July is Parks Month – Come on and #TryANewParksHerts

Come on and #TryANewParksHerts

With over 140 council owned parks and open spaces in Hertfordshire there really is something for everyone.  As part of Hertfordshire’s Year of Physical Activity (HYOPA) we’ll be providing you with daily inspiration using the hashtag #TryANewParksHerts. Here’s a few ideas to get you started.

What do you want to do today?

Have some fun on the water?

Whether you fancy trying out a new water sport or simply enjoy sitting by the river watching the world go by, there are plenty of choices across the County.  You can find a range of water based activities at Fairlands Valley Park (Stevenage), Stanborough Park (Welwyn Hatfield), and Rickmansworth Aquadrome (Three Rivers). If it’s something a bit quieter you’re after try Oughtonhead Common (Hitchin), Cassiobury Park (Watford), Tring Memorial Gardens, Barclay Park (Hoddesdon), and Southern Country Park (Bishop’s Stortford)

Find some trees and quiet?

There are woodlands you can retreat to and find a quieter place to yourself, without having to get walking boots on and copy of the rights of way map. Broxbourne and Bencroft Woods (near Hertford), Whippendell Woods (part of Cassiobury Park in Watford), Chipperfield Common and Bricket Wood Common each offer places to escape.

Go back in time?

If you like heritage then consider visiting Roman Verulamium Park (St Albans), Castle Gardens (Bishop’s Stortford) – on the site of Edward the Elders stand against the invading Danes, Cedars Park (near Waltham Cross) with its Tudor and Stuart connections, or the renowned 1960’s Jellicoe Water Gardens (Hemel Hempstead).

Have some fun with the family?

Most parks have a good range of play equipment for younger visitors but there are splashparks and paddling pools at several sites, such as Howard Park and Gardens (Letchworth), Fairlands Valley Park (Stevenage), and King George Rec (Bushey). Aberford Park in Borehamwood is a must for the hi-tech interactive play equipment that has been installed.

These are just a few ideas – check out #TryANewParksHerts every day during July to find your favourite new park.

Herts Year of Physical Activity 2018

July is Parks month for Hertfordshire’s Year of Physical Activity 2018.  The aim being to make Hertfordshire the most active county.  The year will highlight the many and varied ways to get active and improve your health across Hertfordshire and each month will focus on a different topic.

Visit the website here, or contact Jane Parker at hertsyopa18@herts.ac.uk for more information.

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