The North Hertfordshire Long Loop

A 37-mile loop involving seven circular routes

Scene along Walk 127: Wallington SW Loop

We have just finished (April 2022) the final link in a series of seven circular walks that form a 37-mile loop across the north-east of the county. It starts in Graveley then heads NE to Royston via Therfield before circling back heading SW to the starting point. If you would rather break it into two linear walks, the northerly section is 15 miles and the southerly section is 17 miles.

Walk 171: Sandon East Loop

4.9 miles (7.8km) with 80m of total ascent

The byway between points 18 and 19

This is a lovely quiet walk well away from the noise of major roads. It's ideal for those who want to get away from it all and enjoy listening to birdsong and the wind in the trees. The walk starts in the village of Sandon then passes Blagrove Common, a site of special scientific interest which is managed by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust. Unusually for our walks this route doesn't pass a pub, but we have added the nearest on the map along with details at the foot of these directions.

Walk 122: Therfield North Loop

6.1 miles (9.7 km) with 174m of total ascent

View between points 2 and 3

This walk offers wide open views across the NE Hertfordshire countryside and passing through the beautiful landscape around the Pen Hills. On a clear day you are supposed to be able to see Ely cathedral from one of the highest points. There is plenty of up and down so you need to be fairly fit. The walk starts and finishes at The Fox and Duck pub/restaurant in Therfield.

Walk 121: Therfield South Loop

4 miles (6.5km) with 61m of total ascent

Cottages in the village of Therfield

This is a gentle walk from the village of Therfield in a quiet corner of north-east Hertfordshire. The route follows some winding byways and footpaths, passes a remote nature reserve, and crosses a ford on the River Rib. Parts can be muddy and slippy after rain, particularly the sections after points 1 and 4. When it’s open you can get refreshments at the Fox and Duck in Therfield.