I was surprised and pleased to find eighteen hardy walkers had arrived at Berkhamsted Station on an unusually dry morning. After the safety briefing we started the walk heading right from the station and then along the Grand Union Canal passing some pubs and cafes along the way. The path was not as muddy as when Jennifer and I did the recce previously. 

We left the canal path after  2 miles and then made our way to Sharpe’s Lane where we crossed the A251 safely. We then continued uphill on Sugar Lane to Bottom Farm which had some lovely views. We passed a really well constructed tree house on the way to the Granary. Here we turned right in the direction of Swing Gate Lane instead of taking the planned route in order to avoid a really muddy ploughed field. After a gentle ascent we found a suitable picnic spot. 

Refreshed once more, we were on our way again. It was interesting and puzzling to see the work being carried out on Haresfoot Farm.  On the recce Jennifer and I had decided to go the long way round on a tarmac path towards Ashley Green but this time after struggling to find our way following the sign to Harriots End Farm I asked a couple of my fellow walkers if they were able to see the path on the app. I was assured there was a path but we got stuck in the farm again. Thanks to Mary we were soon back on route and arrived at The Golden Eagle pub in Ashley Green for refreshments. 

Continuing on, we made our way to Hockeridge Woods and along a path between giant Red Wood trees.  After a short climb and over a stile we were in Christmas Tree place with several saplings. After crossing the busy A416 we passed Hareswood Campus. Then we crossed the A41 and on to footpath44 via a difficult stile. The path from Christmas Tree Place to the footpath was covered with a lot of litter including takeaway food containers etc. We thought a lot of this must have come from inconsiderate car drivers and passengers.

After passing the cemetery we made our way to Berkhamsted going between trees and playing fields from where there were some lovely views. 

At the end of the walk most of the party decided to stop for tea and then we headed home.

Sunita

Photos by Joyanna, Ida and Chris