Northaw Great Wood

About this activity

Northaw Great Wood is one of Hertfordshire's largest remaining historic wood pasture commons and is open all day everyday! The woods sit between two valleys and is one of the county's most extensive areas of ancient Hornbean dominated woodland. 

The woods comprises of oak, birch and hornbeams along with a variety of flora and fauna and has a complex history. It has been cleared and replanted over hundreds of years and today is quite dense! 

The woods have no dedicated trails for off road cycling, so going on foot is the best way to explore. There are three marked trails of different lengths, plus some more smaller trails, but remember to take appropriate footwear as it can get a little muddy! 

The yellow trail is around 4.4km and will take around an hour, the blue trail is 2.2km and will take around 30 minutes and the smaller red trail will take you around 18 minutes. 

It's important to keep to the trails as it helps protect the woods and wildlife too, and they have designated quiet areas for the breeding Woodcock which are sensitive to disturbance and sounds! 

Around the woods you'll find benches and picnic tables to stop for a bite to eat and to enjoy the sights and sounds that the woods bring.