Heartwood Forest — Attraction in St Albans

The ultimate dog walkers location. Bordering Nomansland Common, itself a massive free ranging common grassland, Heartwood Forest is simply mega.

Both in terms of size and sheer enjoyment. The Forest was planted in recent years to replace and replicate an ancient forest. They have done a really good job with paths, signage, information plaques and excellent planting/design.

Parking at both the North and the South side. Easy walking and gradients. Absolutely beautiful countryside with some spots boasting fantastic panoramic views.

With a simple map you can plan a small circle of 30 minutes ranging to the complete circuit that takes a good few hours and can include at least three handy pubs!

Even in Winter the drainage is good enough to offer a dry route in most directions. That said I do recommend wellies in January & February since some routes are also Bridleways and prone to random boggieness. (Is that even a word!)

Situated between Sandridge and Wheathampstead it's extremely accessible and hugely recommended. Guaranteed enjoyment for both families and solo walkers. Nature's...

A young forest that only came into existence recently, Heartwood Forest shows all the promise of a place that's idyllic for a walk, exercise, picnic or a place to sand away a few hours with a good book or catch up with friends. There are objects dotted around the forest - some of which have had some real imagination put into them, with the arch being a personal favourite of mine. The Bluebells are the real draw here and to see them in full bloom is a real treat for the senses, though it helps to know exactly at what time of the year the flowers bloom. The benches scattered around the forest provide spectacular views of the green carpeted landscape which, on a blue tinted sunny day makes for a delightful view, wherever you choose to sit. It may be young compared to some of the ancient forests we have across the UK, but Heartwood Forest is a place everyone should come and visit for something a little...

What a gem of a place to visit and only 20-30 minutes drive from NW London on a Sunday morning. Visited here with my children and we walked for about 1hr 30 minutes following the signposted trail. This place is managed by The National Trust so it is very well maintained. There is free parking available and we got there around 8am on a Sunday, plenty of parking spaces available when we visited. It is a beautiful experience for the children and myself. A huge difference to living in the city. Everyone should take the time and visit places like this, it really makes an improvement to your physical and mental wellbeing. Quality time with my children and I would highly recommend this place. I would definitely visit Heartwood...