MetroLand: Watford to Chorleywood via Sarratt
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This linear route (approximately 9.5 miles in length) starts from Watford (Metropolitan Line Underground station). We pass through the leafy suburbs of Watford and the pleasant Cassiobury Park before picking up the Grand Union Canal, which we follow in a northerly direction towards The Grove (a posh hotel that recently hosted the 70th birthday bash of NATO).
Passing over the M25, we head through the Hertfordshire countryside towards the quaint village of Sarratt where we stop for a drink at a local pub. After refreshments, we follow the Chiltern Way as it winds its way down to the Chess Valley. We follow the River Chess for sadly only a short period of time before heading uphill to the desirable commuter village of Chorleywood, approaching via Chorleywood Common.
Photos are attributed to Neil A who took them whilst planning the sister walk "Along the River Chess: Chorleywood to Chesham" in November 2019.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: bring a packed lunch unless otherwise stated
Food & drink
You will need a packed lunch, and plenty of water and snacks to see you through the day. We will stop for a picnic lunch at a suitably scenic spot; for your own comfort you may wish to bring something to sit on.