HIKE 20km Enchanting Churches, Stately Homes & Ancient Woods of Hertfordshire

Come along on an enchanting journey through Hertfordshire's historic heartland, where the Garden City Movement's pioneering ideas blend urban charm with natural beauty. This captivating hike takes us through ancient woodlands, past architectural treasures, and following the footsteps of literary giants.

Follow tree-lined boulevards that lead into centuries-old woodland paths, traverse the historic Ayot Greenway hiking along the route of a derelict Victorian railway line, and uncover hidden churchyards that whisper tales from medieval times. Along the way, stroll through the huge gardens of Brocket Hall Stately Home, delve into the legacy of playwright George Bernard Shaw, and trace the meandering chalk waters of the River Lea.

Join us and experience the area's fascinating transition from rural hamlets to pioneering urban planning, while marveling at stately homes that have hosted prime ministers and inspired countless artists and writers.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Briefly pass through Welwyn Garden City, a unique and pioneering example of urban planning and the Garden City Movement
• Walk through the serene oak and hornbeam ancient woodland of Sherrardspark Wood, a designated "Site of Special Scientific Interest".
• Spot diverse wildlife, from woodpeckers to butterflies, and fungi in Sherrardspark Wood
• Wander through Ayot Green, a quintessential and peaceful English hamlet with historic charm
• Pass by the haunting beautiful ruins of Old St Lawrence Church, steeped in 12th-century heritage
• Step into the life and works of legendary playwright George Bernard Shaw as we pass by his National Trust home - Shaw's Corner
• Admire the remnants of the Lamer Park Estate, tied to Antarctic explorer Apsley Cherry-Garrard
• Trace the route of the Ayot Greenway, a picturesque trail along a former Victorian railway line turned tranquil trail
• Walk alongside the tranquil River Lea, one of the UK's rare chalk streams
• Stroll past Brocket Hall, a neo-classical country estate and stately home with fascinating historical ties including Prime Ministers
• End the hike back in Welwyn Garden City, with its tree-lined boulevards and iconic neo-Georgian architecture

HIKE DESCRIPTION

Our journey begins in Welwyn Garden City, a town created in 1920 as a new model town and celebrated for its harmonious blend of nature and architecture. Founded as part of the revolutionary Garden City Movement, its tree-lined boulevards and neo-Georgian charm offer a perfect backdrop to the start of our adventure. From here, we step into Sherrardspark Wood, a haven of towering oaks and hornbeams. This ancient woodland teems with wildlife, from the drumming of woodpeckers to the flutter of speckled wood butterflies. Rich in fungi and history, this woodland whispers stories of its 4,000-year legacy.

Traversing the historic Ayot Greenway, we step into a world where nature has reclaimed an industrial past. The trail leads us through a succession of peaceful hamlets, each with its own character and history. At Ayot St. Lawrence, we encounter the haunting ruins of the Old Church, derelict since 1775, now a romantic reminder of 12th-century architecture. Nearby, Shaw's Corner stands as a testament to literary genius, its Arts and Crafts architecture and beautiful gardens providing insight into the life of one of Britain's greatest playwrights. The path continues past Lamer Park Estate, where echoes of Antarctic explorer Apsley Cherry-Garrard's adventures linger in the remaining historic structures.

We follow the River Lea, one of Britain's precious chalk streams, leading us toward the magnificent Brocket Hall. This Grade I-listed mansion, set in 540 acres of parkland, has played host to Prime Ministers and royal guests, its walls holding countless secrets of political intrigue and scandal. The path then returns through Sherrardspark Wood, where afternoon light filters through ancient branches, before emerging back into the planned perfection of Welwyn Garden City, completing our circuit through centuries of natural and human history.

MEETING POINT

Kings Cross station 8:30am, leave at 8:45am for the 9:02am train. Meet in front of the main ticket office - MAP

Planned arrival back into London is 5:21pm (you are committed until then)

GUIDE - GRAHAM 07796 098487 (only for use during the hike) ABOUT US

FOOD - Bring a packed lunch, we usually visit a pub after the hike for drinks

DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY

Distance: 12 miles (20km)
Grading: Intermediate
Ascent: 190m
Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours

COST & PAYMENT

£31 including the guided hike and return train travel, click “Attend” to join.
Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable but we have a process to release your space for RESALE, if your space sells you will be refunded.

WHAT TO BRING

• Hiking clothes & footwear - ideally hiking boots. Hat & gloves if cold, waterproof jacket & trousers KIT LINK
• Water (2 litres)
• Lunch
• We arrange train tickets and logistics, so just turn up and have a great day 😁

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider

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