A linear, autumnal walk in the Hertfordshire countryside starting at Bayford train station, taking in the villages of Bayford, Little Berkhamsted and ending at Cuffley rail station.
A delightful walk, mostly along paths, country lanes and fields with some road walking (particularly at the end). We follow the Hertfordshire Way, with the odd diversion, and skirt around Hatfield Park. We walk through pastureland, woodland and farms, and to indulge our sporting enthusiasts, a golf course and a cricket pitch (beware flying balls!). Muddy in parts so wear walking boots: there is a big mud patch before Little Berkhamstead. There are a couple of stiles.
Attention!!! We must be observant as we cross the golf course. Care is also needed crossing and walking along some busy roads where drivers are sometimes speedy. There is some road walking at the end of the walk and we will form a "human bicycle" to navigate this. A good pace is needed to ensure we walk this stretch in daylight and I will bring high viz and lights. This time of year it's good to wear bright, waterproof gear to be seen.
Lunch: Bring packed lunch. Lunch and toilet stop at a pub (approx. 2 hours into the walk). We have permission to eat packed lunch at the pub but please buy a drink. There is no time to order food at the pub. Please note if the group is very large a pub stop may not be possible.
Toilets: There are no toilets on the train or Bayford Station. Official toilet stop is at a pub two hours or so into the walk unless the group is very large. Please note much of the countryside at the side of paths is private land and you should keep to the public paths at all times.
Travel: Take the 09.12 from London Moorgate (Highbury & Islington, 09.20; Finsbury Park, 09.27) arriving at Bayford at 09.59
Buy a return ticket to Bayford. Trains from Cuffley are 22 and 52 past the hour.
No booking required
The finishing time is an estimate only and will depend on the weather, size of the group, speed at which the group walks and any breaks taken.