16-03-2025
5 of the best spring walks in and around Watford – fancy some fresh air?
After a busy working week and trying to keep on top of everyday life, blowing the cobwebs away and clearing your mind can sound quite appealing, especially in springtime.
Getting out of the house for some fresh air is one way that is bound to make you feel better, as well as taking in all the plants and flowers that are starting to appear ahead of the warmer months.
Whether you want to discover your new favourite picnic spot or find a different pathway to walk the dog with, there is plenty to explore in and around Watford.
Here are some of the best walks in the area, according to AllTrails.
Length: 7.4km
Estimated time of completion: 1 hour 52 minutes
This moderate walk takes on average 1 hour 52 minutes across a circular trail reaching 7.4km.
Popular for camping, hiking, walking, biking or birding, many enjoy the solitude it offers during quiet times of the day.
The trail is open all year round and all dogs are welcome, however, they must be kept on a lead at all times.
One local who recently went on the walk shared: "Sooo many bluebells this time of year! Quite busy on a weekend. Low to zero mud but some uneven terrain."
Length: 5.6km
Estimated time of completion: 1 hour 49 minutes
This moderately challenging route is perfect for running, walking and hiking and it's open all year round where dogs are welcomed off lead in some areas.
Taking you through Munden Estate and along River Colne, the trail starts from the Timberlake Car Park, heading around the Rugby Club and joining the Colne Valley Cycle Route, leading out along the edge of woodland and the Munden Estate.
One local who did the walk for themselves said: "Nice scenery but part of the trail is along the road, be prepared for the mud and you can hear the motorway in the background but I'm glad we did it!"
Length: 30.1km
Estimated time of completion: 8 hours and 23 minutes
The Cassiobury Park to Flaunden is one of the hardest walks on the list, with a 30.1km circular trail that takes around 8 hours and 23 minutes to finish.
It's popular for biking, running and walking and you're unlikely to meet anyone along the way.
The countryside walk takes you through farmland and woodlands as well as areas including Dolly's Wood, the River Chess, Flaunden Grove, Lower Plantation, Woodmans Wood and more.
"Think it's listed as hard because it's so long. We did this in 7 hours, including a 30-minute break and found it challenging in length but overall really enjoyable."
Length: 4.5km
Estimated time of completion: 1 hour 5 minutes
Oxhey Woods is said to be an easy route that's ideal for hiking, mountain biking and running where you are unlikely to meet others, dogs are also welcome on the route but must be kept on a lead.
Described by AllTrails as a "fantastic choice for a memorable experience in nature", the walk has a mixed terrain.
Along the route there are a variety of tree types and some small animals, however, it can get muddy at certain times of the year.
One walker said: "You can follow the blue 'long walk' markings. Extremely muddy in a lot of places so pick appropriate footwear!"
Length: 5.1km
Estimated time of completion: 1 hour 18 minutes
The more simple walk of Cassiobury Park Circular is great for a short but peaceful break from the every day to day tasks.
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At a length of 5.1km, the trail takes on average 1 hour 18 minutes to complete and is popular for walking, running and birding.
You'll be able to follow the Grand Union Canal and the River Gade for a length before exploring the rest of the park.
One recent explorer said: "This is a nice gentle walk that takes you through a woods and then a parkland setting. Not too difficult and paths throughout, although in wetter conditions I imagine parts of the route may be underwater."
