Hemhar one

Verified Slow Way

Verified by 100.00% of reviewers

The heart of this route is along the Nickey Line, which was a rail branch line that ran between Hemel Hempstead and Harpenden and is now a cycle and walking path. The New Town expansion of Hemel Hempstead caused the destruction of a few stretches of the line, but for the most part the path is on the old track bed. There are some steps up to elevated sections of the path.

Each end of the path is very popular with local cyclists and walkers, but it's generally not busy in the open countryside. There are some great views and lots of different environments, from deep, dark cuttings to high embankments. The going is generally easy, although there are a few busy roads to cross.

This route leaves the Nickey Line before it reaches Harpenden, and heads into the town through Rothamsted Park. However, an alternative is to continue along to the end of the Nickey line, then head south along Sun Lane and Carlton Road to get to Harpenden Station.

I walked from Hemel to Harpenden.
I had the impression I walked uphill most of the way, but looking at the profile this is not the case, although there are some steep hills(15%) coming out of Hemel. There is a large flight of steps to cross the B487 Queensway in Hemel which I couldn't see an easy way around. Some busy roads to cross but not difficult with patience. Lovely park parallel to Hemel shops. Stock up with food & drink in Hemel or Harpenden as no refreshment to be had on route without a detour.
Most of the route is a Sustrans cycle path, the Nickey Line, with no gates or stiles only a few slightly muddy parts, good quality paths most of the way. Well signposted. It used to be a railway line, cuttings, trees and hedges all along the way are nice but only occasionally do you get to see the views either side. Benches are scattered along the way to rest and eat your crustless cucumber sandwiches and sip Earl Grey (the land either side is owned by the Royal family). Reasonably dry underfoot due to the underlying chalk. Approaching Harpenden you pass through Rothamsted research farm then down through Rothamsted Park (water fountain near the gate).
A lovely green walk.

I walked this route from Hemel. Apart from the very start and end, it followed the Nickey Line (an old railway route) which meant it was easy to follow, and generally well-paved and wide. There was also mostly level access (although there was one flight of steps I couldn't see a way round - most times there was a signposted step-free route). Near Harpenden the route turned to go through Rothamsted. Despite being around 9 miles the route was very easy walking the whole way, and mostly very green. There were a few busy roads to cross, but each could be crossed safely one direction at a time. Plenty of refreshment at either end, and with a small detour to Redbourne in the middle. Really enjoyed this walk!.

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