Hertfordshire (village ponds, garden cities and a saint)
Hertfordshire is one of the home counties, not far from London and popular with commuters. It’s expensive to live in, but not as expensive as London!
This is kind of ‘Miss Marple’ country. All pretty villages with ponds and thatched roofs. And where people hand out hymn sheets for Sunday service. Very nice!
If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe (learn how to upright an overturned sheep). Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees.
At the coast, keep dogs away from nesting birds and sand dunes. Read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside. Check beach bans before travel.
Just north of London
If you want to go somewhere a bit more countryside to get out of London, Hertfordshire is only 30 miles or so from London. Hertford the county town is a good starting point with many historic buildings and friendly pubs.
Or take a walk along the River Lea.
St Albans and its Roman heritage
St Albans is a historic town. A former Roman settlement, it’s associated with St Albans, the first Christian martyr.
A former pagan, when he was killed his head rolled down a river and a spring appeared. Who needs reality TV?
Hertfordshire countryside
Like most home counties, the countryside is looked after here. You won’t have far to find nice countryside walks amid pretty villages, with plenty of woodland walks.
Welwyn Garden City
This was England’s first garden city, where trees and green spaces were planted alongside houses. Most town planners have not learned much since.
