We had great weather for our 9.5 mile walk from Hatch End to Borehamwood, sunny with a breeze. 17 walkers in total. There were lots of lovely open areas and tall grasses to enjoy some sun, and woods to cool down. In the grounds of Grim’s Dyke house, once the home of W. S. Gilbert, from Gilbert and Sullivan, we passed green ponds, with ducks and their trail of ducklings, and a reservoir. Arriving on Grim’s Dyke Golf course, one player paused his shot to let us go across and 10 of us made our way over together. He did look rather surprised when, getting ready to go again, the other part of the group appeared from the trees! On crossing Old Redding Road, we found ourselves in a picnic area with great views southwards, and Geoffrey was able to name the distant hills and buildings, thanks G. We sat under trees to eat before entering Stanmore Common. Passing Stanmore Riding School, we came across some beautiful young horses and paused for photos. Having walked about two thirds of our way, we rested, overlooking a campsite with Teepees and pods. When we got on the move again, we made our way down the hill and through the field, with tall grass either side. Arriving quite early at Elstree and Borehamwood station, we rewarded ourselves with glasses of cider and beer at a lovely pub nearby, before catching the train home.

Jackie McCartan.  Photos by Les, Chris, Nita,  Suzanne