Meet in the car park next to the cricket pavilion on Redbourn common at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am where we will head to Flamstead then on to the Golden Parsonage and Briden’s Camp before returning to Redbourn on good footpaths completing the 11 mile walk with a well-earned drink in the Cricketers Pub.

Redbourn Common car park, Redbourn

Our quarterly get-together to organise the next programme.

This time we’re having it in the hall instead of a pub.

If you have any ideas or suggestions prior to the meeting (particularly for weekends away), please let Christine know in advance.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A weekend away in Abergavenny organised by Máire & Rory,.

The current plan is to do this as a “no car” weekend as there is walking from the door. Travel by train Friday night and return Sunday afternoon.

Accommodation suggested at the Great Western Hotel which has double & triple rooms or small dormitory accommodation.

https://www.greatwesternabergavenny.com/accommodation-1/

See Rory’s email of 25th September for fuller details and please let him know ASAP if you are interested.

An evening walk led by Rory.

Details to follow

A ful day walk led by Ian.

Details to follow

A slideshow given by Peter on his cycling tour of Vietnam

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Details will be given out by Viv nearer the date

Join us for a Christmas jar or two.

To save breaking with tradition, these will be at the Lower Red Lion, 36 Fishpool Street, St Albans, AL3 4RX.  Meet 8.15pm onwards

An evening of 10 pin bowling at Woodside Leisure Park, North Watford. Meet at 7.45pm for games to start promptly at 8.00pm.

Please let Veronique know by Sunday 17th November if you are coming.

Hollywood Bowl, Kingsway North Orbital Rd

A part day ride led by Kevin.

Meet at 10:30 at Redbourn common car park. Probably be about 4 hours with a tea shop stop around half way. Distance will depend on who turns up.

Last minute change of event – pub evening at the Elephant and Castle, Amwell

Our speaker has had to cancel because of illness so, instead, we are going to have a pub evening at the Elephant and Castle pub, just outside Wheathampstead.

Directions are on http://www.elephantcastle.co.uk/?page_id=21 (from Wheathampstead follow signs for Harpenden up Church St and Brewhouse Hill, take the left fork on to Amwell Lane and we are located around 400 yards along on your right – postcode AL4 8EA).

We have a large table being held for us in Martin’s name, he and I are getting there around 7.30pm to have a bite to eat first, they have a reasonable bar menu. Otherwise please do turn up at 8pm or thereabouts as usual.

Elephant and Castle PH, Amwell, Wheathampstead Herts

This years annual dinner will be at the Woodman & Olive, Wormley West End, Broxbourne organised by Andrew.

The dinner will follow a morning walk in the area so you can build up an appetite.

See Andrew’s group email from September 27th for more details.

Meet 7.30 at the Cole Green Way picnic area car park, Letty Green, Grid Ref TL 286112. (The entrance is just next to the Cowper Arms). The ride will last about two hours. BRING BRIGHT LIGHTS!

We will retire to the Cowper Arms afterwards if we’re still clean enough.

Cole Green Lane Picnic Area, Hertford

Note change to programme.

Meet at the Greyhound pub, Wigginton for a 9.30 start – a little earlier this time given the shorter evening.  There is certainly parking along Fox Rd as you are coming up from the A41.

There are two options – if the weather is dry and we think we have the light for it, we will do 50 miles again.  If it is not so great, we have a 41 mile option.

41 miles will be Wigginton – Berkhamsted –  Botley – Amersham – Great Kingshill – Lacey Green – Wardrobes  – Wendover – Wigginton.  We could add Bledlow Ridge and Troubledlow Ridge to get to 50 miles.

We will have a lunch stop, probably at Great Kingshill, where the Red Lion pub serves coffee, food on Sundays.  Probably better to bring a pack lunch as usual though.

Greyhound Inn, Wigginton, Tring

Come along to the AGM and have your say in how the group will be run next year.  Elect the new committee, vote on any motions raised and discuss matters of interest.

Any business or motions for inclusion in the agenda must be submitted to the committee at least 7 days in advance i.e. by 23rd October.

Once official business is complete, Martin will be entertaining us with a compilation slideshow of the year. Please see his group email of 13th September requesting contributions for this.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A weekend in the Peak District staying at John Hunt Base Camp, Hagg Farm Outdoor Centre run by Nottingham County Council (the centre that is, not the weekend!)

There are still 4 empty beds for this. Please contact Neil ASAP if you are interested. Remember, the hire price is fixed so the more who come, the cheaper it will be for everybody. (see Neil’s group email from 6th September)

We will be going to the Lea Valley Velodrome for an evening of top class competition cycling (watching – not competing!)

Start time: 5.30pm at the Velodrome.

See Colm’s email from 8th August for further details. Bookings via the group are now closed but it may still be possible to get tickets. Please apply direct if you want to come along and aren’t yet booked.

https://sixday.com/london/

Phynova Six Day London is set to return to the capital for its sixth year. Be there as top international riders face off in the velodrome at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park amidst a party atmosphere. Races span men’s and women’s elite competition – including keirin, Madison chase, derny, flying time trials and much more.

The lights get turned down and the music turned up, as the world’s best track riders do battle across six nights of epic racing, all set to a thrilling soundtrack. 

Hazel Bell and Diana Holt give a presentation of the literary figures of Hertfordshire with readings from their work.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A full day walk led by Stewart.

Meet at 9.45am so we can leave at 10.00am from the Recreation Car Park in Kimpton ( as you leave the village on the Whitwell Road as you come to the first bend to the right – take a sharp left onto a track signed to the Sport/Recreation grounds) OS 182 – 176 186.

The 10 mile walk will pass through Breachwood Green, King’s Walden and Whitwell before returning to Kimpton. We will either stop at Emily’s Tea House in Whitwell or The Boot Pub in Kimpton for refreshments. Bring a packed lunch and water.

Kimpton Recreation Ground, Kimpton

Meet at Amenbury Lane car park Harpenden at 19:30 for a walk of approx 4.5 miles around the Rothamsted Estate and finishing up at The Oddfellows Arms for drinks. Bring a torch!

Change to published programme.

See the Autumn Colours of the Chiltern Hills

12.5 mile (20km) walk from Wendover starting at 10am.  Bring packed lunch.  Contact Neil for exact start point or to arrange lift from St Albans.

David Pengelly will be giving a talk on the Thames River Police

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Meet 11am by West Wycombe public library (HP14 3AE) in the middle of West Wycombe village for 8 mile walk to Hughenden and Bradenham returning via St Lawrence church (notable for a gold orb on the top).

There will be an opportunity to stop at the church for tea/coffee and cake for those that wish (all proceeds to church funds) and for those in a hurry it is a short walk downhill to your car. Would be helpful to know if you are planning on joining the walk by midday Saturday in case of any change of plans. Please bring packed lunch.

Our annual visit to the Alban Arena to catch up with all that’s best in real ale (and cider). We shall be there around 8pm.

Alban Arena, St Albans

Weekend in Scotland staying at Loch Ossian Hostel.

Get to the hostel Friday, stay two nights, eating in the cafe at the station one evening and cooking a group meal in the hostel the other evening.
I propose to fly to Glasgow Friday morning, take a hire car and drive to one of the stations on the train line to Fort William, probably The Bridge of Orchy. Catch the train to Corrour station then walk the mile or so to the hostel. We will spend the weekend walking in the area before heading back to catch the late flight back from Glasgow.

If you wish to come please contact Ian ASAP as bed space is very limited and there are flights to be booked.

SYHA Loch Ossian, Fort William

If you’re a hermit or a Martian then you might just have missed the fact that our members Jon and Brian have been spending the last few weeks walking the GR5 long-distance path through the Alps from Geneva to Menton on the Mediterranean in support of the Red Rubber Ball Foundation

Tonight, with the dust barely settled in their wake, Jon will be telling us all about it.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

For the second leg of our Chilterns Cycle tour we will start from Wheathampstead, East Lane car park, at 10am, on Sunday 15th September.

We will cover 50 miles via Harpenden, Berkhamsted, Aldbury, Studham, Peter’s Green and Kington. There are several options to shorten the route for those who would like to do 30 miles or 40 miles. We will have a lunch stop in Aldbury.

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

The Harvest Supper will be at Máire and Rory’s house this year. Starting at 8pm.

Like last year, everyone is welcome to contribute a “Harvest” dish be it sweet or savoury.

The most important part of the evening is to share the harvest, so do come along whether you can bring something to share or not. You do need to bring your own protein and drink if you want more than water.

Please let Máire know by Sunday 8th September by replying to  her group email of 3rd September if you are coming and what you would like to bring so we can judge amounts and find enough plates! Máire  will also let you know the address.

A  10 1/2 mile circular walk starting in Enfield extending into Hertfordshire to Cheshunt and following the course of the ‘new river’ for some of the way. There will be opportunities for drinks and loo stops but suggest that people bring a packed lunch.

The start and finish is at Gordon Hill station at 10.30am. There is a small car park at the station.  I also think some of the side roads opposite the station do not have parking restrictions.

An evening of fun and games in the hall organised by Carol, Jane & Rosemary

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

The next stage of the Thames path – the end is near!

Vauxhall Bridge to Greenwich – around 10 miles.  Travel to London by Public transport on this occasion.

Precise start point and time to be confirmed

Meet at 7.45pm at The Cowper Arms pub, 57 Station Rd, Cole Green, Hertford SG14 2NL  for a 3.5mile walk through open countryside and woods towards Hertingfordbury before returning to the pub along the disused railway line.

www.thecowperarmscolegreen.co.uk

Saturday 24^th August Cycle from Hertfordshire (Kimpton) to Suffolk way. (approx. 60 miles with a break for lunch/brunch at about 30 miles). B and B overnight

Sunday 25^th August – cycle around local area (wherever it may be)  Same B and B overnight

Monday 26^th August – cycle back, approximately 60 miles with a break for lunch half way.

I have identified a possibility in Haverhill within ten minutes walk of the centre which is £35 per night, extra if you want breakfast.  If you are interested, please could you let me know ASAP , in any event by 2^nd June as, obviously being a  bank holiday, there is the likelihood of places getting booked.

http://www.springbankbedandbreakfast.co.uk/

Please contact Laurel by 2nd June if interested (see emails 19/05/2019 and 30/05/1029)

Please come along to help put together the programme for the last quarter.

If you have an idea in advance for an event you would like to organise, please let Christine know before the meeting to book the date.

Meet at the Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green for 8.15pm

Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans

Meet at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am from the free-on-Sunday car park in Stanstead Abbotts Grid reference OS194 – 385 119 and head off on a 11 mile walk through cornfields as far as the you can see.

We will pass near Hunsdon before heading north towards Widford and on past Little Blakesware Farm before turning for home through woods and open countryside. Please bring a packed lunch and water.

An evening of Street orienteering organised by Máire.

Bring a torch, a pen and a watch.
You will go out on your own or in groups to see how many points you can find on a specially drawn orienteering map of the area. Points will be particular things to find, typically numbers on lamp-posts or post boxes.  It will be one hour to find as many points as you can – so stroll, gossip, walk, jog or run depending on how competitive you feel!
Any questions – just ask.

Great fun and very competitive!

Meet at the Western end of the Westminster Lodge car Park (the running track end if you’re not sure of your east from west).

Please note change of event and of event organiser to Susan Foster.

Afternoon stroll from Sandridge over to Mud Lane (which hopefully won’t be) and Nomansland Common. Approx 6 miles.

Tea and cake available at Susan and David’s afterwards for those that would like to join us. Welcome to join for walk and/or cake (should be returning around 4.30), but would appreciate indication of interest by Friday 9 August.  Meeting point is car park in middle of Sandridge by recreational ground at 2pm. There should be spaces on the road if car park is full.

Sandridge High Street Car Park, Sandridge

Meet at the Three Horseshoes pub opposite Notcutts (612 Hatfield Rd, St Albans AL4 0HP) for 1 – 1.5 hour walk.

Three Horseshoes PH, Smallford, Smallford

Barbecue at Viv’s from 1pm to 6pm-ish.

Soft drinks will be provided. Please bring your own alcohol, meat and side dishes.

Please contact Viv for location and to co-ordinate what food to bring.

A walk of approximately 8km led by Neil.

Meet at 8.00pm at the car park on Redbourn common by the cricket club on West Common.  Grid reference 106121, post code AL3 7ND

Redbourn Common car park, Redbourn

A full day walk led by Christine.

Meet at 10.30am at Whitwell Recreation Car Park, Bradway, off Horn Hill B651, for c.13 mile walk.  Eco friendly walk for those dropping off to Luton Airport with a backpack for their hols.  Those remaining, it’s a circular walk to the fringe of Luton, with hopeful sightings of butterflies on way if sunny.

An evening walk led by Ian.

Meet at the Riverside Way car park (opposite Moor Mill Restaurant) off Smug Oak Lane, Colney Street at 8pm.

Car Park, Riverside Way, Drop Lane, Colney Street, Colney Street

A full day cycle ride starting from Cambridge and heading out East through Newmarket and villages on the Cambridgeshire-Suffolk border, then returning to Cambridge. About 50 miles.

Meet 10am at 4 Lynfield Court, Chesterton CB4 1DP. (Park in Church Street opposite the flat, or failing that in Lynfield Lane.)

We may stop for some refreshment, but bring lunch.

An evening walk led by Andrew.

Meet 7.45 pm outside the White Horse, Burnham Green AL6 0HA,  GR262167  – Distance about 5 miles

White Horse PH, Burnham Green, Burnham Green

There will be a relaxing circular walk starting at 2pm from Stevenage and returning by 5pm. This will be followed by a fish and seafood meal (hopefully alfresco)., finishing by 9pm. If you would like to come for the walk and / or meal please let Jon know in advance and if you are able to help with the catering even better!

A mountain bike ride of approximately 17km led by Neil. The ride will start at the Woodman PH, 45 Wildhill, Hatfield AL9 6EA.

Bring lights

Woodman PH, Wild Hill, Hatfield

A full day walk led by Debbie on Letchworth Garden City’s greenway country trail.

Meet at 9.30am at Manor wood car park SG6 2AH (grid ref. 224 302). It’s near Willian Arboretum. It’s not the biggest car park however there is street parking nearby. The walk is 13.6 miles long also geared for cycling so easy terrain. The first half is near the A1(M). The second half is more interesting and has pubs and cafes on route. Note there are no toilet facilities directly at the car park or the 1st part of the walk so bring enough water. Depending on time taken for breaks we should finish the walk between 3 and 4 pm. The Fox is a lovely pub minutes from the car park, they even said we could park there if we had a drink afterwards.

Please note revised meeting time

St Michael’s Folk Evening, St Albans – Dancing and live music in a variety of venues around St Michael’s and outside the museum. Suggest meeting 7.30pm by the Sopwell Nunnery and then walking by the river to the museum.

http://www.stmichaelsfolkevening.org.uk/

A week in the Azores with the aim of climbing Mt. Pico (the highest peak in Portugal)

This trip is now closed for new bookings.

Mt. Pico, Azores, FJ92+F7 S.Caetano

Note change to event due to 12th June bike ride being replaced with walk.

Departs at 8pm from outside Village Stores, 29 High Street, Sandridge, AL4 9DD. One and a half hours ride around the lanes North of St. Albans. Distance dependent on the speed of the group. BRING LIGHTS

Sandridge Village Store, Sandridge

Our annual game of petanque in Highfield Park, St.Albans.

Bring a picnic (and a petanque set if you have one)

Highfield Park, St Albans

A weekend in the Cotswolds organised by Martin.

Martin has reserved two self-catering apartments at the Unicorn Aparthotel Suites, Stow on the Wold for the night of Saturday 15^th June for those who responded to his group email of 15th March.

If anybody else is interested, please contact Martin ASAP– at present more accommodation is available at Unicorn if needed.

The overall plan for the weekend is to meet up about 10am in the Cotswolds and do a circular walk over two days staying at Stow on the Saturday night.

Please note that due to rain, Neil’s evening cycle ride has been replaced with  a walk starting at the same time and place

Sandridge Village Store, Sandridge

Please note change of leader

Meet at the Railway station (parking £2.80 for the day) at 10am.

Bring a packed lunch as pub stop is not guaranteed. Neither is weather  so expect too much sun! (but also come prepared for the opposite).

Please let Christine know by 7th June if you are thinking of coming.

Harlington Station Thameslink, Harlington

An evening walk of 4-5 miles led by Andrew from the Woodman PH, Wildhill (GR265068) about 3 miles east of Hatfield.

Woodman PH, Wild Hill, Hatfield

Note change to published event.

Colm will be leading a cycle ride on the Northern section of the Chilterns Way starting at Kimpton recreation ground at 10am. This has been postponed from March 10th when gusty conditions meant the planned ride was changed to a walk.

Most of the cycle ride is on minor roads, but there is a 2.5 mile section on bridleway/track.  This will be OK for mountain bikes and hybrids, but for those not wanting to abuse their road bike, there is a slightly longer on road alternative.  This does involve a short section along a busy B road.

Kimpton Recreation Ground, Kimpton

Bring a vegan dish of your choice, for a shared supper (and anything you like to drink). You can be as adventurous (or not) as you like – home made offerings are very welcome, but if not the supermarket is just fine. Vegan masterchef Kevin will happily give advice if wanted. Arrive 7pm onwards, eating from 8pm. A sign up list will go out before the evening so we end up with a good range of mains and puds.

To be held at Martin’s and Rosemary’s.

Late spring bank holiday camping in the Malvern hills organised by Andrew.

Marlbank Inn, Malvern

Redbourn Players are presenting an evening of 3 One-Act Plays on Th. 23rd, Fri. 24th and Sat. 25th May starting at 7.30pm in Redbourn Village Hall.

1     ‘Joining the Club’ by David Tristram, a 20min play with 2 actors.

2    An abridged version of ‘Under Milk Wood’ by Dylan Thomas. The play is set in a radio recording studio where the actors are not content with just reading lines. They put on costumes and include actions. With more than 60 characters, all have to take on several roles as well as coping with the Welsh accent. There is constant movement, with numerous opportunities to forget who they are or where they should be, but hopefully over the next few weeks they’ll master it. At times, they also have to act as children.

3    ‘Strictly Sex Factor On Ice’ by David Tristram. This is one of the Little Grimley plays about a pretty unsuccessful drama group.

Tickets:- £10 (conc. £8) from Pauline. As we need a small audience at the Wed. Dress Rehearsal there is an offer of £5 seats.

The Dress Rehearsal is run as a performance, but there is no bar, just tea, coffee and cake. Geoff is running the bar on Thursday.

Redbourn Village Hall, Redbourn

A walk led by Jon starting at the Lytton Arms, Knebworth at 19.45

Lytton Arms PH, Knebworth

A walk led by Ian starting at the car park, East lane, Wheathampstead at 19.45.

We shall congregate afterwards at the Reading Room on Wheathampstead High St. to sample a jar of the local Farr brewery’s finest ales

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

A full day walk led by Stewart.

Meet in the car park next to the cricket pavilion on Redbourn Common OS Map 182 GR 514 120 at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am on the 12 mile walk through the rolling countryside of Hertfordshire. We will follow good footpaths some will be old favourites and some will be new to us as we head towards the remains of The Aubreys Fort then on past Eastbrook Hay Farm and the Crown & Sceptre pub before passing the Golden Parsonage as we make our way to Flamstead before heading back to Redbourn. Drinks in the Cricketers Pub will be very welcome reward after the walk.

Meet for a pre-walk around Heartwood Forest to clear the brain before the planning meeting proper begins at the Rose and Crown, Sandridge.

Rose and Crown PH, Sandridge, Sandridge

Latha has found a bunkhouse in Carmarthenshire but full payment is required to secure it for the bank holiday weekend.

Please contact Latha ASAP if interested (and certainly by New Years Eve at the latest) – places going fast!

Bunkhouse sleeps 15 at a total cost of £800 for three nights.

Please see Latha’s email of 7/12/2018

An evening bike ride of around 15 miles starting at the entrance to North Mimms Park.

Afterwards we will proceed to the Crooked Billet in Colney Heath.

Please bring lights.

Car Park, North Mymms Park, Hatfield

We continue the Lea Valley Walk.  Join at the car park of Waltham Cross train station.  (The same place we met for the 1st leg).  We will leave on foot at 10am and walk to Hertford via the Canoe Centre, Cheshunt,  Broxbourne, Ware, to Hertford. We head for Hertford East Train Station where trains leave every 30 mins at .35 and .55 and take 35 mins to get  us back to Waltham Cross. Bring a pack lunch, though I expect we will stop for coffee some where along the route.  Around 13.5 miles.

Waltham Cross Station, Waltham Cross

Debbie will be organising either a walk, cinema or theatre night.

The options are

A circular walk starting at Nomanlands car park, Ferrers Lane. Phone 07588171910. Start time 7.30pm

Odyssey St. Albans. The White Crow – a film about a male ballet dancer. Starts 7.30m cost £9.50 upstairs.

Abbey Theatre The rats and a small step for England – Agatha Christie. Starts 8pm cost £13.50

Let me know which of these you would prefer if you are coming. I will go with the majority.
Debbie

Friday to Sunday nights staying at the national trust Beach head bunkhouse,  which is in a remote location half way between Padstow and Newquay, and only 250 metres from the coast. There are 12 beds in two 6 bed dormitories, plus two single rooms, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Beach head bunkhouse, Wadebridge Cornwall

Carol, Jane, Jon, Martin & Rosemary will be doing a slideshow from their recent working holiday to Kenya

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

15 miles mainly off road round Box Hill and the area to the east of it. Short cuts available for the unfit.  Starts at the car park near Burford Hotel just off the roundabout on the A24 near Westhumble North of Dorking, where the motorcyclists hang out, grid reference 171521.  Take packed lunch and be ready to start pedalling at 10am

An evening walk led by Máire and Rory.

Meet at the Grandison pub (https://www.thegrandison.com/) in Bury Lane, Bramfield ready for a 7.30 start.  We will then get some light before needing torches (don’t forget to bring one).

Grandison PH, Bramfield

Now we have reached London, Andrew will taking over organisation of  the Thames path walk. This stage covers around 12 miles from Hampton Court, ending, most likely, at Kew Bridge.

Meet at the Diana fountain in Bushy Park at 9.30am.

See Andrew’s email of 30th March for full travel and meeting details.

A second instalment of the board quiz based on the popular TV series

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Walk in the hills West of Luton taking in part of the Icknield Way.  Expect 12/13 miles and bring a packed lunch.  Contact Neil for start point and time or to share transport.

Meet at Hatfield Odeon foyer for 7.40pm on to buy tickets. Start time 8pm with Ads and Trailers.  112 minutes duration.

Odeon, Galleria, Hatfield

A cycle ride from Harpenden to the Barton Hills area and back. Ring Pete for details. Meet 10.30am at 23 Tarrant Drive and bring lunch.

A general knowledge quiz in themed rounds of ten questions.  Neil promises that there will be no questions on East Enders or Big Brother (you may however be expected to estimate the average annual flow of the Yukon river to within 1%).

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

This Sunday it’s Kevin’s turn at the head of the peloton.

30 – 40 mile bike ride starting from the Cricketers Pub Redbourn at 10 am.  Tea stop somewhere on the way.

Cricketers PH, Redbourn, Redbourn

The Best of Banff arrives in London. The festival films are split into two selections – the Blue and the Red.

We shall be attending the Blue selection in London at the Union Chapel Islington. Note that the venue itself is a splendid piece of architecture and is worth a visit in its own right.

Union Chapel, Islington London

Note change to start

Today’s ride will cover the northern section of the Chiltern cycle path starting from the entrance to Kimpton recreation ground (SG4 8RA  GR175183) at 10 am.

Kimpton Recreation Ground, Kimpton

Come and join us for our annual pancake evening in the hall organised by Debbie.

As usual, please bring your own fillings & drinks.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Waltham Cross Station, Waltham Cross

A mid-week visit to the cinema organised by Carol.

Further information will be published nearer the date.

Peter’s increasingly inaccurately named annual winter weekend will now be led by Jon. We shall be visiting the Lake District this year.

Accommodation has now been booked for 8 people and is now full but if you are still interested it may be possible to find additional accommodation nearby.

A slideshow of Geoff & Pauline’s recent holiday to the land of Fire, Water and Ice (plus the odd whale)

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

The next section of the Thames path walk beginning at Staines.

Full details to follow.

This year’s three photographic categories are:

• Structures
• Skyscapes
• Outdoor activities

You may interpret these categories as you wish.

Group members may submit up to two photos for each category that they took in 2018 (so up to 6 in total).

These must be given to Rosemary (email or memory stick) by 31^st January (email rosemary.m.phillips@btopenworld.com).

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Walk starting at Wheathampstead led by Susan.

10.30 am start Meet in free car park behind what used to be called The Bull, 11 High Street, Wheathampstead, AL4 8BS (Now a Miller & Carter restaurant). Bring sandwiches or whatever your equivalent for lunch is.  Walk of very approx. 10 miles.

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

Our quarterly get-together to plan the next quarters programme will be held at the Goat, Sopwell Lane.

Goat Inn, St Albans

Meet at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am from outside the Cricketers Inn, Sarratt WD3 6AS – TQ043992 – there is parking in the slip road opposite the village hall next to the pub.

On the 12 mile walk we follow the Cress Valley Walk past Latimer and onto the outskirts of Amersham. We then cross the river Chess and head off towards the Chenies estate before re-crossing the river and return to Sarratt and a well-earned drink in the Cricketers Inn.  Bring a packed lunch. If you are planning to join this walk email Stewart.

Cricketers PH, Sarratt, Sarratt

Our annual celebration of the great Scottish poet’s birthday with the traditional haggis in the hall. We’re a little late this year but who cares? Organised by Rory.

Details to follow.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A weekend away in inland Dorset organised by Christine. Accommodation is at Bookham Court, Bookham, Alton Pancras. Dorchester.

Initial cottage booking is now full but please contact Christine if you are interested as it may be possible to book further accommodation.

See Christine’s email from 20th November for more details.

A moonlit walk across the Brocket Estate  led by Andrew  starting at the Waggoners PH in Ayot Green.

Waggoners PH, Ayot Green, Welwyn

The Thames path takes on Royal overtones as we combine two stages into a full day walk from Maidenhead, through Windsor and on to Staines. Meet 10.00 at Caffè Nero, 53 High St, Maidenhead SL6 1LB (part of Nicolsons shopping centre) ready for a 1030 departure.

Please see Martin’s emails of 6th & 15th January for full travel and meeting arrangements. If you would like to come and haven’t yet contacted Martin, please do so ASAP.

Caffe Nero, Maidenhead High St., Maidenhead, Berks

Peter will explain the hows and whys of alpine ski touring and show slides from his recent trips.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Start 10.30 for walk from North Mymms Park War Memorial, Tollgate Road for a 6 mile – (9 mile – optional) morning walk. Finish around 1.30 at latest.

North Mymms Park, Brookmans Park Hertfordshire

Darts Evening  at the Brocket Arms, Ayot St Lawrence

Early birds may like food.

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

Note revised plan

Join us for a walk followed by a game of table tennis at Westminster Lodge, Holywell Hill, St Albans.

Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, St. Albans

Some new year Hair of the Dog. Come to the Plough at Sleapshyde and tell everyone what a splendid Christmas you had.

Plough PH, Sleapshyde, St. Albans

Start the year as you plan to go on, with a walk in the countryside. We will start at 11am from The Forge car park in  Tring town centre, for a walk of about 4 hours. Please let Jon or Brian know I advance if you plan to join in.

The Forge Car Park, Tring

Our regular pre-Christmas pub evening at the Lower Red in Fishpool St.

Lower Red Lion PH, St Albans

Pre-Christmas drinks and mince pies hosted by Viv.

Please let Viv know by 9th December if you would like to come.

A food tasting evening organised by Veronique.

The theme is ” Home made bread” with tasting of samples brought by the members.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Meet at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am from outside the Brocket Arms Pub in Ayot St Lawrence AL6 9BT before heading north on the Hertfordshire Way towards Whitwell. Leaving Whitwell we will pass through St Paul’s Walden and Stagenhoe before returning on the Chiltern Way to Kimpton and then on to Ayot St Lawrence for a well-earned drink in the Brocket Arms Pub.

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

“Five groups, one village hall booking and a pantomime. What could possibly go wrong?”

A theatre trip to see the farce “Out of Focus” by Peter Gordon at Redbourn Village Hall.

Start time is 7.45pm. Doors open at 7.15. Performances on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th if you can’t make Thursday.

Ticket prices are £10.00 or £8.00 for concessions. Contact Pauline for tickets and information.

Redbourn Village Hall, Redbourn

A trip to the cinema organised by Veronique.

The showing will be “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald” and starts at 20.20

Odeon, Galleria, Hatfield

Quantocks weekend back on

A weekend away staying in holiday cottages near the Quantock hills.

Contact Rory for more information

An evening of board games in the hall organised By Jane and Rosemary

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

We will meet at 11am in the recreation ground car park, off Chesham road in Wigginton, for a walk of about 2.5 hours. Then adjourn to the Greyhound inn for a leisurely lunch sitting down at 2pm.

Please let Jon know if you will be walking, eating or both by 31st October (AGM), a menu will be available a week before the meal for you to make selections.

A badminton evening in the hall organised by Stewart. As usual for badminton, this will be in the large hall

Note revised date.

Continuing our trek down the River Thames, two stages are combined into one for a single day walk of approximately 17miles from Henley to Maidenhead.

Meeting & transport details will be published nearer the date.

River Thames – Henley, Henley

A slide show of Jon & Carol’s travels in Indonesia from September 2017, including; Flores, Komodo, Java, Bali and Lombok islands.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A walk in Epping Forest led by Andrew.

Meet at Claypit Hill free car park (Grid Ref 415 987) for a 10.30 AM start.

Claypit Hill car park, Waltham Abbey

Our quarterly get together in a local pub to plan the next quarters activities.

Time 8:30pm at the Rose & Crown, Sandridge or at 7:45pm outside the village stores for a 45mins pootle round Heartwood Forest to get you in the mood.

If you have any ideas in advance or want to offer a particular event, please contact  Rosemary before the meeting.

Rose and Crown PH, Sandridge, Sandridge

A weekend staying with Wendy at her house near Kendal. As accommodation is likely to be limited for this, please let Wendy know ASAP if you are interested – first comers will get a bed, latecomers will be camping!

Please see Rosemary’s email of 20th August for more details.

Annual General Meeting in the hall to elect new committee, vote on any motions raised and discuss matters of general interest.

Any business or motions for inclusion in the agenda must be submitted to the committee at least 7 days in advance i.e. by 24th October.

The AGM will be combined with a slide-show review of the year organised, as usual, by Peter. If you have any good pictures of the years destinations or activities, please let him have your contributions by October 15th

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Four mile afternoon walk around the aircraft heritage sites of Hatfield Aerodrome and Ellenbrook Fields. Walk is likely to be muddy.

Park in the car park at de Havilland campus sports centre, and start from outside the de Havilland sports centre social club at 1.30pm.

University of Hertfordshire Sports Centre, Hatfield AL10 9EU

A walk of about 4 miles under the full moon led by Christine.

Start from the Horns PH, Bulls Green, SG3 6RZ.  With or without moon.

The Horns PH, Bulls Green, Datchworth

Note revised date (was 7th October)

The next stage of the Thames Path sees us walking from Tilehurst to Henley on a single day walk of about 12 miles.

Transport and meeting details to be published nearer the date.

River Thames – Tilehurst, Reading

Postponed from the last programme.

Come and have fun with a reincarnation of the popular TV quiz show from the 80s. If you don’t remember it, all will be explained on the night.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A weekend on the South Downs staying at South Downs Hostel (Lewes) on the Saturday night only. Drive down early Saturday morning to rendezvous for a day walk.

Meeting time and place to be published nearer the date.

14 places have been been reserved so please contact Simon ASAP if you would like to go as places cannot be held indefinitely.

See Simon’s email on August 23rd for more information.

A bowling evening at the Hollywood Bowl, Garston.

Please let Geoff know by 2nd October if you want to come.

Hollywood Bowl, Kingsway North Orbital Rd

A full day walk starting outside the White Horse pub at Burnham Green.

Meet outside the pub at 1 White Horse Lane Burnham Green at 9.45am to allow a sharp 10.00am start.

We will pass through Datchworth and Bramfield before following the footpath near the River Mimram to Digswell before heading back to Burnham Green for a well-earned drink at the White Horse Pub. The walk is on good footpaths though open country and woods.  Bring a packed lunch.

White Horse PH, Burnham Green, Burnham Green

Neil Kirby, CEO of the Red Rubber Ball Foundation, will tell us about his travels in Kenya & Namibia and also update us on the Red Rubber Ball work sponsoring poor children through secondary education in Kenya. Come ready to work up an appetite making your own smoothie on his smoothie bike.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

This will now be led by Geoff.

A bike ride  of about 40 miles on roads heading in a generally North-Easterly direction and taking in a selection of pretty Hertfordshire villages. Start place and time to be confirmed. Bring a packed lunch.

Meet at 10.30am outside Sandridge village store.

Sandridge Village Store, Sandridge

An evening of Street orienteering organised by Máire.

Meet at 8pm in the car park behind Tesco’s in Jersey Farm (AL4 9RG). Bring a torch, a pen and a watch.
You will go out on your own or in groups to see how many points you can find on a specially drawn orienteering map of the area. Points will be particular things to find, typically numbers on lamp-posts or post boxes.  It will be one hour to find as many points as you can – so stroll, gossip, walk, jog or run depending on how competitive you feel!
Any questions – just ask.

Tesco’s Jersey Farm, St Albans

A full day walk around Ware of around 10-12 miles taking in 5 rivers or maybe 6 depending on the size of the group. Bring a packed lunch.

Park in Broadmeads.

Broadmeads, Ware, Ware

Our annual celebration of Harvest Home organised by Rory and Máire.

Since everyone seems to be growing fruit and veg this year we are going to make this evening a celebration of everyone’s Harvest.
Please bring protein for yourself. If you have a Harvest, bring a vegetable or fruit dish – side or dessert to share. If you don’t have a Harvest to share, don’t worry – just come along and help with the eating
Please get in touch with Maire by Sunday the 16th to let her know you are coming and what you could bring. I’ll do some co-ordination if necessary so we don’t have 25 different ways with courgettes.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A walk beginning at the Bridgewater Monument at Ashridge. Length will depend on who comes but expect at least 10 miles. Bring a packed lunch.

Bridgewater Monument, Berkhamsted

Neil Kirby is hosting another of his famous, and rather fun, quizzes in aid of the Red Rubber Ball Foundation, raising funds for their farming project in Kenya. It is on Thursday 13th September, at the Fairway Tavern at Panshanger Golf Club on Old Herns Lane, WGC – from 7pm for a 7.30 start , finishing around 10.30pm.

The cost is £10 per person.

Contact Rosemary if you are interested in being on one of the STAG tables.

Panshanger Golf Complex, Welwyn Garden City

Meet for a prompt 7:30 start from the 3 Horsehoes pub, The Green, Letchmore Heath, WD25 8ER for a 3 to 4 mile walk. Bring a torch.

The 3 Horseshoes, Letchmore Heath Hertfordshire

We will be walking from Wallingford to Tilehurst, approx. 15 miles

Meet: Wallingford – meet at the Bean & Brew coffee shop (57 St Mary’s St, Wallingford OX10 0EL) ready for a 10:15 departure

Suggested travel plan – unless you like early starts, the best way is to drive to Didcot Parkway station and use public transport for the last part

• Bus X2 at 9.23 from Didcot Parkway station stop R3 to Wallingford Market Place arrives 9.43

And for the return

• Train Tilehurst to Didcot Parkway (trains run at ~16 mins past the hour and take ~25 mins)

Could those planning to come please let Martin know

Bean & Brew Coffee Shop, Wallingford, Wallingford

A trip to see the film The Mercy at Harpenden Public Halls. Film starts at 8pm. Meet at 7:45pm at the halls.

Please let Laurel know by Wednesday 29th August if you want to come so she can order tickets.

Harpenden Public Halls, Harpenden

A full day walk led by Andrew through Woburn Park, past the Abbey, deer park and on the Greensand way.

Woburn Market Place, Woburn

Meet at 7:45pm for an 8pm start at the free car park behind the Village Hall in Sandridge – the walk will be for 4 miles through open countryside and woods on good footpaths. On returning to Sandridge we have the opportunity to visit one of the pubs in the village.

Sandridge High Street Car Park, Sandridge

Bank holiday weekend camping at www.ushagap.co.uk, between Thwaite and Muker.

For more details see Jon’s group email from the 9th August.

Usha Gap campsite, Muker

An evening walk led by Andrew.

Start from The Woodman, Warrengate Road, Waterend near Welham Green (AL9 7TT GR 229041) at 7-30 pm and walk around 2-3 miles.

Please note: this is NOT The Woodman at Wildhill!

The Woodman PH, Brookmans Park

Join Rosemary for an outdoor swim in the natural bathing ponds on Hampstead Heath. We will meet at 11 am at Hampstead Heath Overground Station then walk across the Heath to Kenwood ladies’ pond/Highgate mens’ Pond. These are natural ponds in a series of five. Both ponds are deep, so you need to be able to swim. There is a £2 charge.

https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/green-spaces/hampstead-heath/swimming/Pages/ponds-times-charges.aspx

After the swim we will may meet up for a picnic lunch – or retire to the Kenwood House Tearooms if we need warming up. Rosemary will advise on which we are going for much nearer the time (depending on the forecast). We will then walk back to Hampstead Heath Overground via a different part of the Heath and finish in one of the many cafés around 4pm.

Hampstead Overground Station, London, NW3 2QD

Meet at 7.45 at Verulamium Park, on the grass between Westminster Lodge Car Park (off Holywell Hill, St Albans, AL1 2DJ – free evening parking) and the River Ver for a Rounders match. At around 9.15 – 9.30 we will retire to the Pudding Stop (6 The Colonnade, Verulam Road, St Albans, AL3 4DD) for post match coffee and pud.

Verulamium Park, St Albans

Walk beginning in the public car park behind “The Bull”, East Lane, Wheathampstead, AL4 8SB, grid reference179142.  Starting at 8pm, this will be a 5 mile walk round towards Gustard Wood.  BRING A TORCH

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

Meet at 9:45 for a 10:00am start from the Whitwell Recreation ground car park, Bradway, Whitwell SG4 8BE Map 193 -184 209 for a 10 mile walk through open countryside and woods on good footpaths. Bring a packed lunch.

Whitwell Recreation Ground car park, Whitwell

Our quarterly get-together to plan the following quarter’s programme. In order to get you in the right frame of mind, this one will be preceded by a short walk around Highfield park.

Meet 7:45pm outside the Plough, Tyttenhanger Green for the walk  or 8:30pm inside for the planning session.

Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans

A weekend camping wild far from the madding crowd.

The location is not yet decided but some possibilities I’m considering are:

• Snowdonia: Nantgwynant-Cnicht area.
• Lake District: Eskdale (Cam Spout / Great Moss area), Haystacks or Haweswater.
• Dartmoor.

We can discuss the options on the upcoming Wednesday evenings.

Please note that this trip will involve backpacking with two overnight camps (probably both wild) and food for two days. You will need a suitable tent and be happy with camping without any facilities whatsoever and carrying a heavy load.

An evening walk led by Andrew.

Meet outside The Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St. Lawrence  (Grid ref. 196168) for a walk of around 4 miles.

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

A garden party at Pauline & Geoff’s.

Food & soft drinks will be provided but bring your own alcohol if you wish. If anyone has a desire to bring any food, savoury or dessert, please let Pauline know in advance.

Games will be played.

Please let Pauline know by Wednesday 18th July if you are coming.

A 15 mile cycle ride beginning outside the Village Stores, 29 High Street, Sandridge, AL4 9DD, grid reference 170105.

We will ride through the lanes North of St Albans in the Whitwell direction.  BRING LIGHTS.

Sandridge Village Store, Sandridge

A two day canoeing/camping trip from Hoarwithy to Symonds Yat on the River Wye.  We will camp on Friday night in Ross, and drive to Symonds Yat Saturday morning.  Leaving the cars there, we will be transported to Hoarwithy and head down river – 12 miles to our camp site in Ross.  We will pack up tents on Sunday and canoe the 14 miles back to base in Symonds Yat.  With two people per canoe the cost will be around £65, including campsite fees.

Bookings now closed for this weekend

https://www.canoethewye.co.uk/2-day-hoarwithy-to-symonds-yat.html

https://www.rossrowingclub.co.uk/camp-here.html

Ross Rowing Club Campsite, Ross-on-Wye

Meet at the top of Verulamium Park on the grass near the footpath exit to  King Harry Lane anytime between 7.30pm and 8.15pm . Bring your picnic supper to munch (or go to Waitrose nearby).

After eating, we’ll go for a walk around the Lakes, look for bats and possibly have a drink in the pub . Will advise telephone number to phone by email nearer the time if there are weather concerns.

Top of Verulamium Park on King Harry Lane, St. Albans

A walk starting at the car park in Ferrers Lane, Nomansland Common at 1.30pm. Length will be about 6.5 miles. Mixed terrain, nothing strenuous, but could be very muddy in places if there has been recent rain.

Nomansland Common Car Park, Wheathampstead

Bridge by Kingsbury Mill, St Albans

Note revised dates.

We’re really getting into our stride now and this weekend sees us tackling the two stages from Oxford to Wallingford.

On Saturday we walk the 10 miles from Oxford to Abingdon.

Event is now closed to new bookings but there would be an opportunity for others to join for a day walk on Sunday if they wish.

For those already booked on the weekend, please see Martin’s email of 13th May 2018 for travel and other details.

Meet on Saturday at 12:00 Mid-day at the Café in Oxford YHA.

YHA Oxford, 2A Botley Rd Oxford

Picnic & Petanque (or Boules if you prefer) at the Petanque (Pit? Pitch? Course? Court? Boulodrome?) in Highfield Park.

Bring your own food/drink & a set of boules if you have them. If you don’t, we usually manage 2 or 3 sets between us.

Highfield Park Petanque Club, 136 Hill End Lane St Albans

A full day cycle ride starting at Sandridge Church at 10.00am. Distance will depend on who turns up but probably 30-40 miles. Bring a packed lunch.

There may be a pub/tea shop stop on the way.

St Leonard’s Church, Sandridge, Sandridge

An evening mountain bike ride from Ayot St Lawrence. Meet 7.45pm outside the Brocket Arms.

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

A weekend camping at the Mandale campsite in Derbyshire organised by Andrew.

A booking has already been made for the early responders. Please contact Andrew ASAP if you would also like to come.

Mandale Campsite, Haddon Grove

An evening walk of approximately 5 miles alongside the rivers Ver & Colne. Meet at Riverside car park, Drop Lane, Colney Street. Grid ref 150021.

Car Park, Riverside Way, Drop Lane, Colney Street, Colney Street

A walk starting at the Feathers Inn, Wadesmill at 10.30am. Length will be about 12 miles – pretty (of course) and mainly flat. Bring a packed lunch.

Feathers Inn, Wadesmill, Wadesmill, Ware

A walk starting at the White Horse PH, Hertingfordbury

White Horse PH, Hertingfordbury, 234 Hertingfordbury Rd. Hertford

A visit to Salisbury Hall, former home of the legendary de Havilland Mosquito and now the de Havilland Aircraft Museum.

The plan is to meet just before 10.30 at the car park. The details of the tour are:

A guided tour of the Museum. This lasts about 1 ½ hours and includes light refreshments (tea/coffee/biscuits) for a charge of £17 per head. There’s a minimum number of 10 people for this. Payment is required on the day.

There is an option for an afternoon walk in the area afterwards and if doing this, you might want to bring a packed lunch.

If you would like to attend and have have not yet let Carol know, please respond ASAP.

de Havilland Aircraft Museum, Salisbury Hall, London Colney

A circular walk of 3-4 miles starting at the John Bunyan, Colman Green.

John Bunyan PH, St Albans

Black Valley Youth Hostel, Gearhameen Kerry

Come and have fun with a reincarnation of the popular TV quiz show from the 80s. If you don’t remember it, all will be explained on the night.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A seaside walk of about 10 miles from Pitsea finishing at Southend pier. Just for a change, come and walk by the “big end” of the Thames!

Meet at Pitsea railway station at 10:30am. The station has a large car park and the parking charge is £2.50  for the day. The walk is one-way so we will return to Pitsea by train. There is a cafe at Hadleigh Castle for lunch where there is also plenty of space for a picnic if you want to bring your own packed lunch.

Pitsea Railway Station, Basildon

Evening walk starting at 7.30pm at the benches overlooking the Sopwell ruins in Cottonmill Lane, St Albans AL1 2BY. Drinks afterwards at the White Lion, Sopwell Lane.

Sopwell benches, Cottonmill Lane, St. Albans

The KMFF goes walkabout.

Every year, the best films shown at the Kendal Mountain Film Festival go on tour around the country in support of the Sherpa’s charity Porters Progress.

Join Colm for this years show at 7pm at the Royal Geographic Society in London. Several of us have been to these events before and it’s always a varied and entertaining selection.

Contact Colm for more details.

Royal Geographical Society, London

A cycle ride led by Peter starting at Cambridge and heading out to Ely then returning to Cambridge.

Meet 10am at 4 Lynfield Court, Chesterton CB4 1DP. (Park in Church Street opposite the flat, or failing that in Lynfield Lane.)

We may stop for some refreshment, but bring lunch.

Pete’s Flat, Cambridge

An illustrated talk on Trekking Around the Annapurna Circuit by Ralph Levey

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

The May Day bank holiday will be in the Lake District, staying at Helvellyn hostel.

Bookings are now closed. If you wish to come, please book yourself in and let Latha know.

https://www.yha.org.uk/hostel/helvellyn

YHA Helvellyn Hostel, Greenside, Glenridding, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 0QR

YHA Helvellyn, Greenside, Glenridding, Penrith Cumbria

Come and see Redbourn Player’s spring production of Ray Cooney’s celebrated farce.

Door and bar open at 7pm, performance at 7.30pm.

Ticketing details to follow.

Redbourn Village Hall, Redbourn

Planning evening for the autumn quarters events to be held in the White Lion PH, St. Albans.

Please come with ideas and offers to organise an event for the next quarterly programme. If you can’t make it but would like to organise something, please email Rosemary in advance.

White Lion PH, St Albans, St Albans

Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, St. Albans

A slide show given by Pete and others on their recent trip to Greenland.

Note that this talk has been postponed from 28th February.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

The next section of the Thames Path walk takes us from Lechlade to Oxford over two days.

On Saturday we walk approximately 16 miles from Lechlade to Newbridge with an overnight stay at Witney. Sunday sees us tackling the 14 mile stage to Oxford from where we travel home. Travel details will be published nearer the date.

Hotel accommodation has now been booked for those who expressed interest but  if you would still like to come and have not previously contacted Martin, please do so ASAP.

River Thames – Lechlade, Lechlade

A local evening walk led by Ian.

Meet at the Three Hammers PH , Chiswell Green for a 4-5 mile walk.

Three Hammers PH, Chiswell Green

A visit to the RSPB nature reserve at Sandy combined with a walk.

Meet at car park for the Lodge Nature reserve at 10.30 am,

Address:  Gatehouse, The Lodge, Potton Road, Sandy, SG19 2DL

Grid reference  191485

There is a car park charge of £6 per car (free for RSPB members).  Entrance free.  Therefore it may make sense for people to lift share. About 40 minutes drive from St Albans.  Perhaps spend an hour or so looking at the birds in the hide, followed by a 6-7 mile walk and then the option of some more time looking at the birds . Bring packed lunch.  Some refreshments available.

https://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves-and-events/reserves-a-z/the-lodge

RSPB, The Lodge Nature Reserve, The Heath, Potton Rd, Sandy

Having previously given us a talk on her adventures cycling through Africa,  Helen Lloyd makes a welcome return to tell us of her journey on two wheels through Siberia in the depths of winter.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Two linked trails taking in the sights of London.

Please let me know by Saturday evening if you are going so I know who to expect at the station. Also if anyone wants to do only one of the routes or second route only I will estimate  time for us to get there.

Westminster Underground, Bridge St. Westminster

A slideshow on the general theme of water made up of photos contributed by the group & collated by Jon Hill.

Please pass your photos of lakes, rivers, waterfalls, glaciers or any other form of water to Jon by 28th March. Jon will assemble them into a pleasing visual spectacular to be shown on the night.

Preferred medium is memory stick (full size images).

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

The Easter 2018 adventure will be to the Isle of Man, flying from Luton to Douglas. We depart at lunch time on Friday and return in time for tea on Monday, so no need to do battle with all the motorway traffic.

We already have flights booked for eleven people. If you would like to join in, please check the hotel has places then book your own flight & contact Jon to let him know.

Out: Easyjet EZY161 departs Luton 12:35, arrives Douglas 13:50 Friday 30th March.

Return: EZY162 departs Douglas 15:50 Arrives Luton 17:00 Monday 2nd April.

Sefton Express Hotel  Ronaldsway Airport, Ballasalla, Isle Of Man, IM9 2SE,  Tel. +441624824321

http://www.seftonexpress.co.uk/

Sefton Express Hotel, Isle of Man, Ronaldsway Airport Ballasalla

Rory & Maire will be showing their slides of their recent walking holiday on a French section of the famous Camino de Santiago de Compostela.

The show covers the section from Le Puy en Velay to Figeac.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Meet at 9.45am for a 10.00am start from car park next to the sports field in Wigginton map 181- 938099 near the Greyhound Pub HP23 6EH for a 10 mile walk through Wendover Woods on good footpaths with the opportunity to have coffee and cake at the café in the woods. Bring a packed lunch.

Wigginton Sports Field car park, Wigginton

Please bring a contribution of food and / or drinks for a social evening meal together (bought or home made contributions are both welcome). Please let Rosemary know by Sun 18th March roughly what you intend bringing to ensure we end up with something approaching a balanced meal! People welcome any time after 7.30pm.

Venue: Rosemary & Martin’s

Please note: this event has been cancelled.

neilsheldrick@yahoo.co.uk

Watton-at-Stone, Watton-at-Stone

Please check with Rosemary by today what you intend to bring to the Bring & Share supper on the 21st.

Note: there is an email circulating from the group address which is  listing people’s contributions to date. Please add to this and send it on.

While others in the group are sliding around Scandinavia on planks of wood, come and join the rest of us for a games evening in the hall.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Jim & Kate have kindly offered to lead a walk for those of us not X-country skiing.

Harlington Station Thameslink, Harlington

10^th – 18^th March 2018, Cross country skiing along the Troll Trail in Norway, from mountain hotel to mountain hotel.

Booking now closed.

Meet at 8.00pm in the car park by the Roman Museum in Verulam Park AL3 4SW for a 4 mile walk through the countryside finishing at the Six Bells Pub in St Michaels Village.

Verulamium Museum Car Park, St Albans

A walk in the Enfield area led by Gill and Bob.

Oakwood Tube Station, London N14

The annual Banff Film Festival is on tour once again and comes to the Alban Arena on Thursday 1st March, starting at 7.30pm

Alban Arena, St Albans

In a change to the previously published programme, Graham Williams from Cotswold Outdoor will be presenting a talk and slideshow on this  region.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Please book by today with Colm for weekend canoeing on River Wye 13th-15th July.

An all day cycle ride of about 40 miles meeting by the entrance to North Mymms park at 10.00am. We’ll be heading roughly North-East and exploring the lanes between Welwyn Garden City, Stevenage and Hertford before heading back for tea and cakes at our place.

Bring a packed lunch – we may stop at a tea shop somewhere but it’s not guaranteed.

Please call (or email) by the night before so I have an idea of how many are coming.

North Mymms Park, Brookmans Park Hertfordshire

A trip to see Battle of the Sexes at the Alban Arena at 7:30pm.

If you’d still like to come, please contact the Arena yourself to check if tickets are still available.

Alban Arena, St Albans

Clean the rust off your ice axe and sharpen up your crampons for Pete’s annual winter weekend somewhere snowy and mountainous.

This year we will be staying in Pen-y-Pass hostel in Snowdonia.

No new bookings being taken – please book directly with hostel if you want to come and let Peter know so he can co-ordinate transport.

YHA Snowdon Pen-y-Pass, A4086 Caernarfon

Pancakes in the Hall organised by Veronique.

Sugar, lemon, tea & coffee provided. Please bring your own filling(s) if you want something different.

Please let Veronique know by Sunday 11th Feb if you are coming so she can have an idea of the quantity to make.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Reminder!

Please let Veronique know by today if you want come to the Pancake Evening on 14th February

Thames Path Stages 1 & 2

After an early morning start from Hertfordshire on Saturday 10th, we will meet in Cricklade, then drive the short distance to the start of the walk in Kemble.

Gather at the Barista coffee shop, 48 High Street, Cricklade SN6 6DA in time for a 10am departure. We will walk from the source of the Thames towards Cricklade (13 miles) where we will stay in the White Hart. On Sunday, we will walk the 11 miles from Cricklade to Lechlade before returning home. For full details, see email from Martin 21/01/2018.

If anybody else who is not currently booked would like to come, please contact Martin.

Barista Coffee Shop, Cricklade, Cricklade Swindon

Come along for a sociable drink and to help plan the next quarters events. Ideas for future events and offers to organise/lead events needed

Rose and Crown PH, Sandridge, Sandridge

A full day walk starting in the centre of Wheathampstead.

Meet at 10:30am in the East Lane public car park behind the  Miller & Carter Steakhouse in the centre of Wheathampstead

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

How do you know where you are and where to go? Kate and Jim will talk about their scientific research into the brain’s navigation system – a system that turns out also to be where memories are received, organised and retrieved. This topic is relevant to anyone who navigates or who has a memory, especially an aging one (!), and will be accompanied by slides and some hands-on demonstrations.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Smallford station car park, St Albans

Evening walk of about 1 hour starting and finishing at the Plume of Feathers, Tewin.

Plume of Feathers PH, Tewin

An all day cycle ride led by Andrew. The ride will start outside the Rose & Crown PH in Sandridge at 10.30 am. Distance will be around 40 – 45 miles on roads or good bridle paths returning by 4pm.

Bring a packed lunch though a refreshment stop is likely.

Rose and Crown PH, Sandridge, Sandridge

Burns Night in the Hall slightly early this year for a change!– Haggis, neeps and tatties with trimmings.  In order for the haggis to hang for a suitable length of time, please let Máire know by Sunday 14th January if you want to come (and also if you are a vegetarian)

Help with neeps, tatties, desserts and toasting welcome. Charge will depend on Haggis “shooting” fees, in previous years £3.50/diner has covered it.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Meet at 9.45am for a 10.00am start from the car park on the Byslips Road near Studham map 182 – 027155 – the 11 mile walk will be through open country on good foot paths. Bring a packed lunch.

Byslips Road car park, Studham, Dunstable

Reminder!

Please let Máire know by today if you want come to the Burns night supper on 17th January

An evening ten-pin bowling at the Hollywood Bowl, Garston.

Please let Veronique know by Monday 8th January if you would like to come.

Hollywood Bowl, Kingsway North Orbital Rd

An all day cycle ride of around 40 miles starting and finishing in Kimpton and taking in the ‘Something Lovely’ tea rooms at Puckeridge. According to Kevin, the coffee and home-made cakes there are splendid!!!!

Meet outside the school in Kimpton High Street at 10.00am.

Kimpton School, Kimpton

Join Veronique et al. for the first event of 2018 at the Goat in Sopwell Lane, St Albans  to show off your new Christmas pullover.

Goat Inn, St Albans

Christmas Drinks and Nibbles at Geoff and Pauline’s,  finger buffet (inc. gluten free, Martin), mulled wine and soft drinks provided.

Please do not bring any food, unless arranged beforehand with Pauline. However, you may bring alcohol if you choose.

Please let  Pauline know if you are going by Sunday 17th at the latest, but earlier acceptance makes it easier  to plan food.

pauline@tollgate80.eclipse.co.uk

Meet at St Albans station at 10:00 to catch a train to Harpenden then a 12mile walk back to St Albans via Redbournbury Mill.

St Albans City Station, St Albans

A relaxing pre-Christmas quiz

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Meet at 9.45am for a 10.00am start from the Whitwell Recreation ground car park, Bradway, Whitwell SG4 8BE Map 193 -184 209 for a 10 mile walk through open countryside and woods on good footpaths. Bring a packed lunch.

Whitwell Recreation Ground car park, Whitwell

Once again Redbourn Players are putting on their very popular  Christmas  pantomime and this year the horror classic Frankenstein is being given a new twist by author David Howell. Lime jelly, monsters & ghouls abound – Oh yes they do! Oh no they don’t! – but you can be sure that the heroes will save the day!

Tickets are £10.00 (concessions £8.00)

Doors & bar open at 7.00pm

Let Pauline know if you want tickets – They’re selling fast so get in quick!

Group members are already going Thursday but there are also performances on  Saturday matinée & evening  if you can’t make Thursday. Sorry, Friday is now sold out.

Redbourn Village Hall, Redbourn

Badminton evening at the United Reformed Church Hall – everybody is welcome to come along and watch or learn to play.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

We are going to the independent wine producers  show in Paris, probably with a bit of walking and site seeing as well. We travel by Eurostar late on Thursday evening and back on Sunday afternoon.

Now fully booked.

Annual Dinner –  Veer Dhara – Indian Restaurant – 9 Hatfield Road St Albans  http://veerdhara.com/

Please let Andrew know by Tuesday 21st November if you wish to come.

Veer Dhara, St Albans Hertfordshire

Meet at Hexton outside the Lavender Tea Room at 9:45 for a 13mile walk. Bring a packed lunch then a visit to the tea shop at the end of the walk.

Lavender Tea Room, Hitchin

All members are invited to submit up to two digital photos in each of the following categories: landscape; flora and fauna; fun. Photos must have been taken by them, and not entered for any previous competition. Send slides to Rosemary – closing date for entries Wed 15^th November.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

A lazy 11am start for a circular walk of 4-5 hours from Benington heading north east. Meet opposite the church gate (GR 298236) and bring a packed lunch.

St Peter’s Church, Benington, Stevenage

Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL

Today is the last day to get your pictures to Rosemary and Martin for the photo competition

10 am start  for a 10-12 miles walk through Broxbourne woods National Nature reserve to enjoy the Autumn colours.  Start at Bencroft Wood Car Park on White Stubbs Lane , GR 332 064, Post code SG13 8PA

Bencroft wood, Bencroft wood Hertfordshire

A talk about Amnesty International

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans

Jon has had to cancel his planned Holmbury walk. In its place, Martin and Rosemary are planning a walk and would welcome anyone to join them. (We are going to cycle to the start of the walk, if anyone wants to do that bit too.)

Our walk will start at 11am from Charlie’s Coffee Shop on Station Road in Wheathampstead (AL4 8BU – it’s at the low point of the road, close to the bridge over the river Lea). We will wander along the River Lea to Lemsford for Sunday lunch at one of the Lemsford pubs. We will return to Wheathampstead via Ayot Green and then along the Ayot Greenway.

If anyone fancies a bike ride too, we will leave our house at 9.30am and cycle to Wheathampstead (takes around 45 mins). The route can be all on road or partly on tracks, depending if anyone with a road bike wants to join us.

Just in case there are vast numbers wanting to join us, it would be helpful if you  could you let us know as we might need to book a table for lunch. (But if you don’t see this message until Sunday morning and just want to turn up, please do come along…)

Charlie’s Coffee Shop, Wheathampstead

Meet from about 8pm at the Plough in Tyttenhanger to organise the 1st Quarter programme of 2018.

Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans

Meet at 9.45am for a 10.00am start from the car park in Ashley Green Village Hall – Two Dells Lane  map181 977 052. The 12 mile walk winds through open field and woodlands and we will pass  Bovingdon airfield, the Chiltern Hundreds and Hawridge common before returning through Hockeridge Wood to Ashley Green.

Village Hall, Ashley Green Hertfordshire

Annual General Meeting at the Church Hall at 8:00pm, your chance to elect a new committee.

To be followed by a selection of slides showing some of the adventures the group has enjoyed over the last 12 months (walking, cycling, skiing and maybe some eating).

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A weekend in the Lake District staying at Ambleside hostel. Outline plan is to travel to Ambleside on the afternoon / evening of Friday 20^th, stay two nights in Ambleside YHA, returning Sunday 22^nd October. Ambleside is easily accessible from the M6 and gives good access to a range of hill walks such as the Fairfield horseshoe, High Street and the Langdale Pikes. It has good access to Windermere, Rydal and Grasmere for lower-level activities.

Let Martin know if you want to go ASAP

YHA Ambleside, Ambleside

An illustrated talk by Alistair Hodgson, the curator of de Havilland Museum, about the history of Salisbury Hall and its wartime role with the Mosquito design

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Bridgewater Monument, Berkhamsted

Meet at 7.30pm in the car park of the Swan Pub in Wheathampstead. The three mile walk will be on good footpaths through open countryside and woods – bring a torch. We will be having a drink in the Swan Pub after the walk so members who are unable to join us can meet us in the pub at 9.00pm.

Swan PH, Wheathampstead

A mountain bike ride in the Chesham area, about 15 miles. Bring lunch. Meet at the small car park on Ley Hill Common (near The Crown  pub, HP5 1UY) at 10am.

Ley Hill Common, Ley Hill Hertfordshire

A chance for people to bring along and show pictures of their trips. Bring along upto 25 pictures of a city you have visited. The only catch the pictures can not be of  a capital city.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet at Kevin & Laurels for a  10.30 start, cycle out towards Southill possible tea shop stop and/or bring own lunch
(Approx 45 miles)

Kimpton School, Kimpton

Meet around 8:00pm in The Alban Arena for the  St Albans beer (and cider) festival.

Alban Arena, St Albans

A slide show and talk  in the Hall, on a family trip to Cape Town and the Garden Route, December 2016.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

This is a short 3 mile walk starting at 8pm from  The Crooked Chimney,  on the Wheathamstead road near Lemsford. The route will be across fields to Symondshyde and then to Coleman Green and back via Cromer Hyde. It’s mainly open fields with one short section of woodland to pass through, bring a torch.

The Crooked Chimney, Lemsford Hertfordshire

A weekend away to walk the final sections of the Ridgeway.

See e-mail form Martin with all the deatils.

Meet at the hall for the annual Harvest supper. Bring your own protein.

Don’t be late as we plan to start PROMPTLY at 8:00pm as wehave add a few things to this evening

Ther will be a small wine tasting prior to sitting down and eating. Also we will have an update from our friends at Red Rubber Ball

Contact Rory by 3rd September to let him know if you are going.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet at the Feathers Inn, Wadesmill SG12 0TN at 10.30. Bring lunch.  About 12 miles. Pretty and mainly flat.

Feathers Inn, Wadesmill, Wadesmill, Ware

Evening walk – meet in the car park on Nomansland map 182 172124 at 7.30pm for a three and a half mile stroll through open countryside before returning to the car park and taking a short drive to the Elephant & Castle pub AL4 8EA. Club members who are unable to join the walk are welcome arrive at the pub around 9.15pm.

Nomansland Common Car Park, Wheathampstead

Meet 7.30pm at Plough Pub, 28 Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans, AL4 0RW for a short walk in the countryside.  Bring torch in case it gets dark.

Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans

A weekend staying at sheen bunkhouse  in the Peak district, it’s rated number one on tripadvisor … for bunkhouses in Sheen!!!

There are lots of options for walking or cycling and the bunkhouse sleeps 14 in two rooms of 6 and 8, so book early to avoid disappointment. The cost is £380 for the weekend divided by however many take part in this adventure.

Sheen Bunkhouse, Sheen Derbyshire

Meet outside the  village shop Sandridge (opposite the Rose and Crown) at 7:45 pub for a short walk around Heartswood Forrest then retire to the Rose and Crown pub to plan the 4th Quarters programme ( October to December).

Rose and Crown Sandridge, Sandridge

Walk to start from Lilley, walking to the Barton and/or Pegsdon Hills. Meeting by St Peters Church 10.30 am, LU2 8LH.  GR264118.  Walk length 10-12 miles.  Bring pack lunch

St Peters Church, Lilley, Lilley

An evening walk – starting at  7-30 pm from outside St Marys C of E Church Essendon,  AL9 6AJ. Circular walk to Little Berkhamsted , distance 4.5 Miles.

St Marys Church, Essendon, Essendon

Meet 10:30 at the Wicken Fen NT car park for a fairly gentle cycle ride starting from the National Trust car park at Wicken Fen, about 10 miles north-east of Cambridge. Car park is free for NT members.

Some of this ride will be off-road though the surfaces are generally
good and well graded so road bikes should be fine.

Tea afterwards at the NT tea shop if we get back in time and if there is time, we could do aquick trot round the nature reserve (entry free to NT members, else £6.95)

Meet 10:30 at the Wicken Fen NT car park & bring your National Trust card if you are a member(this is only needed for the reserve, not the bike ride.) Bring a packed lunch.

Wicken Fen NT, ELY Cambridgeshire,

Verulamium Museum carpark, St Albans

Meet at the car park for Theford Warren Lodge (an English Heritage site) just off the B1107  in Thetford forest.  The walk will be around 16miles along the Little Ouse river and Thetford forest using strectches of the St Edmunds way & Hereward way long distance footpaths. Bring a packed lunch.

Let Veronique know the evening before if you are going.

Warren Lodge Car Park, Thetford

Highfield Park, St Albans

Car Park, Flamstead

An evening walk leaving promptly at 7:45 from the car park on Church Lane by St Lawrence Church, Bovingdon, HP3 0LU.  Bring a head torch.

Post walk drink in The Bell Inn, High St, Bovingdon HP3 0HP.

Car Park, St Lawrence Church, Bovingdon, Bovingdon

Walk and “music for a Palladian picnic” at Palladian Church Ayot St Lawrence

Leave Kimpton 1pm and walk to the Palladian Church at Ayot St Lawrence where there will be an afternoon concert organised by the Kimpton Village Choir from 2-4pm (bring a picnic and a chair!)
Tickets are £5 in advance or you can get them on the door

If people don’t want to go to the concert they can carry on walking but I will be going to the concert. Please let me know if you’re coming by 14th July.

Our house, Kimpton

Meet 7.30 at the car park on Redbourn common for a ride lasting about two hours. Bring lights. We will retire to the Cricketers pub afterwards.

Redbourn Common car park, Redbourn

Meet at the White Horse Burgnham Green at 7:45 for an evening walk.

White Horse PH, Burnham Green, Burnham Green

Weekend away – 30th June – 2nd July  – South Glamorgan coast – Camping.  Campsite – Acorn Camping and Caravan park – Llantwit Major (West of Barry) – http://www.acorncamping.co.uk/

I would like an initial idea of numbers by end of March so we can make an initial booking, although I am sure it will be possible to book individually later.  I will also make a booking at a local pub for the Saturday night nearer the time.

Acorn Camping and Caravanning, Llantwit Major

Spend a pleasant summers evening with a game of Petanque and a picnic  at Highfield park.  Meet at 8:00pm

Highfield Park, St Albans

Meet at 10.00am outside the Cricketers Inn, Sarratt WD3 6AS or map 172 – 043992 – there is parking in the slip road opposite the village hall next to the Cricketers Inn. On the 12 mile walk we cross the river Chess and follow good footpaths through the Chenies estate and onto the outskirts of Amersham before re-crossing the river Chess so we can follow the Chess Valley Walk past Latimer back to Sarratt. Bring a packed lunch and water.

Cricketers PH, Sarratt, Sarratt

Celebrate the official start of summer with a walk around the Brocket Estate.  About 8km in length, depending on desire for beer at the end.  Meet outside the Long Arm and short Arm pub, 18 Lemsford Village, AL8 7TN.

Long and Short Arm PH, Lemsford

Part 5 of theRidgeway walk

See the email from Martin 14/3/17.

Meet at the Red Lion, Digswell Hill (http://www.theredlionwelwyn.co.uk) at 7.45 for a walk around Sherrardspark Wood. Drink in the pub afterwards.

Red Lion PH, Digswell Hill, Welwyn Garden City

Porcelanosa, Bushey

An evening cycle ride meet Sandridge Church 7-45 pm, Length 10-15 miles, Pace adjusted to suite who turns up.  Lights advisable.

St Leonard’s Church, Sandridge, Sandridge

Meet 10:30 Wortsted Lane, Hare Street at the junction of B1368 SG9 0DY. – Southern end of Hare Street village.  Easier bike ride about 25 miles or so.  Bring lunch but liquid stops may occur.  Beautiful undulating countryside on quiet country lanes through the ‘Pelhams’. 3 short sharp hills which can be push biked. Come and enjoy a slower ride to enjoy the sounds and nature of the June countryside.

Junction Wortsted Lane/B1368, Hare Street

Somewhere different for a change. Meet 7.45pm outside the Robin Hood and Little John pub at Rableyheath near Codicote for an hour or two’s stroll followed by a beer or two.

Robin Hood & Little John PH, Codicote

Meet at 7.45pm in the car park next to the cricket pavilion on the green at Redbourn map 182 -103119. The 5 mile walk will pass Hammonds End Farm and Redbournbury Mill before returning to Redbourn for a well-earned drink in the Cricketers Pub.

Cricketers PH, Redbourn, Redbourn

Meet at 10.00am in in front of the Red Lion Pub – SG4 7UD in Preston map 193 – 181247  – there is limited parking around the village green so consider car sharing .  The 12 mile walk will be through woods and open countryside on good footpaths over the Chiltern Hills. Bring a packed lunch and water.

The Red Lion, Hitchin

Meet 19.30 outside Village Stores, 29 High Street, Sandridge, AL4 9DD.  Walk of about 9km depending on available daylight and weather.  Bring torch in case things go wrong.

Village Store, Sandridge

Meet at 10:30am by the Bull public house (opposite School Lane) in the High street, Watton-at-Stone for a ride exploring the lanes of East Hertfordshire.

Expected distance 40-45miles

Bull PH, Watton-at-Stone, Watton at Stone

An illiustrated talk by Ed Suttie on his trek to the North pole.

There will be a collection for Ed’s charities, see website link for details.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

This will be an early morning trip to Kent to join the Croydon group on their Weald Walkers Wander. A 10 mile orienteering exercise with quizzes and games along the way, the entry fee is £7 in advance.

If you want to take part please sign up by 19th April, so that we can register teams of between 2 and 5 people and arrange transport.

Crockham Hill Village Hall, Crockham Hill

Come along to the planning evening and help plan the events for the summer months (3rd Quarter July to end of September).

Lots of walks in the sunshine, bike rides, outdoor activities!

Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans

A long weekend to Pembrokeshire to walk or climb on the cliffs. We are camping at Porthclais farm near St. Davids, please book by 26th March.

If you wish to choose alternative accommodation in the area please liaise with the organiser, so that transport etc. can be co-ordinated.

Porthclais Farm Campsite, St Davids

A quiz with a difference.

i.e. be prepared to move about.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A 10 mile (ish) walk out to the west of Stevenage taking in Minsden chapel and may be a quick stoop at a pub (but bring a packed lunch).

Caxton way, Stevenage

Trampolining – 19th April – Grivity Force – 1 Alban Park, Hatfield Rd, St Albans, Behind Homebase  – http://www.gravityforce.co.uk.

Arrive 8-30 for 9 – 10 pm session, Cost £10 & £2 for socks.  Let us know by the previous Wednesday 12th, so we can book in advance  (not sure if this is necessary but probably best to be on the safe side.)  People will need to sign a waiver form.

Long weekend camping on the Isle of Arran

If you want to join us please contact me.

Bring along a vegaterian savoury  quiche or tart for everyone to sample and  compare. We will vote on the best one.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Please let Andrew know if you want to go trampolining by 12th April.

Sunday walk – 9th April  – Sharpenhoe Clappers – Start from NT car park 10.30 am  Grid Reference – 065 296  Landranger 166  – About 10-12 miles, bring lunch – Pub stop possible but not guaranteed

Sharpenhoe NT Car Park, Sharpenhoe Bedfordshire

Come along for a talk on St Albans 1917.  I’ll describe local everyday life for people like us. The talk, with slides will start just after 8pm, and tea and coffee will be provided.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet at 10.00am at the car park on the Byslips Road near Studham map 182 – 027155 and the 12 mile walk will be through woods and open countryside on good footpaths. We will head over towards Little Gaddesden before following the path through the Golden Valley in Ashridge where we pick up the Hertfordshire Way to Nettleden before returning through Great Gaddesden. Bring a packed lunch and water.

Car Park, Studham

A short walk around Sandridge and Heartwood Forest.Meet for an 8:00pm start from the car park by Sandridge Village Hall

Sandridge Village Hall, Sandridge

A  Sunday Mountain bike ride.  Starts at Public (pay and display) carpark in Wendover Woods  at the top of the hill, Grid Reference 888091.  Ride is planned to be 27km long with 500m of ascent and can be extended or short cuts are available.  Bring packed lunch.

Please let Geoff know by 26th March if you want to go on the camping trip to Pembrokeshire.

Please let Andrew know if you are intrested in going camping to South Glamorgan at the end of June.

An illustrated talk by Bryan Hanlon describing the adventures of 6 months travelling overland between Cairo and Cape Town

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet at 10-30am on the Winding Shott road in Bramfield (GR292158) for a walk of 10-12 miles, with a picnic lunch along the way.

Bramfield, Bramfield

StartIing from the road leading up to North Mymms church – starting at 8-00 pm.  It will be around 4 miles.  Probably go to the Crooked Billet in Colney Heath afterwards, so non walkers can meet us there.

Car Park, North Mymms Park, Hatfield

Ridgeway Part 4

Saturday 11^th March: Princes Risborough to Watlington (17.5km).

Sunday 12^th March: Watlington (17.5km) to Goring (23.5km)

The plan is to take the train via London Marylebone to Prices Risborough on the Saturday morning, walk to Watlington and stay overnight in a local B&B. On Sunday, we will walk to Goring and Streatley for a train home via Paddington.

Could those requiring accommodation for the night of Saturday 11^th March please contact Martin by 14^th December latest

An evening of games in the hall.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Aylett Garden Centre, St. Albans

Please contact Ian or Veronique (telephone or e-mail) if you plan to come along, by Sunday 26th February.  All you will need is the filling or fillings  of your choice.

Please let Veronique or Ian know if you are coming to the Pancake evening on 1st March by 26th February.

Meet at the Rose and Crown Pub in Sandridge to plan the programme for the 2nd Quarter of 2017.

Rose and Crown Sandridge, Sandridge

Wild Hokkaido, modern Tokyo, ancient Kyoto and more. An independent adventure round Japan by plane, train and automobile with a bit of walking thrown in for good measure.

Japan poster

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

An evening of 10 pin bowling at the the Hollywood Bowl, Garston. Please let Máire know by Wednesday 1st  February if you want to come along.

Woodside Leisure Park, Watford

A  10 mile Sunday walk starting at 10.30 am at St Marys church Walkern. Bring a paxked lunch.   Please try and park in the High Street, in case of church goers as parking limited near Church.

St Marys Church, Walkern, Walkern

Please let Máire know if you are coming to the 10pin bowling on the 8th February

A belated Burns Night in the Hall – Haggis, neeps and tatties with trimmings.  In order for the haggis to hang for a suitable length of time, please let Máire know by Sunday 22nd January if you want to come.

Help with neeps, tatties, desserts and toasting welcome.Charge will depend on Haggis “shooting” fees, in previous years £3.50/diner has covered it.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Ridgeway Part 3

Sunday 29^th January: Wendover to Princes Risborough (20km circuit returning to Wendover)

Details: Meet 10.00 at Rumsey’s Chocolaterie, 26 High Street, Wendover for some warming drinks and comfort food. Purists immune to the pleasures of the flesh can meet us 10.45 at Wendover Church.

Rumseys Chocolaterie, Wendover

An evening visit to the cinema.  Film choice will depend whats on and start times. Let Veronique know if you are coming by Sunday 22nd of January.

Meet next to the coffee shop in the Odeon cinema at Hatfield at  8:15, film starts at 8:30

odeon cinema, Hatfield

Let Máire know if you are coming to the Burns night on 1st of February

Let Veronique know if you are coming to the cinema evening on 25th January

Meet at 10am outside Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre , St Albans AL1 2DL  for a 5-6 mile walk. Coffee stop half way round to buy or bring your own. Let me know by the night before that you’ll be there

Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, St. Albans

An illustrated talk on teaching English in Sudan by Graham Williams, traveller, writer and Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Weekend in the Lakes, hostel to be confirmed: possibly Windermere (Troutbeck). Please let Peter know ASAP (original deadline was 28th November) if you would like to join this trip.

Wrap up warm, bring a torch and enjoy the January moonlight walk across mainly open fields between Burnham Green, Datchworth and Woolmer Green.  Afterwards we will adjourn to the White horse PH for refreshments.

Meet at the junction of Harmer Green lane and White Horse lane.

White horse public house, Burnham green

All day cycle ride from Southdown, Harpenden. Meet 10:00am at the small car park on the corner of Cravells Road and Grove Road. This ride may be even colder than Geoff’s but we will stop at a nice warm pub for lunch. Do NOT bring food!

Southdown car park, Harpenden

For the first event of the new year meet in the large hall at 8pm for an evening of badminton.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet at the White Lion Pub St Albans for 8pm for a pre Christmas drink.

White Lion PH, St Albans, St Albans

A walk of approximately 5 hours, leavin from Kimpton church at 10:30am. Bring a packed lunch.

Kimpton Church, Kimpton

Please let Martin know if you are coming on the weekend away for the Ridgeway Part 4,  11-12th March.

The Grandison, Bramfield

A cold bike ride, bring lights and warm clothes.

Contact Geoff for start times and route.

A free evening to allow you to prepare for the forthcoming festivities.

YHA Wells-next-the sea, Wells-next-the-Sea

An evening of Snooker at ‘Bingo Raging Ball’ tables are booked for 8pm.

Bingo Raging Ball Snooker Club, St Albans

Meet at 10.00am in the car park at the back of The Bull Pub AL4 8BS  in Wheathampstead sheet 182 – 177 142 – the 10 mile walk will be through open countryside on good footpaths. The circular walk will take us past the Cross Keys pub, Shaw Corner, Brocket Hall before heading back through Coleman Green to Wheathampstead. Bring a packed lunch and water.

The Bull, Wheathampstead

An exciting quiz on outdoor activities, places and travel.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet by the St. John the Baptist church in Amwell at 11-30 for a 2 hour appetite builder over Hertford heath. We will then sit down in the George IV pub for a late lunch at 2pm and afternoon relaxation.

Please confirm attendance and any dietary requirements by Halloween.

George IV PH, Great Amwell

Meet outside the Rose and Crown Sandridge at for an 8pm start for a walk under a full moon.

Rose and Crown PH, Sandridge, Sandridge

Tring Railway Station Car Park, Tring

Come along to a slide show of Veronique & Ians trip to Mongolia.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A weekend walking in Wharfedale and maybe enjoying some fireworks on Saturday night.  We will be staying in the National trust Town head bunkhouse in Buckden which sleeps 13 people in 4 rooms.

Please let Jon know ASAP if you want to join this adventure (first come first served), or if you prefer something a little grander please make your own accommodation arrangements and let Jon know.

Town Head Barn, Buckden, Buckden North Yorkshire

Meet at the Plough from 8:00pm to plan the programme for the  1st quarter of 2017.  If you can’t make it e-mail me by November 1st any events you would like to do.

Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans

Road bike ride of approximately 35 – 40 miles leaving from Kimpton school at 10am. There will be a half way stop at a pub or tea shop but it’s probably worth bringing a packed lunch.
The direction we go will depend on weather.

Kimpton School, Kimpton

Badminton evening.

A repeat of last years event when we joined the badminton club in the large hall.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A full day walk organised by Simon Arthur on the South Downs near Petersfield, with a well earned pub stop at the end before heading back to Hertfordshire. Please contact Jon for transport details.

Please note this is a Saturday

South Downs, Petersfield

Annual General Meeting at the Church Hall at 8:00pm

To be followed by a selection of slides showing some of the adventures the group has enjoyed over the last 12 months (walking, cycling, skiing and some eating).

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Weekend walking in the Lake District. staying at Borrowdale hostel.

Martin has booke the hostel bed but if you still wish to come along book yourself into the hostel.

YHA Borrowdale, Keswick

A visit to a local cinema to see whatever is on.

Contact Laurel for further information.

Mountain bike ride in the Chilterns, about 17 miles. Meet at Coombe Hill (Low Scrubs) car park near Wendover, grid ref SP852063 at 10am. Bring lunch.

Coombe Hill Car Park, Aylesbury

A talk by Neil Kirby of the RedRubberBall Foundation on their charity work providing educational opportunities for kids in Kenya  (including climbing Kilimanjaro).

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

The Ridgeway stretches 87 miles over 5 counties and is part of a network of paths used originally by travellers, traders and drovers. We plan to walk from Ivinghoe Beacon to Overton Hill near Avebury during 2016-17. The first stage comprises a circular walk from Tring Station through the Ashridge estate and over Ivinghoe Beacon, about 10 miles through woodland and fields. There is possibility of refreshments in some of the villages and at the Ashridge Monument, but bring a packed lunch.

Meet at Tring Station at 1040 on Sunday October 2^nd. For those wanting to use public transport, there is a train from St Albans Abbey arriving Tring at 10.36.

Tring Station, Tring

Beer festival at St Albans arena.

Not just beers, there are ciders perrys and forgein beers aswell.

St Albans Arena, St Albans

A weekend walking the Devon coast staying at Beer hostel and maybe a beer as well.

YHA Beer, Seaton Devon

Meet at the hall for the annual Harvest supper.

Bring your own protein.

Contact Rory by 16th September to let him know if you are going.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Cycle ride, round trip via Hexton tea shop. Leaving from our house at 10:30 for a ride of approximately 30 miles.

Parkfield Cresecent, Kimpton

An evening of 10pin bowling at the the Hollywood Bowl Garston.

Please let Veronique know byWednesday 7th September if you want to come along.

Hollywood Bowl Garston, Watford

Meet a the Brocket Arms for a short walk followed by a a drink and and optional game of Darts in the pub afterwards

The Brocket Arms, Ayot St Lawerance

Meet at 10:30 in the car park at Stockgrove County Park between Heath and Reach  and Great Brickhill grid ref. 920 294.

Distance will depend on the weather but plan is to do around 12 miles so bring a pack lunch.  There is a cafe at the carpark for teas coffees etc. Please let me know the night before if you are coming.

Stockgrove Country Park, Heath and Reach

Approx 1.5 hours starting at 7.30 by Sandridge church.
Bring lights.
Pace shall be neither overly brisk nor yet shall it be tardy.
Stragglers shall be cajoled with harsh words and urged to greater efforts.

In the event of tempest or other weather of ill portent, the organiser reserves the right
to curtail the perambulation and seek early shelter in whatever hostelry may offer succour

St Leonard’s, Sandridge,

About four miles starting at 8pm at the Crocked Chimney Pub, Cromer Hyde Lane, Lemsford, AL8 7XE.  Grid Ref:210124 .  Bring a torch.

Crooked Chimney Pub, Lemsford AL8 7XE

Meet at 10.00am outside the Cricketers Inn, Sarratt WD3 6AS or TQ043992 – there is parking in the slip road opposite the village hall next to the Cricketers Inn. On the 12 mile walk we cross the river Chess and follow good footpaths through the Chenies estate and onto the outskirts of Amersham before re-crossing the river Chess so we can follow the Chess Valley Walk past Latimer back to Sarratt. Bring a packed lunch. If you are planning to join this walk email Stewart on swatson@watsonhr.com

Cricketers PH, Sarratt, Sarratt

the Plume of Feathers, Tewin AL6 0LX

Meet for a  7:45 start at the car park Bramfield Woods (grid refrence 282165) walk will be about 5 miles.

The Grandison, Herford

Car Park, Hertford

Walk Starting  8pm at Cross Keys Public House, Ballslough Lane, Gustard Wood, near Wheathampstead.  Post code AL4 8LA.  Grid ref 174164.  About 7km around the Lamer Estate.

Cross Keys PH, Wheathampstead

Harmer Green, Welwyn

A walking weekend away at the end of July staying at Hartington hall hostel in the Derbyshire peak district.

YHA Hartington Hall, Buxton

We’ve got an open air film in the programme on 27th July (Robin Hood Prince of Thieves). Gates open at 7:30 and flm will start at 9:00 and is 2hours long

Can you let Máire know if you want to go by 29th June.

Highfield Park, St Albans

In place of the Saturday south downs walk we will walk a little closer to home on Sunday.

Please let Jon or Ian know if you are interested, or need transport

Christmas Common, Christmas Common

A full day walk organised by Simon Arthur on the South Downs near Petersfield, with a well earned pub stop at the end before heading back to Hertfordshire. Please contact Jon for transport details.

Cancelled due to Simon being unwell, we wish him a speedy recovery

South downs, Petersfield Hampshire

Evening bike ride out to a pub in one of the villages near Kimpton. Total distance will be less than 20 miles. Please bring bike lights.

Starting from Kimpton high street outside the school.

Geoff & Paulines, Colney Heath

Planning evening with a difference.

Meet outside the Village Store 29 High Street Sandridge (opposite the Rose and Crown pub) at 7:45 for a short walk around Heartswood forestand a discussion about the 4th Quarter programme then retire to the Rose and Crown at 9pm to put the programme down on paper.

Village Store, Sandridge

On the 10^th July meet at 10.00am outside the Cricketers Inn, Sarratt WD3 6AS or TQ043992.  There is parking in the slip road opposite the village hall which is next to the Cricketers. The 10 mile walk is through rolling countryside and woods on good footpaths with the prospect of a drink in the Cricketers Inn afterwards.

Cricketers PH, Sarratt, Sarratt

Rose and Crown Pub, Sandridge,

Meet at the NCP car park opposite St Albans Museum in Verulamium Park Map Sheet 182 – 135 073 at 7.45pm for a 6 mile sunset walk through Verulamium Park and on to Park Wood,  past the Holly Bush Pub and returning through the Gorhambury Estate, finishing at an excellent pub the Six Bells near the NCP car park.

Verulamium Museum Car Park, St Albans

The ride will start at 2-30pm (you get a long lie in or a chance to do a few chores in the morning) from the car park off east lane in Wheathampstead. My plan is to head west round the south of Harpenden to Redbourn, then up into the Chilterns towards Whipsnade. The return ride will be via Markyate, Slip end and the lower Luton road. The intention is to be back in Wheathampstead about 6pm for a drink or bite to eat before heading home.

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

Petanque.  Meet at 8pm for a game of Petanque at Highfield Park.

Make an evening of it and bring a picnic.

Highfield Park, St Albans

Camping trip to see the puffins Friday 17th to Sunday 19th June 2016. Coastal walks and Bempton Cliffs RSPB site.

Contact Carol for more details and to book your place at Wold farm campsite.

Bempton Lane, Bridlington, flamborough head, Bridlington

Meet at the Three Horseshoes in Smallford for a cycle ride starting at 7:45. The route will be mainly on bridle path’s .

Three Horseshoes PH, Smallford, Smallford

Meet Sunday 10am in Royston town centre for a walk across the chalk heath and visit to the mysterious medieval cave hidden under the streets of the town. Royston Heath is a SSSI with Neolithic barrows and offering views over Cambridgeshire, whilst the manmade cave, with its medieval carvings was rediscovered in 1742. Further details on the cave can be found at http://www.roystoncave.co.uk

We have the opportunity of a private guided visit to the cave (indicative cost of £8 / person depending on numbers), which will be more convenient than joining one of the public sessions. However we will need to arrange this beforehand, so please contact myself or Rosemary before the end of April if you will be coming.

Royston Town Centre, Royston

The Brocket Arms, Ayot St Lawerance

Early Summer Garden party bring a bottle. All food provided 1.30 – 6.30pm – come dressed as your favourite song. Please contact Nadia by Monday 30th May to let her know if you are attending.

A 3 hour morning bike ride starting from outside the Bull in Codicote at 8-30am

The Bull, Codicote

An evening walk starting  from the road leading up to North Mymm’s Church GR222 045 at 7-45 pm.

Parking, Hatfield

Meet at 7:45 for an evening walk starting at the at the Three Hammers Pub Chiswell Green. Walk will be between 3 & 5miles depending on the weather

Three Hammers PH, Chiswell Green, Chiswell Green AL2 3EA

A full day mountain biking in the Ashridge area, about 28 miles and 430m of ascent. Meet at the Ashridge monument car park (the end near the main road) at 10am.

Bridgewater Monument, Berkhamsted

The Best of Kendal Mountain Film Festival is being shown by Porter’s Progress at the RGS, tickets are available online. Please buy your own tickets and we will arrange to meet up for the show.

Royal Geographical Society, London

Sunday 15^th May  9.7km (6 miles) Walk – Fields of Great Gaddesden Grid Ref TL 030137 meet at The Green, Jockey End 10.30am. Please bring a pack lunch. Apparently has lots of stiles (37) !

The Green, Jockey End

Walk from outside Harpenden Library, 27 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2RU starting at 7.45pm. A 3 miles walk finishing at The George pub. Free parking at Amenbury Lane carpark.

Harpenden Library, Harpenden

The Much Hadham figure of 8 walk will be part of the Hertfordshire Walking Festival 2016. The 10-30am walk follows the Ash valley to 16^th century Hadham hall returning for lunch. The 2pm walk goes to Hadham Mill then Perry Green to glimpse Henry Moore’s sculptures.

Much Hadham church hall, Much Hadham

Meet at the Rose and Crown, Sandridge from 8pm to plan the 3rd quarter programme (July, August and September).

The Rose and Crown, Sandridge

Friday 29/4/2016

Evening drive to Portsmouth, park the car ferry or hovercraft to Ryde with without bicycles (limited space for bikes particularly on hovercraft) or Ferry to Fishbourne for bikes or cars.  Then cycle to B&B in Shanklin  for the three nights ~8 miles.

Saturday and Sunday

Walk or cycle around the island.

Monday 2/5/2016

Cycle back to Fishbourne or Ryde. Ferry back to Portsmouth. Drive home

All booked for 17 people, if you want to join in please ask Latha.

Kenbury B&B, Shanklin

Redbourn Players production of ‘The Secret Tent’ by Elizabeth Addyman. Th. 28th. Fri 29th and Sa. 30th April 7.30pm, tickets £9 (concs. £7)

As it’s RP 50th Anniversary this year, we’re doing the first play they ever did.  So it’s set in the 50’s on a chicken farm near Maidstone, Kent.  It’s a thriller to keep you guessing all the way through ’til the last page.

Redbourn Village Hall, Redbourn

Slide Show on the Grand Teton National Park USA.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A walk to admire the bluebells around Sandridge.  Meet outside the Green Man pub Sandridge at 10:30 for a circa 10 mile walk.  Bring lunch but possible stop at pub.  Could be one seriously muddy/wet bit so bring gaiters for that area in case.

Green Man PH, Sandridge, St Albans

Wednesday 20^th April meet at “The Waggoners  Pub” Brickwall Cl, Welwyn AL6 9AA  Sheet 182 –  224 142  thewaggoners.co.uk at 7.45pm for a 4 mile walk through the grounds of Brocket Hall and the Ayot Greenway finishing for a drink in the Waggoners Pub. Most of the walk will be on established footpaths – bring a torch

Waggoners PH, Ayot Green, Welwyn

Weekend away staying at Bridges Youth Hostel, Ratlinghope Shropshire (www.yha.org.uk/hostel/bridges). £16 pppn. Lots of exciting things to see and do – including a pub next door! Please let Laurel 07708 133334 know if you would  like to come by 31st October and follow this up with full payment. Sorry for the short notice but the hostel is only willing to hold until this date.

YHA Bridges, Ratlinghope Shropshire

An evening of games in the hall and a chance to natter about summer plans.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Road cycle ride starting at 10:30 from Kimpton School, High Street, Kimpton, Herts. This will be a ride of approximately 40 – 50 miles with a pub/tea shop option for lunch.  We’ll aim to arrive back in Kimpton mid to late afternoon.

Kimpton School, Kimpton

An evening talk by Gordon Buchanan at the Alban Arena, tickets £18.75 (including fees).

Please let Carol know ASAP if you would like tickets.

St Albans Arena, St Albans

A pub evening at the Plough, Tyttenhanger Green from 8pm.

Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans

.

A slide show from our trip to Namibia last year.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A weekend at Buttermere Hostel in the Lake  District from Friday 25th March  to Sunday 27th March.  Buttermere is in the North west of the lake  district.  The village is very small and has a couple of  pubs but no shops.  You can walk straight from the hostel  into mountains in all direction

If you wish to be included on the  group booking can you let me know by Sunday 19th October.

For the night of Thursday 24th March the suggestion  is the Travelodge on the M6 at Lancaster. Please make your own reservation.

On Friday we will meet at 10.30 for a walk up Blencathra  before continuing to Buttermere.

YHA Buttermere, Cockermouth Cumbria

The Radlett centre, Radlett

An illustrated talk on our local birds of prey by Mike Ilett, of Herts bird club.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

 Meet at the car park at the rear of the Bull Pub AL4 8BS Grid ref Map 182 177 142 in Wheathampstead at 9.45am for a 10.00 start on a 10 mile walk through woods and rolling countryside. The route will follow established footpaths and there is no place to buy food so bring a packed lunch.

The Bull, Wheathampstead

A Pub evening at The Lower Red Lion, Fishpool Street St Albans

Lower Red Lion PH, St Albans

We fly to Oslo on Saturday morning, then a train north for 7 days x-country skiing on and around the Peer Gynt trail.

Contact me for more details

Peer Gynt trail, Gala

Jon and Carol will talk about their trip to Malaysia, from the modern city of Singapore to the jungles of Borneo.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A Sunday walk

Meet at 10 am outside The Swan pub in Markyate for a morning walk.
We will head towards Studham, and then go over in the Flamstead direction, distance to be decided on the day dependent on what everyone fancies and the weather, but we will walk for at least a couple of hours at a reasonable speed

Swan PH, Markyate, Markyate

See Andy Kirkpatrick’s evening talk, Cold Mountain  at the Radlett centre on Thursday 25th February , tickets are £16.50. Please let Ian know if you would like to attend by Thursday 29^th October and he will buy a block of seats.

Radlett Centre, Radlett

Come along to the Rose and Crown Sandridge at 8pm and help organise the programme for the second quarter of 2016.

Rose and Crown Sandridge, Sandridge

Meet 10 am outside St Albans station main entrance for a mountain bike ride to north of St Albans (Wheathampstead / Redbourn area). Duration about 3 hours including a stop for coffee at mid-point

St Albans City Station, St Albans

Mark Archer will give an illustrated talk on his solo trek across Iceland as described in his book “Connecting in Iceland“

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A trip to the Natural history museum to see the Wildlife photographer of the year exhibition. Tickets are £15 per person, please let Jon know by 20th December if you would like him to order tickets for you.

If that’s not enough photography for one day we will also take in the exhibition of Shackleton’s Antartic adventure, at the Royal Geographical Society.

Natural History Museum, Kensington London

Pancake Evening

Please contact Ian or Veronique (telephone or e-mail) if you plan to come along, by Sunday 7th February

Local walk starting at 10am from The Green Dragon pub, London Colney AL2 1RB lasting 2.5 hours. Suggest we finish for coffee at Colney Fields Shopping Centre, where we could also park.

Green Dragon PH, London Colney, London Colney

Come along for a Haggis supper in the Hall from 8pm, prepared by Maire and Maggy. Cost approx £3.50. Offers of  puddings and help on vegetable preparation will be welcome.

Please book with Maggy by Thursday, 28 January.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Bike ride (road bikes). Starting time 10:30.

Starting point is the layby just south of the Swan PH at Ley Hill in the Chilterns. Grid reference for start is 991,018.

Layby next to The Swan PH, Chesham Bucks

Abby Theatre, St Albans

Starting at 10-30am from The Verulamium museum carpark  the walk will be a circular route of about 6 miles via Batchwood to Childwick green, it will take between 2.5 and 3 hours.

Verulamium Museum Car Park, St Albans

A member of the Exodus travel staff with give an illustrated talk on Nepal showing the impact of the earthquakes and how the local population is recovering.

There will be a collection for the Exodus supported charity work in Nepal.

Thanks to everyone who donated, we raised £181

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

A winter weekend in North Wales.

Pray for snow the week before followed by high pressure give cold, clear, crisp days walking in the mountains.

Meet fror a walk starting at  7:45 from the Plume of Feathers Tewin.  Bring a torch.

Plume of Feathers PH, Tewin

Come along to the first get together of the New Year in the Hall for a quiz evenming.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet at 1pm for a 3 hour walk followed by refreshments  and a natter about Christmas plans.

Edmonds Drive, Stevenage

Peter will talk about his trip to China in 2011, including Beijing, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army at Xian, Lijiang and Tiger Leaping Gorge in Yunan province, the amazing limestone scenery of Yangshuo and the former British Crown Colony of Hong Kong.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet at 10:30 in the car park at Stockgrove County Park between Heath and Reach  and Great Brickhill grid ref. 920 294.

Distance will depend on the weather but plan is to do around 12 miles so bring a pack lunch. Please let me know the night before if you are coming

Stockgrove Country Park, Heath and Reach

Meet outside the old town hall for an 8:00pm sharp departure.

This is a walk organised by St Albans Tour Guides and costs £4

Old City Hall, St Albans

Weekend away at YHA Street in Somerset on the Exclusive Hire arrangement. Please let Rory know if you wish to go.

YHA Street, Street Somerset

Redbourn Drama Group present
‘Pirates From Atlantis’ by Trevor Hughes.
Directed by Pauline.

Thursday 3rd Dec at 7.30pm at Redbourn Village Hall. There are also performances on Fri at 7.30pm and Sat at 2pm and 6pm.

Tickets: £9 (conc. £7) order through Pauline

Redbourn Village Hall, Redbourn

An evening of pork pie tasting to identify the best home made pork pie in STAG. The only requirement to attend is that you bring along a pork pie made by your own fair hand! A special prize will be awarded to the winning pie maker.

Kevin and Laurel’s, Kimpton Herts

A trip to the Olympic velodrome for a track taster session, cost for the 1 hour session is £35 per person which includes bike hire.

Please let Carol know ASAP if your want to attend so that places can be booked.

Lee Valley Velopark, Abercrombie Road London

An evening talk by Marion Hill from Hertfordshire archives and local studies, on the treasures of the Hertfordshire archives.

This event is ideal for new members.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet at The red lion in Preston for 10-30. We’ll choose our meal from the menu which changes daily, then go off for a 2 hour walk to build up an appetite while the chefs do their work. Lunch is at 1pm with last food orders at 2pm and closure at 3-30pm.

Please let me know if you would like to come along by 24th October, so that I can confirm numbers with the pub.

The Red Lion, Hitchin

Come along to the Rose and Crown Sandridge at 8pm and help organise the programme for the first quarter of 2016.

Rose and Crown Sandridge, Sandridge

Weekend away staying at Finn McCools Hostel in Northern Ireland. Walking, whisky tasting and sight seeing.

Note – this event is now fully booked. Anyone wishing to join us, please book directly with the hostel.

Finn McCools, Bushmills

Annual General meeting at the Church Hall at 8:00pm

To be followed by a selection of slides showing some of the adventures the group has enjoyed over the last 12 months

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Morning walk following (more or less) the new St Albans Green Ring, approx 10k. Start 10am at our house: 1 Kensington Close, St Albans, AL1 1JT. Finish at our house around 1pm for coffee and cake!

Rosemary & Martin’s, St Albans

A visit to Alban Arena to see A Walk In The Woods, a film based on Bill Brysons book.

Tickets £7

Please let me Veronique know by 25th September.

The Alban Arena, St Albans

All day bike ride (on road). Meet at the free car park off Wendover High Street, GR 868077 at 10.00am. This is on the left if you’re coming from Tring. Bring lunch.

Wendover Car Park, Wendover

Quiz evening

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Meet on the road outside the Brocket Arms Pub in Ayot Saint Lawerance sheet 182 – 196 168 post code AL6 9BT at 10.00am. The 9 mile walk will be on good footpaths though woods and open countryside.  There is nowhere to buy food so you should bring a packed lunch.

The Brocket Arms, Ayot St Lawerance

Meet at 8pm at the Brocket Arms, Ayot St Lawerence for an evening of Darts.

The Brocket Arms, Ayot St Lawerance

A weekend at Ravenstor Hostel in the Peak District with opportunities for walking, cycling or mountain biking . Two four bedded rooms have been booked at a price for two nights of £38.50 per person.

YHA Ravenstor, Buxton Derbyshire

Come along to a light-hearted evening of party games and quizzes with tea, coffee and cake provided.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Would anyone like to offer to organise an event. If you do please contact Ian.

An evening listening to the comedian Ed Byrne at St. Albans Arena.

Note; tickets have already been purchased in row BB, please buy your own if you want to join us .

St Albans Arena, St Albans

War memorial, Colney Heath

Morning walk from carpark near junction of Piggotts Hill Lane and Grove Rd, Harpenden, AL5 1PU, starting at 10.00am. A 5 mile walk towards Wheathampstead.  Afterwards we intend to have a ‘pop-up/ lunch at St Albans Food Festival, and join the Modern St Albans tour (£4) at 2.30pm. Join us for all or part of the day.

Car Park, Grove Road, Harpenden, Harpenden

An evening at the St Albans Beer and Cider Festival at the Alban Areana, St Albans AL1 3LD.  Meet at 8pm, admission is £3.

The Alban Arena, St Albans

On Sunday 27th September the 8 mile walk will start at 10:00am from outside the Five Horseshoes pub in Little Berkhampsted

OS Sheet 182  GR292 077, post code SG13 8LY.

It will be a circular walk on good footpaths through rolling countryside and woods. Bring a packed lunch.

Five Horseshoes Pub, Little Berkhamsted

A night time mountain bike ride from the Elephant and Castle, Amwell. Powerful lights essential!

Elephant and Castle PH, Amwell, Wheathampstead Herts

A Sunday walk of 10-15 miles around Epping Green

Bencroft wood, Bencroft wood Hertfordshire

Meet at the hall for the annual Harvest supper.

Bring your own protein.

Contact Rory to let him know if you are going.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

The cycle ride  has been cancelled.

If anyone wishes to either lead this event or organise an alternative please let me know

St Albans City Station, St Albans

Meet outside the Rose and Crown pub at 7:30pm  for an evening walk of 4 to 5miles.

Rose and Crown PH, Sandridge, Sandridge

Camping in the Peak District, staying at Hardhurst Farm near Hope.

Evening walk from the church in St Paul’s Walden.  Part of the walk will be in darkness so bring a torch. Meet at the church at 7:30pm for a start at 7:45pm.

Strathmore Arms PH, St. Paul’s Walden, St Paul's Walden Herts

Evening walk starting from the  Waggoners Pub, Brickwall Close, Ayot Green  at 7:45 sharp.

Waggoners Pub, Ayot Green

Gosling Velodrome, Welwyn Garden City. An hour’s hire is £6.50: we can go to a public session or book sole use.

Please let me know if you are interested by 22 July for bookings

Gosling Velodrome, Welwyn Garden city

Palnning evening for the next 3 months programme meet from 8:00pm at the Plough Tyttenhanger.

Plough PH, Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans

Meet 10:30 at Sandridge Church for a 30 -40mile bike ride.

St Leonard’s Church, Sandridge

Meet 7.45 pm for a walk around Panshanger Park near Hertford (GR307125).  The car park is just off Thieves Lane just as you are about to come into Hertford from Hatfield.  This is a comparatively new open access park with lake etc.  c. 5 miles

Panshanger Park, Hertford

Meet outside the Church on Church Road, Barton -le-clayat 10:30am for a 15mile walk.  Park carefully to allow access for church goers.

Bring a packed lunch but we may stop at a pub if the timing is appropriate.

St Nicholas Church, Barton-le-Clay, Barton-le-clay

Meet at the Crooked Chimney, Cromer Hyde Lane, Lemsford, AL8 7XE at 7:45pm for a walk of about 9km

Crooked Chimney PH, Lemsford

This will be a social weekend with the opportunity for a walk or bike ride in the Oxfordshire countryside.  We will travel early Saturday morning for our outdoor adventures, before relaxing with a BBQ in the evening. On Sunday there will be more exercise before returning home.

Sylvia and Jim’s, Stanford-in-the-Vale Oxfordshire

Luna (open air) Cinema showing “Top Gun” in Highfield Park, St Albans.  Doors open at 7:30pm.  Food and drink are available or bring your own.  Bring something to sit on e.g a garden chair and somethink warm to wear.

Cost is £13.50 please let Rosemary know if you want to go by 8th July.

Highfield Park, St Albans

Garden party starting midday. Food from 1pm.
Please do not bring food unless pre-arranged wih Pauline.
Soft drinks provided but bring your own alcohol if desired.
Games including boules, croquet etc.
Please note it is not a barbecue.

Please confirm with Pauline or Geoff if you are going to attend.

An evening walk starting at 8:00pm from the Swan, Markyate

Swan PH, Markyate, Markyate

A Sunday  morning walk, meet at10:00am at The Cross Keys, Gustard Wood, Wheathampstead AL4 8LA. Four or five miles. Stay for a drink or lunch afterwards. 

The Cross Keys, Wheathampstead

Car Park, Welwyn Garden City

Meet outside the school on Kimpton High Street for a 10:30 start. Route will be 30 to 40 miles on road. You might like to bring a packed lunch, but there will be a pub stop at roughly half way.

Kimpton School, Kimpton

Meet at the car park on Nomansland Common at 7:45 for a 1 to 1.5hr  mountain bike ride.

Parking, Wheathampsted

The weekend will start with the usual Friday evening dash west, for convenience we will stay at Taunton travelodge overnight . Saturday morning we will complete the journey up on to the moors for two days of walking with an overnight at Exford hostel and a well earned evening meal in the White horse inn.

Note; We have 13 people booked for the trip and a couple of spare places at the hostel, if you want to join us please get in touch.

Exford YHA, Exford

Meet at the Queen’s Head, 7 Church End, Sandridge, AL4 9DL at 7:45pm for a walk of about 9km.

Queen’s Head PH, Sandridge, Sandridge Hertfordshire

Meet at 1pm for an afternoon walk of about 10 miles across the Beane valley to Walkern and Bennington before returning through Aston.

There will be an opportunity to burn your tea afterwards, please bring your own protein.

Edmonds Drive, Stevenage

Play Pride and Prejudice at Highfield Park at 7:30.

Highfield Park, St Albans

Full day mountain bike ride in the Chilterns. About 22 miles. Meet 10am at the free car park in West Wycombe by the Hell Fire caves, grid ref 826947. Bring lunch.

West Wycombe Car Park, West Wycombe Bucks

The Women’s tour of Britain – stage 4  comes through Hertfordshire. We will have our own bike ride of ~20 miles to see the tour pass somewhere north of Hertford and then the finish along Stevenage old town high street at about 12-45pm. Our morning ride will start from Edmonds drive, Stevenage at 9am taking the shortest route to through Watton at Stone and Aston to Bengeo to watch the climb up Port Hill at 10:17am. We will then heading back through Datchworth to see the race finish in Stevenage old town at 12:46.

Edmonds Drive, Stevenage

Petanque evening. Meet in Highfield Park at the Petanque pitches around 8:00pm. Bring a picnic.

Highfield Park, St Albans

Camping Weekend in the Peak District. 2 nights camping in the Hope Valley Derbyshire.

Meet at Kimpton Church for an 7:30pm sharp start. Walk will be 1.5 – 2hr long.

Kimpton Church, Kimpton

Meet at the War Memorial in Studham OS Map 182 grid reference 022 158 at 9:45 for a 10:00am of a 9 mile walk. We will walk past Whipsnade Zoo and the Tree Cathedral before heading for Dunstable downs. Opportunity for coffee and a light snack at the Chilterns Gateway Centre (National Trust).

Studham War Memorial, Studham

We will take the bus from Petersfield station up onto the South downs , then have a full day linear walk of ~15 miles back over the downs to Petersfield.

We will finish with a pub meal in Petersfield before driving home.

Petersfield Railway Station, Petersfield

Walk: meet at the Wicked Lady pub (http://www.thewickedladypub.co.uk/home/)  ready for a 7.45 start.  c.5 miles (shorter option available).  It’s the same one we did in the winter but it’ll be completely different in the light.

Wicked Lady PH,, Wheathampstead

Meet outside Sainsbury’s St Albans AL1 2QU at 10:00am for a 6 mile walk. Parking in Griffith’s way. Optional bring and share lunch. Ring by the night before to say if you are coming.

Sainsburys, St Albans, St Albans

Meet outside the Cricketers pub, East Common, Redbourn AL3 7ND. Departing promptly at 8:00pm. Walk will be 1 to 1.5hrs according to daylight and weather.

Cricketers PH, Redbourn, Redbourn

Five days cycling round the north coast of Brittany, staying in small hotels and sampling the local cuisine.

Bookings closed.

Brittany, Brittany

A 5 mile walk from the Woodman Pub, Wild Hill (between Hatfield and Essendon) starting at 7:30pm.

Woodman PH, Wild Hill, Hatfield

Half day cycle ride. Meet at the War Memorial at 1:00pm; ride will be around 3 hours.

St Albans War Memorial, St Albans

Meet at the car park on Nomansland common for a 7:45 start.

Nomansland Common Car Park, Wheathampstead

A 2-3hr cycle ride over a mixture of roads and tracks (some could be muddy) to the south of St Albans taking in Bricket Common. Meet at 10:30 a.m.

1 Kensington Close, St Albans Hertfordshire

Planning evening at the Rose and Crown, Sandridge from 8:00pm.

Rose and Crown Sandridge, Sandridge

Long weekend away in the Lake District staying at Hawkshead hostel. If you want to come along please book yourself into the hostel as the group booking is closed.

YHA Hawkshead, Ambleside

“Pub Quiz” evening at the hall with prizes. A variety of categories with easy and not so easy questions.

United Reform Church Hall, St Albans

Cycle ride. Meet at 10:00 at Walkern St Mary the Virgin Church, Church end for a tour of north east Herts. 40miles but will be weather dependant.

NOTE:

Please park in the High Street to allow the parishioners to park their cars near the church.

Walkern Church, Walkern

22 April 2015 Meet 7.45pm at the NCP car park opposite the Roman museum in Verulamium Park, OS Map 182 grid ref 135 073 for a five mile walk.

Verulamium Museum Car Park, St Albans

19 April 2015 Meet outside the Brownlow Café near the Bridgewater Monument, Ashridge at 10:30 for a walk of 10 to 12 miles. Bring a packed lunch.

Bridgewater Monument, Berkhamsted