Hatch End to Leavesden Country Park

New year, new route, new destination.

This route has three significant hills and involves some riding on busier roads. We start using quiet roads to get to Harrow Weald and face our first vertical challenge with the climb up Brooks Hill to Bushey Heath. Next we head for Merry Hill with another ascent, this time via a somewhat bumpy bridle way.

After enjoying a descent to Bushey, we take quiet residential roads to Bushey Mill Lane. Crossing under the A41, we head north through Garston. Our final challenging hill is High Elms, taking us to Abbots Langley. Paths through the Country Park lead to the Woodlands Cafe for well earned refreshments.

Before heading back, we take some time to explore the sculptures in the park. Cycle paths will allow us to pass Harry Potter World separated from the motor traffic. We use quiet roads through Nascot Wood before picking up the Watford Green Loop near the Junction station. Following the Loop anti-clockwise, we get to Riverside Park from where we make our way back to Hatch End via Carpenders Park.

The ride will be completed at a modest pace.

Check your bike before the ride, paying particular attention to the brakes and tyres. Use this guide: https://lcc.org.uk/advice/bike-safety-check/. Bring a spare innertube, a pump and tools to fix a puncture.

The time for the ride is a best estimate by the Ride Leader. Sometimes it can be affected by factors such as the weather, mechanical issues, the queue at the cafe, etc. We have a policy of leaving no rider behind so, if anyone is struggling, we will adjust the speed and take rest stops if necessary.

A ride to Leavesden Country Park in Abbots Langley.

A mixture of roads and traffic free cycle routes. Some significant hills.

A refreshment stop at the Woodlands Cafe and a chance to see the sculptures in the Country Park,

Bring a drink, innertube, pump and tools to fix a puncture.

First-timers welcome!