after wet weather. There are a few gentle slopes within the route along with watercress beds - the only commercial watercress farm left in the Chilterns - where we could see a several kissing gates and two stiles. couple of Alpacas, we crossed the over a footbridge, which provided a photo We return to The Cock Inn for lunch at around 12:30, please join us for lunch, even if you can't join opportunity. After a short gentle uphill climb we turned left into Mount Wood. us for the walk. The path through Mount Wood ran parallel to the River Chess, effectively retracing our steps on the other side of the valley, although we could not see the river from the wood. After coming out of the wood and crossing an open field, we eventually crossed North Hill. A new Right of Way took us past the North Hill Water Works and gently downhill to the edge of the River Chess. The water was sparkling and amazingly clear. After about ¼ mile we turned left and crossed the river over a wooden footbridge, climbed briefly along a wooded path and turned left onto a track. Then we started quite a long climb back up to Sarratt, passing an impressive large white house, and made our way back to the Cock Inn. At the Cock Inn we enjoyed a delicious lunch in the Old Barn Restaurant. It was fortunate that we returned to the pub fairly early because there was another party of 18 ladies, and we were served before them.

2018-08-21 Sarratt Irene Cowan 10 Notification by email. Starting and finishing at The Boot public house in Sarratt, this was a gentle walk of about 4 miles We meet at The Boot, The Green, Sarratt, WD3 6BL at 10.00, pre-order food and head off about through peaceful and picturesque countryside led by Irene Cowan. Eight HELC members took part 10.30. The walk to be led by Irene Cowan is about 4 miles on undulating terrain with a potential plus three special guests, namely, Irene's two grand-daughters and their labradoodle Patrick. mix of sun and shade. There are lovely views, many kissing gates but no stiles. Patrick was raring to sniff out a new walk so we set off. Our route took us across recently harvested corn fields with unspoilt views in all directions. Further on, we said hello to a small herd of alpacas. We also paused to look around the secluded Church of the Holy Cross, dating back to Saxon times. Although very near the M25 and surrounded by the busy urban areas of , Aylesbury and , Sarratt and the surrounding countryside seemed to me like a tranquil backwater, with few vehicles and no plane noise (that day at least) to disturb the peace.

2018-07-17 Preston and Ian Williamson 6 A short circular walk from Preston village via Dead Woman's Lane and . It is an easy 3 Meeting once again at The Red Lion, Preston, a select group of just six walkers set off in fine Dead Woman's mile route using scenic green lanes and good footpaths, there are no styles. Meet at The Red Lion, weather for what was to be a very enjoyable walk. Heading out of the village along Church Lane Lane The Green, Preston, , SG4 7UD, (OS GR TL180247) (map we past the converted chapel and the church, turned right in to Butchers Lane, then after about https://goo.gl/maps/d5eoZoY1GwE2) at 10:00 to order our lunch and then set off at 10:30. The 100m took a footpath through the hedge on the left, across a field and then turned right onto Red Lion claims to be Britain’s first Community-Owned pub and all the dishes are homemade by Jo Dead Woman's lane. Local legend has it that it was named after the plague victims that were and the team using the freshest ingredients. buried nearby. The lane climbs gently. After half a mile, we crossed over a minor road and continued in the same direction on Tatmorehills Lane. Where the track goes into the wood we stopped for a rest and then turned sharp right and continued down-hill to Wain Wood. I made good use of an app on my smartphone called ViewRanger which gave interesting information about points on the walk; for instance that John Bunyan had preached to 1000 people in Wain Wood. From Wain Wood we continued towards Preston and entered along Chequers Lane. Back at The Red Lion, which claims to be Britain’s first Community-Owned pub we enjoyed a delicious lunch where all the dishes were homemade by Jo and the team using the freshest ingredients.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2018-06-27 Preston & St Jane Kerr A 5½ mile walk from Preston, going south via and St Paul’s Walden, to be led by Jane We met at the Red Lion in Preston on beautifully bright sunny day. Led by Jane Kerr we headed Paul's Walden Kerr. south past Prestonhill Farm in lovely open countryside. Then passing through some welcome Meet 9.45 at The Red Lion (a community-owned pub), The Green, Preston, SG4 7UD (OS shaded woodland we were soon to reach Stagenhoe, the 18th century manor house now a Sue Landranger 166/Explorer 193, GR.180-247) so we can order food and use the facilities before Ryder adult specialist neurological care centre. setting off at 10.15. The menu at the Red Lion is of high quality with first-class ingredients sourced Heading south west we arrived at St Paul’s Warden All Saints Church. We had time to look round from many local suppliers. the fascinating 14/15th century church where Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, the Queen Mother, was baptised. We also made a tour of the church yard which contains a memorial column erected c.1930 to commemorate the village's association with the Bowes-Lyon family. From St Paul’s Warden we headed north across more open farmland to Hill End farm. Taking the path through Hitch Wood and past Marsden Farm, we were soon back at Preston where we were joined at the Red Lion by additional HELC members for an excellent lunch.

2018-05-31 Wheathampste Ian Reeve Meet 10.00 at the Sun Inn, 31 Lemsford Village, LEMSFORD, WGC, AL8 7TN to pre-order food and A beautiful day greeted the select group of walkers that met at the Sun Inn, Lemsford. Led by Ian ad and back via for 10.30 start, with coffee at 12:00 and lunch at 2 pm. Reeve we set out across the by the old water mill onto ’s pristine Melbourne Brocket Hall This circular route, starts and finishes at the Sun Inn. It is a slightly longer walk than usual, (6.6 golf course. miles, 16,500 steps), so we’ve included a coffee break and later lunch. Crossing the lake via the Palladian bridge we headed up towards the Crooked Chimney pub. The walk starts in the pretty village of Lemsford, with its stream and Mill, then we cross Brocket Taking the adjoining lane we were soon to have a splendid view of the former Ride leading to Hall’s golf course to the spectacular Palladian bridge over the lake, then on to country lanes with a Brocket Hall. snap shot view of the former Ride leading to Brocket Hall. We continue through fields, and a small Continuing through farmland we came to the track leading up to the remains of John Bunyan’s wood with possible sittings of deer, red kite and woodpeckers, to arrive at Wheathampstead with cottage and the John Bunyan pub. Skirting the pub we took the track through Beech Hyde farm its ancient Mill Walk and modern-day coffee shops! into Devil’s Dyke. Following the route of the ancient earthworks we made our way down to a path Suitably refreshed, we stroll along the River Lea back to Brocket Hall, (one very short steep section parallel to the river Lea. The path lead into Wheathampstead where we took the Mill Walk before here, with a helpful hand rail) via Diana the Huntress, returning to the Sun Inn for a well-deserved arriving at Charlie’s coffee shop to join fellow HELC walkers. lunch. Suitably refreshed and with additional walkers we made our way alongside the river Lea back towards Brocket Hall. Entering the estate onto the Palmerstone golf course, at the rear of Brocket Hall, we made our way back to the Sun Inn. Further HELC members joined us for an excellent and convivial lunch.

2018-03-21 Wheathampste Vernon Clough 17 No record of the notification. A warm sunny morning brought out 17 of us for this gentle circular walk of approximately 4 miles ad led by Vernon Clough. Starting from the Elephant & Castle Pub in Amwell Lane, our route took us beside the golf course and along the into Wheathampstead. Here we stopped to admire the curvaceous "Crinkle Crankle" wall, which was originally the garden wall of the long demolished Old Rectory. According to the Wheathampstead Heritage Trail leaflet this is the only publicly accessible Crinkle Crankle wall in Hertfordshire. Further on we paused to look at the mysterious "sword" embedded in a yew tree in the churchyard. According to a story told to Dev Sirker’s granddaughter who attends the local school, it was left there by a soldier at the end of War of the Roses. It's is a good story though hardly believable considering that the War of the Roses took place over 500 years ago and the tree is obviously not that old! Leaving Wheathampstead we took the path alongside the river Lea then turned South through Devil’s Dyke. According to Wikipedia, Devil's Dyke is the remains of a prehistoric defensive ditch which is generally agreed to have been part of the defences of an Iron Age settlement belonging to the tribe of Ancient Britain. It also has possible associations with Julius Caesar's second invasion of Britain (54 BC). Heading back towards our starting point we skirted around Nomansland Common and back to the Elephant and Castle for lunch.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2018-02-22 John & Wendy Notification by email. The February walk was led by John & Wendy Mose. The walk was a gentle 4 miles long in the area Mose Meet at The Cowper Arms, Letty Green at 10.00 for a 10.15 start. Post code is SG14 2NL. of the Mimram and Lea rivers, starting and finishing at The Cowper Arms, Letty Green, where we The walk is of about 4.5 miles in the area of the Mimram and Lea rivers and will be led by John & enjoyed our lunch in the warm and pleasant dining area. Wendy Mose. There are no stiles to cross but it can get rather muddy in places, especially after It was a chilly day, though fortunately dry. The route passed through Grotto Wood, resplendent rain. The route takes us by Roxford Manor and through Grotto Wood. with a carpet of snowdrops. In the 18th century the site was a formal baroque garden belonging to nearby Roxford Manor. It gets its name from the grotto which used to be the centrepiece of the garden. Today, Grotto Wood is a scheduled Historic Monument, marked by a plaque at the entrance informing strollers of its history and ecology. A wooden caravan is a relic from the late 19th century when the wood was used for breeding pheasants. 2018-01-24 St Albans Vernon Clough 19 This will be a guided walk, led by a St Albans Tour Guide, of approximately one and a half hours This was a walk with a difference. That is not to say that it did not involve walking - the Roman City Guided Walk: A duration. Meet at pub in St Michaels Village, AL3 4SH, at 09.45 am of did in fact cover an extensive area, and quite a lot of it was covered! Roman City The Walk is described as A Roman City Revealed:-Discover the lurid past of ’s third The full report of this walk is too large to repeat here, it can be found in the March 2018 HELC Revealed city, revolting Celts and a fire to rival the Great Fire of London. See the hypocaust, the Roman Newsletter, on page 11. central heating system and part of the Roman Wall. Visit the unique Roman Theatre. The cost including the guide, the entrance charge to the Roman Theatre and guide's gratuity is £8.00 (excluding lunch!). We will meet at the pub at 09.45 am to pre-order lunch and then head off at 10.15 am to Verulamium Museum entrance where the walk will commence promptly at 10.30 am. Parking at the pub is restricted so car sharing is recommended. Anybody not staying for lunch may be best advised to go to the carpark adjacent to the Verulamium Museum, AL3 4SW. For comfort and safety the group will be restricted to a maximum of 20 people. Places will be allocated on a first-come first-saved basis. The walk will proceed in most weather conditions unless the Tour Guide decides it is too hazardous to proceed. Please wrap up warm and wear stout shoes.

2017-11-21 Coleman Green Tony Rudkin 15 We meet at the John Bunyan Pub at Coleman Green, St Albans, AL4 8ES (satnav coordinates Fifteen joined this gentle walk of about 4 miles starting and finishing at the John Bunyan Pub, N51.799718, W0.276229) at 10.00 am, pre-order lunch and set off at 10.30. The pub has plenty of Coleman Green. Although rather cloudy, the day was very mild with no wind or rain. parking and serves good food at modest prices As we left the pub the first point of interest was John Bunyan’s chimney, which is all that is left of This is a circular walk of about 4 miles and has no nasty gradients and just one low stile. We head a cottage which for a time was the home of John Bunyan. The preserved remains are rather oddly east, passing John Bunyan’s chimney, before turning south towards Symondshyde Great Wood braced by metal struts. Unsightly, but presumably needed to prevent it from complete collapse. and circling back to Coleman Green and the pub. The walk covers a mixture of fields and Our route then took us through peaceful verdant pastures and ancient woodland, completely woodland, taking us past some very desirable residences – one with its own airstrip! We will be untouched by the noise and ugliness of urbanisation. Or so the few local residents thought until walking mainly on tracks and footpaths with just a short stretch on a quiet country lane. the landowner Gascoyne Cecil Estates put forward plans to build 1130 homes in this sleepy The area we will be walking through is the subject of a proposal for development of a new village backwater (boo!!). The proposals have greatly disturbed country lovers and residents living of more than 1,000 houses, so this is a good chance to see why local people are objecting. nearby. For details see http://www.gascoynececil.com/symondshyde/ . For the opposition case see: http://www.save-symondshyde.co.uk/the-proposal/ The route took us past some very desirable residences – one even has its own airstrip with private plane ready to go. Another has a flock of Alpacas sedately grazing. Time for another photo! We returned to the John Bunyan pub to enjoy our pre-ordered lunches and a refreshing drink. Our thanks to Tony Rudkin for organising this walk.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2017-10-04 Redbourn & Vernon Clough We meet at the Cricketers Pub at East Common, Redbourn, AL3 7ND at 10.00 am, pre-order lunch We met at The Cricketers pub at East Common, Redbourn from where we headed eastwards Redbournbury and set off at 10.30. The pub has limited parking but there is a public car park near the Cricket across the Common. Crossing the High Street and then the river Ver we reached the “Nickey pavilion, almost opposite the pub. GR 103,119. Line”. Graham Lawrence told our group of the various theories of how the line had gained it’s This is a circular walk of about 4 miles. Moderately easy with one upward incline and no stiles. The unusual name. The Midlands’ “Lickey Line” being his favourite. walk heads east to the outskirts of Harpenden, south thro’ Hammonds End Farm to the Mill at From the Nickey Line we crossed the busy bypass and made our way uphill to the outskirts of Redbournbury and then follows the line of the river Ver back to Redbourn. The walk encompasses Harpenden. Passing through woodland and skirting around the golf course, we headed south thro’ a mix of rolling farmland, woodland and views of the Ver valley. It can be muddy in places. Hammonds End Farm with views down to the Ver. We recrossed the river adjacent to the Mill at If you are not able to do the walk you are welcome to join us for lunch at about 12.45. Redbournbury from where we followed the line of the river back to Redbourn. A convivial lunch at The Cricketers concluded an enjoyable morning.

2017-09-06 Don Olsen The walk of about 4 miles will be from The Bull Inn at Much Hadham on Wednesday 6th No writeup was forthcoming for this walk. September 10.15 for 10.30. The Bull is towards the northern end of the picturesque high street on the B1004. SG10 6BU - grid ref. 427 193. The walk will circle the village taking in the leafy Cox Lane to the west and the Ash Valley to the East. 2017-08-15 Pirton Irene and John Meet at 10.00am for a 10.30 start at the Motte & Bailey pub in Pirton village right by the Green Irene and John Cowan arranged a lovely walk for us from Pirton. The 4 mile walk embraced two Cowan (OS map 166 (GR 145315), post code: SG5 3QD) counties, being situated in the north-west corner of Hertfordshire crossing into . We This is a lovely village with old earthworks remnants of a medieval village, a lovely church, set off from the village in bright sunshine and were treated to beautiful views across the rolling remnants of a Norman castle, plus other buildings of interest and fabulous views. Chiltern countryside. The path crossed open farmland and lanes alongside hedgerows and The walk is around 4 miles - only 1 stile - it goes gently uphill but it's mostly on the level. woodland all of which were resplendent with a profusion of chalk-land wildflowers, including scabious, knapweed and marjoram. It was also impossible to resist the ripe blackberries and damsons in the hedgerows. In addition to the countryside attractions the walk passed a number of interesting historical features. The first was the long barrow and medieval field system, a nature reserve know for its rare autumn ladies tresses orchids. We then walked along part of the Icknield Way trail and returned via the site of the 12 century Motte and Bailey mound in the village, which we scaled before enjoying a well-earned lunch at the pub named after it.

2017-07-21 and Ian Williamson 12 Meet at The Waggoners pub, Brickwall Close, Ayot Green, , AL6 9AA (OS GR TL 221138) at A party of twelve members and guests met at The Waggoners pub in the picturesque River Lea 10:00am to choose lunch, and set off at 10:30am. Map https://goo.gl/maps/5ymQjRrDv1S2 Hertfordshire village of Ayot Green, Welwyn, on a fine but cloudy day. After choosing lunch we This easy circular walk (4.3m) starts in the picturesque Hertfordshire village of Ayot Green and set off at 10:30am through the village, pausing briefly for a group photograph before we were too includes a section following a former railway. The walk continues through typical Herfordshire tired or dishevelled. countryside to reach the banks of the River Lea. We walk east along the River Lea and past We left the village, passing the free car park on our right, then approx 50 yards down the road at Brocket Hall. The concluding section passes through a wooded area known as Cat’s Gallows. the T-junction we walked up the steps cut into the bank, and onto the Ayot Green Way. This is the If you are not able to walk please join us for lunch at The Waggoners at 1:00pm for lunch. disused railway track that was once the link from to . Turning left we head in a north westerly direction, along the path through light woodland and open ground for one and three quarter miles until we reached Robinson's Wood. We followed the track down the gentle slope for nearly a quarter of a mile until we reach the River Lea and the path marked as the Lee Valley Walk. We followed the line of the river until we entered the grounds of Brocket Hall, and walked across the golf course past Brocket Hall. At the end of a wooded area we turned sharp left following the yellow way markers across the golf course. The walk continued through undulating ground through a wooded area known as Cat's Gallows and on to the boundary of the estate, coming out of the estate opposite the Wagoners pub. There we had lunch, crammed onto one long table, where the food was disappointing for some people, as it did not live up to the promise of delectable French cuisine. Despite that everyone enjoyed the walk and the company.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2017-06-01 Jane Kerr 17 Meet 10.00 at the Rose & Crown PH, Upper Green Road, Tewin, AL6 0LE (to pre-order food) for Blazing June! We were blessed with a truly lovely day for the occasion of Jane Kerr’s walk around 10.30 start. [email protected] Tewin. The walkers were out in force, 17 in total. The walk is about 4.25 miles long via Burnham Green and , with views of the imposing Starting from the Rose & Crown we headed north towards Tewin Woods passing through open Viaduct. One or two inclines, but no stiles to climb over! fields and the occasional cottage. At Tewin Woods we turned southwards and then uphill into Dawley Wood. We glimpsed the as we climbed. The Viaduct, opened by Queen Victoria in 1850, is a splendid Grade II listed structure spanning some 475 metres and standing up to 30 metres high. From Dawley Wood we headed down through open farmland passing Margery Green and into Tewinbury Farm. Tewin Nature reserve, lying in the Mimram Valley, adjoins the farm. Heading back we visited the historic Tewin church where Jane pointed out the tomb of Lady Anne Grimstone. She is reported to have said that “if there is life hereafter trees will render asunder my tomb”. And indeed they have! From the church is was a short hop back to the pub for a very good lunch and a vote of thanks to Jane for leading a really lovely and interesting walk. 2017-05-17 Waterford Ian & Sue Reeve Meet 10.00 at car park, Vicarage Lane, Waterford, Hertford, SG14 3LU to pre- Waterford Heath is a former sand and gravel quarry near Hertford which has been transformed Heath, order food and for 10.30 start. After the walk, re-locate for lunch at The Cowper Arms, Cole into a wildlife reserve. We met at the Waterford Heath car park, ominous grey sky portending a Waterford Green Lane, Hertford SG14 2NL http://thecowperarmscolegreen.co.uk. rather wet day to come. Undeterred, we set off on a very varied walk taking in the best of the Marsh and This and Heath walk (4.35 miles) takes in the best of the heathland, the , heathland and a lovely stretch beside the river Beane and the nearby Waterford Marsh. Stapleford the nearby Waterford Marsh, Stapleford and its church, and “Breaking the Mould!”. There are one We paused at this picnic spot to take in an unspoilt view of green Hertfordshire countryside or two inclines, no stiles and the walk can be short-cut to 2 miles as required. The figure of eight walk took us into the grounds of St Mary’s church, Stapleford. Waterford Heath is a former sand and gravel quarry north of Hertford. Quarrying ceased on the Then it was back over the heath where we encountered a most unusual sculpture named site in the early 1990s and work was undertaken to restore it to create a 'community nature park'. “Breaking the Mould”. It represents a giant seed emerging from an old and broken industrial It contains a range of habitats including grassland, scrub, plantation woodland and a small area of mould and is one of 21 similar sculptures by Andrew McKeown on regeneration sites throughout ancient, semi-natural woodland. The reserve is important for its populations of grizzled skipper the country. butterflies, which feed on the abundant wild strawberry. Skylarks and willow warblers are known A few more paces on and we were back at the car park, discarding our wet clothing before to breed on the site and red kites are often seen. In the autumn and winter fieldfares and heading off for a most welcome and convivial lunch at The Cowper Arms, Cole Green. redwings are regular visitors. Thanks to Ian & Sue Reeve for organising this interesting walk and introducing us to this very pleasant corner of Hertfordshire.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2017-04-27 Jack Blackett Start: The Boat pub on the canal in Berkhamsted. at 10.15 This was a different kind of walk from your typical HELC walk - more of a journey through time. It Castle & From "The Boat" we will walk along the canal tow path past the “Crystal Palace” pub, under the was a pleasant sunny morning when 14 time travellers set off from The Boat Inn on a walk that Trenches railway bridge until we reach the 11th century castle grounds. An American was once heard to say would not merely stretch legs but also our minds. Our first destination was Berkhamsted Castle, a “Say, why did they build the castle so close to the railway?” It was here in 1066, at Berkhamsted typical "motte and bailey" Norman castle dating from the 11th Century, where Ken Wallis from the Castle, that the defeated English leaders signed documents accepting that William the Conqueror Berkhamsted Local History & Museums Society gave an informative talk on the castle's historical had, well, conquered them. We will also visit the "visiting rooms" and have an illuminated history importance. of the castle through the ages. Berkhamsted's major claim to fame is that it was the place where William the Conqueror accepted English Heritage do not believe in latrines but they recommend the nearby railway station! the surrender of the Anglo Saxon nobles. The story goes that after the battle of Hastings on 14th Full of knowledge we will continue our walk up the hill to find some remains of warfare of the 20th October 1066, William led his army through southern England, pillaging as they went. Crossing the century. Thames at Wallingford, they eventually reached Berkhamsted where they were met by Archbishop How do you dig a trench? With great difficulty in the flint clay of Hertfordshire. France/Belgium Ealdred, the Bishops of Worcester and Hereford, Earls Eadwin and Morcar, and the chief should have been a doddle. Our brave lads practiced here, on what is now the golf course, and we noblemen of London, who swore allegiance to William, and offered him the crown. William shall be guided to some of “engineered” trenches from those dark days of World War I. proceeded to London where he was crowned king on Christmas Day 1066. To me it sounds like a Now full of emotion we shall roll down the hill back to “The Boat" for lunch. sell-out. Were the Saxon noblemen rewarded with land and plum jobs - or just allowed to keep their heads? With our heads brimming with facts about ancient battles, we then set off for Berkhamsted common where Norman Groves, also of the Local History and Museums Society told us about Berkhamsted's importance as a centre for troop training during the First World War. During the course of the War 12,000 troops passed through the training camp before being sent off to the front line. A major part of their training was in trench warfare. In total they dug 7.5 miles of full scale, man-deep, trenches. At the end of the war most of them were filled in but some escaped the shovels and approximately 500 metres remain visible today. Having walked uphill to the site of the WW1 trenches it was a gentle stroll downhill back to The Boat for a very good lunch. Our thanks to Jack Blackett for leading this walk and for arranging the guides.

2017-03-22 Epping Green John Mose 12 Venue: The Beehive , Epping Green, SG13 8NB Phone 01707 875989 Twelve hardy souls met in light rain at The Beehive in Epping Green. Ably led by John Mose we An easy walk through varied countryside and woodland. Starting at The Beehive, Epping Green, headed eastwards into open countryside. We passed through Bucks Alley, in this attractive part of we will walk in an easterly direction, then anticlockwise via Bucks Alley, Little Berkhamstead, East Herts, and eventually on to a path adjoining Essendon Golf Club. From there we turned Breach Lane and on towards Essendon Golf course. From there we turn back towards Little towards Little Berkhamstead and passing Long Lane farm arrived back at the Beehive. Our sprits Berkhamstead, passing playing fields and communication towers until we arrive back at The had not been dampened by the light rain and were enhanced by a most convivial lunch. Beehive. There is one stile and the last section of the walk may be muddy if we have rain beforehand. Estimated distance is 6.31km (4.1 miles) 2016-11-25 St Albans - Vernon Clough 21 This will be a guided walk of medieval St Albans led by a St Albans Tour Guide. The walk will Twenty one hardy souls braved the November chill to participate in a guided historic walk of Guided Historic commence promptly at 10.30 from the Old Town Hall and focus mainly on medieval (not Roman) medieval St Albans. We split into two groups with a guide each. The guide motto was “look up to Walk St Albans. The walk will be of approximately 11/2 hours duration and proceed, within reason, see”. A fascinating and informative tour started and concluded at the old Town Hall. A short walk, regardless of the weather, returning to the Old Town Hall. Please make your own way to St Albans. packed with interest took in the original town hall, gargoyles of ill repute, the Clock Tower, The recommended parking is at the Drovers Way Car Park shown on the attached map. After the Romeland and Sumpter Yard, just to name a few points of interest. We concluded with a convivial tour we plan to go for lunch at the Waterend Barn in St Peter’s Street, AL1 3LE. Please let us know lunch at the Waterend Barn and shared positive feedback of the guided walks. if you would like to stay for lunch. The cost will be £6.00 per person (tour only). For comfort and safety the group will be restricted to a maximum of 15 people.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2016-10-27 Wiggington and Jack Blackett 16 This walk of around 4 miles will start from the Red Lion at , where Mass and Mel For those of us on the eastern side of Hertfordshire, it was quite a long journey to Wigginton – 43 the Grand will host us once again. We will be seated in the bar, as there is another larger group in the miles – although this was using the A10 / M25 / A41. However, the traffic was very kind, and all 16 Union Canal restaurant. The pub is at the end of the High Street, Grid Reference TL 386119. Take the A414 via of the walkers plus one dog had assembled at The Greyhound by 10.15. The weather was unusual the A10 to Great Amwell roundabout, and the B181 from there. We will arrive in time to set off at – oddly warm once the walk started, with some sun. It was easy to start – all flat or downhill, with 10.30 after ordering our food. The route is flat, and will go downstream on the River Lea to Rye an interesting photo stop on the bridge over the A41. We passed , before reaching House, returning along the – new ground for us. Jack Blackett will lead this walk of the and walking for some 2 miles up to its summit at . We admired about 4 miles, with one ascent. We shall start and finish at the Greyhound Pub at Wigginton (GR the extensive marina there, before crossing the B4251 and heading gently uphill to pass under the SP 938 100) and go clockwise. We will cross the A41 and head towards Tring station, passing A41. Then there was some earnest climbing, which was rewarded by emerging from a narrow Pendley Manor. Just before the station we meet the canal, and we will walk south-easterly on the path to find ourselves immediately opposite the pub! More members of the Club joined us for a towpath until we meet its summit at Cow Roast. From there we head west to return to the delicious lunch, and Jack Blackett was heartily thanked for organising both the weather and a Greyhound. The food is good in the Greyhound with lunch and light meals too. Parking is small fascinating walk. but a playground car-park, a short distance along the same side of the road, is a good overflow with a short-cut path to the rear of the pub. Wigginton is best approached from the side road at the Tring junction on the A41. 2016-09-08 Tring Lakes and Ian Williamson 12 Ian Williamson is leading this easy 3½ mile walk around the and along the Grand Twelve lucky walkers were blessed with fine weather for the September walk. We met at The Grand Union Union Canal and the Arm. We meet at The Grand Junction Arms, Bulbourne, Tring, Grand Junction Arms, Bulbourne, and set off along the Grand Union Canal towards . To Canal, HP23 5QE (OS SP 933 136) at 10 am in order to place our lunch order. We will set off at 10:30am our left was the Marsworth Reservoir, the smallest of the Tring Reservoirs. At the Bluebells Wendover along the Grand Union Canal towards Marsworth. At Bluebells Tearooms we may stop for a coffee. Tearooms we stopped for a coffee, and sat outside in the sun. After coffee we walked across the After walking round the Tring Reservoirs we will go up to the Wendover Arm of the Grand Union car park and up steps to the Startops End Reservoir. We walked along the edge of it, and then Canal at the Tring flour mill, and then walk back to The Grand Junction Arms for a delicious lunch: crossed the road to the Tringford Reservoir. After leaving the waterside we walked through the food is excellent there. You are welcome to join us for lunch at 1pm even if you don’t want to woods and then up to the Wendover Arm of the Grand Union Canal at the Tring flour mill. We walk. then walked back to The Grand Junction Arms, sat in the pub garden at the edge of the canal and enjoyed a delicious lunch. Thanks were expressed to Ian for a lovely walk and great lunch venue.

2016-08-24 Childwickbury Irene Cowan The walk will be led by Irene Cowan, and will start from car park by the playing fields on Toulmin We were blessed with a lovely bright, warm day. Starting our walk in Toulmin Drive, St Albans we Drive which is off Batchwood Drive – Grid Reference TL 142 095 – at 10.30. The walk goes through headed off through woodland adjacent to the Batchwood golf course. Emerging in open farmland the woods via Batchwood golf course and the fields up to Childwickbury. We proceed along the we took the footpath leading up to the single track road passing through the Childwickbury estate. drive to Harpenden Road then across Hawkswick farm back round to the playing fields. The We were now in open countryside with fine views towards the Ver valley and beyond into the distance is about 4 miles. We then drive to our lunch, which is at the King William IV, at the corner Gorhambury estate. Heading east the Childwick Mansion, presently home to the widow of Stanley of Beech Road, Sandridge Road and St Albans Road - by the traffic lights - there is lots of parking. Kubrick, came into view. Passing the Mansion we came to the delightful Childwick Green and St Mary’s Church. The Church grounds contained the Maple family vault. Following the main drive we came out onto the path alongside Harpenden Road. After a short spell we turned into Hawkswick farm. Passing through the farm, largely given over to soft fruit, albeit a few blackberries less than when we arrived, we came out into playing fields and back to Toulmin Drive. We gave a vote of thanks to Irene Cowan for leading a most delightful and interesting walk and to John for his lunch organisation. Thence to the King William IV for a very pleasant and convivial lunch

2016-07-28 Around Peter Greatrex 12 This walk of around 4 miles will start from the Red Lion at Stanstead Abbotts, where Mass and Mel As we approached the “Red Lion”, we were greeted by around 30 walkers! However, they were Stanstead will host us once again. We will be seated in the bar, as there is another larger group in the more serious than we were, and we tucked ourselves away at the back of the car park! Abbotts restaurant. The pub is at the end of the High Street, Grid Reference TL 386119. Take the A414 via Nevertheless, our host Mass gave us his usual attention and the “Glorious 12” made their meal the A10 to Great Amwell roundabout, and the B181 from there. We will arrive in time to set off at choices before setting off! We were pleased to welcome our Chairman. It was a really pleasant 10.30 after ordering our food. The route is flat, and will go downstream on the River Lea to Rye day for walking, and the River Lea with its multitude of narrow boats was at its best. We were House, returning along the New River – new ground for us. amused by the name of one boat – “Narrow Escape”! After about 30 minutes we reached Rye House, where we deviated to examine the remains of this property made famous by the Rye House plot to kill King Charles II in 1683. Retracing our steps and crossing the railway, we joined the New River Path, heading north. The smell of new mown grass was evident, and the “river”, supplying water to London, was flowing quite fast. The path took us across the river and through St Margarets Nature Woodland, from where we re-crossed the river to complete the walk on its western side. A stroll down Stanstead Abbotts High Street completed the morning, and we were back at the “Red Lion” for 12.30, ahead of the larger group. Everyone was content with this gentle walk on a warm day, and Peter Greatrex was given a vote of thanks.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2016-06-15 Don Olsen 8 We meet at ‘The Feathers’ (SG12 0TN) at Wadesmill where there is ample parking in the pub car Despite dire warnings of stormy showers, the “Magnificent 8” gathered on time at the Feathers Circle park and the food is very reasonably priced. Wadesmill is on the “old” Road, Inn at Wadesmill. Our leader, Don Olsen, took us north through fields high with crops and grasses approached either from the A414/A10, or via Bengeo from Hertford. We can pre order food along the way. Everyone soon shed one layer of clothing! Turning east, we reached High Cross via before we set off at 10.30 on a 4 mile, gentle country walk, via High Cross, returning down the Rib Marshall’s Lane. From here, we continued east along North Drive (this gives access to the valley. Estate). However, we diverted from this route, passing the airstrip at High Cross – unfortunately no planes were visible. We gradually worked our way south, to pass the ruin of Old Church, which was abandoned in the middle of the nineteenth century when Thundridge village moved over to the coach route to the north. After admiring a palatial residence on the outskirts of the village, it was a gentle downhill stroll back to the pub for a delicious lunch. Don received thanks from the group for an interesting and varied route. 2016-05-26 Canals and Allan & A scenic walk of 4 - 4.5 miles, taking in parts of the Wendover Arm of the Grand Union Canal and We met at the Anglers Retreat, Startops End, Marsworth, near Tring in lovely Spring sunshine. Led Tring Reservoirs Margaret the Tring Reservoirs. Once in an advanced state of decay, the Wendover Arm has been brought by Margaret and Allan Goodfellow we headed out alongside the Grand Union Canal, passing a Goodfellow back to life by dedicated volunteers. The route of our walk also includes some fine views of flight of six locks, until we reached the the Wendover Arm of the canal. We followed the unspoilt open countryside. There are one or two stiles and a footbridge, but otherwise it is fairly Wendover Arm through open countryside, passing Heygates Flour Mill which was built in 1875 easy. We meet at The Anglers Retreat, Startops End, Marsworth, Tring, HP23 4LJ (on the B489) at and later the restored Tring pumping station. At this point our walk diverged from the canal up a 10.00 to pre-order lunch and use the facilities before heading off at 10.30. There is a car park at hill which afforded us a fine view of unspoilt countryside. After this we arrived at a part of the the rear of the pub and also a pay & display car park on the opposite side of the road. Wendover Arm which is currently undergoing restoration. This is a long term project but the old canal had been cleared and is awaiting relining with puddle clay. A pleasant return route took us along the edge of the Tringford reservoir, between two further reservoirs and back near the Grand Union Canal near where we had started our walk. A vote of thanks to Margaret and Allan and a convivial al fresco lunch nicely rounded off our morning. 2016-04-13 John & Wendy John and Wendy Mose will lead this exploration of the Park, and it is particularly recommended for We were blessed with a beautiful day and a lovely walk to match. Starting at the Cowper Arms, Park Mose those who missed the walk in November. The earlier time will give us the option for coffee. We Letty Green we set off on the towards Hertford. After a short distance we turned will start at the Cowper Arms, Letty Green, SG14 2NL (OS 286112) and walk via a 'carpeted' off the old railway track, through a short section of woodland out into open countryside heading footpath and possible coffee stop to enter the park from a different direction. The walk is about 4 towards Staines Green. Passing a couple of houses we were guided through a private gateway miles and there is plenty of parking either at the pub or the car park for the Cole Green Way just shortly to be greeted by Wendy. Much to everybody’s surprise the coffee stop proved to be beside it. Wendy and John Mose’s sunny patio. What a delight! With a measure of reluctance we left Staines Green and continued our walk over the footbridge crossing the A414 and into Panshanger Park. We took a path and eventually a track leading down to the lake pictured. Close by, the clear waters of river Mimram meandered their way through the valley. Partially retracing our steps through Panshanger Park we made our way back towards Birch Green and then across open farmland back to Letty Green. A vote of thanks for an excellent walk and hospitality was given to John and Wendy. A pleasant and convivial lunch was enjoyed by all. 2016-03-24 Around Ayot St Vernon Clough Parking can be in the small car park beside the pub or on the adjoining road. We meet at The . A bright, dry day greeted our eighteen walkers that met at The Brocket Arms in Ayot St Lawrence Brocket Arms in Ayot St Lawrence, AL6 9BT, pre order our lunch and aim to depart by 10.15. This is Lawrence. We set off through the village, past the 12th century church ruin and Shaw’s Corner. a gently undulating walk, mainly on bridleways, of about 4.5 mikes (7km) with pleasant views over We then headed south east on a bridleway leading to a route through Stockings Spring Wood open countryside. No stiles, but muddy in places. We set off past the church ruin and Shaw’s Nature Reserve and eventually to the Codicote road. Crossing the road we continued southeast corner and then head in a south easterly direction towards the Codicote road. Crossing the road until we met the track of the old railway, the . After a short distance east along the we continue southeast until we meet the track of the old railway, the Ayot Greenway. We travel a Ayot Greenway we turned in a northerly direction passing through part of the Montfichet House short distance east along the Ayot Greenway before heading in a northerly direction skirting Ayot estate (formerly the 17th century Ayot Place). The gardens and grounds looked a real treat with an St Peter and passing through part of the Montfichet House estate. A short stretch along the road abundance of spring flowers. After leaving the estate by an elaborate gateway, a short stretch takes us to a bridleway heading northwest and back across the Codicote road. Continuing along the road took us to a bridleway heading northwest and back across the Codicote road. northwest we arrive back in Ayot St Lawrence from the opposite direction to which we left. Non- Continuing northwest we arrived back in Ayot St Lawrence from the opposite direction to which walkers are welcome to join us for lunch in The Brocket Arms. we had left. A warm fire and a well earned lunch at the Brocket Arms rounded off an enjoyable morning

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2016-01-28 Kings Cross and Vernon 20 Discover Kings Cross and St Pancras: Explore the newly renovated St Pancras and Kings Cross Our group of 20 assembled promptly at 11.00 in front of Paul Day’s “The Meeting Place” bronze St Pancras Clough/Blue stations and unlock the secrets to the surrounding area’s history on a guided tour. Once London’s work,and guide Diane Burstein explained its significance, especially the frieze surrounding it. We Badge Guide most notorious red light district this area has started to undergo a transformation. Two Victorian then moved outside to admire Gilbert Scott’s magnificent Hotel, before heading northwards down railway stations, the gothic splendour of the old Midland Grand Hotel, the industrial buildings, St Pancras’platforms, passing John Betjamin’s statue and the Champagne Bar. Diane then pointed regeneration projects, a German gymnasium, film locations, a canal-side walkway and literary out the work on the west side of the station – a new health laboratory. Crossing to the east, we connections all feature in this tour ending at a pub – “The Parcel Yard” - in an old station’s parcels studied the major development work on the site of the old gasworks and goods yards, now being office. You may see this at www.parcelyard.co.uk . The walk will be of approximately 2 hours transformed into flats, apartments, and business premises. We crossed Regent’s Canal by way of a duration and proceed, within reason, regardless of the weather. The cost will be £12.00 per new bridge, and explored the University of the Arts campus. A viewing platform was next, with its person (tour only) and the group is restricted to a maximum of 20 people. panoramic views north and south. It was possible here to become orientated, as the railways provided reference points. We then discovered one of the gasholders, re-erected to fit in with the developments and enclosing a grassy park. We returned by way of Regent’s Canal towpath, which was in fact a floating pontoon as the construction work came right to the edge of the canal. Having regained terra firma, we re-crossed the canal, before returning to King’s Cross by way of the newly-constructed King’s Boulevard. The morning was rounded off by a lunch in The Stationmaster’s Office, part of the Parcel Yard pub. This room overlooked the old Platform 1 at King’s Cross, and has been furnished with much railway memorabilia. This was a truely eye- opening visit and bith Diane and Vernon were heartily thanked for their hard work.

2015-11-26 Panshanger Peter Greatrex 10 Panshanger Park opened in 2014, as a result of Tarmac Lafarge reinstating land which had been We were missing some of our regulars for various reasons, but nevertheless the group of ten Park quarried. The result provides an excellent and varied circular walk of about 4 miles, with no stiles. assembled promptly. As The White Horse is a hotel, the reception area was ready for us, and we We will meet at The White Horse in , which is best approached via the A414 from pre-ordered our food before setting off 15 minutes early, in pleasant weather. We took the new Hatfield. Turn south at the first roundabout on the approach to Hertford, and the pub is about footpath from Hertingfordbury underneath the A414 (where we shared space with the River 400m on the right. Grid Reference is TL 306120. The lunch venue is booked, and we will pre-order Mimram), before entering the Park proper. Then we travelled westward along the delightful our food before the walk Mimram valley – the Mimram is one of 190 chalk streams in the world, most of which are in the Chilterns. We then crossed the river, and embarked on the Oak Trail, only opened in September 2015. This took us past the remains of a water wheel, used to pump water up to Panshanger House. Skirting Tarmac’s gravel workings on our left, we entered the ancient forest, with its plethora of veteran trees, before approaching the massive 500-yearold oak tree, reputedly planted by Queen . Maintaining height, the next sight was the Orangery, the shell of which is all that is left of Panshanger House; it’s hoped eventually to turn this into a Tea Room. Finally, we met the site of the House itself, with its fine views over the Mimram; tragically, the house was demolished in 1953 – 54 “on the orders of the executors of the last Countess”. We then dropped down to the valley, and completed the walk by traversing the north side of the river, and re- tracing our steps back to The White Horse, where our meal was served promptly to everyone’s enjoyment. The organiser was thanked by all, and the occasion made a good start to pre- Christmas activities. We hope that John and Wendy Mose will organise a slightly different walk in 2016 to cover some of the ground for those who missed out this time. 2015-09-30 Lye Green and Jack Blackett 11 The start will be from the Black Cat, Lye Green, near Chesham at 10.30, and we will return for We, eleven in all, met at the Black Cat, Lye Green, near Chesham in beautiful early Autumn lunch at 1 pm. The pub is open for breakfast from 9am! The walk is about 4.5 miles with a stop sunshine.After pre-ordering lunch we headed off across Lye Green in an easterly direction under halfway for a view of Bovingdon Brick Works, where there will be a guide to tell us how they make the guidance of Jack Blackett. We enjoyed a pleasant level walk along paths and tracks through a bricks in the last Brickworks in Hertfordshire. The pub address is Lycrome Road, Lye Green, mix of open farmland and wooded copses. We dodged in and out of Herts and Bucks as we made CHESHAM HP5 3LF, phone 01494 773966. The food is good and the walk is level and dodges in and our way to Bovingdon brickworks. There we enjoyed a fascinating description of the manufacture out of Herts and Bucks through fields of bricks from the local clay in what is the only remaining brickworks in Hertfordshire. An interesting circuitous route brought us back to the Black Cat at Lye Green and a hearty lunch. A vote of thanks was given to Jack for a lovely walked capped by an excellent brickworks visit.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2015-08-27 Wheathampste Vernon Clough 12 A very pleasant walk around the rural area of Wheathampstead and Gustard Wood starting from, Topsy-turvy weather patterns resulted in an uncertain start to Vernon Clough’s walk from the ad Area and returning to, The Cross Keys hostelry on Ballslough Hill Road (postal code AL4 8LA ), Gustard Cross Keys at Gustardwood. It wasn’t cold, but a short shower soon after the start was Wood. The route is 6.6km (4.1 miles) and the walk takes about two hours. The first few hundred unexpected! Luckily, this was the only rain that fell, and the rest of the walk was dry with some metres of the walk are on a country lane with a very low volume traffic. We pass through sun. Twelve participants ordered their meals, and we set off promptly at 10.30. The first part of pastureland, woodland and arable farmland, meet the River Lea on two occasions and have a very the walk was level, but then proceeded downhill southwards towards the River Lea alongside the short urban experience through Wheathampstead village (where there are Ladies and Gents Mid-Herts Golf Club. We crossed the river, noting its clarity and high volume, and then passed pigs Toilets available!). The terrain is generally flat with only one barrier to be negotiated (the remains and chickens, grateful for the windfall apples provided by their owner. Moving on into of an old stile, now about 40cm high). The Cross Keys has a private room for small groups lunching Wheathampstead, we admired Bury Farm Cottages – the only surviving parts of on the premises and a pleasant garden. They prefer to take the orders prior to the Wheathampsteadbury Manor. We travelled from west to east, re-crossing the Lea at a point commencement of the walk. Cross Keys have a good food menu ranging from sandwiches to where children were happily paddling. We then turned north, passing through pleasant woodland cooked meals and a good selection of ales. – though a trifle muddy after all the rain – and stopping frequently for blackberries as a snack. We reached the Cross Keys just after 1 o’clock, and enjoyed tasty lunches and puddings, giving a vote of thanks to Vernon for such a pleasant and varied walk. 2015-05-19 Around Jane Kerr 11 Jane Kerr will lead this walk of about 4.5 – 5 miles from Bramfield via Great Gobions Farm and There was much to talk about among the Walking Group as we assembled at Bramfield! The Bramfield Bramfield Woods. There are no stiles on this pleasantly undulating walk but it could possibly be successes and disappointments of the Cardiff Trip were fresh in our minds. But eleven of us set muddy if wet conditions prevail. We meet at the Grandison (www.grandisonbramfield .co.uk) in off from the Grandison pub, led by Jane Kerr, who had already covered this walk a little earlier. Bury Lane, Bramfield. OS Landranger 166, Explorer 182, GR 290-157, post code SG14 2QL. The We were soon in Bramfield Woods, where the bluebells were just about to finish. The greenery Grandison are happy for those of us staying for lunch to use their car park, otherwise there is a was magnificent, and eventually we moved into open country at Perrywood Farm. We then small car park opposite the pub. We meet at 9.50, to pre-order lunch and make use of the turned south-east to Great Gobions Farm, where Jane told us that her relatives had farmed 200 facilities before heading off at 10.15. years ago. Then it was south-westwards along the edge of Bramfield Wood, with magnificent views to the south and east over Hertfordshire. We returned to the Grandison just before one of the promised heavy showers set in, so we were lucky. A tasty lunch followed, with thanks to Jane for her research in planning the walk. 2015-04-22 Stapleford Don Olsen 12 Don Olsen will lead this walk of 4.72 miles from The Woodhall Arms ( Better Known as The Glorious sunshine greeted the group of 12 as we set out from Papillon after ordering our lunches. Papillon) at Stapleford (Grid Reference 310172 ) on Wednesday 22nd April at 10.30 am. A brisk uphill stint warmed us all, before interesting field paths led us almost to . We then Stapleford is on the A119 north of Hertford, before Watton-at-Stone. We shall proceed East via reversed to walk west to the charming village of Chapmore End, after which we had more by-ways Stapleford Church towards Tonwell and return via Chapmore End and then along the bank of the down to the River Beane. The final part of the walk was along the river affording beautiful views River Beane. where the nettles had not yet grown, with bluebell woods on the opposite side. Generous lunch portions made for a super time, for which everyone thanked Don Olsen for his organisation

2015-03-16 Trent Park Frank Taylor 12 Frank and Margaret Taylor will take us on this undulating walk of around 3.5 miles, at Trent Park in The weather may have been cold for this walk, but its content proved to be interesting, varied and the London Borough of Enfield. Directions: From the roundabout at the M25 Junction 24 take the different. Twelve of us set off, led by Margaret Taylor with Frank as back marker. We walked east A111 southwards and signposted Cockfosters. In 1.9 miles turn left through a gateway into Trent along the long drive towards Trent Park itself. Unfortunately, the estate buildings have seen Park. Park in the Car Park near the Cafeteria and Toilets. It is advisable to wear boots particularly better days, but Frank enthralled us with the detail of Trent Park’s interesting wartime history as after recent rain. The route takes in woodland, interesting views and a spectacular display of the palatial home for captured top German Army staff, where every comfort was provided, but spring flowers. We will ignore the invitation at the end of the walk to "Go Ape"! every conceivable location was bugged so that intelligence could be gathered! The daffodils were not yet out (as a result of the cold in February and recently in March), but the walk proceeded down to the lake, and then gently back in undulating country through the woods. Finally, everyone had lunch at the Trent Park Café, which can be highly recommended. If you choose an omelette, be sure to have a large appetite. The meal was rounded off by a complimentary drink. Frank and Margaret were heartily thanked by Vernon Clough on behalf of the group for a most successful morning.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2014-11-27 A Stroll around Peter Greatrex 11 We will meet at The Feathers Hotel, Wadesmill, ready to start at 10.30. The best approach is to A gloomy day greeted the eleven participants for the walk, who were soon cheered by the choice use the A414 to Rush Green roundabout, east of Hertford. From there travel north on the A10, of pre-ordered food. We set off promptly at 10.30, studying the architecture in Thundridge village Hotel taking the exit for Thundridge and Wadesmill (the “old” A10). The Grid Reference is TL 359175. before striking south-west past allotments and cricket field to Hanbury Manor Golf Course. The The Hotel has a “Golden Menu” with two courses for £5.29, and three for under £7! We will walk golfers were out in force, but we managed to avoid any injuries – and also to antagonise the through Thundridge village, and across Hanbury Manor Golf Course on a right-of-way. A short players! The uphill stretch took us up the scarp slope to Hanbury Manor itself, where we had a uphill climb brings us to the grounds of Hanbury Manor, where we will explore its facilities, which close look at a Victorian water tank, now a relic. We strolled through the Secret Garden, and on to include a “secret garden” and a walled garden. After walking around the Hotel itself, we will the Walled Garden, where we looked at the conservatory there, laid out for a buffet. The weather return via the Hotel drive, and walk around the outskirts of Thundridge village before returning for now brightened considerable, and we made a circuit of the Hotel, where Shirley Greatrex was able our lunch. to narrate the history of the house, which only dates from the late nineteenth century. We paid a visit to the nuns’ memorial garden (the house was a Convent School from 1923 to 1986). We left the property via the Greatrex back garden, and made our way back downhill, passing St Mary’s Church, before traversing Church Steps back to Thundridge village. Everyone then enjoyed a hearty lunch and Vernon gave a vote of thanks to the organisers.

2014-10-02 Studham - Paul Douglas 15 A 4-mile circular walk starting from The Red Lion public house in Studham, Explorer Map 182 GR Paul Douglas arranged a beautiful autumn day for the circular walk he led from Studham. Some Three Churches 023158, postcode LU6 2QA. There are no stiles but there are some gentle slopes. It will probably fifteen of us met at The Red Lion from where we headed northwards following parts of the and almost a be muddy if there has been rain. We will walk along a boundary fence at where Chiltern and Icknield Way paths. The walk took us past the boundary fence at Whipsnade Zoo Cathedral we may be inspected by curious wallabies, after which we will reach the village of Whipsnade where wallabies were able to view strange creatures passing by. We shortly reached the village before returning to Studham and lunch. Aim to arrive at Studham soon after 10 o'clock when we green at Whipsnade and then headed into the Tree Cathedral - a wonderful site of grass avenues, can use the facilities and pre-order our lunch in good time for our start at 10.30 trees and shrubs. From here we partly retraced our footsteps then looped round and back to The Red Lion. A hearty lunch and a vote of thanks to Paul concluded an excellent morning.

2014-09-24 Bourne Free Jack Blackett 14 This walk will be led by Jack Blackett. We meet at The White Horse, London Road, Bourne End, After an early wet start to the day a lovely bright morning eventually greeted our fourteen walkers Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RH at 10.00(ish). There is ample parking. We plan to pre-order lunch and led by Jack Blackett. Setting off from the White Horse at Bourne End we headed northwest up head off at 10.30. The walk goes up the Little Hay golf course, a steepish climb but well worth it through Little Hay golf course. We enjoyed great views looking down into the Bourne valley. After for the views. Then along the Bourne Gutter (a chalk stream which, it’s said, only flows in time of a short spell along Bourne End Lane we continued north west crossing the substantially dry war) and back along the Grand Union canal - a total of about 4 miles. Bourne Gutter and under the A41. From here Anita Blackett lead the most weary and hungry members of the group south down Sugar Lane and back to the White Horse. The more energetic continued down to the Grand Union canal. We followed the canal towpath in the direction of Winkwell, passed a couple of locks, and eventually turned off back to the pub 2014-08-07 Up and down Fank Taylor 14 Our walk begins at the Papillon Pub/Restaurant for a 10.30 start. The Papillon is on the Hertford We had an ideal day for walking - partly sunny but little wind - and as a result there were 14 the Beane to Stevenage road (A119) at 17 High Rd, Stapleford, SG14 3NW, OS GR TL309172. The walk is fairly walkers. We were led by Frank and Margaret Taylor, and it was a pleasure to welcome Robert and gentle of about 4 miles with only one stile – a ladder one (similar to those in Knebworth Park) over Jean Addleman. After ordering our lunches, we first walked north along the clear water of the a 6ft high wall. From the start, we walk on the pavement to Stapleford village church, and then River Beane, passing a garden with a plum tree whose fruits overhung the path. Guess who took turn left into Clusterbolts from where the footpath soon begins, following the Beane upstream advantage! Then we had to negotiate a 2 m. deer stile - not a problem if you took your time. As through Clusterbolts Wood. Where the wood ends, we enter the Woodhall Estate, but continue we approached , there was a convenient tree for a drinks break, after which we with the stream on our left ignoring side footpaths. On reaching and climbing over the stile, we turned south along higher ground, eventually reaching Southend Farm, part of the Woodhall maintain our general direction but veering slightly to the right to reach an estate road/track at a Estate. On this stretch, we met a couple who asked us to look out for a man's watch which had kissing gate. Here, we turn right and follow the track climbing very gently upwards to reach the slipped from his wrist, and they left us a mobile number. Well, we returned north along the buildings and apple trees of Southend Farm on the immediate right. We continue forward to Beane, and sure enough, found the watch right in the middle of the path. The couple met us at reach a tarmac road at an elbow, and we cross the road and pass through a gate onto a farm track lunch in the Papillon Restaurant, and the watch was returned to a grateful owner, who turned out that we follow with woodland on the left and a cultivated field on the right. After about 250m, the to be a retired High Court Judge! The lunch was delicious, and everyone thanked Frank and track veers to the right and soon begins to descend with Foxleys Wood on the right. We turn into Margaret for a successful day. the signposted path by the farm building through a farm gate, and we follow this path going upstream with the Beane on the left back to Stapleford Church. From there, we retrace our steps to a well-earned lunch at Papillon.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2014-07-10 Circular Walk Vernon clough 7 The details of this walk were just at the wrong time for the July Newsletter, but Ian did a good job from Codicote in circulating everyone. A cool morning greeted the magnificent seven, as pictured below. Led by Joe Harrison we ventured out from the Wyevale Garden Centre at Codicote. We headed for Codicote Bottom from where, after a steady climb to Abbotshay, we reached the Palladian church at Ayot St Lawrence. En route we enjoyed super views up the valleys. We crossed the moraine of the last glacier in Hertfordshire, after which our return route was on the Hertfordshire Way which provided some country lane walking and the rest through woods. After covering some 5 miles the return to the Wyevale cafe was much welcomed and a hearty lunch enjoyed by all.

2014-06-26 Lea Valley Circle Vernon Clough 18 A pleasant walk in gentle undulating countryside, with views into the Lea Valley, just west of From the start, we walk on the pavement to Stapleford village church, and then turn left into from Wheathampstead. Easy walking, approximately 4 miles, with no stiles. We meet in the East Lane Clusterbolts from where the footpath soon begins, following the Beane upstream through Wheathampste car park, just off the High Street, behind The Bull, Wheathampstead, AL4 8BS. We suggest Clusterbolts Wood. Where the wood ends, we enter the Woodhall Estate, but continue with the ad meeting about 10.00 so that we can place our lunch orders at The Bull and leave by 10.30. From stream on our left ignoring side footpaths. On reaching and climbing over the stile, we maintain The Bull we cross the River Lea heading in a northerly direction. After a brief visit to the our general direction but veering slightly to the right to reach an estate road/track at a kissing Wheathampstead station restoration site we head north west up Rose Lane and into open gate. Here, we turn right and follow the track climbing very gently upwards to reach the buildings farmland. We turn west and as the ground gently rises enjoy views looking south into the Lea and apple trees of Southend Farm on the immediate right. We continue forward to reach a Valley and beyond. Reaching Lane we turn south along a wooded path parallel to tarmac road at an elbow, and we cross the road and pass through a gate onto a farm track that we the road. After a short stretch along Leasey Bridge Lane we re-cross the river and head east back follow with woodland on the left and a cultivated field on the right. After about 250m, the track towards Wheathampstead. Climbing gently through undulating pastureland we have views looking veers to the right and soon begins to descend with Foxleys Wood on the right. We turn into the north into the Lea Valley and beyond in the direction of Gustard Wood. The path takes us into signposted path by the farm building through a farm gate, and we follow this path going upstream Wheathampstead by the Parish Church from which we have a short stroll back to the car park. with the Beane on the left back to Stapleford Church. From there, we retrace our steps to a well- Non walkers are very welcome to join us for lunch at The Bull. earned lunch at Papillon. 2014-05-14 East of Much Don Olsen 11 A roughly 5 mile circular walk from the Prince of Wales public house at Green Tye ( OS Landranger A lovely day greeted the 11 walkers who assembled at the Prince of Wales with Don Olsen at our Hadham map 167 or Explorer 194 - GR 445186 – SatNav SG10 6JP). The walk will go down to the valley to head, together with both regulars and newcomers. After ordering our lunches, we set off across the East of Much Hadham via a path past the Foundation then North along the valley fields (where the farmer had thoughtfully cut the grass path) towards Perry Green. Here we through woods and fields to then climb East back for a well earned pint. The Prince of Wales is a passed through the Henry Moore Foundation, where we were able to view and photograph some traditional no-frills pub serving simple pub food and excellent real ales from their micro brewery. of his larger works. After communing with a field of sheep and lambs, we walked gently downhill We will meet at the pub at 10.00, hopefully pre-order food and aim to set off by 10.30, latest through woods to the Ash Valley, where we met a group of over 20 U3A walkers from Bishops Stortford. A further walk northwards through woods brought us to Hadham Ford, where we continued along the valley for another kilometre before turning east uphill along grass and field edges. Finally, a narrow but slippery path led us back to our starting point after nearly 5 miles. The walk was 2 hours and 20 minutes, and much enjoyed in the excellent temperature. A delicious lunch followed, and Vernon proposed a vote of thanks to Don for his organisation 2014-04-09 Heartwood Irene Cowan 16 We will meet at the Green Man pub in Sandridge at 10.15, hopefully pre order food, and set off at A sunny spring morning greeted the group of 16 at the Green Man, Sandridge, where we duly pre- Forest, 10.30. SatNav location is AL4 9DD. Parking is restricted at the pub. There is further parking at the ordered our lunches. We were pleased to welcome Ron Brown and Sally Capener-Barker, as well Sandridge community centre car park situated about 50/100 meters further up the high street in the as all our regulars. Irene Cowan led us first north-west along a bridle path, but we were soon in direction of St Albans. The walk goes through Heartwood Forest to Nomansland and then across the woods, where bluebells, wood anemones and stitchwort were abundant. This route seemed the common towards Sollar Wood. We then head across Coleman Green Lane towards to be very popular with dog-walkers! We then turned north-east, skirting the woodland, until Hammonds Lane, round the edge of the newly planted orchard and back into Sandridge by the there was a gentle downward slope to take us to Nomansland Common. We crossed the church. The walk is about 4.5 miles and can be muddy in places. We expect to be back at the pub Common, and then took an excellent wide path back to Sandridge. The lunches were good “pub- by about 1.00 pm. grub”, and Vernon Clough introduced a vote of thanks to Irene and John for their planning and organisation of an excellent morning.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2014-03-13 The Chalk Hills Ian Williamson We meet at the Lilley Arms, a 300 year old former coaching Inn, just off the A505 between Luton There had been cold nights and warm days preceding this Thursday, so it was not surprising that and Hitchin: West St, Lilley, Bedfordshire, LU2 8LN (OS GR TL177265, SatNav LU2 8LN). The pub there was a heavy mist in the Chilterns! However, fifteen keen walk supporters assembled at car park is quite small so you may have to park in the road, but it is not busy. We leave by Lilley, and after ordering our meals, we made a prompt start. Of course, the mist obscured the 10:30am, so please arrive early so that you can place your order for lunch. This is a 6.4km (4m) climb that we were subject to at the start, and unfortunately the splendid views from Lilley Hoo walk through rolling countryside, with a couple of stiles. We start with a steep walk up the Baulk did not materialise. But we carried on in good spirit, heading north, until we met the Icknield Way, (bridleway) to Lilley Hoo, but it's worth the effort as there are views up and down the valley, and onto which we turned, heading south-west. There was then a corresponding downhill before this to the village below. We head north along Lilley Hoo towards Telegraph Hill. At Telegraph Hill there walk met the John Bunyan Trail. Then there was a surprise, because Ian and Yvonne Williamson are fine views across Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. We head west along Icknield Way; (who were leading us) had positioned a car strategically, and out from the boot came tea, coffee unfortunately a short stretch of this is along the road, but we can walk on the verge. Shortly after and cookies – what an unexpected treat. A pleasant interlude of some 15 minutes was spent the road turns towards Lilley we also turn south, with Galley Hill to our right. Near Ward’s Wood here, before turning south and finally east past Ward’s Wood on an easy downward path back to we turn left; skirting the wood we head back to Lilley along the John Bunyan Trail. the Lilley Arms, where the group almost filled the small dining room. A convivial lunch was enjoyed, and Vernon Clough led a vote of thanks to Ian and Yvonne before we all exited to the warm sun. After weeks of wet weather, this was a real tonic for the summer.

2014-01-23 The Lea and Rye Peter Greatrex 8 We start from the Red Lion at Stanstead Abbotts at 10.30. The pub is at the far end of the High Well, this walk was advertised as weather-dependent, but we didn’t expect it to depend on rain! House Street, on the west side, with ample parking at the rear (look out for the narrow entrance off the As we reached the Red Lion, it was, as the Times Crossword clue puts it, “chucking down at least High Street). We will walk south along the River Lea, as far as Rye House, where we will pause to sixteen feet of water”! The eight participants were particularly prompt, and we spent the first 15 look at what remains of this property, famous for the Rye House Plot of 1683. We then pass Rye minutes in the bar, being entertained by Mass, the landlord, and ordering our food, though it Meads Nature Reserve, before heading north under the A414, reaching the eastern end of looked as if we would spend the morning there. However, at about departure time, the rain Stanstead Abbotts. The Red Lion, run by Mass and Mel, hosted us in March 2013, and their eased, we set off 10 minutes late in our wet-weather gear, and the change in the weather was restaurant is now named “Amico and Amici”, with Italian dishes as well as pub grub! phenomenal. Before long we were walking the River Lea towpath (and skirting massive puddles) in sun, and the rest of the walk was rain-free and most relaxing. We duly studied Rye House, where Peter Greatrex read the history of the House and the Plot of 1683. After passing Treatment Plant (no hint of any smell), we turned into the Rye Meads Reserve, where there were plenty of geese and ducks. We returned to Stanstead Abbotts along another moist track, reaching the eastern end of the town, and largely avoiding the main road by using estate footpaths. Everyone then enjoyed a delicious pub lunch, where there was much chatting and reminiscing. We were pleased to welcome David and Jenny Purser as potential new members of the club, and also Frank Taylor, back with us after several months of recovery. Everyone thanked Peter as the organiser for a really satisfying morning. 2013-11-22 Whathampstea George French 7 We will meet at 10.15 and, after ordering lunch, commence the walk at about 10.30. This is a very Unfortunately George French was unable to lead the walk due to a debilitating injury but he d pleasant circular walk around the rural area of Wheathampstead and Gustard Wood starting from provided Vernon Clough with a comprehensive guide. A magnificent seven met at the Cross Keys The Cross Keys hostelry on Ballslough Hill road (postal code AL4 8LA) The selected route is 6.6km hostelry at Gustard Wood at 10.15 and, after ordering lunch, set off around 10.30 on a beautiful (4.1 miles) and the walk takes about two hours. We pass through pasture, woodland and arable clear day in mid November. This was a very pleasant walk of approximately 4 miles around the farmland, meet the River Lea on two occasions and have a very short urban experience through rural area of Wheathampstead. Fastidiously using the 2013 George Bradsh French guide we Wheathampstead village (where there are Ladies and Gents Toilets available!). The terrain is started off through pleasant beech tree woodland and out across the pastureland of the former generally flat with only one barrier to be negotiated (the remains of an old stile, now about 40cm Lamar Wood golf course. Heading south we crossed the Ayot Greenway down to the River Lea. high). The last few hundred metres of the walk is on a country lane with very low volume traffic. We followed the river into Wheathampstead, and, travelling briefly up the High Street, we turned The Cross Keys has a private room for small groups lunching on the premises and would be happy into the churchyard where we stopped to avail ourselves of the detailed information of our to provide service. They prefer to take the orders prior to the commencement of the walk to surroundings provided by George. Passing Wheathampsteadbury Manor and Bury farm, where a ensure sufficient preparation time and short delays for serving. They have a good selection of ales kindly resident provided us with a font of local knowledge, we re-crossed the river and turned available and a good food menu on offer ranging from sandwiches to cooked meals. Being a north across arable farmland. Then, following the country lane alongside Mid Herts golf club, we country pub there is adequate parking space available. shortly arrived back at our stating point.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2013-10-31 The Wendover Jack Blackett 11 The walk is about 4 miles, fairly level, through fields and back along to the Wendover Arm canal “Decidedly damp” would describe the conditions for the 11 walkers who assembled at The Five Arm, Weston (so beautiful that it appears to be a slow moving river) The aim is to walk to Wendover where Bells at Weston Turville. We were minus several of our stalwarts, who were unable to make the Turville miraculous water flows from a spring in the middle of a brick wall - the source of the canal! date for good reasons. Jack Blackett took us south through the interesting outskirts of the village, Depending on the weather we can take to the fields under the Wendover Woods escarpment or before finding a path beside and over a clear Chiltern stream. We continued along the side of a back along the towpath. At Halton we can pause for thought at a lovely Church with graves of long field before reaching the disused Wendover Arm of the Grand Union Canal, which was WWII airmen. If cows aren't calving we can return in time for lunch via more fields or back along completed at the end of the eighteenth century. It is now a slow-flowing clear stream, although the canal. there are plans to re-open the arm right back to Bulbourne, where it branches from the main line. We passed through the edge of Wendover, before reaching the end of the canal, where two springs of Chiltern water converge through a measuring chamber. It seems that records of the water level have been kept for over 150 years, forming a valuable historical archive. We took a slightly different route back, following the canal, and rejoining our outward route over a bridge marking the line of the old Great Central railway spur from Wendover to Halton Camp. On return, everyone enjoyed their pre-booked lunch with appropriate refreshment! We didn't get wet, and our thanks go to Jack for organising an excellent outing 2013-09-24 Preston Jane Kerr and 8 The walk starts at 10.15 from the Red Lion PH in the village of Preston (3 miles from Hitchin). SG4 “Season of Mists and Mellow Fruitfulness” said John Keats in his poem “To Autumn” – and this day Rosemary 7UD. Grid.180247. Please arrive in good time for a prompt start after using the facilities and pre- echoed the romantic poet, even if the blackberries were just past their best! Eight of us met at Bootle ordering food. The Red Lion has been a community-owned pub for 30 years and serves great food. the Red Lion at Preston in mist, but hoping for sun, and we were not disappointed. After ordering The 5 mile walk has no stiles, and although one short incline, is easy walking through lovely our lunch (always a good start), we set off northwards, and the sun soon chased the mist away. Hertfordshire countryside. In the 17th century, the village of Preston became linked with John We lost height through pretty woodland, and then onto an open track with distant views of Bunyan, who held services in a natural amphitheatre, now called Bunyan's Dell. Hitchin. On turning south again, we were interested to see some tree felling work, which turned out to be maintenance in order to keep the branches from the high-voltage power line crossing the landscape. Seven friendly heifers took an interest in our journey, but they were on the other side of a fence! We regained level ground and made our way back to Preston, but were fascinated by the garden ornament in the picture! It was so pleasant that we ate our delicious lunch in the pub garden. Many thanks to Jane Kerr for making the arrangements and leading the walk

2013-08-02 Three Mills & Paul Douglas The walk starts at 10.30 from The Cricketers public house, East Common, Redbourn, AL3 7ND, Paul Douglas marshalled his select group of eight promptly at 10.30 at The Cricketers pub in Two Rivers Grid TL 104120. Parking may be limited at the pub, but may be available on-street nearby or at the Redbourn, and after choosing our lunch, we set off across East Common to cross the first of our car park near the cricket club opposite the Old School House 200 yards away at Grid TL 103118. two rivers. How many knew of the River Red in Redbourn? There it was, a clear fast-flowing brook Please arrive in good time to make a prompt start after using the facilities and pre-ordering food which joins the River Ver in Redbourn itself. The walk continued along the Nickey Line, the old for lunch. The walk is about 3 miles, gentle, fairly flat, one stile, but can be muddy after rain. There railway path joining Harpenden with Hemel Hempstead. After crossing the A5183 at Doolittle Mill are three main roads to cross where special care must be taken. Because of nettles, covering for (now little trace left), there was some flat walking, punctuated with nettles and cow parsley, arms and legs is advised. will be open and we will be welcome to call in when before we reached Redbournbury Mill on the River Ver. This is a working mill, although most we pass on our walk. Similarly Redbourn Museum in Old Silk Mill House will be opened for us after often now driven by Diesel power, although the water wheel is used if the Ver has sufficient head lunch for those interested. of water. We visited the three floors, where there was much of interest to admire. Then we made our way back to Redbourn following the River Ver, and then the Nickey Line once again to return to East Common. The lunch, taken in the garden, was tasty, and the chunky chips have to be tasted to be believed! Finally, the icing on the cake was a visit to Redbourn Museum (which formed the third mill), opened specially for us, with more stories and relics of Redbourn’s past. Many thanks to Paul for organising such a varied day.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2013-07-15 Upper Lea Ian Williamson 10 We will meet at 10:30 am at The Crooked Chimney, Cromer Hyde Lane, Lemsford, Welwyn Garden Ian was so concerned that very few people were coming on this walk that he had to send out two Valley City, AL8 7XE (Grid TL209123). This is a fairly easy walk about 7.3km (4.5m) long. We set off due reminders, but in the end 10 people turned up on a scorchingly hot day. We set off due west along west past "John Bunyan's Chimney" and then the pub, where we may stop for a coffee. We follow Cromer Hyde Lane, where the more observant of us spotted two cherry trees laden with fruit. the path through "Devils Dyke", skirting the edge of Wheathampstead, over the River Lea and then Others went on a little further and found a pool of water beside the road, possibly a spring, with south east alongside the river, towards Brocket Hall and back to The Crooked Chimney for an hundreds of tadpoles. We left the lane and followed footpaths towards the John Bunyan pub - the enjoyable lunch. going was rough along the side of one field where it had been ploughed up but left fallow. The path skirted the wood in places which provided a bit of welcome shade. We stopped at the John Bunyan pub for a cool refreshing drink: it was too hot for coffee! We then followed the Hertfordshire Way to Beech Hyde Farm, where an interesting tent making company had a wigwam in an adjacent field. We turned right onto a road but left it as soon as possible into the Devil's Dyke, a man made ditch 12m deep in places, probably constructed during the Iron Age. This skirted Wheathampstead and it was very pleasant walking in the shade. Our path continued north over the River Lea, then after passing under Cory Wright Way we turned east and followed the river eastwards. There was very little shade and the sun was at its zenith. Ian had seriously underestimated how long this walk would take, especially in the scorching heat, and it was obvious we were going to be very late back to the Crooked Chimney so they were warned.Frank Taylor was very brave coming on the walk, following the serious problem he had had with his leg. By the time we got to the Ford at Waterend Lane, he had walked at least 3 1/2 miles and agreed to wait there in the shade till someone came back to fetch him. We cut the walk short by turning right at Bluebell Hill Wood, and cut through the woods in the shade, to the parking area on the Hertford Road, then back along the road to the Crooked Chimney. Peter Greatrex acted as deputy leader while Ian collected Frank, and the group arrived only a short while ahead of Ian and Frank. The food was good but the service was slow. The walk went through some beautiful countryside, but was far too long for the hottest day of the year. 2013-06-27 Bayford Wood Peter Greatrex 12 We start our walk from the Five Horseshoes Pub at , near Hertford (NOT A group of 12 met in pleasant walking weather at the Five Horseshoes, and we were happy to Berkhamsted near Hemel Hempstead!). The Grid Reference is TL292078, and it is best welcome Henry Tarner to walk with us. After ordering our food, we crossed the churchyard and approached from the Lower Hatfield Road (B158), turning south along Robin’s Nest Hill, and south walked downhill to our first decision point, which was dutifully chosen incorrectly, so that “those again for a few yards at the War Memorial. We will start at 10.30, and will be able to pre-book our that were first were last”! Undeterred, stiles slowed progress, and these, together with a narrow lunches. We walk north and east along undulating paths, followed by a road section to reach path, meant that no-one felt that they were holding the group up! We crossed paddocks, and Bayford. Then follows a pretty wooded walk before gentle uphills to return to our starting point. were overtaken by another group heading for the Bakers Arms at Bayford, and we gave them Right There are at least five stiles, and if it has been wet, parts of the walk will be muddy. The total of Way. After passing though Bayford, we crossed Bayford Wood by a delightful forest path distance is about 4.25 miles. before gently climbing back to our starting point at Little Berkhamsted. Everyone enjoyed their lunches, and gave a vote of thanks to Peter Greatrex for organising the event

2013-03-28 Stanstead Peter Greatrex 8 Our March walk starts from the Red Lion at Stanstead Abbotts. The pub is at the far end of the A hardy group of eight assembled very promptly at the Red Lion, and it was a pleasure to welcome Abbotts High Street, on the west side, with ample parking at the rear (look out for the narrow entrance off George French to our number. The Red Lion made us very much at home, and we set off along the High Street). We start by walking past St Andrew’s church, before striking uphill gently on a Stanstead Abbotts High Street at 10.20, to reach the Lee Valley Navigation, where we walked track leading to excellent Lea valley views. We then go down to the Ash Valley, where we cross north for about one mile, passing many moored narrow boats – looking cosy inside! The wind was the river on a bridge at a ford, before walking alongside the river, and joining the track of the old keen, but not as bad as in recent days, and there was no sign of rain (or snow!). Then we turned St Margarets to railway, closed in the 1960s. Finally, the last part of the route is along east, following the path of the disused Buntingford railway, and passing Amwell Nature Reserve, the , past Stanstead Lock, before returning to the Red Lion for an excellent lunch in where we paused to view the wild life. After a further walk along the railway, the path transferred their Coco de Mer restaurant. This walk will be re-advertised in the March Newsletter. Distance is to a field alongside the River Ash, which proved to be quite treacherous – not from snow, but about 4.5 miles or 7 km from mud. We then crossed the river – see picture – before heading south, and gaining height to see views of both the Ash and Lea valleys. Finally, there was a gentle descent back towards Stanstead, followed by a short road walk back to our starting point. The morning was complemented by an excellent lunch at the Red Lion – it cannot be recommended more highly for food, service, and kindness. This was a most successful walk, and could well be repeated in the summer, when the Nature Reserve would exhibit more birds.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2013-02-14 Ian Williamson There are two Ashridge Drovers Walks: we shall be doing the shorter walk, about 6.5km (4m). Heavy rain during the Wednesday night almost caused yet another postponement, but Ian’s Drovers Meet at the Valiant Trooper, Trooper Road, , HP23 5RW (OS GR SP 964123) at 10:30am. advice at 7.30 was to go ahead, and in fact this proved to be a wise decision. Despite further The walk starts with a climb up to the Ashridge NT Visitor Centre at the , showers as we approached Aldbury, 11 keen HELC members and associates were ready to depart where we could stop for a coffee. We then descend again, skirting the edge of Walk Wood and at 10.30, after such a cold spell. We headed north out of the village, along the drovers’ track, , across the edge of Stocks Golf Course and back to Aldbury where we will enjoy a which proved to be confined, and hence very muddy. Not dismayed, we negotiated this obstacle pub lunch. with only one minor fall, before we opened out onto Stocks Hotel Golf Course, where we encountered some lying snow not yet melted. Next we skirted Aldbury Nowers – ancient woodland – before a level stretch for 1 km to the bottom of the Chiltern Ridge. Ian had anticipated a difficult climb up, but in fact, the rain had scoured out a chalk/gravel channel which made climbing easy. After a pause at the Bridgewater Monument, it was steadily downhill on a safe path back to our lunch at the Valiant Trooper Inn. There was no rain – and even some sun – and our thanks go to Ian for finally making this walk happen – at the third attempt! 2012-10-25 Essendon Ian Williamson This is one of a series of attractive walks near Brookmans Park. Meet at the Candlestick Pub at Despite a depressing, drizzly start to the day, six intrepid walkers met at at the Candlestick Pub at West End, AL9 6BA (OS GR TL 263083) at 10:30am. The walk is about 6.5km (4m), or 4.5 miles if we Essendon West End for a very attractive walk near Brookmans Park. The warning that if it has been make a detour into Little Berkhamsted for a coffee at the Five Horseshoes. The walk takes us raining recently it can be muddy in a couple of areas was apposite, but a serious understatement - through woodland and alongside streams: if it has been raining recently it can be muddy in a it was extremely muddy in many areas! The walk took us through woodland and alongside couple of areas. A short section of the walk goes along Berkhamsted Lane, and if we wish we can streams, and it was good to do this walk in autumn as the fallen leaves made the woodland very carry on a little further for a break at the Five Horseshoes. The walk then passes through the beautiful. The least attractive part of the walk was the along Berkhamsted Lane, although there Essendon Country Club in Bedwell Park, via Essendon and then back to the Candlestick Pub for a was little traffic on the road besides us and two horse riders. We did carry on a little further to pub lunch make a detour into Little Berkhamsted for a coffee at the Five Horseshoes. We got there before opening time, but a local told us to go in by the back door, which we did, but then had to wait for our coffee as the pub staff were still cleaning the coffee machine. After a pleasant break we returned to the walk which passed through the Essendon Country Club in Bedwell Park, via Essendon and then back to the Candlestick Pub. At the end of the walk the weather had improved and the sun was trying to break through. We were joined by Sally Capener-Barker and all enjoyed a very tasty pub lunch. Many thanks to Ian for setting this walk up, and there are other possibilities in this attractive part of the county.

2012-08-01 Knebworth Park Irene Cowan 6 The walk starts at The Lytton Arms, Park Lane Knebworth SG3 6QB. Grid reference is TL 230 203. This is never a good time for walks, and the lure of the Olympic Games added yet another reason Irene Cowan will lead the walk. We will start at 10.30, and will cover about 4 miles, and basically it for absence – especially if you happened to have a ticket for the day! As a result only two is a walk round Knebworth Park, taking in Knebworth House, the monument, the church, members and four associate members made their way to the Lytton Arms in Old Knebworth – mausoleum and Graffridge Woods. We will then have a pub lunch at The Lytton Arms. with rain not far away, so we thought! However, the walk proved to be thoroughly enjoyable and varied. We set off into Knebworth Park, where the notices entreating walkers to keep to the footpaths or buy an entrance ticket were worded particularly politely. It wasn’t long before we saw the deer herd, and they were not put off by our presence. We crossed the park and exited on the north side, to head eastwards across fields of wheat, barley and oats (still needing ripening sun), before re-entering the park, and diverting to look at the Chinese Bridge across the lake – unfortunately obscured somewhat by foliage. We thought it might then rain, but donning our waterproofs put an end to that! Then we walked south along the lime avenue before visiting the church, sadly closed. Then it was a simple return via the roadway. Everyone then enjoyed good food at the pub, and gave a solid vote of thanks to Irene and John Cowan for organising the day.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2012-06-14 Hertforld Heath Peter Greatrex 0 We will meet at 10.15am to pre-order our food ready for a 10.30 start at the “Silver Fox” pub in Sunshine greeted the 10 walkers who assembled at The Silver Fox for our walk. Everyone was & Haileybury Hertford Heath. Take the A414 through Hertford, and then the B1197 to Hertford Heath as you prompt, and took advantage of the friendly service provided by the Inn, ordering their lunches in leave Hertford to the east. The pub is on the west side of the B1197 in the middle of Hertford advance. In fact, the walk was done in the clockwise (rather than anti-clockwise) direction, as this Heath., Grid Ref. TL 349111. The walk is under 3 miles, with easy gradients and no stiles. gave some flexibility. We left housing behind quickly, and were soon in woodland, which as it We will first walk through the village to the drive to Haileybury. We then walk through Haileybury sloped down towards the A10, became rather muddy! However, everyone had appropriate School, eventually reaching the A10, finally climbing through woodland back to Hertford Heath footwear, and we were soon crossing grassland uphill, to reach Haileybury School, with its village centre. The Silver Fox, named after the A4 locomotive, provides excellent lunches. impressive sports facilities. After passing through the grounds, we crossed to the south side of the B1197, and entered Hertford Heath Nature Reserve, which again was wet after the recent rain. Having reached Ermine Street, we were ahead of schedule, so all were happy to add on an extra 2 km to visit Balls Wood Nature Reserve. After pleasant walking on grass tracks in the forest (which were being cut ahead of us as we walked), we emerged into open grassland again, to return to Hertford Heath village. The morning was completed by a delicious lunch which everyone enjoyed around a single table. 2012-05-23 Brocket Park Joe Harrison Meet at 10.30am in the cul-de-sac for the Waggoners at Ayot Green, GR223138. We start by The second day of real summer greeted the group of 7, who met at The Waggoners at Ayot Green crossing Brocket Park golf course towards the Hall and then turning NW towards Waterend and ordered lunches. There was no thought of rain as we set off downhill over Brocket Park Golf alongside the River Lee. After crossing the road near the ford we reach Robinson's Wood before Club, towards the River Lea. Safely avoiding flying golf balls, we turned westwards, passing the returning along the Ayot Greenway ( an old railway track). It should be reasonable underfoot with Hall (where various comments about car collections were made), and reaching the river at Water a distance of around 4 miles. We can eat in the Red Lion which has gone up-market on bar snacks, End, where the river was quite high but not sufficient to fill the ford. Then it was uphill across a but they will do sandwiches if we advise them in advance. field, surprisingly dry after the rain of previous weeks. At this point a vote was taken, with a unanimous decision to take the longer option on the walk, which took us beside Threegrove Wood and back through the unusually named Bladder Wood, where the bluebells were just finishing. Our return was along Ayot Greenway, the old track of the Welwyn to Luton railway, and finally a road stretch back to the pub, where the lunch proved to be first class. Joe was roundly thanked by everyone for a varied and enjoyable morning. 2012-04-22 Sandridge Rosemary 7 We meet at 10.00 at the recently opened car park at Heartwood Forest, Sandridge (B651). OS Despite an unfavourable weather forecast 7 members joined the walk at Heartwood Forest. Bootle and Jane Landranger 166/Explorer 182, Grid Ref. 172110. The walk, which could be muddy, will be 4 to 4.5 Although rather muddy in places the rain held off and we were able to enjoy the English bluebells Kerr miles round Heartwood Forest. This new 858 acre forest, purchased recently by the Woodland and see some of the newly planted trees which will be part of England's largest new native Trust, has four remnants (totalling 45 acres) of precious ancient woodland, and is home to species woodland. Following the walk a pleasant lunch was enjoyed at a nearby pub such as rare butterflies and English bluebells, which hopefully will be out. Lunch will be available after the walk at the Queen's Head (opposite St Leonard's church) - please pre-order with Rosemary or Jane prior to the start of the walk. It is only a short distance from the Forest car park to the pub. See http://queensheadsandridge.co.uk/ for menu and links about Heartwood Forest.

2012-03-22 NoMansLand & Paul Douglas 16 We will meet at the Elephant and Castle, Amwell Lane, Amwell, Nr Wheathampstead, AL4 8EA (GR The weather could not have been better for our first walk of 2012 – sun and spring warmth. Beyond 167132). We have been requested to car-share if possible and also to use the gravel surface Sixteen of us gathered at the Elephant and Castle, where we were cordially welcomed by the overflow car park. We can use the facilities beforehand and if we pre-order food, it will await us at management, and encouraged to order our lunch from the varied menu. We set off slightly late, the finish of the walk. The traditional pub has been in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide from 1997- but this did not matter as the walk was not long. We began by walking west along the edge of a 2012. The building dates from C18, though the chimney is probably C16.The route is mainly level field until we reached Pipers Lane, where there was some road walking downhill – with an added with some gentle gradients, on footpaths, through woods and on open common land. There are 100m “just to sample the air”!. Then it was a return east along a dusty farm track, showing how no stiles and the length is a bit over 3 miles. dry it is in our area. Next came a very interesting stretch over Nomansland Common, where Paul Douglas explained the origin of the name arising from a dispute over ownership from neighbouring parishes. At first it was open grassland, but then came some woodland, still devoid of foliage despite the warm weather. Finally, we travelled west again to rejoin the road for a 100m walk back to the Inn.Everyone found the walk easily manageable, and the delicious lunch completed a successful morning. Thanks to Paul for his organisation and leadership.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2011-09-28 Burnham Green Frank Taylor 0 Sheet Luton and Hertford 166, Grid Ref 262166. For those wanting a shorter walk of only just over No writeup was forthcoming for this walk. 3 miles, a shortcut will be pointed out frpm the path described below. We start along the road a little way, over a crossroads before turning into a grassy path that soon descends downhill past woods to a cross track where we make a left turn. The path makes a sharpish climb past a former chalk quarry and into broadleaf woods. Then there is a gradual descent with distant views of Welwyn Garden City to the right. At the track bottom we turn right and eventually reach the river Mimram and Tewinbury Farm, our halfway point. We may at this point, if time permits, enjoy a morning coffee. From halfway we soon climb up to Tewin Church with its hassocks made by ladies of the village. From the church we quicly pick up the track home, crossing the shortcut above and climbing steadily all the way back to the road at the start and lunch at the White Horse.

2011-07-25 Wilkins Green Paul Douglas 11 Eleven of us set off over an open field towards Wilkin's Green from The Plough at Sleapshyde crossing the Trail. The weather was warm, fine and sunny and it was welcome that parts of the walk were through woods giving shade. The North Orbital Road was easily crossed, and after a short distance away from this it was as if the busy traffic did not exist. We continued past Johnson's Spring to Bullen's Green over three stiles (everyone declining the offer of a short cut) and on to Roestock. From here we returned to The Plough where we had a good lunch in the late 17th Century pub. 2011-06-22 Around Frank Taylor 10 Getting there: Take the A10 and turn on to the A120 signed Bishops Stortford. Turn right into It was rather cool and unsettled as ten members of HELC met at Standon for Frank Taylor’s walk. Standon Standon High Street after about a half mile at the bottom of the hill. Meet at 10.30 at The Star in The pub for lunch had been switched to The Bell, but as this was in easy walking distance, there the High Street (GR 396223). Parking in the pub car park or in the wide High Street. Uncomplicated was no problem. We headed east soon after 10.30, crossing the clear before walking and very nearly level, this walk follows the lovely River Rib through pastures towards and beyond along its bank to The Lordship, a beautifully maintained brick mansion. We crossed the Rib again, the Lordship. This is a manor house with 16th Century origins. The walk swings in a loop here and then suffered a light shower as we walked over the old Buntingford Branch of British Railways, before crossing the river and then follows the route of the long-gone Ware, Hadham and closed in the 60s. Next we steadily climbed along clear footpaths to a magnificent property – Little Buntingford railway back to our start. In all around 4 1/2 miles. Balsams – where at the summit the rain set in. Our return was along roads in rain which became more incessant, but at least it was all downhill, and everyone kept their spirits up ready for the cosy meal at The Bell, where everyone’s plate was clean. We all thanked Frank for this varied and interesting walk – he could not be blamed for the weather! 2011-05-25 A Hertfordshire Frank Taylor 13 Our walk starts at 10.15 am on Wednesday, May 25th from 'The Crooked Chimney' on the B653 Attracted by a lovely warm day, some thirteen of us set off from The Crooked Chimney. At first Stroll between Welwyn Garden City and Wheathampstead. This pub is about 300 metres from the we walked up a small lane but soon we were into open fields and then turning right down to an church at Lemsford, with Grid Ref TL 209123. There are no stiles on this 4 1/2 miles walk. From the old drovers track in a shady dip of the land. We followed this through to regain and cross carefully large pub car park, we walk along a country lane past a few nice houses, a duckpond and gardens the busy road from Lemsford to Wheathampstead. Peace and quiet soon returned as we entered before taking a farm track that after a short way leads gently downhill to a hidden track once part Brocket Park. However we were too late for the bluebells which had this year bloomed very early. of a forgotten railway line and not too far from a pub, The John Bunyan, known to HELC walkers. After climbing up through trees to the golf course we passed the house on our right and then We follow this shady track out to the B653 which we cross to enter the grounds of Brocket Park. descended to the bridge. On the climb back up to our starting point we were some 15mins earlier Going gently downhill we cross the stream and continue the only very short but steep uphill pull than predicted but this gave us time for a cooling drink before our pre-ordered food was placed through woods to reach the golf course, past Brocket Hall to the bridge and weir and so back to before us. All were grateful to our leader for organising the walk – and the weather! our start and lunch. 2011-04-28 River Lea and Peter Greatrex 18 This is a pleasant stroll with no obstacles along two rivers for a total of about 4 km, starting from There is often some problem at the start of a walk, but a delivery lorry in the pub car park is a new New River the Jolly Fisherman at Stanstead Abbotts – Grid Reference TL382118. The pub is best approached one! For a while, the place looked like the M25 on a bad day, but by 10.30, the situation had been eastwards along the B181, crossing the St Margarets Level Crossing, and the car park entrance is amicably resolved and everyone had parked to their satisfaction. 18 of us set out north along the on the south side immediately before the River Lea bridge. We will walk north-west along the River Lee Navigation, where we admired all the narrow boats moored close to Stanstead Lock, River Lea Navigation, passing two locks and then return south-eastwards along the New River, together with the restored lock-keeper’s cottages. There was a female with a fleet of 5 where at Great Amwell we will see the Monument to Sir Hugh Myddleton, its builder. The walk very young ducklings in tow! Everyone was keen to do the full walk right up to Ware, where we will end with a tasty lunch at the pub. crossed the railway and picked up the New River, reading about its design and building from boards along the way (noting that it is neither New nor a River!). We passed the monument to Sir Hugh Myddleton, and observed that there will be a quadricentenary in 2013. After leaving the River, it was a short step back to the Jolly Fisherman, where lunch and drinks awaited us.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2011-03-24 Rolling John Mose 15 John Mose will lead this walk, and we will meet at The Five Horseshoes, Little Berekhampstead OS We have had a lot of cold and miserable weather, but finally spring arrived just in time for John Essenden Grid Ref TL 292078. We walk through rolling countryside around Essendon Golf Course, then Mose's excellent walk around Essendon. 15 members were prompt at th Five Horseshoes, and through Essendon towards West End, and up towards Bath Wood crossing Cumcum Hill to first we looked at Little Berkhampstead Church, before heading north into varied and interesting Bedwell Park. We recross Essendon Golf course by Berkhampstead Lane Plantation and cross the open country. Next came Essendon Golf Course, where we had to keep an eye open for golfers, lane to Little Berkhampstead cricket field, when the end is is view! There are some gates but no who were also attracted by the sunshine! We then had an uphill stretch to Essendon village. Then stiles, and firm going on slopes through woodlands. The distance is about 7 km. we continued westwards across fields and through woods, before turning south near the Candlestick pub at West End. We walked up a pleasant wooded valley before meeting and crossing the B158. The woods had only a few leaves as yet, which made the visibility excellent. Then we ambled through the Hatfied Country Club (Bedwell Park) grounds before climbing up through Berkhampstead Lane Plantation to regain Little Berkhampstead. The morning was completed by an excellent lunch - boar burger was an interesting item! Everyone was grateful to John and Wendy for showing us this route. 2010-10-13 Codicote and Joe Harrison 7 Meet at the Wyevale Garden Centre, Codicote ( GR TL214188). Please park where directed. We A clear, crisp autumn morning greeted the nine walkers who assembled at the Codicote Garden Ayot leave at 10.30am and wend our way over Codicote Heath to Codicote Bottom, then west to Centre for Joe Harrison’s walk. Ahead of time, we set off immediately into a wood where leaves Kimpton Mill. A steady climb to Ayot St Lawrence which is our turning point before descending on rustled happily as we walked. After crossing a wide field, we headed downhill to the Mimram the Hertfordshire Way to Bottom Farm and back to dine in The Garden Cafe. About 4 1/2 mls. with valley, where we were amused by the stile – see the picture. Joe explained that this part of the nice views over the rolling countryside. country was the terminal moraine resulting from the last Ice Age. A pleasant walk along the valley followed, and then a steady climb up to Abbotshay Farm. Next came the newer Palladian Church at Ayot St Lawrence, where Sir Lionel Lyde part-demolished the original church as it was obstructing his view! The Hertfordshire Way took us back to the valley, followed by a climb back through the woods back to our starting point. Lunch followed at the Garden Café in the Garden Centre, where some of the party enjoyed the All-Day Breakfast for under £5, including tea. We all thanked Joe for such an interesting morning – and for providing the perfect weather.

2010-09-23 WADESMILL Peter Greatrex 10 We will meet at the Fox and Duck, , for this 3.5 mile ramble over the Hertfordshire This walk had poor omens! Firstly, it had to be re-arranged as the Fox and Duck at Therfield was Downs. The Grid Ref is TL 336373, and the village is best approached from the A10 north of fully booked. Accordingly, we started from The Feathers at Wadesmill, and did a slightly longer Buntingford where you should make the signposted left turn at the large transport café on the walk to the north-west. In the event, it was a wet morning, but10 hardy friends set off promptly brow of a hill. We will visit Therfield and , two of Hertfordshires less known and well kept on the rain. villages. We head west, past Therfield Church, across open country to Kelshall, where we walk We headed uphill out of the Rib valley, over good tracks and then passing through wet woodland through the village and past its Church. We turn south-west to Woodcotes, before heading back before arriving at the village of Green - deserted in the rain! However, everyone was in north-east to our starting point for an excellent lunch. There are no serious hills, but some stiles. good spirits, and properly equipped for the weather. Next we took the old Roman road which skirts the rear of Rowney Priory. Thisa has ab interesting history which can be looked up on the Internet, although its present day use is uncertain. It was used to house Womens' Land Army Girls during the war, and a stone coffin on its lake is listed. We then headed south again down The Bourne, a deep fissure in otherwise slightly undulating ground which was most likely carved at the end of the last Ice Age. Lunch was most convivial, with everyone sat at a long table - ladies v. gentlemen. One topic of conversation was trying to remember the correct name for brass paper fasteners, used by The Feathers to keep their menus together. Everyone had used them years ago, but not recently.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2010-07-29 Ashridge Estate Ian Williamson 26 Meet in the car park of the Bridgewater Arms, , HP4 1PD: OS GR TL 992137, at Twenty six people met in the car park of the Bridgewater Arms, Little Gaddesden, for the Ashridge 10:30 am (we have permission from the pub to park there). This a moderate walk of just over 3 Walk on Thursday 29 July 2010; this must be a record for HELC walks. The weather was dry and miles with no stiles. windy. We set off through Little Gaddesden and turn into the Ashridge Estate at the War Memorial, When we set off Ian Williamson said we would walk south through Little Gaddesden and turn crossing Golden Valley (the worst bit of hill on the walk), pass in front of the Management College right into the Ashridge Estate at the War Memorial. He was mistaken: that was not the War and make our way to the Woodyard Cottages on Berkhampstead Common. After passing through Memorial, it was The Adelaide Cross on the Green in Front of the Manor House, a Grade II listed Thunderdell Wood, crossing Prince's Riding, past Old Park Lodge, over the Ashridge Golf Course Monumental cross, c. 1917 for Lord Brownlow. Crossing Golden Valley was the worst bit of hill on and crossing Golden Valley again (but easier this time), we head back to the Bridgewater Arms for the walk (as warned), but back on the level we passed in front of the Management College. We a delicious pub lunch. I have booked tables for 12:30pm, and we'd be pleased to see you then if paused there by the noice board advertising open days. Those who looked towards the you would like to join us for lunch. Bridgewater Monument may have noticed a herd of deer crossing Prince's Riding. We will be setting off before the pub is open, so I'm afraid we can't use their toilets. However I We made our way to the Woodyard Cottages on Berkhampstead Common and followed a can put in our our lunch order by email before we go, so if you want lunch please download their footpath behind the cottages through Thunderdell Wood. For some distance we kept a large field lunch menu from: http://freespace.virgin.net/helc.luncheon/bamenu.pdf and send me an email on our right hand, and after crossing Prince's Riding and passing Old Park Lodge we crossed over giving your order. I will have a copy of the menu with me, so if you haven't ordered before hand, I the Ashridge Golf Course, past the impressive club house. We were crossing Golden Valley again can post it through the door before we set off. (but it was easier this time). We headed back to the Bridgewater Arms along a section of the Chiltern Way foorpath. The Bridgewater Arms had bit of a problem serving a few of us, but we all had a delicious pub lunch. 2010-06-28 Heartwood Phil Escritt 20 We will start our walk from the free car park behind the Village Hall in Sandridge after placing our The new Woodland Trust project, Heartwood Forest, Sandridge, obviously generated a lot of Forest, orders for lunch at the Green Man pub close by. We shall walk across fields and then gently uphill interest because 20 walkers met at the Village Hall in Sandridge, probably a record for an HELC Sandridge to enter the new Heartwood Forest. The Woodland Trust is creating this forest on 850 acres of walk.Paul Escritt added to the interest of the walk by explaining and pointing things out at various Greenbelt land between Sandridge and Wheathampstead. It includes 45 acres of ancient places along the way. We were also very lucky with the weather, which was glorious. We set off woodland which are home to many rare butterflies and the protected English Bluebells. When it is down the track from the rear of the Village Hall, past the Sandridgebury Livery Stables and Riding complete it will be the largest native forest in England. School, into Heartwood Forest and the ancient Lanhley Wood. Further into Heartwood Forest we made a figure of eight path through more ancient woodland, Well Wood and Pudler's Wood. From Our walk, which is about three miles long with no stiles, will take us through two areas of ancient there it would have been straight back along a track to Sandridge, but Phil added to the pleasure woodland and an area of newly planted trees. On fine days there are splendid views over the of the walk by making a small detour through Langley Wood again.Phil also pointed out thr radio surrounding countryside. We shall then return by a different route to Sandridge for lunch. tower at the top of Woodcock Hill, now a Home Office Scientific Developnent Branch, which is very secure and secret, but Phil explained that during World War 2 it was even more secret, so The Village Hall at AL4 9DD is on the High Street in the middle of Sandridge, close to a pedestrian secret that it did not officially exist. It was one of the listening stations, Station Y, that passed the crossing with Belisha Beacons. Its grid reference is TL 169104. The entrance to the car park is to German messages to , Station X, for decyphering. It had kitchens, but as it had no the left of the Hall. address, no food could be delivered to it. At the end of the walk we were joined by Frank Taylor and Hedley Barker at the Green Man pub, where we all enjoyed some delicious food. All in all it was a most enjoyable walk, and we were very grateful for Phil for arrangingit, and making it so interesting. Photos in NL 2010-07 2010-05-13 Bowman's Paul Douglas 13 After parking our cars at the pub, we start this gentle 3 1/2 mile walk at 'The Green Dragon'. After parking our cars and having pre-ordered our lunches at The Green Dragon pub at London Lakes Waterside, , AL2 1KB. For those without SatNav, the Grid Ref is TL 181036. If you Colney, 13 of us set out on this mostly level walk. At the beginning the route took us through approach from the north, turn right just before the River Colne. If coming from the south, take the Willows Farm where we saw reindeer and passed next to animal enclosures. same turn after crossing the river, but beware that it is a very sharp left (almost 180 degrees). We We next diverted off the public footpath and strolled through the grounds of , will stroll on the level at the side of the lakes and also skirt Tyttenhanger House, with its having previously obtained the present owner's permission. (An earlier owner was Earl Alexander association of Earl Alexander of Tunis. The pub has a good selection of beers and food. Even if you of Tunis). Here we saw peahens roaming free, but the peacock was locked in a cage because of cannot join the walk. You will be very welcome to partake of the refreshments on offer his habit at this time of year of pecking at shiny reflective surfaces on cars where he thought he afterwards. For your interest, the pub dates from 1758 and the nearby brick bridge over the River saw a rival. Colne built by Telford has seven arches. The walk continued through woods and open fields and by the edge of lakes, previously gravel pits. We ended the walk passing through Telford's seven arch bridge (there is a minor dispute over whether it is in fact Telford's). At The Green Dragon the lunches which we had pre-ordered were served in ample quantity.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2010-04-29 The River Peter Greatrex 13 This walk starts from the Woodhall Arms at Stapleford, 3 miles north of Hertford on the A119 After a month of fine dry weather, there was a possibility of rain during the day. In the event, Beane, towards Stevenage. The Grid Ref is TL 310172, postcode SG14 3NW. We will first head south past fears were groundless and the walk was made in warm cloudy conditions. We first had to sort out Stapleford Stapleford church along the river using the Hertfordshire Way, before heading north through our members from the U3A walk that was happening at the same time, but luckily we didn’t pleasant Hertfordshire countryside to Woodhall Park, crossing the river at Home Farm, and follow the same route, and promptly on time 13 of us set out, after having ordered our lunchtime heading towards Watton-at-Stone before returning downhill to Stapleford for a lunch at the food. It was a credit that everyone was so prompt – especially May Hands, who had carried out a Papillon Restaurant (Google - Papillon Stapleford). The walk is about 6km, with some stiles. survey trip earlier! We were pleased to welcome Allan and Margaret Goodfellow, as new HELC members (see page 2). We walked alongside the River Beane, which flows gently and clearly towards Hertford, but the conditions were too dry for any of the large snails to be easily visible. We then gained slightly higher ground for a walk along a track of the Woodhall Estate, eventually reaching Home Farm with its three waterways and artificial lake on the river, where we spotted a crested grebe. Then it was slightly uphill again to pass the unusual gatehouse for the estate. We crossed the A119, and from then on the walk followed rights-of-way across fields, which weren’t a problem as it was so dry. Finally we headed south again through Patchendon Farm, where there was interest in the ducks! The one stile was by-passed using a field gate, and we ambled back to the Woodhall Arms in slightly over two hours. Our excellent meals were served promptly in the Papillon restaurant at the agreed time of 1 p.m., when we were joined by Hedley Barker and Shirley Greatrex and everyone agreed that the value there was excellent. We hope to organise a different walk from the same start point later. As most of the walk was through the Woodhall Estate, you may be interested to look at their website www.woodhallestate.co.uk The private garden is open under the National Gardens Scheme on Sunday afternoon, 20 June. 2010-02-24 The Aylesbury Jack Blackett 18 The circular walk begins and ends at The Half Moon 16th century inn in the village of ., A chance to escape the poor weather of January and February may have contributed to the Arm of the Hertfordshire (just) .The beer and food is good. For those with maps, the Grid Reference is turnout of 15 people for Jack Blackett’s walk! Although it was cold to start, we were treated to Grand Junction SP904140, and for those with sat navs Tring Road Wilstone HP32 4PDThe 4½ mile walk is along some spring sunshine, and even spotted a crocus flower open! We set off across fields towards Canal with a parts of the Aylesbury Arm, the main Grand Junction canal and the part of the Wendover Arm that the Aylesbury Arm of the Grand Junction Canal, and it soon became clear that “the going would be visit toTringford is still navigable. About half way round our walk we will visit the “iceberg” that is the Tringford soft!” On joining the canal, our first interest was the sight of a narrow boat whose owner was Pumping Pumping Station. No, it is not as cold as our recent weather but we shall see that there is more bemoaning “no water…” The reason for this soon became clear, as 100 metres of canal had been Station underground in this pumping station than there is above ground. As will be apparent during our drained to facilitate the repair of one of the overbridges, effectively marooning the boat. We walk we will be high up on the summit of the Grand Union Canal. (about 400feet or 120m above continued along the Aylesbury Arm until it met the main canal, passing 5 more uphill locks in the the ). Each time a boat passes through a lock about 50,000 gallons of water flows process – the summit of the Grand Junction Canal is close to New Mill, nearer to Tring. We walked towards the Thames. This water has to be replenished. Thus in the early 19th century four along the main canal for 500 metres before heading off west to look at Startops and Tringford reservoirs were built to collect spring water from the surrounding hills. The reservoirs are actually Reservoirs, which supply water to the canal via Tringford Pumping Station, effectively at the canal lower than the canal summit so brick-lined tunnels feed the water from the reservoirs to deep summit. This is on the south-west corner of Tringford Reservoir, and we were privileged to have a wells directly under the Tringford Pumping Station. “Unfortunately” the Victorian beam engines conducted tour of the station by three of ’ staff. We were shown the deep wells have long gone but the electric pumps are capable of pumping 4 million gallons (18 million litres) from each of the reservoirs, from which water is raised by centrifugal pumps to the canal level, of water every day in summer. We shall have two British Waterways guides to show us round the and fed into the Wendover Arm of the canal, close to the summit. From here, we made our way Pumping Station and may make a record of our visit. We shall return to Wilstone along the westwards along the Wendover Arm (which is being restored) before visiting the last and largest embankment of one of the reservoirs. reservoir, Wilstone. It was then a gentle descent back to Wilstone village and a truly excellent lunch at the Half Moon Inn. The thanks of everyone were passed on to Jack for an excellent start to HELS's 2010 walking season. 2009-12-03 Francis Adams 3 The next walk will be on Wednesday, December 3rd, starting at 10.00 from the Red Lion at Great The day of the walk, 3 December, was wgen there had been a sudden overnight freeze which Offley. The correct pub is at TL 146266, not the one at the crossroads, and it provides good food caused traffic chaos in the morning. As a consequence only three people, including the leader for walkers. This is a simple circuit to the East of the village in the general directio of Hitchin. The Francis Adams, turned up at the starting point - The Red Lion in Great Offley. The weather was distance is not more than 4 1/2 miles. The paths are good, there is one hill to ascend out of the crisp and there were good views on our way around the circuit. An occurrence not often seen was valley before a level return to the start. Those members who joined me in a walk to Preston pheasant beating leading to what must have been hundreds of these birds taking flight very near inMarch 2007 might recognise some of the route, though probably not - there was a thick mist on our party. At the end there was an excellent lunch in the pub. This was a walk which is to be that day ! Otherwise the views in this area are excellent, recommended should Francis ever repeat it. Many thanks to Francis for his organisation.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2009-11-11 Rolling John & Wendy 4 We will meet at The Five Horse Shoes, Little Berkhampstead OS Grid Ref 292078. There is rolling A select band of four met at Little Berkhampstead on a cloudy, but still autumnal morning. It was a Essenden Mose countryside around Essendon golf course. Then through Essendon towards West End, up towards pity that there weren't more takers, because the walk was varied and interesting, with woodland, countryside Bath Wood crossing Cumcum Hill to Bedwell Park, recrossing Essendon golf course by field paths, and a Golf Course to cross! We headed north and downhill, passing a limestone quarry, Berkhampstead Lane Plantation across the lane to Little Berkhampstead cricket field, when the and then crossing Essendon Golf Course, before climbing up to Essendon village. Then we end is in view! continued westwards across fields and through woods, before turning south near The Candlestick pub at West End. We walked up a pleasant wooded valley before meeting and crossing the B158. The woods had only a few leaves, which made the visibility excellent. Then we ambled through the Hatfield London Country Club (Bedwell Park) grounds before climbing up though Berkhampstead Lane Plantation to regain Little Berkgampstead. This last part of the walk took us past what looked like a film set - but we couln't confirm this. The morning was completed by an excellent lunch complete with a good Merlot: thanks to John and Wedy for showing us this route.

2009-10-14 Birds and Peter Greatrex 9 We meet at the free Lee Valley Regional Car Park, Grid Ref. TL364037. Take the TURNFORD exit The morning dawned damp, but by our meeting time, the sun was starting tio aoppear. Nine Wetlands from the A10, and at the roundabout at the end of the feeder road, go straight across on the B176 members passed the first test - finding the car park - and we set off exactly to time. Heading east (High Road, Turnford). There is another roundabout to cross, and the car park entrance is on the over the railway, our leader had a 'senior moment' and dragged us back unnecessarily as he had left after a further 400m, immediately before a church. The walk is about 6 km, on good tracks forgotten the route (despite having walked it only days before!). Once back on the right track with no stiles. (literally), our first stop was at Holyfield Weir. Here we spent some timew with the binoculars We will head east over the railway, the Small River Lea, and the Lee Navigation into the wealth of observing the wild life, and spotting all the usual water birds together with cormorants and rivers and lakes comprising the Park. We will go north-east to Holyfield Lake and Weir, where grebes. We turned south along the River Lea Relief Channel, reaching Fishers Green with its picnic there is a good vantage point to study the birds. Then we walk south along the Lee flood relief tables and toilets. This was another bird observation point. And this time a heron was evident. We channel – a site for bitterns - to Fisher’s Green, where there are Public Conveniences. From there continues south to Hooks Marsh, before heading west back over the Lea Navigation and returning on to Hooks Marsh, before completing the circle back to the car park. to our start. Eight of us took lunch at the Bull's Head at Turnford, where the portions were We will lunch at the Bull’s Head at Turnford, which you’ll see on the right shortly after joining the enormous, despite giving the choice of small, medium and large! The group were very happy with B176. Lest you think my spelling is inconsistent, the wisdom is that you use “Lee” for anything the morning, and voted the outing a great success. official. 2009-09-09 Tewin Francis Adams 14 This will be a simple circuit in the locality of Tewin village, starting and finishing at the Rose and This walk was led by Francis Adams, but the turnout was disappointing, perhaps because of the Crown - 41 Upper Green Road, Tewin, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 0LE, Grid Ref TL271150. The short lead time for the walk. length is four miles unless there is a need to shorten it a little on the day. Our route starts in the direction of Digswell, circles round and passes through Tewinbury, then beside the Mimram, through the churchyard of St Peters with its much-visited tomb of Kady Anne Grimstone (see the church website), and finally back to the start for lunch by 1 o'clock. Paths are all very firm, mostly level with two modest hills but no stiles. We intend to start walking at 10.15. 2009-08-27 The Rib Valley - Ian Williamson 13 Meet at the Sow and Pigs Pub, Cambridge Road, Thundridge, SG12 0ST (OS GR TL 357168) at 10:30 A happy group of 13 assembled at the 'Sow and Pigs', ready for Ian's walk. This might have been Wadesmill & am on Thursday 27 August 2009. We have permission to park in the pub car park. Beauty and unluky for lunch, had not our President, Hedley Barker, joined us for the meal! We began by Thundridge history before your very eyes as you take this relatively easy walk. The walk sets off past Hanbury walking through Hanbury Manor, sampling the blackberries en route, and seeing an old dovecote Manor and continues on public rights of way, around Wadesmill and Thundridge, and reveals as well as the old farm dairy, with an unusual brick formation. Then we crossed the golf course, Hertfordshire at its very best. After a delightful 4.5 mile walk we will return for excellent food at carefully avoiding the playerd on the 9th fairway, and we passed through Thudridge village and the Sow and Pigs Pub. Even if you ar not up for the walk, please join us for lunch at the Sow and crossed the River Rib before a coffee stop at 'The Fearhers'. Next, we viewed from afar the Pigs Pub at 1 pm. See www.twvillage.co.ul/SowandPigs-Thundridge.html for the menu. monument to Thomas Clarkson (instrumental in the abolition of slavery) before crossing the parkland of the Youngsbury Estate. Finally, we returned along the River Rib, passing the mysterious Old Thundridge Church before climbing back up to the Sow and Pigs for a delicious lunh. The weather was superb, and our thanks go to Ian and Yvonne for leading another successful outing.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2009-07-09 Wheathampste Paul Douglas 12 Meet at 10.30 am on Thursday 9 July 2009 at The Bull in Wheathampstead, AL4 8BS, Grid Ref TL A happy group of twelve gathered at Wheathampstead in pleasant weather for Paul Douglas's ad Lea Valley 177141. Park in the piub car park immediately behind the pub off East Lane, a narrow road on the walk along the River Lea. We set off to time, and were soon close to the River, with its gentle clear east side of High Street. The walk will be almost 3 1/2 miles along the Lea valley and returning flow. We continued past several paddocks with a predominance of Shetlend ponies, pressingon along the old railway track. There are no stiles and it will be mainly level apart from a gentle along level ground until we reached Water End. For a short time we took the same route uphill to incline. The Bull has recently been reffurbished and is not the Beefeater of old which you may Ayot Greenway that we took onJoe Harrison's walk in April, but this time we headed west along remember. If you are 'lunch only' you are very welcome to join us at about 12.30. the disused Welwyn to Luton railway, travelling gently downhill in the shade. A mass of Rosebay willow herb attracted the group's attention, before we made our way back to The Bull car park.Yet again the weather had been ideal for walking, with sunny intervals. The morning was rounded off by an excellent lunch, and everyone thanked Paul for a well-chosen and successful ramble.

2009-06-17 Hertfordshire Peter Greatrex 16 You must not miss this walk if you are interested in barn conversions - we see lots of examples! This was very popular, and 16 of us were booked on the walk! The weather promised to be ideal and Harcamlw We will start from Wareside (again), but this time we will use The Chequers pub, opposite the for walking, although there was some question that rain might come along later… However, we Ways White Horse - Gtid Ref TL 395156, meeting at 10.30, when we can preorder our lunches. The were lucky. This must be the first HELC walk which took place with two leaders, as the main party distance is about 7 km - 4 miles, and takes about 2 hours. We head West to start, uphill through a set off ahead owing to a late arrival. Our first stop was at Morley Hall, where we diverted from the wooded gully, passing the interesting moat at Morley Hall. Next there is another wooded path path to have a closer look at the moat. It was pleasing to note that the farmers had taken the downhill which meets the Harcamlow Way. We then pass through open counry, gently rising, trouble to make the paths through the wheat crops where there were rights of way. Ian before falling again to the hamlet of Cold Christmas, where we meet the Hertfordshire Way. Then Williamson used his GPS navigator to pinpoint the Greenwich Meridian, leading to the first picture there is some delightful wooded walking, followed by more open country to return us for lunch at below! The re-crossing from west to east was marked by a post, erected in 1984 at Cold Wareside. There are no stiles. And just one flight of steps down near the end. Warning: only a Christmas to mark the centenary of the establishment of the prime meridian – hence the second small part of this walk is in the Western Hemisphere. picture. Some delightful wooded paths as part of the Hertfordshire Way followed, and there was a tricky part where the grass, nettles and thistles had grown up, but everyone made it without serious injury! Finally, a lengthy crossing of a rape field (again helpfully marked out) and a short road walk brought us back to “The Chequers”, where a tasty lunch was enjoyed, with four of the group choosing pigeon pie! The breakaway group was only a few minutes behind. 2009-05-14 John Mose 9 The walk starts at 10.30 am from 'The Woodman Inn', Waterend (Grid Ref TL 229043) - about 1 km The ladies outnumbered the men by 2 to 1 on this very varied walk! A total of 9 people were west ofBroolmans Park, as the crow flies (not very straight). The walk may be wet because behind ready at 10.30 promptly, and we set off westwards over the A1(M) towards North Mymms church. the pub the area has a number of 'Swallow Holes'. If you don't know what these are then why not Immediately, we saw the dry bed of the river which when flowing forms a tributary of the River come along and see them ? Also we will walk along some flood defences. The walk is planned to Colne. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to look at the church as there was a major funeral be about 4 miles via North Mymms Church. occurring just at the time we were there. We saw significant Japanese Knotweed, which had gained a hold on the dry river bank. We headed through undulating countryside, and came across a strange building (see “Puzzle Corner”). No-one could say for certain what it was – so suggestions would be of interest. We re-crossed the A1(M), and next examined the Mimmsbrook flood defence work, which protects low-lying bungalows and electricity works in the event of flash floods. We passed an old Rover 60 car, in process of restoration before reaching the area of the swallow holes. It was not easy to see them as nettles had taken over at this time of the year, but John Mose headed out to demonstrate where the largest one was. The water re-emerges near to Ware, at Chadwell Springs, which forms the start of the New River! Once again, the lunch was excellent, and everyone took advantage of the carvery at “The Woodman”. This was a fascinating morning of discovery, and we are very grateful to John for organising it.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2009-04-08 Ayot Green Joe Harrison 11 The car park is the cul-de-sac beyond the 'Waggoners' at Ayot Green. Take the first left after Despite overnight rain, the morning dawned clear and sunny for the 11 who arrived at Ayot Green passing over the motorway bridge from the B197 towwards Ayot Green. Grid Ref is TL 222138 on for the start of the walk' We were very pleased to welcome May Hands, now an Associate sheet 166. We head SW across Brocket Park golf course towards Brocket Hall, before tracking Member. Joe Harrison began by warning us about flying golf balls as we crossed Brocket Hall Golf alongside the River Lea to Waterend and beyond to Robinson's Wood to pick up the Ayot Club on a public footpath, but then there was an interesting diversion to see the bridge across the Greenway to return to Ayot Green, A lovely short easy walk, with pleasant views over super lake, with superb views of the Hall itself. The walk proceeded along the River Lea as far as Water countryside, about 6 km. The Red Lion on Digswell Hill serves food for hungry walkers. A few styles End, where the stream is fast-flowing and will easily become a ford rather than a shallow bridge. and gentle hills en route. The path along the River Lea can be muddy if we have a perion of wet The strenuous part of the day followed as we climbed out of the valley up to the Ayot Greenway, weather. along the track of the old Welwyn to Luton railway line. This itself followed a steady uphill gradient as we regaines height. The views along there were pleasing as the buds were breaking and the bright green heralded spring. There was even a bluebell wood which will be I flower in the next week. Finally, we struck south to reach Ayot Green again, and the morning ended with the usual HELC walkers' lunch, this time at the Red Lion on Digswell Hill. Many thanks to Joe for such an excellent spring ramble. 2009-03-26 Berkhampstead Ian Williamson 11 Meet at 10:30 am on Thursday 26 March 2009 at The Boat, Gravel Path, Berkhampstead, HP4 2FF Eleven intrepid members and partners met at The Boat, Berkhamsted, prepared to brave the walk Common (Grid Ref SP 997078). I have arranged with th Licensee that we can park in the pub car park, but despite the miserable weather. there are limited spaces so you may have to park in neighbouring roads. Station Road is likely to be the best bet. After a delightful five mile walk on Berkhampstead Common we will return for excellent food at The Boat. Even if you are not up for the walk, please join us for lunch at The Boat at 1 pm.The walk set off along the Gravel Path towards the station, under the railway, past Well Farm, and after about a mile there was a short climb up to Berkhamsted Common. On the common, the walk continued on the level, past Brick Kiln Cottage for about 300 metres, and then turned back towards Berkhamsted. A lonely horse came across to the group, possibly for food, but was disappointed. The walk continued through the Alpine Meadow, a lovely area which was being strimmed by the Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust to encourage the growth of wild flowers. After another moderately strenuous climb, we were on level for some way, before we dropped back down to the Grand Union Canal at , and walked the last mile along the canal back to a delicious lunch at The Boat. 2009-02-25 Wareside Peter Greatrex 10 This is a repeat offer of the October 2008 walk, which had to be cancelled. Anticyclonic gloom heralded our walk, but 10 people keenly arrived promptly for the start. The proprietor of the “White Horse” (which I wrongly described as the “White Lion” in the last Newsletter), kindly opened up for us to use the facilities, and we set off into the Rib Valley, and along the course of the old Buntingford Branch railway. Reaching the site of Widford station, we branched off north into the Blakesware Estate, taking a pleasantly rising track, and noting a WW II pillbox en route. What a good site for hampering the invasion, had it happened! The wind was noticeable as we reached the summit of the walk, but we were soon heading down into Nimney Bourne, which by now was dry, although a week previously it had been a pleasant clear stream. There was then some road walking before a final stretch of field path to bring us back to Wareside. For our lunch, we were joined again by our President, Hedley Barker, and there was rabbit or game pie for the gastronomes! Others settled for sausage or sticky ribs, but everyone agreed that the food was excellent. 2009-01-06 Wildhill Paul Douglas 8 ONE FOR THE LADIES (AND GENTLEMEN) This short walk of 3.2 miles circles Camfield Place, the The coldest night of the winter was followed by glorious sunshine as the 8 keen walkers country estate of Barbara Cartland. We go through five woods down tree-lined footpaths, and assembled at Wildhill. Paul had advertised the walk as 'one for the ladies', and it was good to see along quiet country lanes. There are three styles, and there are gentle slopes. One or two places half of the group made up in this way - including Sally Barker, wife of the President. The may be muddy at this time of year. Meet in the car park of The Woodman public house at \wildhill, temperature was minus 4 degrees as we began the first short climb, but we were rewarded by GR TL 263068 (postcode AL9 6EA) at 10.30 am. There is a hot and cold bar snack menu available glorious views in the sun, and frosted ploughed fields - much better than clay! Downhill followed, after the walk. And for the gentlemen apart from the lovely views? There are six different beers on with crisp woodland and field paths as we circumnavigated Camfield House, home of the late draught at this freehouse ! Barbara Cartland. No sign of anything pink, although Paul saw the house on his reconnaissance walk. The group kept well together, andtook great care on some of the slippery stiles. We were back to Trhe Woodman for 11.45, where the landlord had reserved a warm corner and we all enjoyed an excellent lunch, joined by Hedley Barker himself. Everyone was full of praise for Paul's organisation, and we all agreed that the walk could not have been better as a curtain-raiser for the year.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2008-12-03 Offley Francis Adams 3 The next walk will be on Wednesday December 3rd, starting at 10.00 from the Red Lion at Great The day of the walk, 3 December, was when there had been a sudden overnight freeze which Offley. The correct pub is at TL 146266, not the one at the crossroads, and it provides good food caused traffic chaos in the morning. As a consequence only three people, including the leader for walkers. Francis Adams, turned up at the starting point - the Red Lion in Great Offley. The weather was This is a simple circuit to the East of the village in the general direction of Hitchin. The distance is crisp and clear and there were good views on our way round the circuit. An occurrence not often not more than 4 ½ miles. The paths are good; there is one hill to ascend out of the valley before a seen was pheasant beating leading to what must have been hundreds of these birds taking flight level return to the start. Those members who joined me in a walk from Preston in March 2007 very near our party. At the end there was an excellent lunch in the oub. This was a walk which is to might recognise some of the route, though probably not – there was a thick mist on that day! be recommended should Francis ever repeat it. Many thanks to Francis for his organisation Otherwise the views in this area are excellent. 2008-10-08 Streams, Peter Greatrex This walk of about 6 km through undulating East Herts countryside will start from the White Lion Cancelled because of lack of interest Trackbed & R. pub, Wareside at 10.30. This is on the east side of the B1004 out of Ware towards Much Hadham., Rescheduled to 25/02/2009. Ash Grid Ref. TL395155. We take the Hertfordshire Way, crossing the River Ash and then walking along the old trackbed of the Buntingford branch railway. We climb out of the Ash Valley to Little Blakesware, before a delightful wooded section to reach the Nimney Bourne. There is some road walking and then a field path to take us back to the pub, where they serve an excellent lunch to suit everyone. There are no stiles, but several flights of steps as we climb in and out of the Bourne, and gentle up and downhills. 2008-09-03 Oaklands Joe Harrison 7 Our walk will be on Wednesday the 3rd September, starting at 10.30 am sharp. Meet at the "North Once again, 7 keen HELC followers assembled at car park on 3 September for this Star" in Oaklands which is 1 mile from the Clock roundabout, on the B197 going North. Our walk is walk – and once again the weather was very kind to us. The walk was a clockwise circuit of a circuit of Oaklands, part road but mainly in woods and across fields, crossing a number of stiles. Oaklands, which is sandwiched between the A1(M) and the East Coast Main Rail Line, and the first This area is surprisingly rural and scenic, and will give us a chance to see some of the problems for point of interest was at , where on one side of the road overbridge the line is future transport decisions. The walk covers a total distance of about 4.5 miles. The North Star quadruple, but on the other it is single (the Welwyn bottleneck starts here!). We then entered a serves a good selection of bar meals, to those with a healthy appetite. beautiful woodland path running parallel to the railway, from which we saw the mouth of Woolmer Green tunnel. Then we turned west across rolling Hertfordshire farmland, before reaching the A1(M) at The Clock Roundabout: there were plentiful blackberries along the way. Passing under the Motorway, we headed north along what was the old A1 in years past, with its evidence of cat’s eyes, before entering undulating grassland again parallel to the A1(M). Finally, we re-crossed the A1(M) – noting that it had narrowed from 3 lanes to 2, so causing serious traffic problems in rush-hour – and then there was a last woodland path through old sand and gravel workings now overgrown to return to our starting point. We had taken 2 hours and 20 minutes at a leisurely pace, and we were all grateful to Joe Harrison for leading a varied ramble. 2008-08-13 Herts Lakes Frank Taylor 7 Meet in the car park of the Crooked Billet pub in (OS Landranger, sheet 166 GR There were seven stalwarts for this walk, turning out despite indifferent weather. In fact it looked 202060) at 10.30 am. About 6 km (3.5 miles). like it would rain on us from the start, but luckily this was just a warning - and in fact we Our circular and level walk takes us through to the fishing lakes where once in pre-history the old completed the walk without getting seriously wet. Frank Taylor led us westwards from 'The River Thames flowed but where now only the tiny river Colne makes its way. The bounty from the Crooked Billet', and our first point of interest was the North London Model Railway site, which we history of Old Father Thames has been dug out to build many new houses and perhaps the M25 noted (for the benefit of grandchildren) was open on Sunday afternoons. We were soon in sand not far away. The lakes that were left have been stocked with fish and provide sport for the and gravel extraction country, and we paused to look at the belt carrying the material to the district's anglers. We well pass the entrance to Bowmans Farm, with its shop and animals for separatind and crushing plant - at a fair rate. The lakes were next, with herons, geese and a children before returning to the start and lunch. complement of fishermen braving the inclement conditions. As we approached Willows Farm (childrens' activity centre) Frank suggested an innovation on our walks - morning coffee - so we duly took a break in the Farm Café, before making the return trip with the wind behind us! This took us on the other side of the lakes, and then we retraced some of our steps to return to the pub about 12.30. Six of us enjoyed an excellent lunch there, before we each wended our separate ways home. This was an excellent level walk, and Frank was thanked by everyone for his efforts.

2008-07-16 Bayford Wood John Mose 9 Meet in the car park behind 'The Five Horseshoes', Little Berkhampstead, OS map ref 292078. The The Summer so far had been variable, but 5 gentlemen and four ladies met at the Five route takes us via Epping Green, Buck's Alley and Baygord Wood. The distance is about 7 km over Horseshoes, Little Berkhampstead - and all 5 gents wore shorts! Perhaps they had been influenced rolling countryside. There are some styles and the ground is fairly good going. by the warmth of the previous day, but although it was pleasant, the best that could be said was 'good for walking'! The circuit took in all the best Hertfordshire countryside - meadows, woods, ups and downs, with a few stiles for good measure, and John and Wendy Mose were completely familiar with the route. We returned to the Five Horseshoes at exactly 12, and were then able to enjoy a delicious 2-course lunch for £6 each. Everyone was most grateful to John and Wendy for organising such a successful outing.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2008-06-10 Herts Lake Frank Taylor 15 Re-scheduled to 20080812 District 2008-05-29 Straw Plaiters Ian Williamson 13 If you started this walk in Pirton in the 19th Century, you would have noticed that many of the After a dismal Wednesday, we wondered what might be in store weaher-wise on Thursday 29 Walk women sitting at their cottage doors, or walking round the village, were plaiting straw for the May, but for once luck was with us, as 13 members and guests of the club met at the Motte and Luton hat trade. There are no straw plaiters left, but Pirton is still a working village, and it is rich Bailey pub. Ian had lunch organised, and we all selected our meals before setting off soon after with reminders of the past. 10.30. Ian took us south-westwards along the Ickniel Way Path, gradually rising until we were treated to magnificent views northwards towards Shefford. Further undulations took us past an Meet at The Motte and Bailey, 1 Great Green, Pirton, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 3QD (OS GR TL unusual sught; some of us thought it might be a modern sewage plant, but in fact it was a horse 145315) at 10:30am on Thursday 22 May 2008 - we have permission to park there. This is a fairly treadmill used for training ! The return was largely downhill and took us past High Down House, easy 6km (3.5 mile) walk through open rolling farmland, with no stiles, ending in a fine pub serving nestling in the Chiltern ridge, and a Cavalier stronghold in the Civil War. Finally, we visited the a wide range of food and drink. Non-walkers are welcome to join us for a pub lunch at The Motte motte and bailey in Pirton, before regaining te pub of the same name, where the whole group and Bailey. took lunch and wel-deserved drinks. Frank Taylor proposed a vote of thanks for Ian, which was wholeheartedly supported by everyone. 2008-04-10 Little Phil Escritt 11 Meet in the pub car park of The Bridgewater Arms, Little Gaddesden, HP4 1PD (Explorer 181 or On Thursday 10 April, eleven people assembled in the car park of the Bridgewater Arms in Little Gaddesden Landranger 165), GR TL 993137, at 10.30am on Thursday 10 April 2008. The walk will be 4.5 miles, Gaddesden. The weather was fine and we had every expectation of glorious views and we set off with a stroll down Golden Valley, through Ashridge Park, round Ashridge College and returning to southward down Golden Valley which is often used as a film set before turning up the hill behind the Pub where there is good food. There will be a steady climb of some half a mile. Ashridge College. As we climbed we were rewarded with long views to the south east. At the Meet in the pub car park of The Bridgewater Arms, Little Gaddesden, HP4 1PD (Explorer 181 or top we turned northward into the woodland, where there was a strong feeling of spring in the air Landranger 165), GR TL 993137, at 10.30am on Thursday 10 April 2008. The walk will be 4.5 miles, with many of the trees showing the first signs of green. At one point our intended route was with a stroll down Golden Valley, through Ashridge Park, round Ashridge College and returning to blocked by a very large fallen tree so we made a diversion which led us very close to a large herd of the Pub where there is good food. There will be a steady climb of some half a mile. grazing deer. Further on we chose discretion rather than valour by leaving the official right of way to avoid crossing an active golf driving range. In spite of all these rural hazards, the entire party returned safely to the Bridgewater Arms where we all enjoyed our well earned lunches.

2008-03-05 Thundridge and Peter Greatrex 19 This walk is a shorter version of the one undertaken in September 2007, and will start from the This time we did have a beautiful sunny morning for our walk, and by 10.30, 19 people had Hanbury Manor Sow and Pigs public house, TL357 168, near to the entrance to the Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel. assembled at the “Sow and Pigs”, and we had ascertained what the Soup of the Day was. Mick at This road was the A10, but is now by-passed, so please check your maps. We stroll down past the pub was grateful for our orders, which were placed before we set off. Our first stop was Thundridge Church, and across grass and fields to the River Rib. Then we continue along the river Thundridge Church, which looked at its best in the sun. From there we strolled down to the River to Thundridge itself, where we walk up through the village, and then across Hanbury Golf Course, Rib, where much fun ensued from the “30” speed limit sign immediately before a gate! We spent with lovely views. Then we climb the slope end the walk via Hanbury Manor, where we can take a time studying the architecture in Thundridge village, before the walk under the ridge and across longer look at the Gardens. Hanbury Manor Golf Course, with its views of the Rib Valley. Finally, we were able to take a leisurely journey around Hanbury Manor and its gardens, and everyone had a copy of the history This outing is no more than 3 miles, with one easy stile, and the final uphill may be taken gently. of the location as researched by Whitbread’s archivist. We arrived back at the pub by 12.30, There will be an excellent lunch awaiting us at the Sow and Pigs when we finish. where the team served us in a most efficient manner with a delicious lunch. 2008-02-14 Furneaux Ian Williamson 20 Meet in the pub car park of The Brewery Tap, Barleycroft End, , SG9 0LL (OS GR: TL The few days of sunny spring-like weather enticed 20 people to meet at the Brewery Tap at Pelham 435276) at 10:30am on Thursday 14 February 2008 - we have permission to park there. This is a Furneux Pelham for this walk – probably a record number! Unfortunately, the sun did not shine – fairly easy 5km (3 mile) walk through a peaceful village and farmland in a remote part of it was cloudy and cold, with the temperature at 2 degrees Celsius as we set out confidently behind Hertfordshire, ending in a fine Victorian pub at Barleycroft End serving a wide range of food and Ian Williamson. A short spell of road walking was necessary at the start, but this took us past the drink. Non-walkers are welcome to join us for a pub lunch at The Brewery Tap at around 12:30- church with its unusual inscription around the clock: “Time Flies – Mind Your Business”. Time 1:00 pm. didn’t fly for the clock, though, which was firmly set at 6.10! We also passed the village sign, which chooses to spell the first part of the name “Furneaux”! We were soon into countryside, with a thick patch of mud to start, but afterwards into open fields, where the group kept well together. We followed an anti-clockwise circuit to the west of the village, eventually reaching the curiously-named “Patient End”… Is this a reference to an unfortunate GP’s practice? The Brewery Tap was regained soon after 12, where the staff – all dressed for Valentine’s Day - did an excellent job to produce 20 pre-ordered lunches promptly. We were all very grateful to Ian for his organisation of a most enjoyable and varied walk.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2008-01-24 Gaddesden Row Ian Williamson 12 Meet at 10:30am at The Old Chequers, Gaddesden Row, HP2 6HH (OS GR TL 057123) for a five mile Despite a depressing weather forecast, a group of 12 members and partners met on 24 January walk (mainly on the level), with a possible stop for refreshments at The Crown & Sceptre, Briden's 2008 at The Old Chequers on Gaddesden Row. The weather stayed cloudy, but with a cold wind. Camp. Non-walkers are welcome to join us for a pub lunch at The Old Chequers Initially we headed northeast towards Upper Wood Farm, where we turned left along a track that at around 12:30-1:00 pm. had been churned up by horses and was fairly muddy. We crossed Gaddesden Row again at the The Old Chequers is very popular, so we need to reserve places to ensure that we can sit together. primary school and headed southwest past the , through the edge of Marsh The pub will reserve tables for us, but obviously I need to know the numbers a few days before Wood. When we came out of Marsh Wood there were lovely views in the the walk. direction, before going down hill and then back up again to (the only bit of hill climbing on the walk). From there we crossed the fields and along the road to Briden‘s Camp, turning left past The Crown & Sceptre, and back on the last mile to The Old Chequers, for a well earned drink and delicious pub lunch.` 2007-12-11 Les Hands 6 Meet at the Woodman pub, Wormley West End (grid reference 337060 Landranger sheet 166) at We may have created an all time record today since only six stalwarts turned up for Les Hands Woods 1030 am on Tuesday 11th December for a short winter walk of just over 3 miles. The walk is walk on a bright, cold and sunny morning. Surprisingly, we had a lot of mishaps before the walk mostlyalong peaceful bridleways and, to quote my guide book "this walk samples the marvellous started. Frank Taylor was following Les Hands to find a suitable parking spot but got separated expanse of countryside occupied by Broxbourne Woods" and they both had to make their own ways to the Woodman Pub which was the starting point. John Prior had to turn back due to congestion on the M25 and I left my boots behind and had to return home to get them! All that as it may, we got underway at 10:45 and set off through Bencroft Wood, past Ettridge Farm and on through Broxbourne Wood. Although delightfully sunny there was still a frost on the ground where there were shadows. We continued along a well marked path and back via a group of friendly curious horses. Frank had to rush off but the rest of us had a convivial meal in the Woodman Pub. We all congratulated Les for organising a pleasant walk and arranging the right sort of weather. 2007-11-13 Burnham Green F&M Taylor 11 Our walk for Tuesday, November 13th is a short one of around 3 miles and is based on the White It was a grey morning as the 11 stalwart walkers gathered at the White Horse pub. There were 8 Horse pub at Burnham Green near Welwyn. You will find it on OS Landranger sheet 166 Luton, gentlemen and 3 ladies as we set off promptly. We soon met our first obstacle – a slippery stile, Hertford and surrounding area, grid reference 262166. It's almost all on field paths with a little up which caused some consternation, but after this it was a gentle downhill track over open country and down to the terrain. Stout footwear will be needed if the weather has been wet. Meet at the with a panorama of Welwyn Garden City in front. We then turned east and faced a short climb to White Horse at 10.30 a.m. gain the ridge, with its stand of trees. There was work going on, and we were all intrigued to see a notice proclaiming “Euroforest” – is this another incursion of Europe into Hertfordshire? Wilf Dorward then pointed out a stored traction engine to us – Fred Dibnah would have been in his element – before we headed back north, skirting Tewin and some of the sumptuous properties there. We managed to avoid any serious rain, although we were tempted to put on waterproofs, and we arrived back at the pub by 12.20. Margaret Taylor had to depart for a Birthday celebration, but the remaining 10 sat cosily round a table for our lunch in the handsomely restored bar. Everyone agreed that it had been an excellent trip – and thanks to Frank Taylor for leading in his usual relaxed fashion.

2007-10-03 Kimpton East Joe Harrison Please meet at 10.00 am at the Kimpton Memorial Hall car park, grid ref TL 174183. A gentle We drove through “heavy drizzle” to meet at Kimpton Memorial Hall at 10.00 but as the group of 9 undulating route past the church and then past Hoo Park and Rye-End cottages to Kimpto Mill. gentlemen and 5 ladies set off, it had dried up, although the visibility was poor. We made our way Thence uphill to Abbotshay and return via Prior's Wood. About 4.5 miles, good rural views past Kimpton Church under the guidance of Joe Harrison, and soon met our first discussion point: followed by a pub lunch in the White Horse. a notice stating “Caution – Bull in Field”. A straw poll led to the majority deciding to “chance it”, and danger was avoided by giving the herd a wide berth! A gate proved to be another obstacle, but all climbed over without mishap. Next, we encountered a stylish bridge, apparently over nothing, but it was later established that it was the dry headwaters of the River Mimram. Following the valley southwards, the river soon filled, and we reached Kimpton Mill, where Whitwell watercress is nurtured. Then we had a steady climb up to Abbotshay, followed by a turn westwards to regain Kimpton. The walk had taken 2 hours and 20 minutes, but the best was yet to come! Joe led us along Kimpton High Street to the “White Horse”, where on Wednesday there is a “Diamond Diners” option: 2 course meal for £5, or 3 courses for £6.50. Everyone took advantage of this excellent offer (and the phone number of the pub is 01438 832307). The morning was most enjoyable, and our thanks go to Joe for his organization and leadership.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2007-09-04 Thundridge Peter Greatrex 7 This walk will start from the Sow and Pigs public house, TL357 168, near to the entrance to the Overnight on 3 September, the temperature dropped to 9 degrees, so we wondered what might Marriott Hanbury Manor Hotel. This road was the A10, but is now by-passed. We stroll down to be in store on the walk! However, it turned out to be largely sunny, and the three ladies and four the River Rib, past the ghostly abandoned Old Thundridge Church, before crossing the river and gentlemen set out expectantly at 10.25. We made our way into theRib Valley, and walked along to heading gently uphill to Youngsbury Estate. We pass the old house, and travel through parkland the disused Old Thundridge Church. Here we spent time looking for a particular gravestone down to the village of Wadesmill, which becomes Thundridge having re-crossed the river. We without success - it will be better by the winter, once the scrub has died down. Having crossed the walk up through the village, and then through Hanbury Golf Course, before climbing the slope to river on a pretty footbridge, we climbed gently up to Youngsbury, where we turned south-west to end the walk via Hanbury Manor Gardens. pass the house, and crossed parkland down to the village of Wadesmill. We re-crossed the river, After this walk of about 8 km, a friendly welcome awaits at the inn for a lunch. to enter Thundridge village, where the architecture was of interest on Ermine Street, the old There are no stiles, and the final uphill may be taken gently. Roman road. From there, we walked under the ridge (perhaps where Thundridge derives its name), and across Hanbury Golf Course, enjoying fine views. Then we attacked the ridge climb again to end up in Hanbury Manor, where we enjoyed the gardens and a visit chez Greatrex, as well as studying more memorials to old staff of Poles School, the predecessors of the Hotel. Finally, an excellent lunch was enjoyed by 6 of the group at the Sow and Pigs before we went our separate ways in the sun. 2007-08-12 The Ridgway Francis Adams Starting and finishing at The Valiant Trooper in Aldbury. The circular route of something over five No writeup was forthcoming for this walk. and Pitstone miles includes part of and (but not the Bridgewater Monument). The Hill paths are mostly over downland and through woods and, given fair weather the fine views from this walk are well worth the journey. The starting point is the car park at SP965122, which is probably about 40-50 minutes drive from, say, Welwyn. We should aim to start walking by 10:00 hours in order to be in good time for lunch. This is a deservedly popular area and the pub can be quite busy. 2007-07-03 Brickett Wood Paul Douglas 4 This walk will start at te Old Fox public house (GR TL 126003) Old School Lane, Bricket Wood, St Disappointingly no club members other than the leader went on this walk, although there were Albans AL2 3XU, at 10:30 and is 4.5 miles long, level, easy going, through woods, over open three guests. The forecast of very wet weather may have been the reason, but in the event there countryside and by water. The route can be found on Landranger 166 or Explorer 182 and 173. was no rain on this 4-1/2 mile walk and it was ideal for walking, but a little damp underfoot for the One note of caution, however: the food at the pub is not haute cuisine but the beers are good. time of year. Starting at The Old Fox we went through a wood, over open fields, past Munden House and across the River Colne to join the Ver-Colne Valley Walk for a short distance to the confluence of the Rivers Ver and Colne. We continued to Farm, along a short stretch of the Hertfordshire Way and through woods back to the start, where drinks and a pub meal were very welcome. 2007-06-12 North Mymms Frank Taylor Meet at The Woodman, public house TL229 043. Located South and West of the village of Welham No writeup was forthcoming for this walk. Green. Once we have crossed over the noisy A1(M) by a footbridge we are soon into the parkland. We pass the old and photogenic St Mary’s Church and continue through parkland and woods before swinging back to the motorway to cross over and back to our cars and lunch. Total distance around 4.9 miles 2007-05-08 Essenden Area Julian Usher- 7 Meet at 10.15 for 10.30 start. Starting from the Candlestick Pub, West End Lane, Essendon. OS Was it going to rain ? This was the question as the group of seven assembled at The Candlestick Smith Explorer map 182 GR TL 263083. Approaching Essendon on the B158, turn into West End Lane pub, West End, Essendon. We set off in wind and cloud, and were soon in the depths of leafy going past the Church and the pub is a further 0.8 miles on the left. If you intend staying for lunch, Hertfordshire's deciduous woodland. Julian led us over gently undulating paths past llamas (yes) please arrive by 10.15 to allow time for ordering before we set off at 10.30. and Barbara Cartland's home, and then the rain did begin. However, it was temporary, and within +E17The walk is about 4 miles long, across open farmland (some private), along tracks, through five minutes all the wet weather gear had to be removed; we even had some sun! We comtinued woods - almost no roads - but with some moderate slopes. onto Julian's land with good views, and via his front garden, back onto public roads and paths before reaching The Candlestick again in just over two hours, where ten of us enjoyed a convivial lunch after our 5-mile trek. Our thanks go to Julian for organisiuing an enjoyable and successful outing. 2007-04-16 Grand Union Ian Williamson 12 Meet at 10:30am on Monday 16 April, at The Three Horseshoes on the Grand Union Canal, Twelve HELC members, family and friends met in the Three Horseshoes on the Grand Union Canal, Canal Winkwell, Bourne End, HP1 2RZ. Please park in the pub car park close to the railway bridge, OS GR Winkwell for a very pleasant walk in fine weather. The walk set off towards Bovingdon, and got TL 026064, not close to the canal. The walk sets off towards Bovingdon, around the Little Hay Golf most of the uphill part of the walk out of the way in the first one and a half miles. We continued complex, then heads towards Berkhamsted, where it joins the Grand Union Canal and heads back around the Little Hay golf complex, with a stop at the Club House, where we were rewarded for towards The Three Horseshoes to a welcome pub lunch. The walk is 5 miles long the climb by a welcome cup of coffee. The walk continued through very pleasant countryside, but the view was slightly spoilt by poor visibility (a heat haze?). It headed towards Berkhampstead, where we joined the Grand Union Canal and headed back along the towpath trowards The Three Horseshoes to a very welcome pub lunch: some of us had our lunch out in the sun overlooking the canal. The walk was 5.2 miles long.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2007-03-28 Preston Francis Adams 8 month, on Wednesday 28th, by which time we can hope for some firmer, drier, ground under A keen group of 8 assembled at the “Red Lion” at Preston, after driving through thick fog! The foot! This will cover a little more than five miles of fairly open countryside, with gentle gradients temperature as we set off was 2 degrees, but, undaunted, Francis led us through some difficult and some good views northwards. Start and finish will be at the Red Lion in the village of Preston, open-field navigation in the conditions, but we were all quite sure that the sun would soon drive map reference TL 180247, which can easily be reached by turnings to the left when driving along away the fog to yield the excellent views promised. We first headed west, then north, descending the Codicote to Hitchin road. One reviewer of this pub wrote, "The Red Lion has been voted the scarp slope of the Chilterns, but seeing not a lot as the fog remained persistent. At least the CAMRA Hertfordshire Pub of the Year 2005. Up to 6 real ales … If you've never been, you've ground was firm, having been dried out by the recent fine weather. We passed a fine bluebell missed a treat." wood, that will be a picture in May. No improvement in the visibility occurred, but there was plenty of chatting between the group. The climb back up to the ridge proved to be good exercise, and we returned to our starting point at 12.45. Francis’s description of the “Red Lion” was spot on – 6 real ales to sample, and delicious pub grub on a reserved table for our party. We all expressed our thanks to Francis for the work he had put in to ensure a successful morning. As we set off for home, the sun came out to show some of the views we’d missed! 2007-02-05 Gorhambury Paul Douglas 8 We will start promptly at 10:00 from the car park of the Holly Bush pub in Potters Crouch, St No writeup was forthcoming for this walk. and Albans, near the junction of Potters Crouch Lane, Bedmond Lane, Appspond Lane and Ragged Hall Verulamium Lane, Explorer Map 182, GR 116052. We start at this time because the table reservations for lunch Round cannot be held after 12:30. The easy walk will be 5 miles and will be on country lanes, firm tracks and grassy footpaths, and should not be very muddy. Slopes are gentle and there are no stiles. The Holly Bush recently featured favourably in The Daily Telegraph both for its food and Fuller’s beers. If you are joining the walk, and for car parking and lunch reservation reasons, please telephone Paul Douglas on 01727 859040, or if on the morning, 07761 970594. 2007-01-11 Oaklands Circuit Joe Harrison Walk off those Christmas excesses with a gentle stroll round the leafy land of Oaklands. Meet at Anti-Clockwise 10.00 in the Heath Road car park (GR TL248184) on Thursday 11th January. We will wind our way through a tunnel under the A1(M) to eventually cross to the Clock Motel. After going back under the A1(M) we cross open rolling fields and woods before returning to Heath Road. About 8km in all. Refreshments available at the Robin Hood and Little John pub at Rabley Heath. The Holly Bush recently featured favourably in The Daily Telegraph both for its food and Fuller’s beers. If you are joining the walk, and for car parking and lunch reservation reasons, please telephone Paul Douglas on 01727 859040, or if on the morning, 07761 970594. 2006-12-05 Four Green Frank Taylor 8 This 4 mile gentle walk is based on the Cowper Arms pub in Letty Green, near Hertford and off the Eight determined walkers set off from the Cowper Arms in Letty Green in spite of a rather Ways A414 (GR 284112 on OS Landranger sheet 166, Luton, Hertford and surrounding area). Meetin the threatening weather forecast. It was, after all, early December and such weather can be pub car park at 10:30. Starting off with a mile of the Cole Green Way, thanks to Beeching, we are expected! The track of the old railway line was firm underfoot as we made our way in the soon in the depths of the countryside enjoying a mosaic of trees and shrubs. A quiet lane then direction of Hertford. Even before we climbed up to the small side road near Staines Green the brings us into Staines Green and then by a field path to Birch Green. Here we pick up what was first squally shower, that had been forecast, struck and we hurriedly pulled out our waterproofs. once the old Hertfor Road, now going nowhere for cars but taking us back via Cole Green Lane to Past the large greenhouses of Staines Green and by a field-path we arrived at Birch Green and our start and a lunch in a Brewers Fayre inn. then Labby Green. The shower was just a short one and soon we were dry again. Picking up the Old Hertford Road now without traffic we regained the old railway line and so back to our start in just less than two hours for a lunch in a pub heaving with early Christmas parties. 2006-11-07 Whitwell and Les Hands 18 Les Hands has agreed to organise the November Walk. At the time of publication details are not An unusually large number of 18 walkers met at The Bull Inn at Whitwell on a misty but dry the Mimram known. morning. We left going uphill for a short distance on The Hertfordshire Way, after which the going Valley was level.Our first stop was at the church at St Paul’s Walden with a memorial to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother in the churchyard. Unfortunately, the church itself was locked. The walk continued on varied terrain — enclosed footpaths, the edge of fields, open grassland and woods, very quiet most of the time considering the close proximity of Luton Airport. The last part was downhill back into Whitwell. Two and a half hours after leaving we returned to The Bull Inn where the pre-ordered lunch was taken and very much enjoyed.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2006-10-12 Bright Star Ian Williamson 10 The walk starts from The Bright Star, Peter's Green, near Luton, at 10:30. The OS GR is TL 143190 A much improved turnout of ten people set this walk off to a good start. After several days of (Landranger 166 or Explorer 182). The walk sets off towards Kimpton Grange, via Ansells End and heavy rain we were lucky to have perfect weather for our walk. The sun was shining and there was returns to The Bright Star via Bishey Wood and Great Plummers Farm. After approximately 4½ lots of blue sky. Ian's walk took us on a circular tour staerting and finishing at the Bright Star pub mile of walking you will be welcomed back at The Bright Star for a pub lunch at about 13:00. and going via Ansells End. After a leisurely lunch, anyone who is feeling really fit and/or enthusiastic can do another 3½ mile walk.

2006-09-06 Bedfordshire Wendy Mose 3 Meet at the Lilley Arms, West Street, Lilley, Bedfordshire, LU2 8LN at 10:00. The walk is planned to Unfortunately only 3 of us in addition to Julian Lewis, who planned the walk, went on this Plains and Hills cross the Bedfordshire Plains over to Warden and Galley's Hills and then back to Lilley. The map is delightful walk starting at the Lilley Arms. Explorer 193 or Landranger 199 and the grid reference for the pub is TL 118265. The total distance It was a beautiful day with bright sunshine and a gentle breeze and we walked mainly in the open of the walk is about six miles. across fields and up to the trig point on Warden Hill which is the highest place in Bedfordshire at a dizzy 195m! From there we could see in three directions – back to the lovely countryside we had walked through, across to Luton Airport or down over Luton itself. We then went down a slight dip and up to Galley Hill for another view, this time of the golf course which we later crossed. We walked sections of the Icknield Way, the Chiltern Way and John Bunyan’s Path en route and eventually back along tracks and bridle paths to Lilley for a well needed drink and lunch. 2006-08-03 Not the Paul Douglas 8 The walk starts from the car park of The Bell, Town Lane, Benington, Hertfordshire, SG2 7LA at On an overcast but warm day, eight of us set out from the picturesque village of Benington, near Snowdrop Trail 10:30 am. The Ordnance Survey GR is TL 301235. The walk will be on the Landranger 166 map Stevenage, for a 4½ mile walk. After opting for a route avoiding what some of the group with (alternatively on Exploreres 193 and 194 series) The length is 4 1/2 miles, mainly level, no styles good eyesight perceived as a bull, the walk continued mainly in the open and on the level, with and with some good views. Before we start the walk, we can choose our meal for lunch from the good views. menu, and for this reason please arrive at The Bell before the starting time for the walk. There was one moment of uncertainty by the leader about the route, which was caused by overgrowth on the path. However all was well and the walk finished, via the village duck pond, at The Bell, where the pre-ordered lunch was ready and another member who was not on the walk also joined. The meal was excellent and some thought the pub worthy of a further visit. 2006-07-05 Farmers Boy John Mose 8 John Mose is organising this walk. It will start at 10:00 am on 5th July outside The Farmer's Boy Despite the threats of lightning and flash flood, not to mention ambiguities over the published pub in , near Hertford, Herts (GR 323080). There is a large car park opposite the pub. date, eight enthusiastic members entrusted themselves to the leadership of John Mose and were For more details on the pub see http:/www.thefarmersboy.net/index.htm. The route will be kept well rewarded. This walk started from the Farmer’s Boy at Brickendon and took us through large flexible depending on the weather. tracts of woodland in the general direction of : the detailed twists and turns required a great deal of local knowledge which John, supported by Wendy, clearly had. Even so there were occasional pauses for considering alternatives which allowed for convivial talking in the ranks. On the journey we saw a range of desirable properties ranging from a luxurious development of a whole suite of farm buildings to a ‘Time Team’ visualisation of an 8th century moated dwelling where the moat still contained water, even in this climate. Conditions under foot were excellent, with many sections of the route paved with wooden walkways across interesting areas of wetland (in season). Rain held off until the afternoon, notwithstanding the humidity was considerable. Your reporter is not able to comment on the lunch fare, since farmer’s boys obviously have plenty of spare time and so do not require very rapid service. However, I am sure that it would have been worth the wait. Altogether a very enjoyable event. Thank you John and Wendy.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2006-06-01 Three Frank Taylor 11 Meet at The Cart and Horses at Commonwood at 10.30 am. Map: Landranger 166 'Luton, Hertford Eleven walkers met up at the Cart & Horses in Commonwood between Sarratt and . Commons Walk and surrounding area (GR 047005). Parking is available in the pub car park and in nearby lanes. This The M25 delayed our 10:30 start by ten minutes with traffic jams and cost us one walker who walk of 4 miles takes us through some interesting undulating Chilterns' countryside at its freshest joined us later for lunch after doing his own little walk.Our way took us first through mature and most beautiful time of the year. We will see on the way the Commons of Chipperfield, Sarratt woodland around Chipperfield Common with its pond encircled by ten of the twelve disciples. and Commonwood. For those wanting to spend longer over lunch at our starting point, a short cut The last two got toppled a few years back in the great storm. These woods have a number of is possible to reduce the distance to 3 miles.. sweet chestnut tree monsters alleged to be between 500 and 800 years old. How do you tell without cutting them down?A short pavement stretch followed past Chipperfield’s Village Green and some very expensive property. I once saw some bits of Midsomer Murders being filmed in this village near the church and old-fashioned tea rooms. It’s that sort of place with no commoners to be seen, just nice young ladies riding well groomed horses. However, we resisted the tea rooms and struck out again into woods and lovely undulating pastures to find ourselves on Sarratt Common eventually, with a number of very good .It was approaching noon by this time and so we kept going to return to our start and an excellent pub lunch. The weather had been kind to us with only a few minutes of a very light drizzle that few reckoned it worth putting on waterproofs. Let’s all wish for nice weather on our coming walks, just a few stiles and the 2006-05-11 The Cross Keys Ian Williamson 15 The walk starts from The Cross Keys, Gustard Wood, Wheathampstead, St Albans, Hertfordshire, Fifteensame good of us company. turned up at the car park of the Cross Keys pub on a very warm day to follow Ian AL4 8LA on Thursday 11 May 2006 at 10:30 a.m. Williamson around the Hertfordshire countryside.We set off eastwards along narrow pathways The walk skirts on the north side of Lamer Wood and Harepark Spring and heads north to Ayot alongside woods strewn with bluebells at their best/ The only blemish on the day was the large House and Abbotshay, then round Ayot House and south to Ayot St Lawrence. If the weather is number of large black flies that the warm weather had produced. The other unusual feature of the fine we may have a refreshment stop in the garden of the Brocket Arms, Ayot St Lawrence. The walk was le large number of stiles we had to negotiate some in less than a perfect state of repair. walk continues via Lamer House, and we return to The Cross Keys for a pleasant lunch. The walk is We passed sheep grazing and well groomed horses in their fields. We stopped to admire a not strenuous and should last about 2 hours. beautifully kept property which wasAbbotshey Farm although their guard dogs weren't too pleased. Then on past The Manor House. We had then reached Ayot St Lawrence where we took refreshment in the gardens of The Brocket Arms. When we resumed, we walked past Shaw's Corner and back yo Gustard Wood where most of us had our lunch served in the garden of the Cros Keys pub.

2006-04-05 The Pits Paul Douglas 13 This walk is in the Colney Heath area, starting from the car park behind the Crooked Billet public Thirteen of us turned up for this walk on an unbelievably sunny day. The variety of objects of house, 88 High street, Colney Heath, AL4 0NP at 10:00 am, GR TL 202060. The walk is 4 1/2 miles interest were the major feature of this walk. We had a river, huge earthworks, quarrying, long, over heathland, across fields and by water, and many different sorts of birds may be seen on overhead power lines, miles of conveyor belt carrying sand, a bouncy castle, a farmyard and large the day. The going is mainly level, but it could be muddy if there has been rain. There are two lakes with many birds. syles. A delightful 4 1/2 mile walk followed by a welcome meal at The Crooked Billet to round it off.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2006-03-07 Our Wet-March- Julian Usher- 13 Meet up with Julian Usher-Smith at 10:30 in Little Berkhampstead at the entrance to St Andrew's Thirteen hardy souls gathered by the church at 10.30 am in Little Berkhampstead for the Club's Walk Smith Church, next to the Five Horseshoes pub and opposite the Village Shop GR 2920079 (map OS monthly walk to be led by Chairman Julian. It had started to drizzle as we set off just before the Explorer 182). The route will be somewhat dependent on the conditions of the day, but will weather lady had said it would with the milder damper Atlantic air meeting the cold Continental probably go over towards Howe Green with a loop back to the pub for lunch. air. The watery battle between the two weather systems continued as we walked over the golf course helping a golfer on our way with a lost ball. It remained lost even if we weren’t. It's a golf course I usually associate with the Japanese owners but the Banzai boys were nowhere to be seen. More sense than some. We came back past a lot of frantic excavations for sand and gravel in Bedwell Park Avenue - much less grandtan it sounds. Lunch after the rain and our exeretions of around 4 miles was most welcome back at our start in the Five Horseshoes. My thanks go to everyone for their cheerful company throughout and particularly to Julian for leading. Frank Taylor

2006-02-09 River Lea Rural Joe Harrison 14 Walk off those Christmas kilos. Meet at The Waggoners car park, off Digswell Hill, GR TL222138 at Fourteen of us met up outside The Waggoners just off Digswell Hill, at 10:00 a.m, We had wall-to- Ramble 10:00 a.m, on Thursday the 9th of February. wall blue skies although it was very cold. A gentle scenic circuit over Brocket Park and along the River Lea towards Wheathampstead, Joe Harrison set us off at a brisk pace across the golf course at Brocket Hall with all of us waiting before returning via Fish Wood and the ‘Ayot Greenway’ to Ayot Green. Overall distance about dutifully for the golfers to complete their strokes before we crossed the greens. The going was 8kms; some mud so be prepared! relatively dry and everybody was amazed how wonderful the weather was for the month of Refreshments available at the Red Lion at a reasonable price. Please advise Joe Harrison on 01438 February. Most of us completed the walk in the usual manner with a pub lunch, this time at the 715283 if you can come. Red Lion. 2006-01-28 Kings Cross and Vernon Clough We will meet at 11.00 at “The Meeting Place” statue at St Pancras station. This will be a guided No writeup was forthcoming for this walk. St Pancras walk led by Diane Bernstein, a recommended Blue Badge Guide. Please make your own way to St Pancras Station. The timing should permit the use of off-peak travel arrangements. The walk will commence promptly at 11.00 am. Explore the newly renovated St Pancras and Kings Cross stations and unlock the secrets to the surrounding area’s history on a guided tour. Once London’s most notorious red light district this area has started to undergo a transformation. Two Victorian railway stations, the gothic splendour of the old Midland Grand Hotel, the industrial buildings, regeneration projects, a German gymnasium, film locations, a canalside walkway and literary connections all feature in this tour ending at a pub – “The Parcel Yard” - in an old station’s parcels office. You may see this at www.parcelyard.co.uk The walk will be of approximately 2 hours duration and proceed, within reason, regardless of the weather.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2005-11-08 Standon Walk Frank Taylor 15 Getting There: Take the A10 and turn on to the A120 signposted Bishops Stortford. Turn right With the weather forecast promising a nice day, some 15 members and wives assembled at The into the Standon High Street after about a half mile. Star just off the High Street. The view across the Rib Valley at this point was intriguing with 3 Meet at 10:30 at The Star in the High Street (GR 396223). Parking in the pub car park or in the Llamas of different colours sharing a field with a most unconcerned donkey. We set off and in just wide High Street. a few yards turned into Papermill Lane by a most attractive half timbered house reputedly once a Uncomplicated and very nearly level, this walk follows the lovely river Rib through pastures Hospice for the Knights of St John. On the small triangular Green was a large vertically mounted towards and beyond The Lordship. This is a manor house with 16th Century origins. The walk Puddingstone with a plinth explaining its origin. The lane soon took us to a house of the same swings in a loop here before crossing the river and then following the route of the long-gone name, which had obviously once been a mill. Apparently fine paper for the printing of bibles was Ware, Hadham and Buntingford railway back to our start. In all around 41/2 miles. once made in Standon.Crossing over the footbridge by the house we climbed up the surfaced path to meet a lane that eventually turned into the downhill access to Standon Lordship. This is a manor house with 16th Century origins right on the river. We made a large circle around the house to view it again across the fields and the river from meadows as we headed back picking up the track of the long closed Ware to Buntingford railway approaching us from our right. We turned onto this track just off Papermill Lane to walk through to the A120 close to the High Street and our lunch at The Bell. This pub had recently changed ownership and we were very well looked after. 2005-10-11 The Kingfisher - Paul Douglas 15 Paul Douglas will lead a walk starting at 10:00 from the Woodhall Arms public house at Stapleford On a rather overcast morning 15 of us met at the Woodhall Arms at Stapleford, all hoping for Butterfly Walk on the A119 Hertford to Stevenage road, OS Landranger 166, GR 311-173. Park tidily in the pub some emerging sunshine for our walk. car park. Paul set a pace which suited us all. First to the church where the main door had been decorated The circular route has gentle slopes, two stiles and is about 41/2 miles through woods, near water, with flowers. Then onward through farmland and woods and up a gentle incline on a path and over open ground, with some lovely scenery. It should not be muddy, but the grass may be through a field of sprouting winter crops. This incline was warm work as the sun got the better of wet. the early haze and for the rest of the morning we enjoyed a perfect bright day. There was a brief It would be helpful if those wishing to go on this walk would contact Paul on 01727 859040. stop near an abandoned orchard where some delicious apples were picked and sampled. The first correct complete answer to the riddle of the title of this walk (with certain exceptions) The latter part of our walk was through park land near to a very long straight drive leading to an will be treated to a drink with their lunch in the Woodhall Arms. ornate gate house and no doubt on to a country mansion which was out of our sight. Then, along the river where we shared the colourful autumnal surroundings with grazing sheep and a family of swans. We arrived back at the pub to a generous lunch and refresh¬ments, which concluded a most enjoyable morning 2005-09-08 Little Ron Brown 7 Meet at 10:30 at the entrance to St Andrew's Church, next to the Five Horseshoes Pub and The weather was fine for walking as our party of seven met at St. Andrews Church for a leisurely 2 Berkhampstead opposite the Village Shop GR292079 (map OS Explorer 182) for a gentle stroll around the Little mile stroll. Julian had arranged for us to view the inside of the Church with its attractive stained Berkhamsted / Epping Green area. Walk through undulating landscapes with fine views and glass windows and its unusual electro-mechanical clock which generated great interest among the snatches of woodland. Lunch available at the Five Horseshoes or nearby Beehive Pubs. group. The walk started down a pleasant lane which led to a country path known as Chain Walk giving views of the attractive countryside and the distant farmhouses. Passing through several fields we came to a water tower and two very tall communication towers. All agreed that the maintenance of the satellite dishes would need a very good head for heights! We resisted the lure of The Beehive pub as we progressed to a field where we were joined by two over-friendly horses who escorted us to the far side of their field. Climbing a stile and continuing on we found banks of blackberry bushes laden with ripe fruit which we all sampled. A short walk led us to the Five Horseshoes pub adjacent to the Church from where we started. A very enjoyable stroll through lovely countryside which gave us the appetite for an excellent lunch at The Beehive. 2005-08-10 The Valiant Francis Adams 7 The club walk in August will take place on Wednesday 10th, starting and finishing at The Valiant Despite a conflict of attractions arranged by the club, a Magnificent Seven started the walk from Trooper Trooper in Aldbury. The circular route of something over five miles includes part of the Ridgeway Aldbury on a fine morning in August. We all enjoyed varied walking in some outstanding Chilterns and Pitstone Hill (but not the Bridgewater Monument). The paths are mostly over downland and downland scenery. Such was the verve shown by the group that a circuit of nearly six miles with through woods and, given fair weather the fine views from this walk are well worth the journey. two moderately demanding climbs seemed to disappear under our feet with very little effort; a The starting point is the car park at SP965122, which is probably about 40-50 minutes drive from, stop at the top of Pitstone Hill was included in order to appreciate the Northern vista from this say, Welwyn. We should aim to start walking by 10:00 hours in order to be in good time for lunch. viewpoint. We lunched at The Valiant Trooper where the staff provided an excellent menu and an This is a deservedly popular area and the pub can be quite busy. exceptional standard of attention. Judging by the comments received this event (not only the lunch) was very much appreciated by those who t0ok part.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2005-07-06 Ayot St Joe Harrison 12 Meet at the Wyevale Garden Centre car park in Codicote, GR TL 215188 at 10:00 on Wdenesday 6 Thanks to the E-Mail reminder from John Middleton, a total of twelve members met for the July Lawrence July for a walk to the Mimram Valley, Kimpton Mill and Ayot St Lawrence before returning via walk which started from Codicote. The weather was kind; although overcast we did see the sun Codicote Bottom. Rfreshments are available at the Garden Centre or at The Bell in Codicote. plus a light shower on our circuit. The rolling Hertfordshire countryside was a delight when crossing open fields to descend to the River Mimram valley. From Kimpton Mill we climbed towards Ayot St. Lawrence and admired the outlook from Ayot Park before descending to Ayot Lodge. We then returned by road and a wooded path to the Garden Centre for refreshments. Whilst partaking of our lunch we learnt of the successful bid by London to host the 2012 Olympics, perhaps a fitting reward for our morning's exertions! 2005-06-25 Chess Valley Alan Jenkins As a bonus this month, Alan Jenkins invites you to join him on the annual Chess Valley walk he No writeup was forthcoming for this walk. Walk -Flower leads for another walking group based in St Albans. We commence the 6 mile hilly walk at 10:00 Festival & Fete hours. Park adjacent to Sarratt Church at Church End, OS 166, GR 039 984 on Saturday 25 June 2005. After the walk, the flower festival in the church is a delight and well worth a visit and lunch is available at the fete. 2005-06-07 Pilgrims' John Middleton 7 Park on the far side of the car park at The John Bunyan public house at Coleman Green, OS 166, GR I judge this walk to be the best of the year. Paul Douglas had organised perfect weather for the Progress 189 127 on Tuesday 7 June 2005 at 10:00 hours for a 41/2 mile walk having gentle slopes and walk and the seven of us set off from the John Bunyan pub at Coleman Green just after some good views. It will not be muddy unless there has been rain shortly before, so trainers 10:00.After a brief rest we continued back around the Estate, across the river and back to the John should be adequate footwear. Paul Douglas will lead this walk, and at the finish you have the Bunyan where we had a delightful lunch outside in the sun. option of drinking McMullens ale and eating pub food either inside or outside. We followed a footpath to the East examining the remains of John Bunyan’s cottage as we went and crossed the B653 into the grounds of Brocket Hall. We crossed the River Lea and climbed a gentle slope to be rewarded with a stunning view across the Estate. 2005-05-11 Bluebells Francis Adams 12 By this time it is hoped to see a good display of bluebells in woodland areas between St Pauls Wednesday May 11th turned out to be a fine day, ideal for a walk. A party of twelve gathered Walden and Preston. The distance on foot will be about five miles. promptly at 10 o’clock and we set off on a five mile route. This started from The Royal Oak on the Hitchin Road, and passed by the ruins of Minsden Chapel which was given a close inspection. The Web site description of ‘An atmosphere of intense gloom and despair indeed envelops the tiny ruins…, and the notable absence of any birds, despite thick woodland all around…’ was certainly not true today. The objective of seeing some bluebells was fulfilled by fine glades of blue in Hitch Wood, dappled in sunlight. Members seemed to agree that this was a spectacular setting. We continued through the parkland of the Stagenhoe Estate, which seems to have little recorded history other than that Sir Arthur Sullivan spent a summer here. It is now a Sue Ryder home. The walk turned back through the churchyard of St Pauls, Waldenbury, and descended across fields to rejoin th outward path, at this point passing a small nature reserve near which some Orange-tip Butterflies were to be seen. And so back to the pub, where a congenial lunch for all was served remarkably promptly. Altogether a very enjoyable morning walk, well attended, good company and taken at a comfortable pace. 2005-04-14 A wander round Frank Taylor 3 We will meet on Thursday, April 14th 2005 at 10.00 hours for this 51/2 mile stroll in the public car Just three of us braved April’s reputation for showers by meeting up at The Bull. There we found a Wheathampste park behind the The Bull in the centre of the village. much bigger group of walkers assembling who invited us to join them to go we know not where. ad Please bring boots as there could be a muddy 150 metre stretch. Wheathampstead was the Having fought off the take-over bid we set off towards Gustard Wood allowing ourselves to be original capital in this area for the Romans before they moved off to St Albans. It had been diverted past an excavation into what I believe was a Roman farmhouse settlement.. Passing the populated by a fierce warrior tribe called the Catuvellauni. Their earthworks, attacked by Julius Tin Pot in Gustard Wood with it’s links with the highway woman of Wicked Lady fame we took the Ceasar in 54BC, remain to this day as The Devils Dyke. Our walk takes us to the North via Gustard Kimpton Road for a short way before turning off right after the Rose & Crown. On then past Wood and in a big sweep through the edges of Lamer House, with its associations with Scott’s ill- Lamer House and its links through Capt.Oates of Scott’s ill-fated South Pole expedition and back fated South Pole expedition. Eventually we get back to our start via the grassy banks of the River via a long filled in tip of London’s rubbish to Wheathampstead. All in all about 5 miles plus. Lee. No we did not go into a pub until we had our lunch back at the start!

2005-03-09 Oaklands Joe Harrison 4 Oaklands Odessy No 2 will be held on Wednesday 9th March when Joe Harrison will lead the walk. Four intrepid members met on a day much better than forecast for a circuit from Oaklands to Odyssee 2 Meet at 10:00 a.m. in the North Star pub car park (grid ref:erence-246176 on OS Map 166) for an 8 Burnham Green through Harmergreen Woods. Turning South we headed towards Tewin Water km walk to Burnham Green, Digswell and back. Great views over the Mimram valley. Lunch can and Digswell viaduct before returning cross-country to the North Star at our start. be purchased after the walk at the North Star.

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2005-02-10 Ayot Green Frank Taylor 4 Meet up at 10.00 a. m. in the Cul-de Sac Road called Brick Wall Close, in Ayot Green, post code AL6 Despite unpleasant drizzle, three hard core walkers joined Frank Taylor at our start The 9AA. Park at the far end. This was once the old A1 before the new A1(M) was built. However our Waggoners at Ayot Green. As we set off, the drizzle stopping rewarded our resolution. Our route pub The Waggoners has remained to refresh people in the know as a Pub/Restaurant under down the road soon picked up the old railway track closed by Beeching that is now a favourite French management. It serves a fine pint of London Pride. Our walk of about 4½ miles takes us with dog walkers and in some places by riders. It was possible to go round the worst of any ‘soft along the Ayot Green Way, the route of the old railway line from Welwyn Garden City to Luton via going’ on the old track bed. We soon found ourselves climbing up the steps to a grassy path that Wheathamstead. We will not be going that far but will drop down to meadows by the River Lea took us to the river Lee near the Wheathampsted by-pass. Here we meandered along gently and so on to enter Brocket Park by The Splash. We continue to follow the Lea before a short but reaching the road again at The Splash and entering Brocket Park. Continuing with the river to our steep climb up through woods by Brocket Hall to the surrounding golf course. After passing the right, we climbed a very steep wooded bank to enter the golf course and passing way over to our house now a hotel and Conference Centre we turn left in a climb, gentle at first but with a steep right, one of the best restaurants in England, according to my newspaper, Auberge du Lac with its finish to regain our starting place and enjoy a well earned drink. Michelin starred chef Monsieur Novelli. Its delights were too rich and too early for the company present and we continued through the golf course and back to our start. All in all I suppose our walk covered about 4 to 5 miles. We did however still find the French run pub provided a very good bar lunch as a reward for our efforts. 2005-01-01 Sarratt Alan Jenkins 3 Alan Jenkins is organising a walk on January 1st 2005 starting at 10:00 a.m. from the Cock Inn Just three of us, Tony Anderson, Keith Hamilton and myself, traversed the Chess Valley during this opposite the Church of the Holy Cross at Church End near Sarratt (Explorer Map 172, GR 039 984). walk. The walk will be centred on Sarratt and follow a figure of eight. The first leg measures 4 miles and We completed the four mile morning walk in 2½ hours but did not attempt the afternoon loop as will be walked in the morning and an optional 3 mile leg in the afternoon completes the figure of the weather forecast was for heavy rain and high winds which was delivered as promised. eight. I lead this walk twice yearly and the next walk will be on Saturday 25th June. This date coincides HELC Members are invited to do the whole 7 miles or just the first 4 mile leg. There may be with the Flower Festival at the Church of the Holy Cross Sarratt. The event lasts all weekend and a people from other Clubs on the walk. fête in the churchyard provides interest with large tents housing refreshments, arts and crafts stalls and bookstalls selling mostly John Le Carré’s books. Earlier this month, the Channel 4 Time Team started a new series and the first programme was entitled The House That’s Back to Front and explored the history of Chenies Manor. We passed this Manor on our walk outward towards Latimer and on the return journey towards Sarratt.

2004-11-25 Old Knebworth Paul Douglas 4 Paul Douglas is organising another walk on Thursday 25 November at 10.00 a.m. starting from the Paul Douglas had injured his foot whilst on holiday in South America and was unable to conduct Old Knebworth Lytton Arms pub car park [Explorer Map GR 229203]. There are no prizes for this walk. Fortunately Francis Adams offered to step in at the last moment and take the walk guessing where we will have lunch! The circular walk covers 5 miles. Could be muddy. The walk is which was a circular tour around and beyond Knebworth House grounds. mainly level and involves a few stiles, woods, open fields and Knebworth Park. Please contact Paul We were warned of the dangers of rutting deer but fortunately they had ‘done their thing’ last Douglas on 01727 859 040 if interested, without commitment, so that he can advise the pub of month and appeared very inactive as we passed by them! approximate numbers for car parking. There were only four of us on this walk because of last minute cancellations but the weather was kind and we all had a good meal at the Lytton Arms at the end of the 4.2 mile walk as measured on Francis’ GPS Navigator

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DATE Place Organiser Att'ce Detail Reports 2004-10-27 Tewin Francis Adams 9 Frank Adams is offering to lead the next walk from the ‘Rose & Crown’ at Tewin (grid reference TL Nine intrepid walkers braved the recent atrocious weather forecasts and were rewarded with a 272148) which has the necessary large car park and catering capacity. The route he has planned is morning of very pleasant conditions, the rain and gales holding off until the afternoon. We about 4.9 miles long with quite gentle gradients, partly wooded and partly open. Hopefully mud covered a circular route of about five miles to the East of Tewin, passing Tewin Wood, Bramfield will not be too much of a problem. Park Wood, the estate and the delightfully situated St Peters church, which was open The walk will take place on Wednesday October 27th. starting at 10:00 a.m. to visitors. The history of this church is worth reading on its website. Hertfordshire Mud was generally expected to be a problem, even to the extent that a pair of gaiters were seen to be worn. In fact ground conditions were kind to us, perhaps with the exception of a few hundred yards in Bramfield woods. No other walkers appeared on the entire journey. Our members showed particular interest in a collection of venerable cars apparently being refurbished in a farm yard and also in the perfectly preserved example of a ha-ha at Marden Hill. At the end of the walk we were well provided with generous quantities of food at the Rose & Crown served at a table which they had reserved for the whole party; they deserve a recommendation. Altogether an enjoyable event. 2004-09-14 Ramble round Joe Harrison 7 Take a ‘Ramble Around Oaklands’ at Welwyn. A gentle 5 mile stroll around the boundaries of this On Tuesday 14th September, seven HELC walkers met in the Heath Road car park, which is on the Oaklands leafy area, with a little history of transport past and future, is promised by Joe Harrison. Meet at boundary between Oaklands and Woolmer Green. In spite of a pessimistic forecast, the weather 10.00 a.m. on Tuesday 14th September at the Heath Road car park. Turn left off the B197 going was kind although just a little blustery . We took a clockwise route to the B197 before following a North just before Woolmer Green. The car park has Grid reference of TL 248182 – see map below. bridlepath parallel to the rail line. The theme of the walk was transport old and new. We saw the Come equipped for the weather and with a flask for refreshment on the walk. Joe promises that bottle-neck on the main line North, a modern helicopter, a new communications mast and a we will end up near a Pub for more substantial refreshments! Victorian rubbish dump before reaching Robbery Bottom Lane with it’s connections with Dick A gentle 5 mile stroll around the boundaries of this leafy area, with a little history of transport Turpin.A pleasant amble around the periphery of Harmergreen Wood led us back to the rail line past and future, is promised by Joe Harrison. Meet at 10.00 a.m. on Tuesday 14th September at and the tunnels below, before crossing fields with wide vistas, which led to the A1(M). Going the Heath Road car park. Turn left off the B197 going North just before Woolmer Green. The car behind the Clock Motel took us on an old piece of the original A1, before crossing parkland, which park has Grid reference of TL 248182. eventually ended in a bridge on the Potters Heath Road over the motorway. A diversionary path Come equipped for the weather and with a flask for refreshment on the walk. Joe promises that through Mardley Heath enabled us to see some fungi and the heather, which is being encouraged we will end up near a Pub for more substantial refreshments! to re-populate the Heath. In all we walked 7.1 km in about two and a half-hours. We descended on the Robin Hood and Little John to celebrate our sense of achievement. 2004-08-05 Sandridge Frank Taylor 15 The next walk will be on Thursday, August 5th starting from Sandridge Village Hall at 10.00am. Fifteen members and wives met up at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 5th in the car park of the There is a good parking place on site for up to 30 cars. The circular walk will be between 4½ and 5 Village Hall at Sandridge. miles long and will finish with a Pub lunch close to the start. The weather was hot and fine as we set out, north-east, past stables and began to climb up a gravelly track. On gaining the top, wide views of open Hertfordshire countryside were our reward for the effort.

2004-06-08 Redbourn Paul Douglas 9 We will meet at 10:00 am in the public car park on Redbourn Common, near the cricket pavilion Paul Douglas’ first Group Walk activity got off to a good start on June 8th. Even though it was opposite the old school; see Explorer Map GR 103119. 30C, there was a nice breeze and all of the 9 participants thought it a very pleasant walk. The walk is over gently undulating terrain, with two stiles. Trainers or stout shoes should be The walk started from Redbourn Common and followed the local footpaths via Hammondsend adequate footwear, unless there has been a lot of rain. Don't forget to bring some water and we Farm and Redbournbury Mill where there was an ice cream stop, past Dolittle Mill and back to The will have at least one refreshment stop so that you can drink your beverage. Nobody will be left Chequers at Redbourn near the Common where everyone had a Pub Lunch. behind and I anticipate the 4.5 mile walk will take something over two hours. Near the end of the walk we will make our way to a pub which serves a variety of meals or snacks, or you can go straight to your car.

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