Rickmansworth Aquadrome - Harefield Heights - Stocker's Lake

Mike Patefield

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A walk based round some flooded gravel-pits on the edge of London might not sound like an enticing proposition, but this short walk is a little gem. It is immensely varied, with lots of waterside walking beside canal, river and lakes, while a gentle climb through attractive fields and woods provides some great views across the Colne Valley. Above all, this route is a must for birdwatchers. Gravel was extracted from the floor of the valley for use as a building material and some was used to build the old Wembley Stadium. When this ceased the pits flooded and nature has healed the scars to leave a string of about fifty lakes. This walk visits two of them, Stocker's Lake and Bury Lake. The former is managed as a nature reserve and is renowned for its wildlife, especially birds, but there are also many species of butterflies and dragonflies. The route also includes two short stretches beside the Grand Union Canal, often busy with boats, also visiting two locks. The only source of refreshment is the excellent cafe by the car park at Rickmansworth Aquadome where this walk starts. It is open all year and has tables outside overlooking Bury Lake.

England - Central England - Hertfordshire - River Walk

3/26/2022 - Patricia Daw

Great walk on a sunny Saturday morning in March. We got there just as a park run was finishing so parking was hard to find. Nice walk along the canal and by the river accompanied by birdsong. Cafe at the end was good too

6/2/2020 - Miles Finch

Love this walk. Navigation change at point 4. As of May 2020 there is a diversion, you are unable to enter at the kissing gate and just follow the gravel track up the slight hill to the left, adds nothing to the route. Loved all the characters living along the canal, the Desperados barge brought a smile to ones face.