周辺の湖・トップ9

A really nice stretch of the route to apprecitate nature and the surroundings.

Hatfield Forest is an ancient royal hunting forest, and considered to be one of the best-preserved medieval forests in the world. In the past, deer were kept in the forest for hunting. Today you'll find deer aplenty still, though no longer pursued for the same reason. The forest boasts ancient trees, over 3,500 species of fungi, rare insects and a diverse array of birdlife. There's also a beautiful lake, café and river that meanders through.

Off-road trail from Lee Valley White Water to Rye House, through Lee Valley Country Park on well surfaced paths. Great views of Seventy Acre Lake from Fishers Green information centre. Good cafe at Hayes Hill Farm. Suitable for walking, gravel bikes and mountain bikes.

Moderate trail with an outstanding Area for all to enjoy

Hatfield Forest is a 403.2 hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest in Essex, three miles east of Bishop's Stortford. It is also a National Nature Reserve and a Nature Conservation Review site. It is owned and managed by the National Trust. A medieval warren in the forest is a Scheduled Monument. Hatfield is the only remaining intact Royal Hunting Forest and dates from the time of the Norman kings. Other parts of the once extensive Forest of Essex include Epping Forest to the southwest, Hainault Forest to the south and Writtle Forest to the east. Hatfield Forest was established as a Royal hunting forest in the late eleventh century, following the introduction of fallow deer and Forest Laws were imposed on areas by the king. Deer hunting and chasing was a popular sport for Norman kings and lords and the word ‘forest’ strictly means place of deer rather than of trees. In the case of Hatfield the area under Forest Law consisted of woodlands with plains.

Amwell Nature Reserve is a wonderful place for a stroll, with beautiful viewpoints and much to interest wildlife enthusiasts. It is host to myriad habitats including reedbeds, grassland and woodland. The most interesting aspect of the reserve is Great Hardmead Lake and its islands. Summer is notable for the 21 species of dragonfly that hunt across the waters, while winter sees migrating birds inhabit the site. There's even a designated Dragonfly Trail, which is open between May and September.

Great area for cycling with several route options meandering along a smattering of water channels / marshes / lakes. Tons of birdlife. Some nice opportunities to stop along the way.

King's Meads Nature Reserve is one of the largest water meadows in Hertfordshire. It is home to 265 types of wildflower and 119 species of bird, including many rare species. You can expect great displays of wildlife at all times of year, but especially between April to July and November to February.