A ride of about 10 miles from Datchworth Green SG3 6TL at 7.30pm. Park along the side of the green. Afterwards, we will seek refreshment in The Plough.

Sunset is at 9.13pm so we shouldn’t have to ride in the dark, but bring lights just in case.

Walk or  Pedal followed by  Sunday lunch at the Cross Keys Pub at Gustard Wood at 2.30pm.  See Julie’s email of 31st May for further information.

Please let Julie know by Thursday 5th if you are interested in joining us for lunch.

Cross Keys PH, Wheathampstead

Awaiting details

Circular walk around WGC originally devised for its centenary in 2020.  Mainly through countryside, but with a couple of short urban stretches.

Both options start outside the Waggoners PH in Ayot Green (AL6 9AA, GR 222 139) at 10 am.  We will walk around WGC in the anti-clockwise direction (south first).  The shorter option will finish in Tewin (about 7 miles). This will require a car(s) to be pre-positioned in Tewin before the walk starts.  Therefore, I will need numbers for the shorter option in advance.

Packed lunch required for full walk and drink required for both options.  Refreshment at end.

Waggoners PH, Ayot Green, Welwyn

Our traditional relaxed game(s) of Petanque in Highfield Park, St Albans (AL4 0AE). People often bring a picnic supper along to eat beforehand.

Highfield Park Petanque Club, 136 Hill End Lane St Albans

Afternoon walk, leaving from Sopwell Nunnery benches at 1.30pm. Approx 5.5 miles around Frogmore Lakes. Tea and coffee available afterwards at Cottonmill Lane. If heavy rain beforehand, route will change, but meeting point will stay the same.

Picnic at Susan and David’s, arrive from 7pm for a 7.30pm picnic. Please bring a contribution to the picnic and a fold-up chair if you have one. We will send out an email near the time so that food offerings can be coordinated. Susan and David will provide tea and coffee, please also bring any other drinks that you would like to.

The rounders will follow at Sopwell Nunnery, Cottonmill Lane (between junctions with Prospect Road and Old Sopwell Gardens), St Albans, AL1 2BY, parking on Cottonmill Lane. Feel free to participate or spectate!

A 10 mile circular walk from Buntingford.
Meet in the Bowling Green Lane Car Park, Bowling Green, Buntingford, SG9 9DF. The car park is free on Sundays. The walk will start at 10am.

Please bring a drink and a packed lunch. We have the choice of the Fox and Duck pub or The Buntingford Coffee Shop for refreshments after the walk.

Enjoy live music and dancing in the street. Food stalls and drink available.

Details to follow

Full details to follow

Full details to follow

Full details to follow

A three mile walk through the grounds of Rothamsted Research. This self-guided walking trail has been set up by Rothamsted Research to help people understand how their researchers are transforming agriculture to help feed the world more sustainably. There will be a number of information points on the way round (bring your reading glasses!).

Meet 7.30pm at the Rothamsted Research car park, AL5 2JQ. Enter the site from the road called West Common and the (free) visitor parking is the second road on the left.

Full details to follow

Full details to follow

Full details to follow

Full details to follow

Short walk from the Cross Keys pub in Gustard Wood followed by planning the October to December 2025 programme in the pub.  The walk will leave at 7.30pm and the aim is to start the planning at 8.45pm.  All members are encouraged to come and organise the events of their choice.

Cross Keys PH, Wheathampstead

STAG cyclists are invited to join Forty Plus Club members for this event starting from Cottonmill in St Albums. With routes of 50km, 100km and 160km (100 miles), this event should offer something for cyclists of all abilities. More details are available on the Forty Plus website

https://www.fortypluscc.co.uk/2025/05/21/forty-plus-summer-social-audax-faqs/

Details to follow

Meet outside The Candlestick PH, West End Lane AL9 6BA for a 4-mile country walk (possibility of shorter options if desired). We should finish around 9pm but bring a torch just in case. Drinks afterwards at The Candlestick.

Your opportunity to organise the event of your choice

Full details to follow

Full details to follow

Details to follow

Details to Follow

Details to follow

Details to follow

Further details to follow

Come along to Castleton YHA in the beautiful Peak District National Park to celebrate 75 of years of St Albans Adventure Group ( originally St Albans YHA Group).  Accommodation and a function room have been reserved at the hostel.  Opportunities for long and short walks and visiting tourist attractions.  Let Ian know if you would like to stay at the hostel, see email of 21st January.

Your opportunity to organise an event of your choice.  If required we can hire the church hall.

Your opportunity to organise the event of your choice

An evening trip to see the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour (Blue Programme) at the Alban Arena. Buy your own tickets from the website: https://www.banff-uk.com/tickets.

Alban Arena, St Albans

Talk on the history and the work of the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Weekend staying in a bunkhouse in Burnham Deepdale on the Norfolk coast.  See Julie’s email of 14th May for more information

A presentation on Jenny and Patrick’s trip to Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, and to Rishikesh for a four week yoga course. There will hopefully be time to learn/practise a few simple yoga postures so bring a mat if you have one.

Talk by Graham Williams, a guest speaker who has been to us before

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A 12-mile walk in the Chilterns from Wendover to Great Hampden. Meet 10.00 for 10.30 departure from Rumsey’s Chocolaterie in The Old Bank, Wendover. Bring sandwiches for lunch although there is the possibility of a short pub stop at Great Hampden.

The route would lend itself to a shorter option, say 7 miles, so please speak to Martin if you would prefer this.

There is a public car park (charges) nearby behind the library in Wendover.   There is also a free car park at Witchell Pavilion, HP22 6EG which is about five minutes walk away. A link to the 12-mile route is below.

https://explore.osmaps.com/route/23129093/241208-stag-wendover-to-gt-hampden?lat=51.734554&lon=-0.777896&zoom=13.0184&style=Leisure&type=2d

Meet in the car park of the Cross Keys pub Gustard Wood AL4 8LA at 7.30pm so we can leave at 7.45pm on a 3 mile walk through open countryside and woods on good footpaths before returning to the pub for a drink. Members of the group who are not planning to join the walk should consider arriving at the pub around 9.00pm for a drink.

Get the over night ferry on Thursday from Portsmouth to St Malo followed by four days of cycling.  Return on the evening ferry from Ouistreham to Portsmouth.   Booking closed

A walking tour around the sculptures by well known sculptors in the University of Hertfordshire, College Lane campus.  The tour will be lead and narrated by Debbie.  Parking is available towards the end of Bullens Green Lane, Colney Heath which is a Col de Sac (AL4 0QS).  From there it is a about a 0.5 mile walk to the campus.  Afterwards we can go the Crocked Billet PH in Colney Heath for refreshments.

If you are planning to join the 10 mile walk you should arrive at 9.45am so we can leave at 10.00am from outside the White Horse Pub, Burnham Green, AL6 0HA https://whitehorseburnhamgreen.com/ – the route to pass through Tewin, Bramfield and Datchworth before returning to the pub to rehydrate.

If you are planning to join the 3 mile walk which will be led by Maddy you should arrive at 12.00 noon so the walk can start at 12.15pm from in front of the White Horse pub – the route will be on good footpaths through open countryside and woods before returning to the pub.

White Horse PH, Burnham Green, Burnham Green

Your opportunity to come along and contribute to The Group’s July to September Programme.  All Welcome.

Walk , about 4km long, departs from outside The Plough, 30-32 Tyttenhanger Green, St Albans  AL4 0RW at 7.30pm prompt.

The planning evening will start inside the pub at about 8.45pm. Bring all your ideas!

All welcome, but members going the cycling trip to France at the end of the month are encouraged to come along and help build up their fitness.

Meet at 9.45am for a 10am departure.  Bring food and drink for the day. Start will be Aston Clinton Car Park (free), London Road, Aston Clinton, HP22 5FG

Another chance to see the bluebells with an evening walk of around  2.5 to 3 miles in and around Gobions Wood starting at 7.30 pm.  Park in Gobions Open space car park, Jonas Way,  Brookmans Park,  AL9 7RW.  GR 250 039.   Refreshment afterwards in the Woodman, Water End AL9 7TT

Stay in a 14 bed bunk house on the Llyn Peninsular in North Wales.   Spaces still available.  Cost will be £82 per person for a bed for the weekend but will reduce if more people go.

Sandridge Village Store, Sandridge

Nomansland Common Car Park, Wheathampstead

This will take place at Mulligans in Hemel Hempstead (Unit 4-7, Jarman Square, Jarman Way, Hemel Hempstead HP2 4JS)

The cost is £11 per person. and tee-times need to be booked in advance.

If you would like to participate please let Julie know by Monday April 14th, by emailing stalbansadventure@googlegroups.com

A long weekend in one of the most beautiful valleys of the Lake District.  For further details see Simon’s email of 6th December.  Group accommodation booking now shut

See a comedy production at the Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City, called  ‘Waiting for God’.

It’s an 8pm start, so we could in addition meet for a pizza at the nearby Pizza Express (on Howardsgate) first at 6pm. There is free on street parking on Barleycroft Road (which is between the Barn Theatre and the restaurant).

 If you would like to go, please book your own tickets and  let Roseamary know you have done it, particularly if you would like to join in for a pizza first.

See Email of 20th February

Barn Theatre, Welwyn Garden City

This will take place at Mulligans in Hemel Hempstead (Unit 4-7, Jarman Square, Jarman Way, Hemel Hempstead HP2 4JS)

The cost is £11 per person. and tee-times need to be booked in advance.

If you would like to participate please let Julie know by Monday April 14th, by emailing stalbansadventure@googlegroups.com

Eleven mile walk incorporating part of the Greensand Way.  Depart from RSPB Sandy carpark (£6/day)at 10am and take sufficient food and drink to last the day.

The Lodge nature reserve, Sandy Central Bedfordshire

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

An eight mile walk heading east into the countryside from Baldock. Starting at 10am from the Weston Hills Nature Reserve car park. As this walk will be finished by lunchtime you have the option to bring a packed lunch and eat in the Nature Reserve, head home or eat at The George IV pub which is nearby. Please bring a drink.

Park at the Weston Hills Nature Reserve car park, Chalk Hills, Baldock.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Just over 10 miles starting from the bridge over the river Ver on  Cottonmill lane St Albans at 10am.  Bring a packed lunch.

Details to follow

Aim to meet at 7pm to get settled prior to the start.
Tea / Coffee & nibbles at half time for a small donation. Raffle tickets available.
Details via website:- https://www.alorchestra.org/
Free car parking adjacent in village public car park.

Abbots Langley Community Centre, Abbots Langley

Home of  code breakers in the second world war and the birth place of the computer.  See Sue’s emails of 13th and 17th December for more information and ticketing details.

Talk  by Patrick McNeill on the history, reconstruction/restoration of the Wheathampstead railway platform and its surrounding area.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Walk of about twelve miles from Bovingdon.  Departs at 10am from outside the Old Bell Inn, 79 High Street, Bovingdon, HP3 0HP.  Bring enough food and drink to last the day.

Join the badminton players at the church hall for the evening.  Cost £3 each

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

If you wish to take part in the pancake evening on March 8th please let Veronique know by Friday Feb 28th by emailing stalbansadventure@googlegroups.com.  Pancakes will be provided, lemon, sugar, tea and coffee. Please feel free to bring any additional other filling/drinks you would like.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Peter’s annual winter walking trip will be to the Yorkshire Dales this year and stay at Grinton Lodge YHA.  Group booking now shut.

Last day to book pancake evening on March 5th.  See that day’s entry for details

A 40 to 50 mile cycle ride around the quieter lanes of Northeast Hertfordshire starting from Graveley (SG4 7LE , GR 231 276).  Park opposite pubs on B197  in wide parking bays. Bring food and drink and have working lights in case of a delayed finish.

If weather is too cold or wet for cycling we will have a walk from the same location.

Your opportunity to contribute to the Group’s programme for April to June 2025. If you do not want to contribute anything, but wish to find out how the planning process works, still come along.  The developing plan will also be transmitted live on the internet for those who live in too far away to attend the church hall.

New members especially are encouraged to come along and see how the process works and make their suggestions on the events they would like to see run.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

If you are joining the 10 mile walk, led by Stewart, meet at 9.45am to start at 10.00am from the car park at the St Pauls Walden Tennis Club SG4 8AP off Bradway in Whitwell. The walk will be over open ground and wooded footpaths before returning to Emily’s Tea Shop. Bring a packed lunch.

If you are joining the 3 mile walk, led by Maddy, should meet at 12.30am to start at 12.45am from the car park at the St Pauls Walden Tennis Club SG4 8AP off Bradway in Whitwell. The walk will be over open ground and wooded footpaths before returning to Emily’s Tea Shop.

Neil Kirby is the founder of the charity Red Rubber Ball Foundation, which sponsors children of very poor Kenyan families through secondary school. Neil has spent much time in Kenya, and he will tell us about the history, geography and politics of the country and the reasons the majority of its poorest members cannot escape poverty. This will give the context for the work of his charity.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

At the Garibaldi, 61 Albert Street, St Albans, AL1 1RT from 8am

An 8 mile circuit from Berkhampstead via Ashridge starting from Epicure, 233 High Street.  Meet at 10 am for Coffee and 10.30 am to start walk.  Lead by Martin

Professional photographer Gary has kindly offered to judge the best technical photo, alongside our usual ‘popular vote’.  This year’s categories are Red, People and Animal Homes and all photos should have been taken in 2024. You may submit up to two photos for each category. Please email these to Rosemary by Sunday 12^th January.

This event will be on Zoom for remote members.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Rosemary is forming a quiz team for this event to raise funds to sponsor students education in Africa. This will take place at Applecroft School, Applecroft Road, Welwyn Garden City, AL8. Let’s see if we can get together a STAG table of 8 people.

Play by Neil Anthony Docking at the Barn Theatre Welwyn Garden City.  Tickets £15

Bring and share supper in an early celebration of Burns Night. See e-mail 8th January for full details.  Please respond by Monday 13th January if you wish to come.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Let Jenny know by midday if you would like lunch after the walks on 26th January.  See email of 7th January for details

Today is the last day you can email your entries to Rosemary for the photographic competition on 29th January.  See that day’s entry for details

Last day to let Veronique know you want to go ten pin bowling on 8th January.  See that day’s entry for details

A walk of approximately 10 miles from the attractive town of Ampthill taking in Ampthill park, Millbrook and sections of the Greensand way, Meet at Costa Coffee 121-123 Dunstable Street (the High Street MK54 2NH GR 035381) ready to start at 10 am. Free parking should be available in nearby streets.  Bring packed lunch and drink. Walking boots recommended. May want to lift share from St Albans.

Ten mile walk from the East Lane  public car park, Wheathampstead, AL4 8SB. Bring packed lunch, turkey sandwiches optional.  Please let Neil know if you are going

Last day to let Simon know you want to be part of the group booking for Easter at Buttermere YHA

If you would like tickets booked by Veronique let her know by 21st November or book your own.  Full price tickets £15.  See email sent out on 21st November

Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL

A pre Christmas drink and social gathering at the Six Bells PH, in St Michaels Street, St Albans  AL3 4SH.  From 8.15 pm onwards.

Our annual bring and share Christmas party will be hosted by Viv.  Bring a dish of food and drink.  Crisps and some drink provided.  Look out for Viv’s email the week before

72 Cambridge Road, St Albans Hertfordshire

An evening of games and seasonal snacks in the hall

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A 12-mile walk in the Chilterns from Wendover to Great Hampden with a 7-mile option for those wanting a shorter walk. We will start with coffee in Wendover but bring sandwiches for lunch (possibility of a short pub stop at Great Hampden for those on the longer route) and there is always the option to call in at Rumsey’s Chocolaterie in The Old Bank upon our return to Wendover.

Meet 9.30 for 10.00 departure from Crumbs Café, 3 Town Court, High St, Wendover, Aylesbury HP22 6EA. There is a public car park (charges) nearby behind the library. A link to the 12-mile route is below.

241208 STAG Wendover to Gt Hampden

A 9 mile walk starting in Lilley (LU2 8LN, GR 119 264) at 10 am. Parking on road by church and road leading to Lilley Arms pub.  This walk will traverse the chalk hills on the Bedfordshire/Hertfordshire border. Bring food and drink along with clothing and footwear suitable for winter weather.

St Peters Church, Lilley, Lilley

Two slide shows for the price of one !

i) Martin will present a slide show on the 40+ cycling trip to Normandy earlier in the year.

ii) Ian will present a slide show on featuring the various STAG weekend trips and other events

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Staying in a bunkhouse we have to ourselves. Lots of places of interest in the area including the Isle of Purbeck, Studland, South West Coastal path, Jurassic Coast, Corfe Castle and Poole harbour.  Cost will depend on numbers but expect about £70 for accommodation.  https://www.cumulusoutdoors.com/group-accommodation/self-caterering-bungalow/

Now fully booked.

Your chance to shape the groups programme for the first quarter of 2025, combined with a social drink at the Plough,  Tyttenhanger Green, AL4 0RW

If you plan to join the 10 mile walk – meet at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am from outside the Brocket Arms pub in Ayot St Lawrence AL6 9BT.  We will head towards Kimpton on good footpaths through open countryside to Whitwell where we will stop at Emily’s Tea house for an optional tea & cake. We will return first on the Hertfordshire Way before passing Hoopark Wood then Codicote Bottom en route back to the Brocket Arms pub for a drink.

Please use the WhatsApp site to advise if you are planning to join the walk which will be undertaken at a medium pace – bring a packed lunch.

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

An opportunity to explore: the science behind dementia;  how we can improve our lifestyle to reduce our own risk of getting this disease; how we can best support family and others we meet with dementia.

Rosemary will facilitate this evening, and will share some of her background into dementia research and the Alzheimer’s Society. But this is really about everyone sharing and learning together.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

The Annual Dinner will be at the Plough at Leverstock Green,  Hemel Hempstead, HP3 8PR, where they have a very good carvery.  It may be preceded by a morning walk to work up an appetite.

There will be two walk options, around 3 miles led by Stewart and 6 miles lead by Andrew in the Bedmond area.

More details to come

An evening at a local Cinema to watch a film of mutual interest.  Organised by Christine. See e-mails from Christine  (27/10/24 onwards)

A chance to go Mountain biking in the extensive heathland area of Swindley Forest and Bagshot Heath in Surrey.  Refreshments available at the Swindley Forest centre but food and drink advised.  Off road Mountain bike also advised, with suitable clothing for muddy conditions.

Park on College Ride,  Bagshot, GU19 5ET, GR 905 630.  Car sharing to be arranged.  See e-mails.

The STAG Annual General Meeting.  Your chance to elect a new committee and have a say on what the group does and how it does it.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A visit to the huge Hindu temple in Neasden, North West London, organised by Julie.  Also an optional visit to the nearby Shayona Vegetarian Indian restaurant.  See e-mail (5/10/24)  from Julie.

Let Julie know ASAP if you wish to go to the Restaurant

A weekend away staying at Coalport Youth Hostel in the Ironbridge gorge on the river Severn.  See e-mail’s from Martin 8/7/24 and 9/7/24 for more details

A chance to see a this this thought-provoking tragi-comedy. This award-winning play introduces us to André, whose declining mental faculties lead to confusion, frustration and a loss of identity. His daughter Anne struggles to balance her love for her father and the need to care for him, with the pressures of her own life. Through the eyes of André, the audience experiences the fear, anguish and vulnerability associated with dementia, and the impact it has on family relationships.

This evening will be linked with a later one in the hall, where we can together explore the topic of dementia, which has and will affect so many of us.

Buy your own tickets from the Abbey Theatre website (cost £14, concessions £12). Start time 8pm.

Abbey Theatre, St Albans AL1 2DL

Half day walk from Ferrars Lane Car Park, Nomansland Common of 5.5 – 6 miles. Meet at 1.30pm. Maybe short stop in Wheathampstead at half way point (you may wish to bring a snack), depending on weather and preferences of walkers on the day.

Nomansland Common Car Park, Wheathampstead

A talk and slide show on Peter’s trip to Guatemala last year, including trekking on seven volcanoes (two of them active) and the ancient Mayan ruins and wildlife of the Tikal National Park.

This event will be available on Zoom for our remote members.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

St Albans City Station, St Albans

An evening trip to see the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour (Blue Programme) at the Alban Arena. Buy your own tickets from the website: https://www.banff-uk.com/tickets. See Peters e-mail from 28th May for latest update.

A camping weekend at Oxwich Bay on the Gower Peninsular, South Wales. Bookings closed.

Our annual visit the CAMRA St Albans Beer festival to sample a very wide range of real ales, ciders and perry’s.  Note, this year we will be going on a Thursday.  Held in the Alban Arena

Alban Arena, St Albans

A chance to watch badgers – and other wildlife – at the Tewin Orchard hide. We have the whole hide available for 12 people (max number, if more interest we will do another session in a few months). Please book your place with Rosemary, cost £5 per person payable on the evening. You will need to dress warmly and be prepared to be absolutely silent the whole evening! Water can be brought but no other food or drink. Warm up at the nearby Plume of Feathers after. More information to follow later. Note the early start at 6.30 pm as we need to be there at dusk.

Venue: Tewin Orchard and Hopkyns Wood Nature Reserve, Upper Green, Tewin, Welwyn Hertfordshire AL6 0LX

A 10 mile walk around Essendon and Little Berkhamsted lead by Helena.

The walk will start at 10am at The Woodman pub, 45 Wildhill Road, Hatfield. AL9 6EA.

Your chance to lead a walk or cycle ride of any length

A slide show on the STAG cycling trip to the Netherlands in May this year.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

On the 8^th September there will be a 11 mile and a 3 mile walk – both starting from beside the war memorial in Studham opposite the Red Lion Pub https://redlionofstudham.co.uk/ LU6 2QA.

 If you are planning to join the 11 mile outing please meet at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am. The 11 mile walk will be led by Stewart and will head towards the Ashridge Estate passing the Bridgewater Arms before going through the Golden Valley on route to Nettleden before returning to Studham via Hoo Wood.

 If you are planning to join the 3 mile walk please meet at 12.30 so the walk can start at 12.45pm. The 3 mile walk will be led by Maddy and Helen and will pass by the village school before picking up the Chiltern Way and heading back to Studham via Manor Farm.

 We are planning to rehydrate at the Red Lion Pub after both walks which should finish around 2.30pm.. If you are planning to join either walk please indicate that by using the STAG Meets & Greets WhatsApp.

Studham War Memorial, Studham

An early evening walk of around 3 miles from the Sopwell Nunnery, on Cottonmill lane, lead by Susan and starting at 6.30 pm.

Sopwell benches, Cottonmill Lane, St. Albans

Your chance to lead a walk or cycle ride of any length

A planning evening for the final quarter of 2024 to be held at the Green Man, Sandridge.  It will be preceded by a short walk of around 2 miles.

Green Man PH, Sandridge, St Albans

A 6 mile walk lead by Susan, starting from the car park behind the Bull PH in Wheathampstead  (AL4 8BN), starting at the slightly later time of 10.30 am.

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

A 3 mile walk from Ridge near South Mimms EN6 3LH (GR 215 004),  starting at 7.30 pm. Meet near the Old Guinea Pub,  which we can visit after the walk.

Our annual Barbeque hosted by Viv.  Lets hope for good weather.  Look out for e-mail regarding food etc during the week before the event.

72 Cambridge Road, St Albans Hertfordshire

On the 14^th August meet in the car park on Redbourn Common by the cricket pavilion at 7.15pm so we can start at 7.30pm on a 3 mile walk. We will pass by the Redbournbury Watermill, Hammond End Farm and the Harpenden Golf Club before heading back to Redbourn. There is an option for non-walkers to join us in the Hollybush Pub https://hollybushredbourn.co.uk/ around 9.00pm. If you are joining this outing please use the Meet & Greet option on WhatsApp to let Stewart know you are coming.

Meet 10am in Alconbury Weston, just off the A1 near Huntingdon for a ride of around 42 miles. Dropping onto the fens, we will visit the lowest point in the UK at Holme Fen Posts: 3m (9ft) below sea level! We will then cross into Northamptonshire for a few small hills before a final exhilarating descent back to Alconbury Weston. Parking should be possible in Hamerton Road by the brook, grid ref TL 177770. Bring lunch.

Meet in the car park by the recreation ground in Sandridge, St Albans (AL4 9DA) for departure at 7.30pm. Walk of about 3 miles, followed by refreshments in the Green Man.

Sandridge High Street Car Park, Sandridge

Evening walk from Ayot St Lawrence, AL6 9DA. Meet outside the old church for 7.30 departure. Afterwards at the Brocket Arms.

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

Meet at St Albans City Station at 9:30. We will take the train to Flitwick arriving at 10:15. The walk is a 21km (13 miles) loop out towards Wrest Park returning to Flitwick station to catch the train back to St Albans.  Bring a packed lunch and drink.

There option to join the train at Harpenden or other stations. If it is inconvenient for people to get the train meet at Flitwick station
There are options to do a shorter walk.

If you intend to go by train please wait until the group has gathered before buying a ticket as there are discounts for groups.

4-5 mile walk lead by Sue Appel. Start at 7:30 pm Park in School Lane, Bricketwood and meet at the old Fox pub which is now closed AL2 3XU.

Afterwards, we can go to the Gate pub which will be the other side of Bricketwood station.  4-5 miles. Bring a torch.

On the 14^th July meet in the car park in Stanstead Abbots map 194 GR 385 118, post code SG12 8AS at 9.45am so we can start the 10 mile walk at 10.00am. On Sunday the car park all day fee is £1.50. The walk will be led by Stewart and will pass through Widford, Baker’s End, before picking up the Haramlow Way that leads on to the Hertfordshire Way back to Stanstead Abbots. Please bring a packed lunch, plenty of water and a sun hat. If you plan to join this interesting outing please indicate your intentions on the STAG Meets & Greets site.

An evening walk from the Marquis of Granby, Marquis Lane Harpenden AL5 5AE. Meet at 7.30 pm for a stroll of around 5 miles.

A weekend in Shropshire organized by Pauline and Geoff.   There is the option of  staying at Shotton Cottage (Pauline & Geoff’s house) or a nearby Premier Inn (Harmer Hill – Shrewsbury North) or elsewhere.  Contact Pauline if you wish to stay with her (e-mail 12/3/24).  Also let Pauline know if you wish to participate in the communal meals but are staying elsewhere.

The annual St Albans Folk festival held in St Michaels Street (AL3 4SL).Meet at Sopwell benches at 7.30 pm to walk across to St Michaels.

Sopwell benches, Cottonmill Lane, St. Albans

Guided visit to College Lake and Pitstone Fen Nature Reserve (HP23 5QG) to see the cornfield flowers and orchids, lead by Lorriane or expert guide Baz.  There is a possibility of an adhoc  further walk after the visit .   Cars can be left in the visitors centre car park – donation appreciated .  Guided tour starts at 10.15 am. #

See Lorraine’s e-mail 24/6/24 for more details

College Lake | Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (bbowt.org.uk)

Green Man PH, Sandridge, St Albans

An evening walk lead by Neil, starting at 7.30pm outside the The Brocket Arms,  Ayot St. Lawrence , Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 9BT.  Bring a torch and expect a 6km (4 mile) walk

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

Chilterns Cycle Ride. lead by Martin. Around 40 miles. Meet 9.30 for 10.00 at The Hub, Redbourn High Street, AL3 7LL.

Our traditional relaxed game(s) of Petanque in Highfield Park, St Albans (AL4 0AE).  People often bring a picnic supper along to eat beforehand.

Highfield Park Petanque Club, 136 Hill End Lane St Albans

Start at car park by the Cafe in the Orchard, Radlett Lane, Shenley,  WD7 9DW at 10am. Walk of approx 8 miles. Bring sandwiches. Will finish with a visit to the Walled Garden subject to no event taking place and tea rooms.

An evening walk in Cassiobury park in Watford lead by Ian. Starting from the   Car Park, Gade Avenue, Watford, WD18 7LG.  There is a £2 charge for the car park.  It may be possible to find alternative parking nearby.

A 9 to 10 mile walk from Brickendon near Hertford venturing  into Broxbourne woods. Meet near Farmers Boy pub (SG13 8NU GR 323 080).  Bring packed lunch and drinks.

Easy 5.5 mile Walk

Meet outside the Brocket Arms Pub, Ayot St Lawrence, Welwyn AL6 9BT  at 7.15pm so we can start at 7.30pm.

We will walk from the pub on good footpaths passing Kimpton Mill, Hoo Park Cottages, before heading back to Ayot St Lawrence via Kimpton village.

Members who want to join the outing but are not walking should arrive at the pub around 9.15pm

2nd May bank holiday staying n the Bron-y-Gader centre bunkhouse in Snowdonia over looking the Conwy valley.  See e-mail from Neil on 28th February for more details.  The weekend is going ahead and there is still lots of room if you wish to join the weekend

A 3-4 mile walk from the Nomansland Common car park (AL4 9FH) starting at 7.30 pm. It will be followed by a planning evening for the programme from July to September, held at the Elephant and Castle PH starting around 9 pm

Nomansland Common Car Park, Wheathampstead

A 40-50 mile road bike ride from the small car park at Smallford Station  (AL4  0HB) on the Alban Way, starting promptly at 10 am. This car park is on the right as you go from the Smallford roundabout towards Colney Heath, just before you go over the old railway bridge.  Will head in a generally eastward direction making use of the Cole Green way.  Will stop at a pub and/or cafe but take food and drink. If weather is too wet, it will be replaced by a nearby walk, with decision made the evening beforehand.

Smallford station car park, St Albans

We will meet at the Oddfellow Arms on Ambury Lane ready to leave at 7.30pm.  The walk is 8km so just under 5 miles with a drink at the pub afterwards.  There isn’t anything too challenging on the walk, it’s really quite flat and the pace will be sociable.  If the weather is a bit damp, we will cut the far loop off.

Viv has offered to host an afternoon making at eating Pizza at his house.  This could be preceded by a morning walk .  See Viv’s e-mail 6/5/24 for more details and let him know if you wish to come.

72 Cambridge Road, St Albans Hertfordshire

Evening walk lead by Neil, Start outside The Waggoners, Brickwall Close, Ayot Green, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 9AA at 7.30pm.  Bring torch as the final section will be on unlight public roads.  Walk will be about 7km (4.5 miles) long.

Waggoners PH, Ayot Green, Welwyn

A cycling trip to the Netherlands which will involve taking the ferry from Harwich to the Hook of Holland overnight on Thursday evening and will return on Monday.  More details to come

A 3-4 mile walk along the Colne Valley.  Starting outside St Marks Church, Colney Heath AL4 0NH GR 197062 at 7.30 pm.  Afterwards in Crooked Billet PH on Colney Heath High Street.

A chance to visit the garden at St Paul’s Warden Bury (SG4 8BU) near Whitwell, with the NGS open garden scheme. Cost £7.50.

Let Catherine know if you plan on coming

Find a Garden | National Garden Scheme (ngs.org.uk)

Possible 9 mile walk from Whitwell beforehand lead by Susan Foster starting at 10 am. Check e-mail for more details

A live screening at Campus West in Welwyn Garden City (AL8 6BX) of Swan Lake performed by the Royal Ballet. See e-mail from Helen 3/4/24 for more details

ROH 23-24: SWAN LAKE – Campus West

A half day slower paced walk through the bluebells of Astonbury Wood (hopefully) and elevenses at Datchworth Coffee if desired. Meet in the car park of the Three Horseshoes pub, Hooks Cross, SG14 3RY (GR 276207) at 10am. Please park at the back of the carpark.

Group visit to the Bayfordbury Observatory (the University of Hertfordshire’s Astronomy and Astrophysics teaching facility – SG13 8LD) .  If we get at least 15 people the cost will be £13 each.

2 hour visit starts at 7.30 pm. Please arrive around 7.15pm but not before.  Let Ed know if you wish to go and see Ed’s e-mail 7th Feb for more details.

A Norwegian evening including food, hosted by Rosemary and Martin

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Verulamium Museum Car Park, St Albans

Enjoy Pizza or similar at Pizza Express in Harpenden. See recent e-mails from Rosemary for more details

Badminton in the hall with Stewart’s badminton club in our usual church hall

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

An all day walk of  around 11 miles, starting from Crumbs Bakery & Coffee Shop, 119 High Street, Watton at Stone, SG14 3SB at 10am. Free parking is available on the high street. Bring a packed lunch.

Watton-at-Stone, Watton-at-Stone

A talk and slide show by Helen and Mike on Australian National parks

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, St. Albans

A winter walking weekend based at Windermere hostel, Troutbeck. Bookings closed, but if you are still interested it may be possible to find additional accommodation nearby.

A chance to demonstrate your skill with a cue, at the Raging Bull Snooker Hall in St Albans, 8pm – 10pm.

There are plenty of tables so we can just turn up and pay as we go. The cost is £10 per table per hour and £3 per person per hour, so if 4 people play for an hour at one table it’s £5.50 each. There’s a bar onsite.

Note: Photo ID is required

Location: Verulam Industrial Estate. Just off the London Road on the town side of the railway bridge , AL1 1JF. Just past Cellar Door Wines. Parking outside.

Raging Ball Snooker Club, St Albans

A full day walk of approximately 12 miles from Great Offley lead by Ian    Starting from Red Lion pub (SG5 3DZ) at 10 am

“From Pole to Penguin” , Talk about a local historical figure –  Apsley Cherry-Garrard and the doomed Scott Terra Nova Expedition and the Emperor Penguin egg collection.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

40-45 mile cycle ride lead by Andrew from Graveley and around the quieter lanes of North East Herts.  Parking should be available opposite the Pubs (GR 231 277, SG4 7LE).  A pub or cafe is a possibility but bring food and drink.  Note the later start time of 11 am, to fit in with my part time taxi service. Please expect mud and debris etc. on the lanes. If the weather is too wet or cold it will be replaced by a walk from the same location.

Currently free Wednesday evening slot (not in hall). Possibly a pub evening but could be something different.

Already booked

A chance to enjoy pancakes whilst discussing your ideas for the  programme for Q2 in the hall  Pancake batter provided, but bring your own choice of fillings and beverages.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Your chance to lead a Wednesday evening walk on one of the longest days of the year

12 mile walk in the Barton Hills.  No planned pub/coffee shop/tea room so bring packed lunch.  Meet outside the church at Lilly (post code LU2 8LH, grid reference 119 264 ) for a 10am departure.

St Peters Church, Lilley, Lilley

A chance to see a production at the Barn Theatre in WGC (Barn Close AL8 6ST.)  The play is Hansard.

Tickets £15

Please email laurel.horan@gmail.com directly if you would like a ticket by 30th December 2023.

On the 11^th February there will be two walks available a 9km and a 18km both starting from the Natural History Museum car park in Tring HP23 6AR. If you are planning to walk you should send an WhatsApp  to STAG Meets & Greets indicating which outing you are joining and arrive at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am.

The 9 km outing will be led by Helen and will go through the park and up to Wigginton – coffee in the community shop – it’s outside seating and then back to one of the coffee shops in Tring.

The 18km outing will be led by Stewart and follow good footpaths through open countryside and woods on a circular route stopping halfway round at the café in Wendover Woods. After returning to Tring it is planned to rehydrate at The Castle Inn pub.

The annual photo competition in the hall.  Photos should be submitted to Helen at least two weeks prior to event.  This years themes:

Nature:               Animals and Beasties

Urban:                Lines and Curves

Big Spaces:        Airborne

Potentially also on Zoom for remote members

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A walk of approximately 10 miles, starting from Flamstead Church (AL3 8EE,  GR 079 145)  at starting at 10:00 am. No pub or tea shop so bring lunch

Ten pin bowling at Hollywood  Bowl in  Garston.    See e-mail from Veronique dated 27/1/24

Hollywood Bowl, Kingsway North Orbital Rd

A walk of 10-12 miles from Therfield Heath car park (SG8 9NT) (GR336 402) near Royston starting at 10 am.  Open chalk downland taking in the villages of Therfield and Kelshall. Bring packed lunch and drinks.

Therfield Heath car park, Royston Hertfordshire

The traditional Burn’s night super in the hall, with haggis and neep’s etc.  This year much closer to the proper day.  More details nearer the time.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A ride of about 35 to 40 miles starting and finishing at Toddington. Meet 10:00am in Market Square near the village pond, LU5 6BY.

A 3 mile walk in Heartwood Forest starting at the Green Man in Sandridge at 8.00 lead by Rory (escaping the Scottish winter). Drinks in the Green Man afterwards. Bring a torch and expect muddy paths.

Green Man PH, Sandridge, St Albans

This trip will be based around the quaint town of Abergavenny on the River Usk, giving access to walking on the Sugar Loaf and Black Mountains. Accommodation options include the Premier Inn See Martins e-mail of 2/10/23 for more detials

An illustrated talk on Jenny and Patrick’s walk along the ancient pilgrimage route  to Santiago de Compostela in Northern Spain

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Either a 38/40 mile cycle ride to Mursley Farm Shop (cafe) or if weather dictates a 11/12 mile walk to the highest village in Hertfordshire. Start point The Cafe in the Park Aston Clinton (HP22 5HL) . Start time 10am

Drink at Elephant and Castle near Wheathampstead suggested by Rosemary

Elephant and Castle PH, Amwell, Wheathampstead Herts

Sandridge High Street Car Park, Sandridge

Selected pictures from Jane and Andrew’s trip to Canada and Alaska earlier in the year.  Potentially also on Zoom for remote members

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

12 miles of Hertfordshire countryside, distance can be flexed according to attendees and weather.  Start promptly at 10am at the car park at the old station at Letty Green, post code SG14 2NL, grid reference 284111.  The walk will include part of the old railway line to Hertford, Panshanger and Bramfield Woods.  Bring packed lunch.  Let Neil know if you are going on the walk

A pre Christmas pub evening in the cosy Lower Red Lion. on Fishpool street.

Also  STAG Virtual Christmas drinks and nibbles for remote members and those not going to the pub.  See e-mail from Liz O’Brien (5/12/23

Lower Red Lion PH, St Albans

A pre-Christmas celebration hosted by Viv.  See e-mails from Viv

72 Cambridge Road, St Albans Hertfordshire

STAG’s answer to Bake-off organized by Ian.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

On the 3^rd December meet at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am from the car park in front of the Glebe Ashley Green Memorial Hall HP5 3RB in Ashley Green. Map Ref 181 – 978 053. The 10 mile walk will go through Hockeridge Wood, Hawridge Common, White Hawridge Bottom and by Pressmore Farm before passing Bovingdon Airfield on route back to Ashley Green. It is planned to rehydrate at The Golden Eagle Pub after the walk.

Your chance to help put together the programme for the start of 2024.

The Plough, Tyttenhanger, St Albans, St Albans Hertfordshire

A morning walk followed by the Annual dinner at the John Bunyan. The walk will start from the John Bunyan car park at 10.30 am and will be for around 3 hours (7-8 miles).  The dinner will start around 2.00 pm.  Food orders required by 3rd November. See e-mail dated 12th October for more details

John Bunyan PH, St Albans

Replacing previously planned event.  Bring your favorite board games along

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A chance to see a film at a local cinema. More details to come via email. Your choices! Venues: Odyssey, Odeon Hatfield or possibly Campus West.  Majority vote wins! See recent e-mails from Christine

The ride (weather permitting) will be starting at the Red Lion Preston (SG4 7UD) at 10:00 and heading out for coffee at Jordan’s Mill. Total distance approximately 40 miles. No off road sections.

Red Lion PH, Preston, Preston Hertfordshire

A first aid course tailored for incidents that may occur on outdoor events  given by Safe  Hands First Aid.  Cost of £15 per attendee.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

The walk will be around 12 miles weather dependant.  Start time is 10.00 meet outside the cafe by the Bridgewater Monument in Ashridge. (HP4 1LX)

Meet at White Lion in Sopwell Lane,  St Albans

White Lion PH, St Albans, St Albans

Staying in a bunkhouse in the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is available for 27th to the 29th October.  It is very cheap but basic.  See Neil’s e-mail from 27/7/23.

https://www.thevikingcentre.com/

Your chance to have a say in how the group is run and elect a new committee. See e-mail from Rosemary 2nd October for more details.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Starting at 10am at the (free)  Witchell Pavilion car park, Witchell , Wendover HP22 6EG.  The plan is to walk about 12 1/2miles but this can be flexed according to who goes and the weather.  Bring packed lunch.  Please let Neil know if you intend to go.

Your chance to organize a Wednesday evening (not in hall)

A 12 mile walk from Little Chalfont to Chorleywood via the Chess Valley, which is claimed to have ‘some of the most attractive countryside in the Chilterns’, and Ley Hill returning via train from Chorleywood to Chalfont and Latimer station (off peak fare £1.90).

Meet 9.30 for a 10.00 start from Koho coffee shop, 7 Nightingales Corner, Little Chalfont HP7 9PZ. Possible halfway stop at The Crown in Ley Hill (no food), so bring a packed lunch.

Neil Kirby, who leads the Red Rubber Ball Foundation, will talk about his exploits taking group of Kenyan students for a trek up Mount Kenya, Kenya’s highest mountain.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A chance to test your mountain biking skills in the dark.  Meet at Queens Head (formerly known as the Skew Bridge), 59 Southdown Road, Harpenden AL5 1PQ at 8pm for a ride of about 9 miles. Bright lights required!

Afternoon walk of about 7 miles around Wheathampstead meeting 1.30 pm, Free car park in Ferrers Lane, Nomansland Common |(AL4 9FH). Bring water/flask and snacks. Possible refreshments at the end of the walk at the Wicked Lady.

Nomansland Common Car Park, Wheathampstead

A chance to bring and share a dish made with your garden produce or otherwise. Bring your own protein and drink. Starts at 8.00 pm.  Kitchen available from 7.30 pm.  Look out for e-mails nearer the time.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

YHA Hathersage has a small number of private dormitories available for that weekend, so he had reserved one 6-bed private dormitory to start the ball rolling.

Can  those wishing to come to confirm with Martin ASAP – he will allocate places on a first come basis and look to book a second room when required. Accommodation costs to be shared but should not exceed £70 per person.

Your chance to organise a Wednesday evening event

All day bike ride from Royston Station back to Hatfield via the quieter lanes around the Herts/Essex border.  Meet at Hatfield station around 9.20 am to catch the 9.33 train to Royston.  Cost £6.30 with group saving.  Option of joining same train at Stevenage or other stations.  Train Strikes and cancellations permitting. Bring food and drink.  A stop at a random pub and/or cafe is a definite possibility.

Meet at 7.30pm in the car park of The Cross Keys pub Gustard Wood AL4 8LA for a 3.5 mile dusk walk on good footpaths through open countryside and wooded tracks – bring a torch.

Your chance to lead a walk of any length

The STAG answer to Bake off held in the hall.  Organized by Ian.   More details to come.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Your chance to shape the STAG  programme for the rest of 2023.  Planning evening starts at 8.30 pm but will be preceded by a short walk (2 miles) in Heartwood Forest starting at 7.30 pm.  Walk starts from outside Green Man.  The planning evening will be in the Marque area behind the pub.  Note the change of venue

Green Man PH, Sandridge, St Albans

Meet 7.30pm by the Old Church in Ayot St Lawrence (Grid ref etc. TL194168  & AL6 9BP),for a 4.7 mile walk followed by drinks in the Brocket Arms.  This walk will end in the dark so a torch is recommended.

Spend the bank holiday weekend in Crieff staying with Rory and Maire.  See Rory’s e-mail 15/3/23 for more details

Evening walk lead by Ian from ‘The Gate’  pub,  Bricketwood  (AL2 3 PW  GR 136 022), distance 3-4 miles

Meet at Wheathampstead car park at 2pm, post football for a 7 mile walk via Lemsford and Ayot Green.

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

A camping weekend at Dent in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The walk will start at 19.00 from Church Lane Bovingdon HP3 OHS. it is about 2 Hrs (6 miles approx). Start is from the church. Drink at the Bell afterwards.  Note earlier start time

A summer Barbeque at Viv’s house starting  at 1.30pm.

72 Cambridge Road, St Albans Hertfordshire