We are the East Hertfordshire Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Hilary P.
Join us for a walk that offers a mix of woodland, open countryside, river scenery and traces of Welwyn Garden City's planned heritage, all threaded together by well signed paths.
We start at Sherrardspark Woods car park near Rectory Road. The route immediately feels sheltered and calm. Leaving the car park we follow Dawson Way, a gentle path that skirts the edge of the woodland. Mature oaks and hornbeam line the way. The path leads us to Ayot Green, a peaceful hamlet surrounded by fields. Here we pick up the Welwyn Garden City Centenary Walk, a thoughtfully designed route that links green spaces and and reflects the town's garden city ideals. Following it towards Lesser's Wood, there is a sense of quiet despite being close to the town.
Soon the landscape softens as we approach the River Lea. The river meanders gently through the valley and we join the Lea Valley Walk, following the river downstream. Crossing Water End Lane feels like a small transition point, from rural lanes into a greener corridor shaped by transport history. We join the Ayot Greenway, following the line of the old railway. The sense of history is strong here, as nature has reclaimed the former rail route. The path leads you towards St Peter's Church, its tower rising above the trees. Passing the church, the route continues through Greggs Wood, where the atmosphere becomes more enclosed again. The scenery opens out into Wilshere Park, with its Broad parkland feel and distant views back across the valley.
From here our walk turns downhill along Digswell Hill crossing the A1 giving us a brief reminder of modern infrastructure, but it's quickly left behind as we re-enter Rectory Wood. The final stretch returns us to woodland paths, closing the loop back to Sherrardspark Woods car park.
It may be muddy on paths at this time of year so sturdy footwear is recommended and warm clothing. We will stop for a break so do bring a drink and a snack. There are no toilets on this route but there is an opportunity to stop at The Red Lion pub at the end of the walk where there is an open log fire as well as the chance for refreshments and toilets. It is opposite Sherrardspark Woods close to the Rectory Road car park where we start our walk.
Sherrardspark Wood car park on Rectory Road, Welwyn is a small, free to use car park with 16 spaces, Accessible off the B197, near the Red Lion pub. It's open 24/7.
