Hemel Hempstead and Berkhamsted

The Grand Union Canal Hemel Hempstead Walk is steeped in history, as you pass the 16th century waterside pub at Winkwell, Berkhamsted Castle, the First World War Memorial on the Common and the prehistoric earthwork, Grim's Ditch (or Devil's Dyke), used in the Bronze Age and after to delineate boundaries. It is also pleasant to pass through and alongside so many commons and the activities and wildlife they have to offer.

Starting at Bridge 149 follow the canal's towpath as far as Bridge 140. Exit the towpath here by getting back onto Station Road by the railway station. Turn right here and continue straight, through the sports ground and past Well Farm until you reach Berkhamsted Common.

Take a right here, crossing the golf course, past the War Memorial, Grim's Ditch and Potten End green and pond until you reach The Common and The Green. Continue along Hempstead Lane then fork left onto Berkhamsted Road briefly before taking a right off here towards Fields End.

The path continues over countryside, crosses over Long Chaulden and on into Shrub Hill Road. At the T-junction turn right into Northridge Way, follow the left-hand bend into St. John's Road. Take a right into Fishery Road and this brings you immediately back to Bridge 149.

If you continue for a short distance on this road you will reach the railway station.

Getting there

Parking: Parking at Hemel Hempstead railway station is available and free to rail ticket holders on Saturdays and Sundays.

Public transport: North London Railways provides a fast and frequent service of modern electric trains linking Kings Langley, Apsley and Hemel Hempstead with London (Euston), Watford Junction, Milton Keynes and Northampton. These stations are located close to the canal and trains run every half hour making it easy and convenient to walk one way and return by train, or vice versa. Pick up a free timetable at your local North London Railways station. Cheap Day Returns are valid for one return rail journey on the date shown on the tickets. They are valid for travel after 930am Monday to Friday, and all day Saturday and Sunday. A Network Card gives you one third off normal train fares at off-peak times, and you can take three other adults for the same discounted fare and up to four children for just £1.00 each.