Finchley & Hornsey is a friendly group, open to everyone. We walk mainly in Herts and surrounding counties.
Jean W.
Distance: approx. 10 miles (circular)
Terrain: Woodland paths, lakeside footpaths and parkland tracks with gentle undulations
Pace: Moderate
Start/finish: Meet at the Bishopsgate Road entrance to Windsor Great Park
Refreshments: Picnic lunch; café at The Savill Garden Visitor Centre
This delightful spring walk explores Windsor Great Park, from a view of The Long Walk and Windsor Castle from Snow Hill and the Deer Park, to the stunning Valley Gardens, the Fishing Temple and the beautiful lakeside landscapes of Virginia Water.
From the iconic Copper Horse viewpoint of The Long Walk, we make our way southwards towards The Valley Gardens, a 250-acre woodland garden of winding rhododendron paths and sheltered valleys on the northern shores of Virginia Water. Planted from the 1940s onwards, the gardens celebrate flowering trees and shrubs from around the world and include National Collections of magnolia, rhododendron species and Glenn Dale azaleas, together with striking Himalayan and Chinese birches.
The route meanders through these undulating woodland valleys and coniferous woods, where each corner reveals new colours, scents and textures. In May the gardens are usually at their most vibrant, with rhododendrons and azaleas in full bloom – a display that never fails to surprise and delight even the most seasoned horticultural enthusiasts.
We will also follow sections of the path along the shores of Virginia Water itself, one of the most picturesque features of Windsor Great Park, before returning through further woodland glades and a dazzling heather garden.
Please bring a picnic lunch, which we will enjoy in one of the many scenic spots overlooking the lake or within the gardens. A café is available near the end of the walk for those wishing to relax and extend the day, or even do a bit of shopping at The Savill Garden Visitor Centre.
Meet at the entrance gate to Windsor Great Park at the end of Bishopsgate Road. Metered parking is on Bishopsgate Road, and costs £8.00 for the day, pay on Ringo app only (please download and install beforehand). There is parking for about 25 cars only here, so please arrive early in case it is busy and you might have to wait.
