There are facilities at Ashridge Estate including a caf and toilets. There is a reasonably sized car park at Verulamium but this can get really busy at the weekend. You can park on one of the streets around Knutsford and enjoy a good buggy . Refreshments: White Horse, Burnham Green, Hertfordshire, Essendon3 milesThis first walk is a nice short circular stroll on the public footpaths going around the Brickenden Golf course and the countryside beyond. Danemead Wood1 mileThis first route option is a lovely short family-friendly woodland stroll around the pretty Danemead Wood, part of the majestic Broxbourne Woods nature reserve in Hertfordshire. Flashpacking Family is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. .Most the the trails are flat and where there is uneven ground, there is usually some form of small bridge to level it out. Refreshments: The Greyhound Inn, Aldbury, Aldbury4.25 milesThis third route option is basically an extension of the first walk. The good news is, you're not alone - and while many groups can't meet indoors at the moment, buggy walking is safe and free and can start from your doorstep. Do you have any tips to add? You can park on the side of the road here or try the Hexton Road car park (SG5 3BP) which has space for about 4 cars. The village is also pleasant to walk through theres a path running alongside the river through a field known locally as the Lammas theres a small parking area on Mill Lane. These family walks in Hertfordshire are all free. Length: 4.6 mi Est. Super long stretches of promenade to walk along. In this article Ive put together a mix of places to walk in Hertfordshire woodland walks, river walks and circular walks in Hertfordshire. Getting to know local buggy friendly routes; Being out in fresh air, outdoors and amongst nature; . Refreshments: The Greyhound Inn, Aldbury, Aldbury3.5 milesThis second route option is the choice for you if you don't want to tackle the climb up into the Ashridge Estate. The walk climbs up a mild hill to the north of the village, takes you through the woodland of Park Wood, and then loops back round to descend back down into the village. After 10 years working in the travel industry selling and marketing holidays across the globe, I decided to set up the Smudged Postcard blog to share my knowledge of family travel. After about 750 metres, youll reach a larger farmhouse. You'll also enjoy lots of fresh air on this one, and the hills on the route will also offer some nice views and work up a bigger appetite for your visit to the village pub towards the end of the route. Stapleford2.25 milesWe don't normally feature linear 'there-and-back' routes, but this is such a pleasant little stroll that we thought it was a worthy walk to enjoy in both directions. Refreshments: The Fox & Duck, Buntingford The Black Bull, Buntingford The Jolly Sailors, Buntingford, Buntingford4.5 milesThis fourth route is a slight variation on the third walk that heads out into the countryside to the east of Buntingford. Discover the accessible route at Salcombe Hill. Finally, you'll also enjoy the quaint village of Aldbury itself, with it's fantastic pub that does get busy, so book ahead! You then climb steadily up to the top of Telegraph Hill where you'll enjoy some lovely views before heading back towards Lilley along the top of Lilley Hoo. If this is full, you can also park at Westminster Lodge on the other side of the park with the first 2 hours being free. 6. And the sculptures are more robust climbing on them is encouraged, our kids really enjoyed playing on them despite the rather dismal weather. There are also walking loops off the Nickey Line that take you to Rothampsted Park and Rothampsted Estate if you prefer more of a circular walk. As with the second route, it's quite a strenuous walk as this area of the Chiltern Hills involves a lot of climbing, but you'll be rewarded with some great views and a tremendous workout. This one heads west from the village and it's more of a simple open countryside walk with a long stretch heading out into the arable farmland there. There's a 1km circular route with very good paths or a 2km linear walk where the paths are a little 'earthier'. Jockey End5.75 milesThis fourth option is our longest, most varied and most strenuous walk from Jockey End. Looking for ways to get your kids outdoors? The play area is small but has a lovely 'natural' feel. This option doesn't visit the Henry Moore site like the second route, but it is a more varied adventure overall as is has a nice combination of woodland walking through Mill Wood, open countryside walking over Barrow Hill with nice views and waterside walking alongside the River Ash. There is also a den building area, a visors centre with treats and you can hire pond dipping kits. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. However, this extension offers a lot more hilly walking and rewards the extra effort with a lovely stretch of woodland walking in Hoo Wood, as well as some nice views at various points of the walk. Address - For the Strid Wood Walk it's best to park at the Riverside car park next to the river Wharfe and close to the Cavendish Pavilion. Here you'll find cultural and adventure travel ideas including road trips, beach breaks and family-friendly accommodation. Despite being close to London, there are plenty of beautiful rural spots in Hertfordshire. Frithsden Breeches5.5 milesThe third route option is basically an extension to the first walk for those of you that want to spend more time exploring this area of majestic woodlands. Should you click to purchase, I will make a small commission at no cost to you which goes towards the running of this blog. From the church, walk up the slope and turn right onto Church Lane. You can decide for yourself whether you want to allow cookies or not. The local nature reserve has an easy access circular walk of one km, whichstarts and ends at the car park. Verulamium is a great option if you are looking for Hertfordshire walks for families as there is so much to do here. Step Forth Buggy Walks began in Falkirk in 2009 when a few mums and their babies went on a 30-minute walk from a local health centre. There are various car parks next to the common, the walk can be started next to Hertford Lock. Pinterest. Theres a shop and caf and events are organised for families in school holidays. 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Refreshments: The Red Lion, Breachwood Green The Bright Star, Peter's Green, Breachwood Green7.5 milesThis final route option is an epic adventure in the lovely undulating Hertfordshire countryside to the north of the village of Breachwood Green. Walk: 2.4km wheelchair walk on Eastern reservoir. The station at Hertingfordbury is now a private residence any train loving child would love the idea of living in a former railway station! A stunning coastal stretch, Stackpole in Pembrokeshire offers beaches, wooded valleys and trails to explore as the whole family can enjoy discovering this rich and historic National Trust location in South West Wales. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi! September 11, 2022 ignition cable specification. Ashridge Estate is ideal if you are looking for family days out from London ideas. For more family friendly pub ideas, check out my post about pubs in Hertfordshire.Parking and transport: There is parking at the Nigel Poulton Community Centre (postcode SG14 3SF) or the High Street (check restrictions on weekdays), otherwise there is free parking at the train station (SG14 2RJ). Things to do in Hertfordshire with kids that we recommend, Your email address will not be published. Sefton Park. Waterford Heath0.75 milesThis first route is a short family-friendly stroll around the northern section of the wonderful Waterford Heath Nature Reserve in Hertfordshire. There are not a lot of surprises on this one as you will be mainly strolling around open arable farmland footpaths, but you will enjoy a dose of fresh air, peace, quiet and a lovely village pub towards the end of the route. The 8.6 km walk includes Woldingham School, Godstone Vineyards, sections of the North Downs Way trail and the Great Church Wood nature reserve. For family friendly bike ride ideas, check out my article about the best cycle routes for families across the UK. Buggy friendly walk (with the exception of the Hobbit Village which is built on a steep slope) Dog-friendly walk Chargeable car parking at Pollok House (G43 1AT). Many routes can be slippery and muddy after wet weather. RSPB Fairburn Ings is a nice day out for kids and a pram-friendly walk. After becoming Caretaker Co-Ordinator in 2009, a re-branding of GOC in 2016 triggered the . Here are a few more places to find easy Hertfordshire walks for families: The Ayot Greenway is a 3 mile track (former Welwyn Garden City Railway) running from Ayot St Peter to Wheathampstead which is great for walks or cycling too. This walk / cycle route has something for everyone great views of St Albans cathedral, a spot of retail therapy at the Galleria shopping centre and lots of history at Hatfield House. Langley2.25 milesWhile our longer walks from this location are more exciting and varied, this is still a nice option as a short open countryside stroll with some nice views as you walk down the hill towards the small village of Langley. Where to park: Watton high street, railway station (SG14 2RJ) or the community centre (SG14 3SF), Buggy friendly: mostly yes (you will need to lift the buggy through one muddy section if there has been rain), Toilets: public toilets at Water Lane car park. Ickleford1.5 milesThis first option is a nice short and simple pub walk in the Hertfordshire countryside around the village of Ickleford. If the car park is full, try the High Street or the train station. However, the extension also takes you further to the north through some pretty undulating countryside and visits the lovely village of Burnham Green where you'll find a wonderful pub for refreshments. Find out more about Barton Hills National Nature Reserve. This is one of the best parks in Hertfordshire if you fancy a decent stroll with the kids. Refreshments: The Cock Inn, Barnet, Much Hadham1.75 milesThis first route is a nice short stroll around the pretty village of Much Hadham. If you fancy a weekend away, Id recommend Hill Farm Campsite which is within walking distance of Wendover Woods. We have got to know our local area pretty well over the last year, trying out new family-friendly walks in Hertfordshire, and have discovered some real gems. Refreshments: The Greyhound Inn, Aldbury, Amwell Nature Reserve1.25 miles to 7.25 miles, Barley1 mileThis is a very short family-friendly pub walk around the pretty village of Barley, Hertfordshire. Bramfield Woods is located between the villages of Datchworth, Bramfield and Watton at Stone, each of which has an decent pub. As a bonus for your extra effort, there is also a lovely pub for a half way pit stop in the small village of Peter's Green. Refreshments: The Rose & Crown, Tewin, Tewin1.75 milesThe village of Tewin is spoilt for nice walks, and this second option is another short walk that explores the Hertfordshire countryside to the east of the village. })(document, 'script', '//aff.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js'); We participate in various affiliate marketing programs. (Please do not venture off the footpath on this section to protect the display!) Buggy friendly: some areas of the reserve are fine for buggies, the walk described above has some inaccessible areas. We also have a number of additional routes from Burnham Green on this app, so you can extend the walk from there further if you wish. We stopped to watch paddlers tackling the rapids at the White Water Centre there a caf here and plenty of outdoor places to sit. Refreshments: Lilley Arms, Lilley, Lilley4.75 milesThe residents of Lilley are very lucky to have so much lovely walking around them, and this fourth walk doesn't disappoint. Even on a dull day the views are pretty spectacular. Our family walks in Hertfordshire often take us through woodland areas because theres a lot of fun to be had on woodland walks with kids. Amberswood Common (Silver route), Wigan. Theres enough variety to keep reluctant kids engaged spring and summer offer impressive wild flower displays and theres brilliant paddling in the River Beane. The extra distance on this route takes you past the Frithsden Beeches and on an extra loop of walking around the woodlands of Berkhamstead Common. - from the Three Rivers District Council website, Rye Meads Nature Reserve - (RSPB) - "This delightful wetland reserve beside the River Lee is a firm favourite with walkers, birdwatchers and photographers thanks to its many trails and hides. " Barley 5.75 miles After about 1km, youll reach Watton at Stone Common on your right which is perfect for a picnic. Basically, it's a longer extension to the second route for those of you with the energy and time for a good workout walk. You can visit the Roman Museum, the Hypocast (Roman indoor heating system) and remains of the original Roman city walls. We love Hartham Common in Hertford. . There is a small free car park just off Thieves Lane (with a 2m height barrier). Find out more about the Lee Valley sculpture trail. The youngest member of our team had no trouble believing that these outlets were goblin towers, especially when the train drove through the tunnels sending haunting sounds and winds into the surrounding forest. Refreshments: The Black Horse, Brent Pelham, Buntingford2.25 milesThis first and shortest route option from Buntingford is a simple short stroll around the town itself and slightly out into the surrounding Hertfordshire countryside. Heartwood Forest is one of the best places for Hertfordshire walks for families. The woodland area is well managed by the Countryside Management Service and walking routes are all clearly signposted. One of the pockets of ancient woodland has an impressive display of bluebells and theres a great area for den building. Refreshments: The Bull Inn, Much Hadham, Hertfordshire, Much Hadham4.75 milesThis second longer route option is a lovely walking loop in the countryside to the south of Much Hadham. The circular walk from the car park takes visitors through woods to the open heath area and then on down to the river. Download Hertfordshire . Expect a nice peaceful 'off the beaten track' walk in the woods and some nice views. Refreshments: The Chequers, Barley, Barley5.75 milesThis second option is a much longer adventure for those of you that want to really stretch your legs. Parking is free, and unless you're going at peak times on a sunny day you'll get parked easily. Ashridge. You can walk along long lengths of it and in some areas it gets really shallow and is great for paddling on hot summer days. Ashton's Field, Salford. The extra distance offers a lot more open countryside walking along the peaceful Chiltern Way and the Hertfordshire Way, for plenty of fresh air and exercise. These websites 'Walks with Wheelchairs' and 'Walks with Buggies' seem to provide very useful maps, filtered by region. Top 10 buggy-friendly walks in Wiltshire so far 1. Jockey End4 milesThe third route option is a further extension to the first and second routes. These may include flowers like common spotted orchid and enchanter's nightshade, butterflies such as white admiral and silver-washed fritillary and birds including woodcock, nuthatch and great spotted woodpecker. You'll first climb up the steep path up into the Ashridge Estate where you'll enjoy the Monument before strolling around a section of the delightful woodlands on the estate. Now, theres a selection of walks through varying habitat woodlands and meadows lovely for wildflowers in early summer. The first half of the walk is primarily through open countryside and along the Chiltern Way footpath, until you reach the village of Belsize with it's lovely pub for a half way pitstop. Refreshments: The Boot, Dane End, Dane End8 milesThe final route option is basically the choice for you if you want a truly epic adventure and explore this whole area of lovely undulating countryside around Dane End. If you help out with opening and closing the lock, you may even get invited aboard! The tree sits on top of a slope and has exposed roots creating a magnificent natural climbing frame you can clamber over the roots or hide in the cave-like space beneath them. The walk is a simple loop with some open countryside, a bit of woodland walking, a visit to the pretty church at the start point and a nice pub for lunch towards the end of the walk. Llys y Fran Country Park. Apart from lovely walks and good trees for climbing, theres play equipment, Go Ape and a good caf. You'll still enjoy the church, Nickey Line and Redbourn Common, but about half way along the Nickey Line you'll leave the route for a big extra loop of glorious countryside walking - the highlight of this being the delightful Redbournbury Mill. Buggy friendly: yes but it is very muddy after rain. It is run by the Woodland Trust and at over 850 acres it is the largest uninterrupted woodland area in England making it one of the best Hertfordshire forest walks. If you walk to the Wheathampstead end on a weekend morning, you must make time for a truly delicious breakfast or brunch at the Willow Trees Caf at Croft Farm. All walks are free to download and print and all routes have GPS files. You can walk along stretches of it. There is a large lake fed by the River Ver which is abundant in bird life. Wherever you go, make sure to visit the Magical Wood complete with wood carvings of the woodland animals and a picnic area. The first half of the walk is a lovely peaceful walk through sweeping open countryside, and the second half is a nice stroll along a track that passes through the Park Woodlands. We have . The closest Gruffalo trail to Hertfordshire is the Wendover Woods Gruffalo Trail in Buckinghamshire. from the Bishop's Stortford Town Council website - "The way is flat, unfenced, has country gates but no stiles, and it may be muddy after and during wet weather. Stormont Estate Woodland Walk & Fitness Trail, Co. Antrim. You'll need a lot of energy and time to tackle this one, but you'll be rewarded with lopts of wonderful views and landscapes and as a massive bonus the route passes three welcoming pubs on the way around. This is a lovely walk exploring Sherrardspark Wood, a 75-hectares site of ancient woodland within walking distance of Welwyn Garden Station. Alexandra Park, Oldham. The Alban Way officially starts at Cottonmill Lane in St Albans and finishes at Wrestlers Bridge in Hatfield but there are numerous places to park along the way if you only want to follow a certain section of the trail. Langley4.5 milesThings get a lot more interesting on this third route option, if you have that extra time that you need. Refreshments: The Fox & Duck, Buntingford The Black Bull, Buntingford The Jolly Sailors, Buntingford, Buntingford10 milesThis final route is basically an epic adventure that fully explores the undulating Hertfordshire countryside surrounding the market town of Buntingford. The extension first takes you on an adventure through lovely open Hertfordshire countryside with great views before strolling you along a pretty stretch of the Grand Union Canal. Refreshments: The Bull, Cottered, Cottered3 milesThis second route option is another relatively short, but slightly more strenuous, countryside walk in the undulating arable farmland to the north of Cottered. Refreshments: The Spotted Dog, Flamsted The Swan, Markyate, Flaunden5 milesThis is a lovely circular pub walk around the countryside to the east of the village of Flaunden. Refreshments: The White Horse, Burnham Green, Burnham Green2.75 milesThis second route option is a longer walk in the countryside to the south of Burnham Green. Walking trails are suitable for all ages and abilities and some are pushchair and buggy friendly. This nature reserve is a mix of woodland, ponds and open meadowland. Refreshments: Goffs Oak, Waltham Cross. Hatfield Forest in just over the border in Essex. - from the Three Rivers District Council website, Cole Green Way - "The Cole Green Way runs from Hertford to Welwyn Garden City along the path of a former railway and caters for cyclists, horseriders and walkers.The path starts by Hertford Football Club and there are entrance and exit points at a number of points along the way. This woodland near Welwyn Garden City is a really fun place for families. Buggy Walks are health walks for parents and guardians and their babies. Seating available along paths. Do you have any favourite walks in Hertfordshire? As soon as you leave the village the walk starts heading on a long downhill walk towards Royston and you'll enjoy wonderful sweeping views as you walk. It is a pay and display and costs 1.70 for up to 3 hours. This has a firm surface and is suitable for families with buggies, wheelchair users and those less mobile." The woods are the most beautiful bluebell woods in Hertfordshire and provide some of the best woodland walks in Hertfordshire. All-ability trails - three accessible routes starting near the visitor centre. When our children were little, we used to just visit the woods next to the car park great for den building, bluebells and blackberry picking. Refreshments: Lilley Arms, Lilley, Lilley7.75 milesThis final route option is basically the ultimate epic adventure walk that fully explores this beautiful area of hilly Hertfordshire countryside. Sawtrees Woods4.25 milesThis second longer route is a lovely varied adventure in the Hertfordshire countryside surrounding Sawtrees Woods. We have a range of walks to suit all abilities and backgrounds. You still climb up into the beautiful Ashridge Estate, but this option takes you deeper into the majestic woodlands here and you'll enjoy a walk along the impressive Prince's Riding avenue of trees. Please note that if you reject them, you may not be able to use all the functionalities of the site. Walk Length: 5.6km. Manual push wheelchair for hire, free of charge, bookable in advance. Wareside3.75 milesThis is a lovely circular and relatively flat ramble in the countryside to the north east of the village of Wareside. There are no stiles or gates. Follow the wooden posts with the coloured marker bands and take in the stunning views along the way.