The best walks and hikes around Batchworth
4.6
(343)
2,351
hikers
51
hikes
Hiking around Batchworth offers a diverse landscape characterized by wetlands, woodlands, and open heathland. The area features several man-made lakes, including Batchworth Lake, Bury Lake, and Stocker's Lake, which are fed by springs and the River Colne. The historic Grand Union Canal meanders through the region, providing scenic waterside paths. Additionally, Batchworth Heath presents an ancient common with acid grassland, and the nearby Chess Valley offers further opportunities for exploration.
Best hiking trails around Batchworth
- The most popular hiking route…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.5
(33)
98
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(24)
107
hikers
4.68km
01:11
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(18)
30
hikers
12.1km
03:08
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
10
hikers
14.1km
03:41
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(72)
454
hikers
29.1km
07:37
210m
210m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Batchworth
Tips from the Community
Hut on a large and charming lake in the Colne Valley with a nationally significant population of overwintering birds, including spectacular common goldeneyes and smews.
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About 1922, the land between the River Colne and the canal was taken over by Rickmansworth Gravel Company. Building in the capital was booming and gravel was in demand. Extraction at the site began and the resulting pit became Stocker's Lake. The original Wembley stadium was built at around this time and many have since speculated on the possibility of a Wembley Connection? Dredging and gravel extraction continued until the 1940s. In 1947 Rickmansworth and Uxbridge Valley Water Company purchased Stocker's Lake (an area of 93.7 acres) for £5000 as the dredging agreement had expired. This was to protect the aquifer and pumping sources at Stocker's and Springwell. The company became Rickmansworth Water Company in 1985 and later part of Three Valleys Water Company, eventually Affinity Water, the present owners. In the 1970s Stocker’s Lake became a nature reserve and day to day management was assigned by the water company to Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.
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The land on which Stocker's Lake now stands was once part of Stocker's Farm which is still there today. Records from 1427 show that the farm already existed and was owned by John Stockere or Stocker. In 1861, Stocker's House was built for the Corporation of London to house the Collector of Coal Dues on the Grand Union Canal. Stocker's House cost £850 to build and the first tenant was Mr. Charles Browton. The dues he collected were, for example, 4 shillings per ton of wine and 12 pence a ton of coal. However with the railways becoming increasingly popular it was decided to sell the house and in 1869 Lord Ebury offered £300
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There is a lovely little weir on the River Chess here that's worth stopping by. Also, on the same pond, you will see stepping stones (called Steps of Heaven by some) if you'd like to walk across! A good few years ago, I used to live in the street right next to these ponds, so I can vouch for the fact that this is a great place to spend some time at, particularly in the summer.
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There is a lovely little weir on the River Chess here that's worth stopping by. Also, on the same pond, you will see stepping stones (called Steps of Heaven by some) if you'd like to walk across! A good few years ago, I used to live in the street right next to these ponds, so I can vouch for the fact that this is a great place to spend some time at, particularly in the summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of hiking trails in Batchworth?
Batchworth offers a diverse range of hiking trails suitable for various abilities. You'll find plenty of easy routes, especially around the lakes and along the canal, with 26 easy tours available. There are also 21 moderate trails for those looking for a bit more challenge, and 4 difficult routes for experienced hikers.
Are there family-friendly hiking trails in Batchworth?
Yes, Batchworth is an excellent destination for family outings. The Rickmansworth Aquadrome, in particular, is very family-friendly, offering picnic spots and a children's play area. Many of the easy loops around the lakes, such as the Batchworth, Bury & Stockers Lake loop via Grand Union Canal, are ideal for families.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Batchworth?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails in Batchworth, especially within the Rickmansworth Aquadrome. It's always a good idea to keep dogs under control, particularly around wildlife and other hikers, and to clean up after them.
Are there walks along the Grand Union Canal in Batchworth?
Absolutely. The Grand Union Canal is a prominent feature of the Batchworth landscape, offering scenic and relatively flat walking paths. Many routes incorporate sections of the canal, such as the Batchworth, Bury & Stockers Lake loop via Grand Union Canal, providing a pleasant waterside experience.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see while hiking in Batchworth?
Batchworth's landscape is rich with natural beauty. You'll encounter wetlands, woodlands, and open heathland. Key features include the three man-made lakes—Batchworth Lake, Bury Lake, and Stocker's Lake—all part of the Colne Valley. The River Colne also meanders through the area. Additionally, Batchworth Heath is an ancient common with unique acid grassland and diverse flora.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Batchworth?
Yes, many of the trails in Batchworth are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Rickmansworth Aquadrome, the Colne Valley & the Grand Union Canal loop from Rickmansworth, which takes you through diverse scenery.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Batchworth?
The hiking trails in Batchworth are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 290 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, including the beautiful lakes, peaceful woodlands, and the historic Grand Union Canal, as well as the variety of routes suitable for all fitness levels.
Are there any viewpoints or notable landmarks along the trails?
While hiking in Batchworth, you can enjoy views across the lakes and along the Grand Union Canal. The area is also close to the scenic Chess Valley. For specific natural monuments, you might explore highlights like the River Chess Stepping Stones and Weir or the Chipperfield Common Woodland and Ponds.
Can I reach hiking trails in Batchworth using public transport?
Batchworth is well-connected, and many trails are accessible via public transport. Rickmansworth station, for example, serves the area and provides a good starting point for various walks, including those around the Aquadrome and along the canal.
Are there parking facilities available near the hiking trails?
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points for the hiking trails, particularly around popular areas like the Rickmansworth Aquadrome. It's advisable to check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.
What kind of wildlife can be observed while hiking in Batchworth?
The diverse habitats in Batchworth, including wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands, support abundant wildlife. Nature enthusiasts can often spot various bird species around the lakes and along the canal, as well as other local fauna in the wooded and heathland areas.
What is Batchworth Heath and is it accessible for hiking?
Batchworth Heath is an ancient common, a 4-hectare green space characterized by unimproved acid grassland, scrub, and woodland. It's a Hertfordshire County Wildlife Site and forms part of a wildlife corridor. It is accessible for walking and offers a unique ecological experience distinct from the lakeside paths.
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