Hike in the Ayots: Explore Hertfordshire's Scenic Beauty. 16km - Grade 2/5

Embark on an hike in the stunning Ayots region of Hertfordshire. This hike offers a blend of natural beauty and historic charm, through villages, woodlands and open countryside.

Event Details:
Start: Welwyn Garden City
County: Hertfordshire
Length: 10 miles (16 km)
Ascent: 656 feet (200 meters)
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: Approximately 4 hours of walking time plus breaks
Accessible by Train: Yes
Date & Time: Meet: 9.30 am
Finish: Around 2.30/ 3.00 pm
Price: £12.50 per person - Plus meetup booking fee (OR Pay by CARD)

Why This Walk is Grade 2 - Moderate:
Distance: At 16 km (10 miles), this walk falls within the moderate range, suitable for those comfortable with longer distances.
Elevation: With a total ascent of 200 meters (656 feet), there are some hills along the route, but they are gentle and manageable.
Pace: We’ll maintain a medium pace, ensuring an enjoyable challenge without feeling rushed.
Terrain: The route includes forest trails, grassy paths, and some uneven ground, requiring a moderate level of fitness. This hike is ideal for those who want to push themselves a little further while still having time to appreciate the scenery and wildlife.

Event Overview:
This hike takes you through picturesque woodlands, grassy fields, and open countryside. You'll traverse ancient woodlands and rivers, passing by notable sites such as the Ayot St Lawrence and St Peter villages, and Shaws Corner, the former home of playwright George Bernard Shaw. The journey offers breathtaking views of the natural surroundings and opportunities to spot wildlife such as fallow and Muntjac deer, kites, pheasants, and yellowhammers. Enjoy the serene landscapes as you follow the trail through undulating countryside, fields, hedgerows, and charming rural settlements.

Meeting Point Location:
Outside Wenzels (in the howard centre)

Address:
Howardsgate, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6BB

Car park options:
Campus East Lower Car Park
Welwyn Garden City Station Car Park
Howard Centre Car Park.

Train Station:
Welwyn Garden City

What to Wear and Bring:
- Our walks go ahead in all weather, so dress appropriately. Always carry a waterproof jacket.
- Check the forecast and bring sun cream, a hat, or sunglasses for warm days, and waterproofs, a warm hat, and gloves for cold or wet days.
- Wear trousers or leggings to reduce the risk of tick bites and nettle stings. Avoid denim or cotton.
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots are essential. Open-toe shoes are unsuitable.
- Bring at least 1.5 litres of water, lunch, and snacks, as there may be no opportunities to buy food or drinks along the route.
- Public toilets may not be available on the route.

Sign-Up Form:
If you haven’t completed a form this year or your circumstances have changed, please fill out the sign up form before attending. Participation is not allowed without a completed form, as this ensures we understand your needs and can maintain group safety. (link can be found in Ts&Cs section of the website - or cut and paste below into your browser) Form link: [https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058 ](https://form.jotform.com/201554976381058)

Preparation and Fitness:
You are responsible for your own health and safety. Ensure you can hike continuously for the duration specified. Dress appropriately, please bring the required gear and carry any personal medications. Participants without proper equipment may be unable to join the walk.

Our Guides:
Our experienced, qualified leaders are skilled in navigation, first aid, and outdoor leadership. Each route is carefully planned to match the advertised grade, ensuring a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience. Additional Information: Dogs are not permitted on our walks. Adventure Women UK is an all-female activity group, and participants must be over 18.

Walk Grades: For details on walk difficulty levels, visit the Walk Grades Section at[ https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1](https://adventurewomen.co.uk/walk-grades-1)

Important Note: By RSVPing “Yes” to any event, you agree to the group’s terms and conditions. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs

Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including slips, trips, falls, drowning, exposure to extreme weather, equipment failure, and medical emergencies, which can result in serious injury or death. By participating, you voluntarily assume all such risks. For more details, visit: https://adventurewomen.co.uk/ts%26cs