With Autumn upon us, it’s time to get our wellies on and head out to the woods to see the colours change to warm hues of red, gold, and yellow in this beautiful, reflective time of year.

Hertfordshire has some idyllic spots for countryside wanderings where people can enjoy its Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and stop off in some of the quaint pubs and cafes alongside canals or tucked away in the woods.

Heartwood Forest

The forest is an 858-acre site in Sandridge, St Albans. It is the largest continuous new native forest in England.

With pockets of ancient bluebell woodland, wildflower meadows and open grassland, the forest is at its most colourful from May till October.

Watford Observer:

Leavesden Country Park

The park has been rated as one of the UK’s best kept secrets according to a national survey.

It covers an area of over 27 hectares and consists of walking/biking paths, a football pitch, wildlife areas, tennis courts, a children’s play area and an outdoor gym for adults.

Watford Observer:

Broxbourne Woods

Broxbourne Woods is near Cheshunt and there is also a sculpture trail which makes it perfect for family walks.

Watford Observer:

The Ivinghoe and Pitstone Hills

The Ivinghoe and Pitstone Hills are designated as a site of special scientific interest for its very special wildlife. The whole area falls within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Ivinghoe Beacon is where you can admire the far-reaching views over several counties.

Watford Observer:

The Chess Valley Walk

It follows the River Chess for 10 miles from Rickmansworth to Chesham.

Passing through the beautiful scenery of the Chess Valley, a landscape rich in wildlife, you will discover the site of a Roman villa, pass the 13th century Chenies Manor and see the watercress beds at Sarratt.