Countryside

Within Three Rivers there are large areas of public open space including parks, moors, commons, country parks, heathland and verges.  Three Rivers is responsible for 16 woodland areas, covering 197 hectares. The woodlands consist mainly of broad-leaved deciduous trees, many of which are native to this country, i.e. Oak, Ash, Hornbeam, Field Maple, Beech, Birch and Hawthorn.

The woodlands make an important contribution to the landscape and recreational value of the District, 77% of which is "Green Belt" land.
The Rickmansworth Aquadrome lies immediately south of the town. It consists of two lakes, Bury and Batchworth, together with a surrounding area of wooded and semi-landscaped parkland.

The District Council actively supports the Countryside Management Services in the conservation of habitats and landscape features, and the improvement of pubic access for recreation. The Council also works with a number of other organisations towards these aims.

Visit the Countryside Access website for the Countryside Code.

Country walks 

As well as beautiful, unspoilt woodland areas to walk in, there are many interesting walks around the district, including:

The Chess Valley Walk will take you all the way from Rickmansworth to Chesham via the entrance from Scotsbridge playing fields. It is about 16 km long, but short sections can be followed at a time. Three Valleys Water have produced a leaflet for this route. Please call 0845 782 3333 for further information.

Ramble and Rides in the Colne Valley include:

Chorleywood / Rickmansworth to Gerrards Cross
The Colne Valley Way
The Grand Union Canal

For more information contact Groundwork Colne Valley on 01895 832662.

The Ebury Way (click here to download map) is for cyclists, walkers, and horse-riders. The track crosses the Colne, Chess and Gade rivers and the Grand Union Canal. Cycling is permitted along the whole length but horse-riders are restricted to the eastern section between Moor Lane Crossing and Rickmansworth. The path is suitable for pushchairs and wheelchair users; disabled people can open the gates using RADAR keys.

Information about walking and cycling the Grand Union Canal Towpath can be downloaded below.

Walking and Cycling the Grand Union Canal Towpath - DOWNLOAD