Riverside cycle and walking path – Hertford to Ware

The Hertford Civic Society role in the cycle path for residents to enjoy riverside walks.

The Hertford Civic Society, helped establish the path along the river Lea  between Hertford and Ware in the mid 1990.

Previously there was no bridge to provide the crucial access from the end of Hartham Common onwards towards the Meads.

The Society chipping in with some seed-corn funding of its own, persuaded Hertford County Council and other local councils to commission Sustrans to do a feasibility study of routes for cyclists and walkers in Hertford and Ware. Sustrans, best known for creating and developing the National Cycle Network, champions sustainable transport for walkers as well as cyclists.

Onwards to Ware past the Pump House for the New River and under the A10 flyover.

It's only two miles from Hertford to Ware - with lots of tempting cafes, pubs and restaurants. Why not continue along the banks of the Lea all the way to London if you have a spare day or two?

The top recommendation by Sustrans was the creation of this off-road route between Hertford and Ware, following the Lea. It is now part of the National Cycle Network (Route 61), but is also enjoyed by walkers, joggers and people in buggies and wheelchairs. About 50 mins walking from Hertford to Ware.

Harthan Lock (Hertford Lock No1)

The path to Ware was the County Council’s first ever cycle route of any significance. Funding was modest. Some of the work was done by volunteers from BT. The path doesn’t have tarmac all along its length.

View to Ware Park. A low archon the right, the outflow of the old Mill now demolished .

Nonetheless, it has become popular for people both in Hertford and Ware. Perhaps it even helps to reduce the ancient rivalry between the two towns. 

If you don’t know the path, do try it for yourself. You might see some wildlife – and perhaps even the occasional ‘wild swimmer’.