Best Walking Routes and Trails to explore this Summer

There’s no better way to experience your local area than by getting out there with a good walk. These walking routes can be done with family, friends or even by yourself and can be a good way to get active and improve your mental wellbeing.

Make sure you keep reading to discover our suggestions of the best places to walk in Dacorum. Also, follow and like us on our Facebook and Instagram to ensure you don’t miss out on more fun things to do in Dacorum.

  1. Hemel Green Walking map

You think you know Hemel Hempstead? Think again with this new green walking map launched earlier this year.

From the Marlowes to Apsley or from Boxmoor to the Old town this map shows you the best ways to get around this beloved town – you may even find a lovely spot that you never knew existed before!

You can access this map by using the Loyalfree app which can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play. Alternatively, you can pick a copy up from one of the following places:

  • Artichoke
  • Hemel Library
  • House of Elliot
  • Hive
  • Old Town Hall
  • The Paper Mill
  • The Fishery Inn
  • Hemel Hempstead Rail Station
  • Apsley Rail Station
  • Liberty Tea Rooms and Community Hub
  • Brunch
  • Cappuccio
  • Tiki’s
  • Jenny’s
  • The Story Café
  • Marlowes Shopping Centre
  • Riverside Shopping Centre
  • Boxmoor Steakhouse

If you collect a copy from one of these places, you could even spot for a bite to eat before you start exploring! Click here for more information including a link to download a pdf version of the map.

  1. Flamstead and Markyate

This route is perfect for exploring the Chilterns region which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Starting from the village of Flamstead this route is 7 miles long with an ascent of 400 feet but don’t let these number put you off as this route is graded easy to moderate so is ideal for all.

During this walk you will be able to visit Markyate, take in the stunning countryside views and finish it all off at the Three Blackbirds pub in Flamstead where you can enjoy an after walk treat!

Click here for a description of the route and copy of the map.

  1. Ashridge Estate

Looking for a walk that combines natural beauty and history? Look no further than the Ashridge estate. From Iron Age farms, Roman settlements and a royal park, to Capability Brown and two World Wars, Ashridge has everything for all ages.

You can either be adventurous with over 80 miles of designated footpaths and bridle paths to plan your own route or you can try one of the guided walk with a ranger. No matter what you decide you will have an amazing time soaking in the fresh air and nature.

Have a look for yourself by clicking here for more information

  1. Tring Reservoir

Did you know that the reserve here in Tring is known as one of the best bird-watching spots in the south of England?

Originally built to serve the canal system, Tring Reservoirs are now the perfect place to escape into nature. With 98 hectares to explore, being a site of special scientific interest and free entry this reserve is ideal for a fun day out.

Find out more information including directions click here

  1. Berkhamstead Heritage walk

This heritage walk, or blue plaque guide, is a great way to get some fresh air while also learning a bit more about your local area. This short walk, which starts and ends at the railway station, takes you through the heart of the town.

You can access this guide by clicking here or by downloading the LoyalFree app and having a virtual copy on their.

Click here to find out more about Berkhamsted including any good cafes and restaurants to play into this walking route.

  1. Grand Union Canal

The Grand Union Canal isn’t just a symbol of the Industrial Revolution, it also makes for a wonderful walking route.

Linking Kings Langley, the paper mill at Hemel Hempstead, former lumber yards at Berkhamsted and up over the Tring heights the canal can be accessed all over Dacorum. Hence why we recommend it so much!

To find information on planning your route click here.

  1. Potten End Circular walk

Starting from the village green in Potten End, this walking route takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Dacorum including a section along the Grand Union Canal.

The route is 6 miles long with an ascent of 500 feet and is ideal for all as the route is graded easy to moderate. With rolling green fields and calming waters this route has it all and is definitely on to put on the bucket list.

Click here to access the route including a map.

  1. Gadebridge Park

Gadebridge Park is in the heart of Hemel Hempstead and has so much on offer!

It has a total of 32 hectares to walk around and explore, a play area, a splash park to cool off in the summer, the River Gade, a stake park and is a stone throw away from the Old Town high street and Marlowes shopping areas.

You better pack some comfortable shoes for all the exploring you will be doing in this Park!

Click here for more details on what is on offer and how you can make the most of it all.

  1. Yarn bomb trail

When you have posted a card, have you noticed the knitted post-box toppers?

These toppers make up a Yarn bomb trail which can be accessed through the LoyalFree app which can be downloaded here. If you are feeling more adventurous, just walk around the streets in your local area and see how many you can find.

This is a fun way to get walking while exploring your local area.

The theme of the toppers are constantly changing and currently we are celebrating the Platinum Jubilee with all things crowns, Unions and even Corgi’s!

Click here for more information about this and future Yarn Bomb Trails.

  1. Tring Park

Are you looking for a great selection of waymarked walks? Tring Park has just the thing for you and all the family!

With walks ranging from 30 minutes and 2 hours there is so much choice. The Woodland Walk explores the ancient woodland that runs along the Chiltern ridge, Walter’s Wander has stunning views and Parkland Walk is especially pretty in the summer months – you really can’t go wrong!

Click here to access the map of Tring Park and information on how to get the most out of this trip.

  1. Chipperfield to Kings Langley

If you are wanting to explore the villages in Dacorum this is the best route for you.

This 5 mile route starts at Chipperfield Common and goes down bridle ways and through fields heading towards Kings Langley which then loops back to finish where you started. This route is graded easy so is ideal for all ages and abilities plus, is a great way to get fresh air and explore new places.

To access the route map and description click here

  1. Hemel Old Town Heritage trail

Did you know that the Old Town in Hemel Hempstead is filled with History?

This route gives an interesting short history of the area and the people who once lived there. From early feudal times, through the Middle Ages and Tudor dynasty, to the arrival of the ‘New Townees’ in the 1950s, the High Street (or Market Street) was the focal point of life in the Gade valley.

Walking has never been more interesting! Click here to find out how to get a copy of this route map.

 

If you have enjoyed all these walking routes and trails, why not explore our website for more inspiration of places to go on a walk this summer. Also check out our social media pages for the latest events happening in Dacorum.