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

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

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

Full details to follow

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

Full details to follow

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Today is the closing date for booking reduced price advanced group admission at Bletchley Park on 23rd March.  See that day on the programme

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

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.

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

six to eight miles

Your opportunity to organise the event of your choice.  Church Hall not available.

A choice of walks starting in Aston (Eastern edge of Stevenage)

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

Details to follow

Your opportunity to contribute to the Group’s programme for April to June 2025.  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

Full details to follow

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

Peter’s annual trip to the mountains in Winter.  This year it will be to Wales

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

Details to follow

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

Home of  code breakers in the second world war and the birth place of the computer. We have an option of an Advance Group Booking (minimum 12) where we can get discounted entrance tickets. For this Sue  will need to know numbers no later than 20/1/25.If you are interested in a Bletchley Park visit, please contact Sue Lee  by email and she will send you full details.

Your opportunity to organise an event you would like.  Please let Neil what you would like to do.

Details to follow

A long weekend in one of the most beautiful valleys of the Lake District.  For further details see Simon’s email of 6th December.  If you would like Simon to book accommodation for you in the Youth Hostel let him know by 24th December 2024

Colm has a provisional booking on a 14 bed bunk house on the Llyn Peninsular in North Wales.  Cost will be £70 per person for the weekend.  Let Colm know ASAP if you wish to go so he knows if it is worth confirming the booking

This will be an extended Bank Holiday Weekend.  More details to follow.

More details to follow

Weekend away to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the St Albans Adventure group (originally the St Albans and District YHA group). More details soon.

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:

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

An evening walk from the recently reopened Candlesticks PH on West End lane near Essendon – AL9 6BA (GR 261 083).  Parking at pub.  Walk starts a 7.30 pm

On the 6^th August there will be two walks a 10km and a 18km stroll through interesting countryside. We will be meeting at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am from the car park at the St Pauls Walden Tennis Club SG4 8AP off Bradway in Whitwell.  Please consider bringing sun screen and bottled water – both walk will finish at Emily’s Tea Shop https://www.emilysteashop.com/

The 10km walk lead by Helen, will start at the same place and will loop up through the woods, cutting back through St Paul’s Walden.  Lunch can be had at Emily’s or bring a snack, as you wish.

The 18km walk lead by Stewart, will be over open ground and wooded footpaths before returning to Emily’s Tea Shop. Bring a packed lunch.

I know we do this walk every year, but I like it.  Meet outside the Waggoners Restaurant , Ayot Green, grid reference 222139, post code AL6 9AA.  Start promptly at 7.30pm for a walk of about 5 miles and bring torch.

Another chance to stay at Pauline and Geoff’s residence in Shropshire (Shotton Cottage).  May be possible to stay a day or so either side of the weekend.

Accommodation:- twin, triple (or double), 2 studies, lounge, summer house and tents.  Accommodation also available at a nearby Premier Inn, 10 minutes walk away.
Breakfast and dinner provided; you bring your lunch, booze and cake.

Contact Pauline by text  for more details as per group email

A summer evening bike ride led by Pete from the John Bunyan at Coleman Green, 7:30pm. Afterwards there will be a chance to sample ales from the Three Brewers in this newly-independent pub. Remember to have working lights on your bike.

A 15 mile / 24km walk through the Chiltern Hills from Stokenchurch via Christmas Common and Turville.

Details: Meet 9.30 at Coffee on the Green, Stokenchurch (M40 Jn 5), ready for a 10.00 departure. Grid ref – SU 760 963. Bring a packed lunch. There will be opportunity for a drinks stop after 10 miles at The Chequers, Fingest. The route can be seen at

https://explore.osmaps.com/route/17462206/230716-stokenchurch?lat=51.634382&lon=-0.945860&zoom=13.1669&style=Leisure&type=2d

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43349523

Starting promptly  at 7.30pm at the carpark by the cricket ground on Redbourn Common, grid ref 105121.  For those who need a satnav it is just beyond the Cricketers Pub( post code AL3 7ND) if you come from the centre of the village, but on the opposite side of the road.  Expect a walk of about five miles.

A weekend staying at a Hostel in the Lake District, organised by Rory.  See e-mail from Rory on 1/2/23 for more detials

A chance to impress (or otherwise) with your ball skills  in Verulamium park with the option to see the Folk dancing festival in St Michaels (St Albans).  Currently this is a self organize event !

Verulamium Park, St Albans

Visit to College Lake near Tring (HP23 5QG) and Pitstone Fen to see and hear about the Wild Flowers project and also to see the various orchids that are on both sites. Starts at 10.15 am.  More details nearer the time

A Petanque evening in Highfield park to take advantage of the long evenings.

Highfield Park, St Albans

A 10 mile walk led by Liz from Henlow, through Langford to Jordan’s Mill then back via Broom.

An evening walk lead by Pete from the Lytton Arms, Old Knebworth SG3 6QB , grid ref TL 229203. About 5 miles starting at 7.30pm.

A free slot to lead a walk or bike ride of any length

Guided walk around some of the Ordnance Survey Bench Marks in central St Albans visiting up to 24 benchmarks, with a maximum walk of about 5.8km, taking around 1.5 hours, led by Frank Iddiols from the Harpenden Local History Society.

The start is by the first Bench Mark outside at 96 Victoria Street at 7.15 pm.

Will aim to finish the walk somewhere near the Lower Red Lion pub in Fishpool Street.”

A camping weekend somewhere in Wiltshire organised by Kevin.   See e-mails from Kevin 13/5/23 for more details.

Evening walk of around 5 miles lead by Ian from the Normansland common car park (AL4 9FH) starting at 7.30 pm

4-5 mile afternoon walk lead by Susan.

Sopwell benches, Cottonmill Lane, St. Albans

A 2.5 to 3 mile evening walk from Normansland Common (AL4 9FH) car park starting at 7.30 pm.  This will be followed by a planning evening for Q3 and beyond at the Elephant and Castle PH at Amwell near Wheathampstead (AL4 8EA) starting at 8.45 pm.

Elephant and Castle PH, Amwell, Wheathampstead Herts

A talk about Heartwood Forest near Sandridge combined with a walk around it, by Albert Callewaert  from the Woodland Trust.  Meet in Heartwood Forest car park for 7.30 pm. See e-mail 21/5/23 for more details

Watton-at-Stone, Watton-at-Stone

After the success of last year’s Pizza evening, another chance to try out Viv’s Pizza oven.

72 Cambridge Road, St Albans Hertfordshire

An all day cycle ride of about 45 miles in Northamptonshire and a little of Leicestershire. It will include a section of the Brampton Valley Way, a cycleway along a disused railway complete with tunnels. We may also visit Market Harborough and Foxton Staircase Locks.

Lights essential for the tunnels! Bring lunch, though there’s a pub at the locks that we will probably pop into.

Meet 10.00am at the car park by the Northampton and Lamport Railway near Chapel Brampton, grid ref SP 73399 66605, https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Brampton+Ln,+Northampton+NN6+8BD/@52.2927638,-0.925379,17z

The walk will start from the Three Hammers Pub AL2 3EA in Chiswell Green. Let’s meet at 19.30. It will be a loop from Chiswell Green of 1 Hr 1/4 estimate, back at the pub for a drink. Wearing shorts would not be a good idea as one bit of the track is full of nettles.

Three Hammers PH, Chiswell Green

Walk along the Colne Valley starting  St Marks Church, Colney Heath AL4 0NH (GR 197 062) at 7.30 pm.  Parking on road by Church.  Refreshments afterwards in the Crooked Billet PH in Colney Heath.

Gary who is a professional photographer will discuss the art of taking a fantastic photo

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Original ride replaced by a morning ride from the Whitwell recreation ground, departing at 9.30 am.  Finishing at Emily’s tea room in Whitwell at about Midday

We will meet by the benches at the Nunnery on Cottonmill Lane ready to leave at 7pm for a walk of about 3.5 miles walking through  Sopwell and along part of the River Ver. We will return via Verulamium Park, aiming to return by 8.30pm at which point there is the option to retire to the White Lion for refreshment.

Please bring torches and be prepared for a bit of mud, although we will avoid bog.

Sopwell benches, Cottonmill Lane, St. Albans

A cycle ride starting from Graveley, just north of Stevenage.  Meet in the parking area opposite the pubs GR271 277  SG4 7BQ  for a 10 am start.  We will do a circuit of the lanes in the more peaceful northeast of the county, possibly crossing into Essex and/or Cambridgeshire.  Short Pub or Cafe stops are a possibility but bring suffucient food and drink.

Meet 7.30pm by the Old Church in Ayot St Lawrence for a 4 mile walk followed by drinks in the Brocket Arms.  It will be dark by the end of the walk, so a torch is recommended.

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

Pub evening at the Garibaldi Pub, 61 Albert Street, St Albans, AL1 1RT.  Meet there from 8.15pm onwards.  Postponed from 22nd March

Afternoon walk led by Susan, leaving 1.30pm from cark park by the site of the Three Horseshoes pub (now a house), 136 East Common
Harpenden, AL5 1AW. Walk of approx 7 miles towards Redbourn and back via the Nicky Line and Rothampstead.

Come and try your hand at a mix of fun engineering and art & craft challenges (there should be something to suit everyone!)

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A weekend away staying in apartments in Eastbourne for walking and perhaps Mountain biking in the nearby Southdown’s.  See e-mail dated 14/1/23 for more details.

Your chance to help put together the STAG Programme for April to June. Postponed from the 8th March

The Plough, Tyttenhanger, St Albans, St Albans Hertfordshire

The ride of approx 36 miles will start at 10am  from the Aston Clinton Park car park. The route will go via Wing and Soulbury to the Rushmere Country Park returning via Stewkley and Cublington. The Aston Clinton park cafe should be open for those wanting a coffee etc before or after the ride. In the event of inclement weather a 10/11 mile walk will be undertaken.

A slide show and talk on Ian and Veronique’s recent expedition to  the Himalayas  in India.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Walk of about twelve miles including some of the Woburn Great Park.  Bring packed lunch.  Meet 10am at the free public car park, Park Street, Woburn MK17 9PG and consider lift sharing to save money and be kinder to the environment.

Starts from  Redbourne Green car park at 10am for a 12/13 mile easy walk looping in St Albans and Harpenden. Lead by Viv

Redbourn Common car park, Redbourn

Your chance to win the annual photographic competition, for photos taken in the previous 12 months.  The categories are:

i) Chimneys   ii) Water iii) Decay

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

On the 26^th February there will be two walks available for members to join and they will start at 10,00am from the car park of the White Horse Pub https://whitehorseburnhamgreen.com/ at Burnham Green

Stewart will lead the 16km walk that will head towards Datchworth then through the countryside on good footpaths to Bramfield past Tewin before returning to Burnham Green.

Helen will lead the 10km walk that will head towards Datchworth and will enjoy light refreshments at Datchworth Coffee https://www.datchworthcoffee.com/ before returning on good footpaths through Tewin Wood to the White Horse Pub.

There will be an opportunity for everyone to meet up in the pub for a drink. Please advise the walk leader using STAG Meet… or just turn up on the day.

White Horse PH, Burnham Green, Burnham Green

A chance to see a film at a local cinema.  More details nearer the time.

Cycle ride of around 40 miles starting at 10 am from Smallford station AL4 0HB (GR199 073).  There is a small car park next to the platform (disused) and other free parking near by.  We will venture within the M25 and then work our way eastwards towards Broxbourne.  Some stretches of bridleway. Bring food and drink, although we may have a quick stop at a pub or cafe.  The aim is to return well before dusk, but bring lights just in case.

May be substituted  with  a walk if too wet or icy.

A slightly early pancake evening, organised by Ian and Veronique.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A moonlit walk from the car park on Ferrers Lane, Nomansland Common (grid ref TL 17136 12344). About 4.5 miles. Bring a torch. Drinks afterwards at the Elephant and Castle, Amwell.

A week long cross country skiing trip

Weekend staying at Cambridge Youth Hostel, near the station.

See e-mail from Sue Foster 1/11/22 for more details

Traditional Burn’s night supper in the hall with members providing the various courses.  See e-mail from Andrew 24/1/23

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Meet outside the Cricketers pub Sarratt  (WD3 6AS   GR 043993)) at 10am for a 10miles walk heading along the Chess valley then on to Flaunden before heading back to Sarratt. Bring a packed lunch.

Find the murderer on Zoom.  See recent e-mails from Helen for details

A winter walking weekend based at Idwal Cottage YH. Bookings closed. See e-mail from Pete, 9/12/22 for more details.

Peter will talk about three trips to Scotland that he made while trapped in the UK during the summers of 2020 and 2021. Featuring backpacking in the Cairngorms, the wild Fisherfield Forest and remote Knoydart, as well as scrambling on the spectacular mountains of Torridon.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A walk of approximately 9 miles starting from the Sharpenhoe Clappers NT car park  MK45 4SH (GR  066 295) at 10.30 am. The walk will by on parts of the John Bunyan trail and Ickneld Way and go through the villages of Streatley and Upper Sundon. Bring food and drink.  A quick pub stop may be a possibility.

Sharpenhoe NT Car Park, Sharpenhoe Bedfordshire

10 pin bowling at the Hollywood Bowl at Garston near Watford.  More details required

Hollywood Bowl, Kingsway North Orbital Rd

Kevin’s walk on Sunday 8th Jan will be a 10 miler leaving from the Red Lion in Preston at 10:00. Bring lunch as the tea shop he was planning to stop at is now closed. The pub should still be open though when we finish!

Red Lion PH, Preston, Preston Hertfordshire

A chance to play those board games that you meant to play over Christmas but didn’t get round to it.  Or better still, bring along a game you know how to play.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

7.5 mile walk from the East Lane car park starting at 11 am, lead by Susan. It is the free car park behind the Bull PH in Wheathampstead (AL4 8SB).  Take food and drink.

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

A chance for a pre Christmas drink in the Lower Red Lion in Fishpool Street, St Albans.

Lower Red Lion PH, St Albans

A Christmas party hosted by Viv at  72 Cambridge Road St Albans. AL1 5LE.  More detail to follow

A chance to sample a selection of most people’s favourite vice.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Start from Westminster lodge car park, St Albans 10.30 am. Through Childwickbury and then heading towards Sandridge. Approx 8 miles, but exact distance and mileage dependent on weather. Bring snacks and/or packed lunch. Please check What’s app for any changes.

Note, there is a charge for the Westminster lodge car park on a Sunday.  £5 for over 4 hours

Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, St. Albans

As an alternative Christmas activity, there is a trip to Kew Gardens to see their winter trail Christmas lights .  Some people have booked tickets all ready, but they are still available (1/9/22).

Tickets are £21.50.  See e-mail from Helena (1/9/22)

The Kew Garden’s website says the following:

Enjoy our annual after-dark festivities with family and friends, as you discover sparkling tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections, and trees drenched in jewel-like colour.
Journey through the mesmerising flickering flames in the fire garden, spot larger-than-life illuminations and say hello to Father Christmas along the way.

Along the route, our delicious independent street food vendors will offer tasty festive delights, from hot food and sweet treats to spiced winter warmers and hot chocolate. Walk under the stars and have yourself a holly, jolly Christmas as seasonal sounds fill the air. 

https://www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/christmas

North Downs Way stages 11 and 12.  Overnight stay on Saturday night.  More details to come

A talk about Hong Kong by ex ex-pats Jenny and Patrick

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

An all day bike ride of around 40-45 miles.  The aim will be to finish in daylight but bring lights just in case.  Could be substituted by a walk if the weather is not suitable for cycling.

Cycling in a northerly direction.  We may have a brief stop at a pub or cafe but please bring food and drink.

Leaving from Sandridge church (St Leonard’s) at 10.00 am

St Leonard’s Church, Sandridge, Sandridge

Bring your ideas for the programme for January to March 2023.  In the Rose and Crown PH in Sandridge.  Starts at 8.00 pm

Rose and Crown PH, Sandridge, Sandridge

The STAG annual dinner  will be at The White Horse, Burnham Green, AL6 0HA, with the meal starting at 2pm. Jenny will be organising a walk in the area beforehand, to work up your appetite.

At this stage would you please reply to Rosemary if you hope to attend, so we can have an idea of numbers for the pub. We will be choosing in advance from their Sunday menu if you fancy seeing what is on offer for you – they expect that the menu then will be mostly the same.

White Horse PH, Burnham Green, Burnham Green

A talk by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust: ‘Where the Wild Things are’ looking at how wildlife is doing in Hertfordshire and Middlesex, what the Trust is doing and what individuals can do to help. This follows on from the very successful bat spotting evening that they led for us in Verulamium Park.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

13 Miles of Bedfordshire countryside, including a section of the Greensand Way.  Bring packed lunch, no coffee shop or pub planned.

A zoom evening so we can catch up members now living outside Hertfordshire.

A mountain walking weekend based in Beddgelert, North Wales organised by Martin. See Martin’s e-mails 22/08/22

A quiz night arranged by Jenny (with Patrick as her beautiful assistant)

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

On the 30^th October meet at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am from the War Memorial Car Park in Studham map182 – grid 023 157 and the 10 mile walk will pass through Jockey End, Great Gaddesden and Nettleden before picking up the Hertfordshire Way then onto the Chiltern Way back to Studham. We can have a well-earned drink in one of the two excellent pubs in Studham.

Your chance to have a say in how the club is run and what it does and elect the committee for the next year.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

North Downs way stages 9 and 10 from Lenham in Kent to Canterbury.  Overnight stay on Saturday night in Wye.  Contact Rosemary for more information as booking the overnight may now be tricky.

A  hopefully moonlight walk of around 4 miles starting by St Lawrence church in Ayot St Lawrence (GR 195 168) starting at 8 pm.  Refreshments afterwards in the Brocket Arms. Torches advised for  darker stretches.

An all day mountain bike ride of around 25 miles in the area of Puttenham, Frensham and Thursley commons, just to the SW of Guildford. The terrain is sandy (good even if wet) and relatively flat.

Meet 10am at Puttenham Common Top Car Park, GU3 1BG https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Top+Car+Park/@51.206233,-0.6870001,17z, OS grid ref SU 91950 46175.

You are advised to bring lunch, though there may be coffee/food available at Frensham Great Pond and one or two other points en route.

Talk by Candy from the over 40’s cycling club about her cycle trips across Europe

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Cycle ride for novice cyclists (or experienced riders who don’t mind going slower with occasional rests!), leaving 10am at Cottonmill Cycling hub (free parking available). AL1 2EF. Will probably be cycling 15 – 20 miles, including Ayot Greenway. Possible pub stop depending on timing, but not guaranteed. Cafe at the cycle hub does hot drinks, but you may like to bring sandwiches.

If the weather looks really awful (gales and heavy rain) we won’t be going (so helpful to know if you are planning on coming, but not essential).

Susan Foster 07427 859765

After dark mountain bike ride lead by Neil.  Leaving the Green Man pub in Sandridge High Street at 7.30pm.  Eight mile route should be suitable for cyclocross, gravel and robust hybrid bikes as well as mountain bikes.  But bring a front light bright enough to see where you are going with.  Meet in Green Man for drinks from 8.30

All day walk lead by Christine.

After a gap of three years the St Albans Beer and Cider festival is back in the Alban arena.  A chance to sample a very wide range of real ales, and ciders.

Alban Arena, St Albans

A combined walking and cycling weekend staying at the Wye Valley hostel (formerly Welsh Bicknor) .  Access to both Herefordshire and the Wye Valley/Forest of Dean area in Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire. Bookings via Peter are closed, but latecomers can make their own accommodation arrangements and let him know.

A trip to a local cinema to see the latest blockbuster.  More details nearer the time

A chance to showcase your gardening and/or culinary skills and bring a dish to share at a harvest supper.  Bring your own protein and drinks.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Early evening walk starting at 6.00 pm from the Sopwell Nunnery of Cottonmill Lane, St Albans led  by Susan

Sopwell benches, Cottonmill Lane, St. Albans

Meet 10.30am at the church of St Mary the Virgin, Walkern SG2 7PB for a ride of around 30+ miles including a visit to Cromer Windmill. Over 1,000 feet of ascent. There will be a pub/coffee stop somewhere if time.

An evening walk making the most of the late summer evenings. Starting from the car park on Normansland common at 7.30 pm.  (AL4 9FH).  Around 4 miles so bring a torch as it will be getting dark by the end of the walk

A long weekend at Rory and Maire’s house in Crieff, Perthshire.   See Rory’s e-mail on 3/3/22 for details

A planning evening for October to December to be held at the Plough PH in Tyttenhanger Green (AL4 0RW).   It will be preceded by a short walk from the pub  (2-3 miles) lead by Andrew.

The Plough, Tyttenhanger, St Albans, St Albans Hertfordshire

Meet at 9.45am so we can leave at 10.00am from the Recreation Ground car park in Whitwell GR Map193 183 209 and we will follow good footpaths over open ground and through woods. The 10 mile walk will pass along Norton Street Lane,  Kitching Lane, passed the Rusty Gun Pub on the Chiltern Way before going through Hitch Wood on route back to Whitwell. When we are finished the walk we can have tea and cake in Emily’s Tea Shop and/or a pint in The Bull pub now run by the Farr Brewery. Stewart.

A guided walk around the lakes in Verulamium park in St Albans to look for Bats at dusk.  Led by two volunteers from the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.

Book your place with Rosemary – we are limited to 15 people and we need to confirm numbers beforehand.

Meet point: 8pm for an 8.15pm start at the Verulamium Museum Car Park, St Michaels Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW.

A guided visit to College Lakes nature reserve near Tring (HP23 5QG).  Lorraine Harding (group member) will do the guiding.  Meet at 10.15 am at the car park.  The parking is free but there is a suggested donation for car parking of £4. There is a café, toilets etc. Bring binoculars if you have them!

Possibility of a walk afterwards possibly to the canal at Bulbourne .  More details nearer the time.

Viv’s famous summer BBQ will take place on a Saturday this year, from 2pm onwards.  At 72 Cambridge Road St Albans. AL1 5LE

An evening walk  of around 3-4 miles through North Mymm’s park starting at 7.30 pm from the war memorial off Tollgate Road (GR223 047).  Refreshments afterwards at the Crocked Billet in Colney Heath.

A camping weekend in Borrowdale, Lake District. Contact Peter for further details.

An evening walk lead by Debbie. starting at the  3 Hammers Pub, Chiswell Green AL2 3EA.  Grid ref 134 045. 7.30 start
This will include a visit to what was the Rose Garden and Butterfly World.    About 4.5 miles bring a torch just in case.

Meet at 7.30pm in car park behind Sandridge Village Hall,  48 High street, Sandridge, AL4 9DA.  Walk of about four and a half miles to Harpenden ( and back!)

A weekend of walking and cycling based at Geoff and Pauline’s house in Shropshire.  Details to be supplied

The New Forest cycle rally held at Avon Tyrrell a lovely location. People come as individuals, families, cycle groups from all over UK and sometimes from abroad. Its relaxed and very friendly. you can come for as many days as you fancy.50p a night charge towards the group activities such as cheese and wine ,barn dance, BBQ and camp fire. Either camp or hire a caravan. Avon Tyrrell charge  £12 a person per night I believe. The facilities are new. We camp overlooking a lake,forest and stately home.I ve attended many times and always have a great time. Sue can fill anyone in with more information if needed.

Start at the  Ayot Greenway car park ( grid ref 223145) off Ayot St Peter Road at 7.30pm for a five mile walk.  Note this is not the car park by the Waggoners PH

An evening walk starting at the car park behind the Woodman PH in Wildhill,  east of Hatfield (AL9 6EA   GR 264 068).  Starts at 7.30 pm for about 4 miles.  Refreshments afterwards at the Woodman

Mountain bike ride of around 25 to 30 miles in the Surrey Hills, starting at 10.00am. Meeting point to be announced. Bring lunch.

A Pizza evening in Viv’s garden (hopefully) using Viv’s new Pizza oven.  72 Cambridge Road St Albans. AL1 5LE

Try to create your own pizza base or take the  simpler prepared one , add your own toppings and cook in about a minute

– bring your own drinks and any special pizza toppings you want (or if you want a specific readymade pizza then bring that)

Options range from stretching your own pizza base right up to prepare bases just to put toppings on

Viv will provide

– pizza bases (self roll, rolled pizza base thin, and simple cheese and tomato ones)

– tomatoes

– cheeses

– some meat toppings

– anchovies

– Ham

– soft drinks

Start time 2pm from 29 Cottonmill Lane AL1 2BT.  Walk in Sopwell and Frogmore.  Followed by tea and cake. Welcome for both or either.

Starting at Parkfield Sports ground car park Kimpton at 2pm (entrance from B651 Hitchin Road SG4 8EQ) for an 8mile walk along the Mimram towards Codicote and back via Ayot St Lawrence.

The annual round of Petanque in Highfield park (GR172063) preceded by an Al fresco supper for those who wish

Highfield Park Petanque Club, 136 Hill End Lane St Albans

On the 19^th June we will be starting at 10.00am from the car park in the sports field in Wigginton map 181 – 937 098 it is a short distance from the Greyhound Pub HP23 6EH. The 10 mile walk will be through open countryside and Wendover Woods on good footpaths and you should bring water and a packed lunch. Drinks in the pub afterward will be a great way to rehydrate.

The planning meeting for Q3 now is now on 15th June at the Elephant and Castle PH at Amwell near Wheathampstead (GR 167131) starting around 8.30 pm.  It is be preceded by a walk of around 1 hr (3 miles) from the Normansland Common car park (GR  171123)  Walk starts at 7.30 pm

Bike ride starting from bus only entrance off the mini-roundabout on the A1057 (St Alban’s to Hatfield road) opposite Ellenbrook lane (GR 208 082) AL10 9SG and next to the  University of Hertfordshire sports fields.  There is free parking in the University of Hertfordshire sports centre car park on the weekends.  The ride will go out towards Broxbourne and perhaps a short loop into Essex.  There will be a section along the Cole Green way which is partly an un made up bridleway but reasonably even in the summer.  Take packed lunch and drink.  10 am start

The walk will leave the Riverside way car park (AL2 3TX) off Drop lane starting at 7:30. Drop lane is just opposite the entrance to Moor Mill Beefeater. Smug Oak Lane. The walk will be about 5 miles

Evening walk lead by Christine – Meet at The White Horse, Burnham Green AL6 0HA for a walk of about 5 miles.

Proposal is for a Jubilee bank holiday adventure to Brittany, cycling from St. Malo across the region to the south coast for a couple of days exploring Carnac etc. before getting the train and ferry home.  If you would like to join us please let me know ASAP as I need to get a move on with bookings. – See Jon’s e-mail for more information

A 50 mile loop out from Cambride to the West and South, taking in Saffron Walden and Grantchester Meadows. Meet 10am at 4 Lynfield Court, CB4 1DP. Option to stay overnight on the Saturday and go to see the Banff Mountain film festival (Blue Programme) at the Corn Exchange in the evening.  Limited accommodation available.

Meet at 7.30pm in carpark behind Sandridge Village Hall,  48 High street, Sandridge, AL4 9DA.  Walk of about five miles taking in Simmonshyde Wood

Bike ride from Little Munden church Dane End, heading out to some of the pretty east Hertfordshire villages. Meet 10am. May be a tea shop in Puckeridge. Approximately 30-40 miles

Parts 7 and 8 of the North Downs Way as a weekend away, staying overnight on Saturday 14^th May at the Black Horse Inn, Thurnham, Kent, ME14 3LE or other accommodation you may wish to arrange.  See e-mails from Rosemary

Meet 7.30 pm outside The Cross Keys pub Gustard Wood AL4 8LA for a 5 ½ mile walk. Drinks afterwards in The Cross Keys.

Sunday walk starting in the village of Barkway in the north east of Hertfordshire (SG8 8BP) (GR385 355)  Meet by war memorial at 10.30 am.  The walk will take in the village of Barley and possibly Reed, Nuthampstead and Little Chishill.  Please take packed lunch and drink, although an afternoon pub stop is a possibility.

Evening walk to see the bluebells in Heartwood forest.  Leaving from Sandridge Village hall car park at 7.30 pm .  Refreshments afterwards in the Green Man PH.

Sandridge Village Hall, Sandridge

Walking weekend in Mountains of Mourne climbing the highest Mountain in Northern Ireland – Sleive Donard.  Staying in Newcastle Northern Ireland.  Initial booking of accommodation already made.  Contact Colm for more  information.

Somewhere different for the first Wednesday evening walk of the season starting in daylight.  Around Gobions Wood Nature reserve,  Brookmans Park.  Meet at Gobions Open space car park, Jonas Way, Brookmans Park, AL9 7RW – GR 250040. Jacket and torches probably required .  Start at 7.30 pm. Walk for about 1 – 1.5 hours

Drink afterwards at the Woodman Inn in Waterend,  21 Warrengate Road, Brookmans Park,  AL9 7TT

A slighter shorter walk of 17 k from Tewin Green lead by Helen.  Starts at 10 am.

Easter on the North Yorkshire moors staying at the Yorkshire bunkhouse in Rosedale Abbey for four nights from Thursday to Monday.

Walk, ride and eat chocolate!

The Yorkshire bunkhouse, Pickering Herts

Building an ocean-going yacht, circumnavigation and other adventures by Mike

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

10.30 start, finish possibly no later than 4.30  Meet at Wyboston Village Hall MK44 3AG, for a bike ride of around 35 miles, taking in Shambrook, Melchbourne, Pertenhall.  Bring lunch, as no pub lunch stop.  But will take in a pub/tea shop during the course of the morning.  No other facilities.  If the weather is bad a walk will be organised instead.

Ten pin bowling evening at a local alley – probably Garston – more details to follow

On Sunday 3 April, our walk continues with part 6 from Wrotham to the Medway. The guidebook lists this stage as 10 ½ miles through a region of fields and woodlands mostly away from habitation, so bring your own food and drink! – see Martin’s e-mail for more detials

Another chance to do part 5 of the North Down’s way – Westerham to Wrotham, for those who missed it the first time (with hopefully better weather).  16 miles.  More details to come

A chance to play Badminton with the regulars in the United Reformed church hall and have a good chat while you are waiting for a game.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

About 35 kilometres on the Greensand ridge and Bedford flood plain including a ride on the Chicksands mountainbike centre’s cross country course.  Start at Clophill.  Bring packed lunch and drink, there will not be a coffee shop stop. Contact Neil for precise start time and location.

Evening walk in hopefully fullish moon light, from the Public Carpark behind the Bull in Wheathampstead (GR 1781420) Start at 7.30 pm for around 3 miles.  Walking boots and touch recommended.

Afterwards we will visit the Elephant and Castle PH in Amwell, near Wheathampstead, AL4 8EA  (GR167 132)

All day walk around Grafham Water up the A1 in Cambridgeshire.  Starts at 10 am – start point required

A chance to indulge the taste buds with a chocolate tasting evening. A few team challenges and a bit of a quiz will be thrown in.

Please let Rosemary know if you intend to come along, so she knows how much chocolate to invest in!

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Susan  will lead a shorter walk.  Will meet in the car park for the Orchard Tea Rooms, Shenley Park, WD7 9DW ready for a 10am start. Walk is approx 8 miles. Suggest bringing sandwiches. Picnic table available in the Orchard on return, or refreshments available in the cafe. All welcome!

A chance for a chat via Zoom with far flung members of the group.  May also include an on-line game or activity if anyone has any ideas.

An all day walk form Lilley (GR 265118) taking in Warden Hill, Galley Hill, the Barton Hills and maybe Telegraph Hill.  Leave from near Lilley Church  at 10 am.  Distance around 10 miles

Already booked.

Pancake evening in the United Reformed church hall.  The batter will be supplied.  Bring you own fillings and drinks.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A 16 mile walk round the boundary of the National Trust Ashridge Estate near Berkhampsted.  Bring own food and drink.  To try and finish in daylight  the start will be at 9.30am prompt at the monument carpark and we will have to keep up a good pace.

Your chance to help organise the programme from April to June and beyond,  Held at the Plough PH at Tyttenhanger near St Albans

The Plough, Tyttenhanger, St Albans, St Albans Hertfordshire

Continuation of the North Downs way from Westerham Hill in Kent  to Wrotham.  More details to follow

The Annual slide competition being held on Zoom to allow distant members to participate.  Send your entries to Rosemary by 31st Jan, 2 entries per category. Categories: Wild, Gates and Stiles, Humour.  More details by email.

Peter’s traditional winter weekend away, with the hope of finding some winter like conditions.  Details to be decided.  Bookings have been made at Coniston Youth hostel and other local accommodation, see Peters e-mail for more details.

A chance to see a film at a local cinema.  More details nearer the time

10 mile walk lead by Stewart

Meet outside the Red Lion (Post Code SG4 7UD) in Preston OS Map 193  GR 180 246 at 9.45am on 6^th February so we can start the 10 mile walk at 10.00am. We will walk past Charlton, Great Offley and Tea Green before returning to Preston to have a well-earned pint in the Red Lion. The conditions underfoot will be muddy so good footwear is recommended and bring water and a packed lunch.

The traditional Burn’s night supper at the United Reformed Church hall.  Please see Andrew’s e-mail of 20th January and reply if you wish to come, with details of optional food offering.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Bike ride lead by Kevin on Sunday probably around 35 to 40 miles, leaving from the ruined church at Ayot St Lawrence and stopping roughly half way at the tea shop at Ardeley. Meet 10am.

Stewart has just heard that the badminton people aren’t playing tonight, so badminton is off!

He is offering to lead a walk from Sandridge Village Hall car park at 8pm, around 3 miles and finishing at the Green Man at around 9.30pm.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A walk of approximately 10 miles from Hertford (Hartham common car park) to Woodhall park and back along the Beane valley.

Come and try out some old and new board games in the hall. Feel free to bring any good games that you own… There will be tea and cake to help the evening along.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Continuation of the North downs way from Merstham to Westerham hill.  14 miles including the walk into Westerham.  Car shuffle probably required.  See e-mails for latest details

Come and try the (post) Christmas detective trail around St Albans, inspired by Abbey Theatre’s production of ‘The Borrowers’.

Meet at 8.00 pm at the Clock Tower (High Street, St Albans) for an 8.15pm start. In small teams follow the clues  to find which book Arrietty (a Borrower, hence very small) is squashed under.  Should take 1 – 1.5 hours. Then we will adjourn to The White Lion, Sopwell Lane, to compare results.

Bring a good torch to read the clues!

Half day walk from Rushden village church near Baldock.  Finishing up at the Mill End tea rooms.  GR 305317

New year get together at the John Bunyan AL4 8ES. A new year greeting for them after our lovely annual dinner there in November

Half day walk of around 7 miles from Normansland Common car park, between Sandridge and Wheathampstead  (AL4 8EJ).  Exact start time to be confirmed

Pre-Christmas drinks at the Six Bells, St Michael’s Street, St Albans.

The last Sunday walk of the year, starting at 1:30pm from Nomansland Common car park. We will head north east to the John Bunyan PH where we pick up the Hertfordshire way to Sandridge and a little beyond, before returning to the start through the Heartwood forest.

Nomansland Common Car Park, Wheathampstead

A Christmas party at Viv’s house (Saturday afternoon).

A walk from the Plume of Feathers, Tewin.

Plume of Feathers PH, Tewin

A cycle ride of around 40-45 miles  from the traditional starting point of Sandridge Church at 10.00 am.  Bring food and drink.  A coffee stop may be incorporated.  I would aim to get back before dark but bring lights just in case.  If weather is too cold or wet, a walk may be substituted with the same start place and time.

Bring a savoury contribution for a shared supper (let Rosemary know what you intend bringing so we get a good range). You will then have the opportunity to taste a range of mince pies from super-luxury to basic – with the chance to judge your favourite (and to see if you can rank them by price).

Some help on the evening would be very welcome to set up the hall etc. (From 7pm)

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A walk of 12 miles along the North Downs Way from Mole Valley to Merstham, starting from Reigate road car park at 10am (there is a car boot sale at the station car park).  The return will be by bus and train taking about 50 minutes.

Planning evening in the Rose and Crown, Sandridge.

A morning walk starting at 10.30 am  for about 3 hours from the John Bunyan PH car park,  Coleman Green near Wheathampstead followed by the Annual Dinner.  The annual dinner will start at  1.30 pm for 2.0 pm and will be the Christmas menu

http://johnbunyanpub.co.uk/wp/christmas-menu-2020

Annual donner has now been booked, but you can come for the walk and perhaps a drink afterwards

Dust off the old brain cells for a General Knowledge Quiz, each round a different theme.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Meet at 9.45am outside the Cricketers Pub in Sarratt https://www.brunningandprice.co.uk/cricketers/ so we can start at 10.00am. The 10 mile walk will take us past Chenies and along good  footpaths towards Amersham before crossing the river Chess and returning via Latimer to Sarratt for a well-earned drink in the Cricketers Pub.

Film evening; details to be announced.

A walk of 10 to 12 miles mainly following the Hertfordshire way between Widford and Thundridge, starting at 10am from the bus stop in Babbs Green (Explorer map 194 394162). No pubs or tea shops are planned so please bring everything you need to survive the day.

Quiz night organised by Neil Kirby for the Red Rubber Ball charity. SAG team to be organised. Let Jon know if you want to take part.

Graham Williams from Cotswold Outdoor will be presenting a talk and slideshow on this  region.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

We will be walking the 2^nd stage of the North Downs way on 7^th November – a classic Downs stretch in beautiful countryside. The plan is to meet in Guildford and walk about 15 miles to Dorking, from where we can get a train back to our starting point.

Meeting Time: 09.30 for 10.00 departure on Sunday, 7^th November

Meeting Point: Coffee Culture, 2 Angel Gate, Guildford, GU1 4AE

http://www.mycoffeeculture.co.uk/

Lunch: Bring a packed lunch

Travel: By car to Guildford (train may be possible depending on engineering works, so check closer to the date)

Return: Dorking (Deepdene) to Guildford. Trains leave Deepdene at 42 and 55/58 minutes past the hour. Single fare £7.10.

Parking: The Farnham Road MSCP offers reasonably priced parking £3 / Sunday close to the town centre and station. Address is Guildford Park Road, Guildford, GU2 7NP

https://www.guildford.gov.uk/farnhamroadcarpark

This is a full day walk of about 12 miles starting from the Much Hadham village hall car park at 10-30am.  The walk will head north to pick up the Hertfordshire way at Pit (dis) and then follow it back through Much Hadham and beyond.  Please bring your own sustenance and protection against the elements for the time of year.

Much Hadham village hall, Much Hadham

Annual General Meeting, including a slide show of the past year’s group events. Come along and elect your new committee, or join it yourself!

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Meet 10am at the car park on Ley Hill Common near Chesham, grid ref SP 991019, for a ride of about 50 miles. Will be adjusted to suit attendees and weather.

A walk of around 6km starting at 8pm from the John Bunyan pub, Coleman Green Lane.

A walk of 11 miles along the North Downs Way from Farnham to Guildford.   Meet at Guildford railway station at 9.50 am to catch 10.05 am train to Farnham to start the walk.  Ticket price around £5 with group discount.  Parking at Farnham Rd car park, Guildford Park road ,GU2 7NP.  About £2.50 – £3.00 for day.

See e-mail for more details

Martin and Rosemary will talk about their recent Coast to Coast walk. This event will be in the hall, but a Zoom connection will be provided if technically possible.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

10 am start for a walk on the East Chiltern hills.  The walk length  is planned at about 12 miles, but this can be adjusted according to attendees and weather.  Bring packed lunch.  Contact Neil to discover the start place and to let him know you’re going.

It’s a 30 ish mile lap of Hemel Hempstead starting from Westminster Lodge Car Park at 10am.

Cook your own harvest meal and share the recipe and photos on Zoom.

Evening walk, venue to be announced. Bring a torch in case it’s cloudy!

Weekend at Pauline & Geoff’s new abode in Shropshire.

Various options to stay with us or there is a Premier Inn 10 minutes walk away.

Details on group email

Planning evening at the Plough, Tyttenhanger.

Walk from the Plough PH in Sleapshyde. Bring a torch.

Meet near the entrance to Westminster Lodge. Walk will be about 3.5 miles around and about Verulamium park. Leaving 6pm!

The meeting point will be the East Lane car park in Wheathampstead and the walk will be north as far as Lamer Park before following the Hertfordshire Way back to Wheathampstead and onward until we’ve had enough!

Sunset is at 8pm but it’s only 3 days after the full moon, so we will start at 7pm and see how long we can continue before it gets too dark… Bring a torch.

Another Sunday walk to explore lesser known parts of Hertfordshire.  The walk will start at 10.30 am from the car park in the centre of Buntingford which is free on Sundays SG9 9DF (GR 361295).  It will be around 10 miles, visiting the nearby villages of Wyddial and Aspenden

Evening walk departing at 7:30 from the car park at Nomansland common. Walk will be 4 miles.

A three day cycle trip from Cambridge to Blaxhall YH in Suffolk, leaving Cambridge early on Friday 13th August and returning to Cambridge late Sunday 15th. Saturday will be spent exploring the coast around Aldeburgh and Southwold.

* FULLY BOOKED *

Evening walk starting from the war memorial in North  Mymms  (AL9 7TN)  (GR 223 047 ) starting at 7.30 pm, for around 4 miles.  As it may be getting dusky towards the end of the walk it may be worth bringing a torch or head torch.  Walking boots recommended if conditions are wet.

Optional drink afterwards in the Crooked Billet PH, Colney Heath AL4 ONP

Car Park, North Mymms Park, Hatfield

Evening walk of 4 to 6 miles (depending on weather) starting at 7pm from the old church in Ayot St. Lawrence. The route is north to Kimpton mill then along  the Mimram to Codicote bottom, before returning to Ayot St. Lawrence.  Then an extra loop if the light holds.

Cycle Ride of at least 40 miles round the lanes North of Aston Clinton. Starts at 10am outside Aston Clinton  Stores and Post Office, 90 London Rd, Aston Clinton, Aylesbury HP22 5HS, please be sensible and do not block shop access for others.  Exact distance to cycle depends on the attendees on the day.  Bring packed lunch.

Stewart will be leading a 4.5 mile walk on the 28^th July and will be starting at 7.30pm from the car park of the Cross Keys pub Gustard Wood https://www.thecrosskeyspub.co.uk/

Barbecue at Viv’s house, St Albans. 2pm until 7pm ish. Usual soft drinks and nibbles provided. Please bring drink and food to share and let  Viv know so he can coordinate and own Meat etc.

Evening walk starting at 19.30 at the carpark by the cricket ground on Redbourn Common, grid reference 105 121.  Distance will depend on weather, daylight and those who go but current plan is about 4 miles in the Trowley direction.  Bring torch in case we get too carried away.

The 12 mile Hitchin Outer Orbital Path (HOOP) walk will start from the middle of Hitchin Market square at 10-30am. This should give time for those who need stimulants the opportunity to purchase their choice in one of the nearby shops before we depart.  There is free parking on Sunday’s in  St. Mary’s Square car park. Participants should bring their necessary sustenance, although there may be stops for ice cream.

Phantom of the Opera (1925) in St Albans Abbey, with improvisation by students from the Royal Academy of Music.

Long weekend in the Peak District, with options to stay in the Premier Inn (131 London Road, Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 9NW – the majority of people are here) or camping nearby or any other accommodation of your choice. And for the extended weekend or a shorter part of it. Make your own booking and let Rosemary know. 

Evening bike read leaving from outside the Woodman PH in Waterend  near Welham Green.  Will explore some quite lanes inside the M25 towards Shenley.  See e-mail nearer the time for more details.  Optional drink afterwards in the aforementioned pub.

Walk through the Hadham’s in East Hertfordshire.  Starting from Little Hadham on the A120.

Play: A Winter’s Tale in the Roman Theatre, Bluehouse Hill, St Albans AL3 6AE.

Tickets £22 at the back or extra £2.00 for better position.

SUE NEEDS TO KNOW ASAP IF YOU’D LIKE TO GO.

Roman Theatre, St Albans

Accomodation TBC  Friday, Saturday, Sunday nights

Evening walk from the Bright Star pub, Peters Green leaving at 7.30pm.

The ride will start at 10am from Edmonds drive, Stevenage passing through Walkern, Weston,  Wallington, Therfield, Reed, Barkway, Buntingford, Nasty, Dane end, Whempstead, Bennington and Aston.

Planning evening on Zoom. Bring your ideas for events in July, August and September. (Hopefully the next one will be held in a pub!)

Petanque in Highfield Park.  Until too dark.

Highfield Park, St Albans

Stevenage outer orbital path (STOOP) 

Saturday is approximately 16 miles from Aston to Little Wymondley,  in a clockwise direction via Datchworth and St. Paul’s Walden.

Sunday is a shorter 11 miles completing the circuit Graveley, Weston and Walkern.

Join from 9pm for a chat…

Evening walk to the Strathmore Arms. Meet 19:30 at St Paul’s Walden Church.

Somewhere slightly different – This walk will start in the Stockgrove country park near Heath and Reach, Leighton Buzzard.  Full day walk which we can  hopefully do as a larger group.  See e-mail nearer the time for full details

We will be in groups of 4 to 6 to solve ‘the strange case of Harry Holywell’. Meet any time from 6pm for a picnic on the grass on Verulamium Park between Westminster Lodge and the River Ver. Gather there into groups to move to the start the trail which is at the Abbey Theatre (behind Westminster Lodge) at around 7.30pm.

Graffham camping and Caravan club site, Graffham West Sussex

A walk starting from East Lane car park in Wheathampstead, taking in Ayot St Peter and Brocket Park. About 9 miles.  Bring a picnic lunch.

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

A circular walk of approx. 5 miles (8km). Meet 19:30 at Lemsford Mill, MR 219124.

If weather is OK, there’s the option of a drink at pub in Lemsford afterwards.

13 mile walk.  No facilities. Bring lunch. Please avoid parking in the Church Car Park being a Sunday.

St Marys Church, Walkern, Walkern

Evening walk starting from Essendon, just east of Hatfield.  The walk will be done in groups of up to six people, with different starting points and/or times.  I will send the exact details by e-mail nearer the time.

Weather permitting, there will be an optional visit to the garden of a nearby pub afterwards

A full day’s walk in the Surrey hills starting from Albury Heath Car Park at 10-30am (if coming from St. Albans you will need to set off a little after 9am).

Treasure hunt in separate households, coordinated over Zoom.

A mountain bike ride in the area around Woburn Sands and Great Brickhill. Meeting point to be announced.

Photos from a trip by several group members in 1994 (recently scanned to JPEG’s) – with a nod to repeats of Michael Palin’s travel programmes.

Back by popular demand. Pete will show a selection of short adventure movies.

Therfield Heath car park, Royston Hertfordshire

Zoom meeting to plan the next quarter’s programme. Please attend with your ideas or offers to organise an event or two.

Garden and beyond wildlife spotting at night (e.g. frogs, hedgehog, fox). Full moon!

Cary O’Donnell, a previous group member, will talk about his epic walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 2018.

Quiz night organised by Neil Kirby for the Red Rubber Ball charity. SAG team to be organised. Let Gill know if you want to take part.

Virtual race night to be run over Zoom. We will use breakout rooms for participants to form betting syndicates (virtual money of course), which will also own some of the racehorses in the races that we can show.

A talk/slide show on past sailing trips by Mike Fish

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

Memories of trips away- c 5-10 photos each or memories of trips to a country that several group members have visited- e.g. New Zealand, Himalayas, Mediterranean islands- over the years.

Show and tell the story of your favourite souvenir on Zoom.

Pete will tell the story of his attempt (along with three friends) to ski across Iceland in March 2019, and how it didn’t quite work out as planned…

Plan and cook a two course meal incorporating the following:  sausages, parsnip, potato, apple (or rhubarb!) and thyme, plus any other ingredients of your own choice.  Show your dish (or a photo of it) on the night. We will then share recipes and experience (taste, unusual use of ingredients, novel combinations, appearance…).

Please enter up to two pictures for each category:

• Autumn
• Street Scenes
• St Albans Adventure Group (people or activities)

All pictures must have been taken by you during 2020 and need to be received by Rosemary by the end of Sunday 31st January.

Zoom meeting to plan the next quarter’s programme. Please attend with your ideas or offers to organise an event or two.

Outdoor treasure hunt, details to be announced.

• Cycling,
• Walking/mountaineering
• Travel
• Miscellaneous

A visual escape to the south west coast of Ireland. Concentrating on the area around Baltimore Co. Cork. The area is on the well known Wild Atlantic Way a scenic route for visitors stretching from the south Cork coast to Donegal in the North West.  A rugged area, perfect for walking, cycling, water sports and celebrated for its local food produce. The presentation will feature video and original photographs.

A Zoom-based quiz centred on the popular Dingbats theme but also involving Rebuses and Homonyms (look them up if you’ve never heard of them).

Join from 7.30pm on ready for the action to start at 8.00

Similar to the previous event in May, I will show about four freely available adventure films. Activities may include climbing, skiing, running, kayaking, mountain biking etc. The exact selection will be a surprise on the night.

A walk of around 12 miles, weather dependent. Organiser will send an email out a few days before for names, to arrange groups and times if there are more than 6 people.

Quiz with a London theme. It will be a joint event with TRAC, a West Yorkshire outdoor club very similar to STAG.

Joining details as per group email.

Please join from 19:50 – 20:00 to allow time to sort out teams.

This years trip to the North York Moors has been postponed until the following Easter.

An evening 10-pin bowling organised by Veronique. As usual this will be at the Hollywood Bowl in North Watford.

Woodside Leisure Park, Kingsway, Garston WD25 7JZ

Meet at 19:45 for a prompt 20:00 start. Please let Veronique know by Sunday 15th March if you are coming so she can book.

Hollywood Bowl, Kingsway North Orbital Rd

Kevin’s  walk will be approximately 9 miles starting from the All Saints Church in Shillington at 10am. There is a wonderful tea shop in the village called Lordship Farm which is very near the end of the walk. It usually doesn’t open on Sundays but I have arranged a special Sunday opening for us! Therefore if you intend to come to the walk and visit the tea shop (where delicious homemade cakes, soup and sandwiches will be available at reasonable prices) please let me know by Wednesday 11th so I can let Toni know how many to expect.  If you’re only coming to the walk please let me know by Saturday night (14th).

P.S. Laurel says you don’t have to go on the walk….. you could just meet us at the tea shop!

The 2020 Banff Film Festival is showing at the Union Chapel in Islington as part of its annual tour of the country. This is a collection of some of the best short films from the action/adventure world and is always a good night out. Jon has already booked tickets for some of the group. If you want to come along, please book your own tickets using the following website.

https://www.banff-uk.com/

See Jon’s group email 7th December 2019

After the exertions of Colm’s bike ride, come and stretch your mind instead with some board games in the hall.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

We will start from the car park in West Wycombe, on Chorley Road near the Hellfire Caves. HP14 3AP. Pete started a mountain biking day from the same place a couple of years ago. Free, and plenty of space. We will set off at 10.00.

Route will take us to Parmoor, Gussetts Wood, Cookley Green, Chrismas Common, Stokenchurch, Wardrobes, Lacey Green, Saunderton, and back to West Wycombe. The distance for the day will be 52km.

We will stop for lunch/refreshments at the Fox and Hounds in Christmas Common (24km) or in Radnage – the Crown or the Three Horse Shoes (34k).

As always with the Chilterns, there will be hills!

Join us for a meal at Verdi’s Italian restaurant on the corner of Clarence Park, St Albans. Address: 1a Clarence Road, St Albans Herts AL1 4NF. On street parking in roads close by. Does pizza, pasta, meat and veggie dishes… (you can choose on the day).

Full details on website https://www.verdis-stalbans.net/

Please let Rosemary know you are coming by Wednesday 26^th Feb.

Please see Andrew’s group email of 4th January for full weekend details.

Another annual favourite. Pancakes, organised, as usual, by Ian and Veronique.

Details to follow.

A full day walk led by Ian.

Meet at 9.45am so we can start at 10.00am from the car park by the sport centre in Flamstead map 182 – 077 146 (at the Three Blackbirds Pub turn right and the car park is 100m on the left). The 10 mile walk will follow good footpaths to Markyate then onto Studham and Jockey End before heading back to Flamstead. The reward will be a well-earned drink in the Three Blackbirds Pub.

Jon will be doing a talk on Kenya.

Full details to follow.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

This year, Peter’s annual winter weekend will be based at Conwy hostel in North Wales.

Please see Peter’s email of 21st December for latest details.

This years celebration of Burns night will be in the hall.

Full details to follow.

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

For the third stage of the Lea Valley walk we will cover around 13 miles from a start near East Hertford Railway Station, along the Cole Green Way, through the south side of Welwyn Garden City to the hospital, and then to Mill Green, passing near Hatfield, to Stanborough Lakes, Lemsford, Brocket Hall, Waterend Lane and Wheathampstead.

A long weekend  cross-country skiing on the Vercors plateau in France.

Anybody else wishing to come should contact Martin ASAP.

Our quarterly evening to get together and plan the following quarters activities.

Meet at the Rose & Crown, Sandridge from 8pm.

Contact Christine in advance if you want to organise an event or have an idea for one.

Rose and Crown PH, Sandridge, Sandridge

Meet at entrance to Westminster Lodge, 1pm for a walk of about 6 miles led by Susan.

Tea available afterwards.

Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, St. Albans

This years photo-competition will be held in the hall. The categories are:

•  Shadows and Silhouettes
• Unidentifiable objects
• Winter

You may interpret these as you wish. As before, entry will be a max of two pictures per category per person. Photos must have been taken during 2019.

Entries must be submitted by the end of Sunday 19th January. Please email me your slides, or else give them to me on a memory stick one of the coming two Wednesdays. (Those of you who are not photographers do come along and be a part of selecting the winner.)

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A weekend staying in the Surrey Hills at  Holmbury St. Mary. The accommodation will be B&B.

www.bulmerfarm.co.uk

There are opportunities for walking and road or mountain biking. Please see Jon’s group email from 9/12/2019 for more details and respond ASAP if you are interested.

A trip to the Cinema organised by Veronique. Venue and programme to be announced nearer the date.

A full day walk led by Ian.

Where or What?

A quiz in the hall organised by Neil. Bring your spectacles (if you  wear them)

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A full day walk in Ampthill park and Millbrook Warren taking in part of the Greensand Ridge walk – Distance 10-12 miles.

Start at 10:30 am from Ampthill post office  MK45 2PL  (GR 035 381) . Plenty of free parking is available in Ampthill town centre.

An evening  walk lit by the full moon.

Meet at the East Lane car park in Wheathampstead (AL4 8BP) ready for a 7.45pm start. Bring a torch.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZJj8eqvQen6nkwSn8

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

A full day walk led by Veronique. Meet at the cafe by the Bridgewater monument in Ashridge park for a 10.00am start. Distance shall be around 15 miles depending on weather.

The first event of 2020 will be a walk of approximately 10 miles starting and finishing at the Brocket Arms in Ayot St. Lawrence.

Walk starts at 10.00 am

Brocket Arms PH, Ayot St Lawrence

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

Lower Red Lion PH, St Albans

Details will be given out by Viv nearer the date

A slideshow given by Peter on his cycling tour of Vietnam

United Reformed Church Hall, St. Albans Herts

A full day walk led by Ian meeting in the East Lane car park behind the Bull PH (Miller & Carter steakhouse) off Wheathampstead High St. Bring a packed lunch.

Car Park, East Lane Wheathampstead, Wheathampstead

Wednesday evening’s walk will start at the Bell pub in Bedmond (WD5 0QR).  Please arrive 7.45ish for a prompt 8.00 start.  And bring a torch. And waterproofs.

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.

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 Herts

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

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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 Herts

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