With more hot weather forecast over the coming weeks, I wanted to share details of some of the best locations for paddling near Berkhamsted. A google search was no help when I was trying to find somewhere to paddle with kids near us (lots of information on paddle boarding comes up if you’re interested). Thanks to my Instagram followers and lots of exploring we’ve discovered lots of perfect paddling places, so thought we would share the list with you.
We’re already working on part two of the list of places to paddle near Berkhamsted, but while I’m working on that here are the first 5 places for you to enjoy
Places to Paddle
River Chess, near Chenies
We headed our for a this on a sunny Saturday morning, and were treated to a beautiful, varied and well-signposted walk, across open fields, through woodland and through the River Chess. There are lots of footpaths in the surrounding area allowing you to create as long a walk as you fancy, as well as the Frogmore Meadows Nature Reserve to explore. We crossed the River Chess on Holloway Road, a beautiful location for paddling which refreshed us for the final leg of the walk back to where we had parked the car in the village centre.
Start at Chenies Village Green, where there was plenty of on road parking when we visited. From here, we walked along the quiet track heading east from the green. Head out of the houses and follow the tarmac path until it ends and you pick up the grass track to the right of the farm. Once past the farm, take the footpath to the left, this enters some woods and heads down the hill. At the bottom of the hill a short walk (approx 150m) along Holloway lane takes you to the river. Should you not want to cross the river through the water, there is a footbridge as well.
Sarratt Bottom
Not far from the first location and equally beautiful, the paddling access here has a very different feel. A short walk from the road, there is a small field with a beach into a wide section of river. With space to picnic, and the ability to walk quite a way down the river in the water, this is a lovely place to spend a few hours. You can paddle, splash and the water is even deep enough for small people to swim in places. We also saw quite a few families exploring the river with boats.
Redbourn
The charming village of Redbourn has a couple of spots perfect for paddling on the River Ver. Just off the High Street, there is a ford on Water End road. My 3 year old spent a good chunk of time here splashing through the water, then running back across the footbridge. The road is in use, so you do need to keep an eye out for the postman and other traffic when paddling here. Closer to the Common, and just down from the play park is another area where you can paddle. There is a large step into the water here, and small children will need assistance. The locations for paddling in Redbourn are probably best suited to stops on a walk around the village or further, rather than picnic destinations where you would spend all day paddling.
Water End
Hidden away behind the Ashridge estate near Berkhamsted the River Gade peacefully meanders across a beautiful field full of wildflowers and butterflies. Parking is available in laybys on nearby roads, from here you would need to follow the paths across the field to the river crossing.
Aston Clinton Park
Last (for this list) but not least is the park at Aston Clinton. With plenty of parking available in the park, and lots to explore as well as the stream, this is a popular location for local families. The stream (located past the park) is shallow and great for small children. The cafe onsite is perfect for refreshments.
I hope you enjoyed this list of some of our favourite locations for paddling. We’ve had fun exploring all these locations and making the most of the warm weather. Many of these rivers would be great for paddling in wellies year round. In all locations when we visited the water was clear and moved slowly (if at all) but please pay attention to water safety at all times. If you are taking a buggy, the most easily accessible locations are Aston Clinton Park and Water End.
Do you know of any other places to paddle near Berkhamsted that should be on this list? Please let me know and I’ll add them to part two.
Find Out More
To book a family photoshoot (at one of these locations or elsewhere) please get in touch, or read more information on family photoshoots here.